Photo of Martha Pulkingham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elgin, TX
Martha Pulkingham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Elgin, TX 78621  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, practicing in the greater Austin area for over 25 years; I work with adult individuals and couples. I create a supportive space to explore your concerns — whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, stress, relationship difficulties, or whether you are seeking to achieve a greater sense of well-being in your life. Convenient access to therapy via online sessions.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, practicing in the greater Austin area for over 25 years; I work with adult individuals and couples. I create a supportive space to explore your concerns — whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, stress, relationship difficulties, or whether you are seeking to achieve a greater sense of well-being in your life. Convenient access to therapy via online sessions.
(512) 270-2089 View (512) 270-2089

Online Therapists

Photo of Monica Mendoza, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elgin, TX
Monica Mendoza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78748
I work with adults ages 18 and over dealing with stress and anxiety, depression, addiction recovery, trauma and abuse, relationship or family issues, conflict resolution, and adjustment to life-changing events.
Hi there, I am Monica! I am a licensed therapist in the state of Texas and have spent the last 21 years growing as an effective helper in the world of counseling and therapy. Achieving holistic health and reaping the rewards through genuine fulfillment takes courage and calls for commitment of the mind, body, and soul. Commitment to therapy as a pathway to that level of health is not inconceivable and is a journey you do not have to walk alone. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
I work with adults ages 18 and over dealing with stress and anxiety, depression, addiction recovery, trauma and abuse, relationship or family issues, conflict resolution, and adjustment to life-changing events.
Hi there, I am Monica! I am a licensed therapist in the state of Texas and have spent the last 21 years growing as an effective helper in the world of counseling and therapy. Achieving holistic health and reaping the rewards through genuine fulfillment takes courage and calls for commitment of the mind, body, and soul. Commitment to therapy as a pathway to that level of health is not inconceivable and is a journey you do not have to walk alone. I am here to support and empower you in that journey.
(737) 530-9960 View (737) 530-9960
Photo of Comprehensive Mental Health in Elgin, TX
Comprehensive Mental Health
MD, PhD, LMFT, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78737
High-quality psychiatric and mental health counseling services for local Texas communities. We have Psychiatrists, Psych Nurse Practitioners, Licensed Professional Counselors, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, and Licensed Clinical Social Workers on staff to meet any and all of your mental healthcare needs.
High-quality psychiatric and mental health counseling services for local Texas communities. We have Psychiatrists, Psych Nurse Practitioners, Licensed Professional Counselors, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists, and Licensed Clinical Social Workers on staff to meet any and all of your mental healthcare needs.
(512) 881-8711 View (512) 881-8711
Photo of Debra Everett, Marriage & Family Therapist in Elgin, TX
Debra Everett
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cedar Park, TX 78613
Deb Everett is a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist with over 20 years experience working with adults and children, couples, families and small groups. My primary focus is to help you feel better about yourself or your current circumstances. I practice using an eclectic approach to meet you where you are and discovering which modalities of therapy work best for you and your individual situation. I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, acute trauma, children and teen mental health. I am also well versed in working with individuals, couples and families in difficult situations.
Deb Everett is a Licensed Marriage, Family Therapist with over 20 years experience working with adults and children, couples, families and small groups. My primary focus is to help you feel better about yourself or your current circumstances. I practice using an eclectic approach to meet you where you are and discovering which modalities of therapy work best for you and your individual situation. I am experienced in treating depression, anxiety, PTSD, acute trauma, children and teen mental health. I am also well versed in working with individuals, couples and families in difficult situations.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Jon Ryan Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elgin, TX
Jon Ryan Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Braunfels, TX 78130  (Online Only)
What do you hope would be better about yourself, about your life, about your marriage, about your family? This is my chief focus as a therapist. I get to the heart of what you really want and hope for in the first session, beginning with the end in mind. I believe hope is an essential mechanism for change in human beings. Hope drives us to accomplish the greatest feats in our lives. I have assisted people in striving for hope during my times in ministry, youth work, crisis response and in the counseling setting. I work with individuals, couples and families. I especially enjoy helping couples get back to having a hopeful marriage.
What do you hope would be better about yourself, about your life, about your marriage, about your family? This is my chief focus as a therapist. I get to the heart of what you really want and hope for in the first session, beginning with the end in mind. I believe hope is an essential mechanism for change in human beings. Hope drives us to accomplish the greatest feats in our lives. I have assisted people in striving for hope during my times in ministry, youth work, crisis response and in the counseling setting. I work with individuals, couples and families. I especially enjoy helping couples get back to having a hopeful marriage.
(830) 202-5977 View (830) 202-5977
Photo of Neeta A Ramkumar, Psychologist in Elgin, TX
Neeta A Ramkumar
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701  (Online Only)
My specialties include: cultural adjustment, relationship + family coaching, career direction, healing from traumatic events, and compassion fatigue (first responders/humanitarians).
Are you caught between worlds? My online practice caters to cross-culturals. As a first generation Austinite and global citizen, I see you. Do you need space to unpack ancestral and intergenerational trauma? Is your relationship strained by cultural differences? Moved and feeling homesick? Cultural fluidity, exploring identity, finding belonging, and navigating transition are common themes that lead folx to my practice. Authentic living is your birthright. You don't have to transform generational cycles on your own. I invite you to receive the support you deserve on your journey. When we heal ourselves, we heal the world.
