Photo of Karla Solis-Auces, Licensed Professional Counselor in Deer Park, TX
Karla Solis-Auces
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Deer Park, TX 77536
“No matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and will be better tomorrow”- Maya Angelou. For many, life brings stress, depression, anxiety, or trauma. Trying to balance unhealthy thoughts, feelings, or behaviors with family, work, and school can quickly feel overwhelming. Therapy provides a safe and nurturing environment where a client can increase self-awareness and receive validation. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help process difficulties, learn effective coping skills, and grow and heal to improve emotional health and well-being.
“No matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and will be better tomorrow”- Maya Angelou. For many, life brings stress, depression, anxiety, or trauma. Trying to balance unhealthy thoughts, feelings, or behaviors with family, work, and school can quickly feel overwhelming. Therapy provides a safe and nurturing environment where a client can increase self-awareness and receive validation. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help process difficulties, learn effective coping skills, and grow and heal to improve emotional health and well-being.
(281) 916-6421 View (281) 916-6421

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Debra Ellis - Ellis Counseling Agency, Licensed Professional Counselor in Deer Park, TX
Debra Ellis - Ellis Counseling Agency
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LBSW, ACBSW
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77012
Welcome to Ellis Counseling Agency! As a skilled behavioral specialist, I am here to provide comprehensive support for a wide range of challenges that you and your family may encounter. My expertise lies in fostering personal well-being, both at an individual level and within the family unit. With the aim of guiding, you towards fulfilling your true potential, I am proud to hold dual licenses as a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a Licensed Social Worker. Throughout my extensive 25-year career in behavioral health, substance abuse, case management, and medical social work, I have acquired invaluable experience.
Welcome to Ellis Counseling Agency! As a skilled behavioral specialist, I am here to provide comprehensive support for a wide range of challenges that you and your family may encounter. My expertise lies in fostering personal well-being, both at an individual level and within the family unit. With the aim of guiding, you towards fulfilling your true potential, I am proud to hold dual licenses as a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a Licensed Social Worker. Throughout my extensive 25-year career in behavioral health, substance abuse, case management, and medical social work, I have acquired invaluable experience.
(214) 241-4093 View (214) 241-4093
Photo of Cultural Refuge Counseling PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Deer Park, TX
Cultural Refuge Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-A, NCC, TCYM
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
South Houston, TX 77587
I am deeply committed to addressing collective cultural issues and helping those break free from the confines of cultural and familial expectations. For those whose lives have been impacted by childhood abuse, persistent people-pleasing tendencies, or feelings of being the odd one out due to a divergent family path, I stand ready to provide therapeutic support tailored to your needs. I firmly believe that every experience you've had, whether positive or negative, merits validation. Together, we will navigate the intricate web of cultural norms and delve into your personal needs, empowering you to craft the life you envision.
I am deeply committed to addressing collective cultural issues and helping those break free from the confines of cultural and familial expectations. For those whose lives have been impacted by childhood abuse, persistent people-pleasing tendencies, or feelings of being the odd one out due to a divergent family path, I stand ready to provide therapeutic support tailored to your needs. I firmly believe that every experience you've had, whether positive or negative, merits validation. Together, we will navigate the intricate web of cultural norms and delve into your personal needs, empowering you to craft the life you envision.
(737) 252-4009 View (737) 252-4009
Photo of Wellspring Behavioral Health, Psychologist in Deer Park, TX
Wellspring Behavioral Health
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Webster, TX 77598  (Online Only)
At Wellspring Behavioral Health, we provide psychological counseling and testing, including individual and family services for adults, adolescents, children, and families in the Austin, Texas metro area.
The predominant perspective at Wellspring Behavioral Health is holistic. which regards people and communities as wholes, not just parts pieced together. That means that your physical, psychological, spiritual, behavioral and other "selves" are all intertwined, acting together and impacting one another. Similarly, you live in a family, workplace, and community which influence and are influenced by you. In concrete terms this means that any difficulty that may bring you to see a counselor is seen from a broad perspective opening a wealth of insight and ability to respond.
At Wellspring Behavioral Health, we provide psychological counseling and testing, including individual and family services for adults, adolescents, children, and families in the Austin, Texas metro area.
The predominant perspective at Wellspring Behavioral Health is holistic. which regards people and communities as wholes, not just parts pieced together. That means that your physical, psychological, spiritual, behavioral and other "selves" are all intertwined, acting together and impacting one another. Similarly, you live in a family, workplace, and community which influence and are influenced by you. In concrete terms this means that any difficulty that may bring you to see a counselor is seen from a broad perspective opening a wealth of insight and ability to respond.
(512) 521-3718 View (512) 521-3718
Photo of Friendswood Counseling Center, LLC, Counselor in Deer Park, TX
Friendswood Counseling Center, LLC
Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058
Services provided include individual and family therapy.
We are so glad today you have taken that important first step in reaching out for support to bridge the gap between where you currently are to where you want to be in your life. There are numerous reasons people seek out counseling services and we appreciate you considering us for your counseling needs. We would be honored to have the opportunity to work with you in achieving your goals. Daytime & evening appts available. For more information, please visit our website at www.friendswoodcc.com
Services provided include individual and family therapy.
We are so glad today you have taken that important first step in reaching out for support to bridge the gap between where you currently are to where you want to be in your life. There are numerous reasons people seek out counseling services and we appreciate you considering us for your counseling needs. We would be honored to have the opportunity to work with you in achieving your goals. Daytime & evening appts available. For more information, please visit our website at www.friendswoodcc.com
(281) 524-3057 View (281) 524-3057
Photo of Kristin Paige Thomson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Deer Park, TX
Kristin Paige Thomson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CART
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77059
I Provide individual and family therapy to ages 7-100, encompassing all presenting problems with a special interest in treating those with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, Bi-Polar disorder, and high-risk adolescents and families in crisis. I am skilled in numerous therapy modalities and create individualized treatment plans to meet specific client needs. I provide client-centered therapy, so that the client's goals are met and their personal success is long-term. Your relationship with your therapist is a major factor in the outcome of your therapy. I will do my best to foster a trusting and supportive relationship.
I Provide individual and family therapy to ages 7-100, encompassing all presenting problems with a special interest in treating those with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, Bi-Polar disorder, and high-risk adolescents and families in crisis. I am skilled in numerous therapy modalities and create individualized treatment plans to meet specific client needs. I provide client-centered therapy, so that the client's goals are met and their personal success is long-term. Your relationship with your therapist is a major factor in the outcome of your therapy. I will do my best to foster a trusting and supportive relationship.
(832) 481-7146 View (832) 481-7146
Photo of Adrian Yam, Licensed Professional Counselor in Deer Park, TX
Adrian Yam
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77058
In working with the younger population, the family is invited to be fully engaged in the process in order to attain significant change.
My clinical background comes from years of experience and practice working with diverse populations. Each situation/issue/fear/concern is viewed as an opportunity for unblocking a personal path towards inner growth and living a fuller life. As a therapist, I concentrate on what is of utmost important to the individual.(Completely bilingual- se habla español. Sirvase hacer una cita.)
In working with the younger population, the family is invited to be fully engaged in the process in order to attain significant change.
My clinical background comes from years of experience and practice working with diverse populations. Each situation/issue/fear/concern is viewed as an opportunity for unblocking a personal path towards inner growth and living a fuller life. As a therapist, I concentrate on what is of utmost important to the individual.(Completely bilingual- se habla español. Sirvase hacer una cita.)
(713) 659-0923 View (713) 659-0923
Photo of Joy Welch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Deer Park, TX
Joy Welch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, TX 77501  (Online Only)
My professional areas of special interest and experience include: Depression, anxiety, work challenges, relationships, family of origin, parenting, low self esteem, adoption and social injustice,.
I accept you as you are! In therapy, you'll find a safe place to just "be". And feel supported - no matter who you are, what you’ve been through, or what your current situation is. As a multiracial family member, I celebrate all diversity, am inclusive, and welcome all clients. Together, will explore what is holding you back from a more fulfilling relationship, job, or life. You will be given the opportunity and tools to make positive changes that support your needs and goals. Let’s start where you are. And see where you may go...
My professional areas of special interest and experience include: Depression, anxiety, work challenges, relationships, family of origin, parenting, low self esteem, adoption and social injustice,.
I accept you as you are! In therapy, you'll find a safe place to just "be". And feel supported - no matter who you are, what you’ve been through, or what your current situation is. As a multiracial family member, I celebrate all diversity, am inclusive, and welcome all clients. Together, will explore what is holding you back from a more fulfilling relationship, job, or life. You will be given the opportunity and tools to make positive changes that support your needs and goals. Let’s start where you are. And see where you may go...
(832) 479-4011 View (832) 479-4011
Photo of Candice Tillman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Deer Park, TX
Candice Tillman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Webster, TX 77598
I strive to help clients find transformative growth through different therapy modalities including EMDR, sandtray, play and attachment therapy. I acknowledge the strength and courage it takes to begin the path of therapy. Whether anxiety, depression, trauma or negative behaviors are impacting you or your child's success and happiness, I can walk along side you and your family in the process of healing. We will work collaboratively to create realistic treatment goals to help you achieve goals for a healthy path of life.
I strive to help clients find transformative growth through different therapy modalities including EMDR, sandtray, play and attachment therapy. I acknowledge the strength and courage it takes to begin the path of therapy. Whether anxiety, depression, trauma or negative behaviors are impacting you or your child's success and happiness, I can walk along side you and your family in the process of healing. We will work collaboratively to create realistic treatment goals to help you achieve goals for a healthy path of life.
(281) 816-4436 View (281) 816-4436
Photo of Judi Bloom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Deer Park, TX
Judi Bloom
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77059
Today begins a journey to wholeness. Addressing current grief issues, family of origin issues, or dealing with change of life issues needs a supportive well trained professional. I believe you have the answers you need inside of you and my job is to assist you in discovering your answers. Spiritual guidance can speed the results. I no longer see children. I do telehealth and in-person sessions.
Today begins a journey to wholeness. Addressing current grief issues, family of origin issues, or dealing with change of life issues needs a supportive well trained professional. I believe you have the answers you need inside of you and my job is to assist you in discovering your answers. Spiritual guidance can speed the results. I no longer see children. I do telehealth and in-person sessions.
(832) 462-7385 View (832) 462-7385
Photo of Chelsea Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Deer Park, TX
Chelsea Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Friendswood, TX 77546
Struggling to untangle relationship conflicts, personal identity dilemmas, or the complexities of family dynamics? Looking for clarity amongst the confusion, or seeking authenticity in a world that that places social expectations at the forefront. You are not alone and have come to the right place. Grounded in cultural humility, empathy, and a commitment to social justice, I ensure you feel seen, heard, and valued. I specialize in working with couples, individuals, and families from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds.
Struggling to untangle relationship conflicts, personal identity dilemmas, or the complexities of family dynamics? Looking for clarity amongst the confusion, or seeking authenticity in a world that that places social expectations at the forefront. You are not alone and have come to the right place. Grounded in cultural humility, empathy, and a commitment to social justice, I ensure you feel seen, heard, and valued. I specialize in working with couples, individuals, and families from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds.
(281) 801-5826 View (281) 801-5826
Photo of Acinta Monteverde, Marriage & Family Therapist in Deer Park, TX
Acinta Monteverde
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77015
Welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 12 years of experience in the field. I work with clients ages 13 and above who have depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I am most comfortable working with clients who are self-motivated and do not have active addictions or suicidality. I use a Carl Rogers' client-centered approach with the gentleness of unconditional positive regard is one that describes my own. I also incorporate a mindfulness-based approach using self-compassion and awareness. My approach is holistic and eclectic and I customize the approach to each client's unique needs and openness.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 12 years of experience in the field. I work with clients ages 13 and above who have depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I am most comfortable working with clients who are self-motivated and do not have active addictions or suicidality. I use a Carl Rogers' client-centered approach with the gentleness of unconditional positive regard is one that describes my own. I also incorporate a mindfulness-based approach using self-compassion and awareness. My approach is holistic and eclectic and I customize the approach to each client's unique needs and openness.
(817) 587-6339 View (817) 587-6339
Photo of Lakehouse Counseling, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Deer Park, TX
Lakehouse Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77058
In Couple/Family sessions, we spend 75 minutes talking about each family member's emotions and how they affect our most significant relationships.
I am a compassionate person who seeks to help others discover their own inherent worth and beauty. I have received my Bachelor’s Education from the University of Houston and my Master’s Education from the University of Houston – Clear Lake. I have also been active in research through an Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy Project since 2009.
In Couple/Family sessions, we spend 75 minutes talking about each family member's emotions and how they affect our most significant relationships.
I am a compassionate person who seeks to help others discover their own inherent worth and beauty. I have received my Bachelor’s Education from the University of Houston and my Master’s Education from the University of Houston – Clear Lake. I have also been active in research through an Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy Project since 2009.
(281) 724-3569 View (281) 724-3569
Photo of Darlene Joy Plant, Psychologist in Deer Park, TX
Darlene Joy Plant
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77058
I use a collaborative approach with a variety of modalities including humanistic, narrative, family systems, Jungian, and existential that are tailored to meet your individual needs.
Psychological pain and suffering are part of the human experience. I provide a personalized, nonjudgmental, healing process for individuals, couples, and families. Depression, anxiety, stress, death or loss, overwhelming emotions, and relationship issues are a few of the difficulties often experienced.
I use a collaborative approach with a variety of modalities including humanistic, narrative, family systems, Jungian, and existential that are tailored to meet your individual needs.
Psychological pain and suffering are part of the human experience. I provide a personalized, nonjudgmental, healing process for individuals, couples, and families. Depression, anxiety, stress, death or loss, overwhelming emotions, and relationship issues are a few of the difficulties often experienced.
(281) 623-1650 View (281) 623-1650
Photo of Alexis Jones, LPC Intern in Deer Park, TX
Alexis Jones
LPC Intern, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77089  (Online Only)
Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling works with individuals, couples and families from a family systems perspective.
I have held a long passion for mental health counseling since my younger days. Naturally, I am inclined to helping people and I sympathize with those who are experiencing life challenges. I have always given an ear to people who are in pain and given them words of comfort and encouragement including strangers.
Marriage, Couple and Family Counseling works with individuals, couples and families from a family systems perspective.
I have held a long passion for mental health counseling since my younger days. Naturally, I am inclined to helping people and I sympathize with those who are experiencing life challenges. I have always given an ear to people who are in pain and given them words of comfort and encouragement including strangers.
(346) 472-4377 View (346) 472-4377
Photo of Gloria Gitlin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Deer Park, TX
Gloria Gitlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77075
Hello, I am Gloria Gitlin, a licensed professional counselor with forty-two years of clinical experience. I have experience working with Individuals, Couples, Families, and Minors who are facing Behavioral Issues, Emotional Disturbance, Family Conflict, Self Esteem, Spirituality, Anxiety, and many more. I use a mix of ACT, Adlerian, Christian Counseling, Client-Centered Therapy, CBT, CPT, Compassion Focused, Couples Therapy, Culturally Sensitive, EFT, Family Systems, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Interpersonal, Jungian, MBCT, Intervention, and many more. I believe I could help others in distress and give peace in their situations.
Hello, I am Gloria Gitlin, a licensed professional counselor with forty-two years of clinical experience. I have experience working with Individuals, Couples, Families, and Minors who are facing Behavioral Issues, Emotional Disturbance, Family Conflict, Self Esteem, Spirituality, Anxiety, and many more. I use a mix of ACT, Adlerian, Christian Counseling, Client-Centered Therapy, CBT, CPT, Compassion Focused, Couples Therapy, Culturally Sensitive, EFT, Family Systems, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Interpersonal, Jungian, MBCT, Intervention, and many more. I believe I could help others in distress and give peace in their situations.
(430) 213-4241 View (430) 213-4241
Photo of Lyn Bjorgo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Deer Park, TX
Lyn Bjorgo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77089
I consider myself an eclectic therapist drawing largely from Cognitive Behavioral Theory, Person-Centered Theory, and Family Systems Theory.
My name is Lyn Bjorgo. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Texas working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults presenting with a variety of concerns. Life change adjustment issues, eating disorders, and depression are the issues I treat most often. My personality and therapeutic style tend to be effective with a variety of clients. These include clients in their late teens embarking on their next stage of life as well as those in early and middle adulthood navigating life changes, coping with day-to-day stressors and depression.
I consider myself an eclectic therapist drawing largely from Cognitive Behavioral Theory, Person-Centered Theory, and Family Systems Theory.
My name is Lyn Bjorgo. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Texas working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents and adults presenting with a variety of concerns. Life change adjustment issues, eating disorders, and depression are the issues I treat most often. My personality and therapeutic style tend to be effective with a variety of clients. These include clients in their late teens embarking on their next stage of life as well as those in early and middle adulthood navigating life changes, coping with day-to-day stressors and depression.
(281) 937-8256 View (281) 937-8256
Photo of Lindsay A Long, Marriage & Family Therapist in Deer Park, TX
Lindsay A Long
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
I have experience working with clients that battle with anxiety, depression, post-partum issues, bipolar type disorders, birth trauma, miscarriages, grief, abuse, communication issues, infidelity, and family relationship issues.
Do you feel stuck? You have tried everything, but nothing seems to help. You have reached a point in your life or relationship where you are desperate for change. As people, we are not designed to carry life’s burdens alone, and deciding to seek help takes courage. It is my passion to help adults, adolescents, couples, and families discover their own personal journey towards healing so that they are better equipped to live a happier and healthier life. Through a warm and supportive environment, it is my priority that clients feel safe and comfortable throughout their entire therapeutic experience.
I have experience working with clients that battle with anxiety, depression, post-partum issues, bipolar type disorders, birth trauma, miscarriages, grief, abuse, communication issues, infidelity, and family relationship issues.
Do you feel stuck? You have tried everything, but nothing seems to help. You have reached a point in your life or relationship where you are desperate for change. As people, we are not designed to carry life’s burdens alone, and deciding to seek help takes courage. It is my passion to help adults, adolescents, couples, and families discover their own personal journey towards healing so that they are better equipped to live a happier and healthier life. Through a warm and supportive environment, it is my priority that clients feel safe and comfortable throughout their entire therapeutic experience.
(832) 720-4330 View (832) 720-4330
Photo of Ashley Barrera, Licensed Professional Counselor in Deer Park, TX
Ashley Barrera
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Webster, TX 77598  (Online Only)
I specialize and work collaboratively with my clients using Person-Centered Therapy, Internal Family Systems (FS), Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Courage, compassion, curiosity, and vulnerability are key elements of my practice as I help people throughout their therapeutic journey. I prioritize an honest, non-judgemental, open, genuine space and therapeutic relationship to best aid you with what your journey entails and encompasses. My work consists of supporting adults and teens ages 16 and up through complex trauma history and healing, navigating close and intimate relationships, unpacking major life transitions, intentional exploration of your identity and sense of self, or processing the unbearable loss of a loved one.
I specialize and work collaboratively with my clients using Person-Centered Therapy, Internal Family Systems (FS), Narrative Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Courage, compassion, curiosity, and vulnerability are key elements of my practice as I help people throughout their therapeutic journey. I prioritize an honest, non-judgemental, open, genuine space and therapeutic relationship to best aid you with what your journey entails and encompasses. My work consists of supporting adults and teens ages 16 and up through complex trauma history and healing, navigating close and intimate relationships, unpacking major life transitions, intentional exploration of your identity and sense of self, or processing the unbearable loss of a loved one.
(832) 345-3163 View (832) 345-3163
Photo of Aysha Hussaini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Deer Park, TX
Aysha Hussaini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77034
My clinical experience includes working with adolescents and adults providing individual, family, and group therapy.
Whatever your reasons for finding a therapist, I am glad that you have taken this step. As a client-centered therapist, I believe that you are a unique individual, and will make it my goal to help you live your best life. It is not my job to tell you what to do but to provide a safe, comfortable space in which we will work together to navigate your journey. We will use evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Strengths-based techniques to work on your goals.
My clinical experience includes working with adolescents and adults providing individual, family, and group therapy.
Whatever your reasons for finding a therapist, I am glad that you have taken this step. As a client-centered therapist, I believe that you are a unique individual, and will make it my goal to help you live your best life. It is not my job to tell you what to do but to provide a safe, comfortable space in which we will work together to navigate your journey. We will use evidence-based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Strengths-based techniques to work on your goals.
(281) 559-7264 View (281) 559-7264

See more therapy options for Deer Park

Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.