My specialties include: cultural adjustment, relationship + family coaching, career direction, healing from traumatic events, and compassion fatigue (first responders/humanitarians).
Are you caught between worlds? My online practice caters to cross-culturals. As a first generation Austinite and global citizen, I see you. Do you need space to unpack ancestral and intergenerational trauma? Is your relationship strained by cultural differences? Moved and feeling homesick? Cultural fluidity, exploring identity, finding belonging, and navigating transition are common themes that lead folx to my practice. Authentic living is your birthright. You don't have to transform generational cycles on your own. I invite you to receive the support you deserve on your journey. When we heal ourselves, we heal the world.
(512) 572-4425 View (512) 572-4425
Photo of Joslyn Drzymalla, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elgin, TX
Joslyn Drzymalla
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217
Welcome to my practice! For over ten years I have worked as a licensed counselor, with experience in addictions, family violence, at-risk adolescents, and working with the HIV/AIDS population. I have specific training in Cognitive-Behavioral, Rational Emotive Behavioral, and Solution-Focused Brief therapies. These therapies have been shown through research to be effective in treating depression, anxiety, addictions, and other mental health diagnoses. I also like to incorporate relaxation, mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques, and art therapy techniques in my work with clients.
Welcome to my practice! For over ten years I have worked as a licensed counselor, with experience in addictions, family violence, at-risk adolescents, and working with the HIV/AIDS population. I have specific training in Cognitive-Behavioral, Rational Emotive Behavioral, and Solution-Focused Brief therapies. These therapies have been shown through research to be effective in treating depression, anxiety, addictions, and other mental health diagnoses. I also like to incorporate relaxation, mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques, and art therapy techniques in my work with clients.
(210) 625-8178 View (210) 625-8178
Photo of Darbi Armstrong Peterson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elgin, TX
Darbi Armstrong Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
Specializing in individual, family, marriage, co-parenting, and sex therapy.
Bloom Mental Health is dedicated to improving the lives of our clients through compassionate and effective psychotherapy services. Our team of therapists are carefully selected based on their ability to connect with clients on a deep level and help them find healing and transformation. We're excited to welcome new therapists to the team soon!
Specializing in individual, family, marriage, co-parenting, and sex therapy.
Bloom Mental Health is dedicated to improving the lives of our clients through compassionate and effective psychotherapy services. Our team of therapists are carefully selected based on their ability to connect with clients on a deep level and help them find healing and transformation. We're excited to welcome new therapists to the team soon!
(512) 859-5798 View (512) 859-5798
Photo of Katherine Krenn Counseling LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elgin, TX
Katherine Krenn Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78745  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor, providing therapeutic services to individuals across Texas & Colorado. My therapeutic style can be best described as exploratory, affirming, warm, and creative - always with you at the center. I am passionate about supporting adolescents and young adults with significant life transitions, complicated family dynamics, neurodiversity, and trauma. I also love working with teachers, healthcare workers, recent college grads, and transplants who are adjusting to a new town or city.
I am a licensed professional counselor, providing therapeutic services to individuals across Texas & Colorado. My therapeutic style can be best described as exploratory, affirming, warm, and creative - always with you at the center. I am passionate about supporting adolescents and young adults with significant life transitions, complicated family dynamics, neurodiversity, and trauma. I also love working with teachers, healthcare workers, recent college grads, and transplants who are adjusting to a new town or city.
(512) 729-3352 View (512) 729-3352
Photo of Elise Waszczak, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elgin, TX
Elise Waszczak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78665  (Online Only)
I served in the nonprofit world for years prior to my work with repeat offenders. I have coordinated groups for those struggling with substance use and anger management. I have worked in a correctional facility, where I had much exposure to those in crisis and with acute mental illness. Now, I mostly work with adults addressing trauma, depression, anxiety, and everyday stress. I am very family-oriented and have always prioritized the importance of relationships. As a licensed professional counselor, I provide a safe place for you to work on the most important relationship- the one you have with yourself.
I served in the nonprofit world for years prior to my work with repeat offenders. I have coordinated groups for those struggling with substance use and anger management. I have worked in a correctional facility, where I had much exposure to those in crisis and with acute mental illness. Now, I mostly work with adults addressing trauma, depression, anxiety, and everyday stress. I am very family-oriented and have always prioritized the importance of relationships. As a licensed professional counselor, I provide a safe place for you to work on the most important relationship- the one you have with yourself.
(844) 462-8605 View (844) 462-8605
Photo of Psychotherapy Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elgin, TX
Psychotherapy Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78750
We have numerous therapists with extensive training and experience to provide in-person therapy throughout the Austin/Round Rock areas or online sessions throughout Texas-therapists that can help you or your family with anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, abuse, grief & loss, relationship problems, divorce, ADHD, autism, school and behavioral problems, etc.
At Psychotherapy Associates, we believe in providing a safe, nurturing and effective psychotherapy to individuals, couples, children and families in crisis or other major life transitions. We also offer play therapy, EMDR for teens and adults, as well as court and CPS-mandated services for all age groups. Additionally, we work very closely with doctors, pediatricians, schools and other specialists out in the community to provide the best continuity of care for our clients. If we can be of help to you or someone you care about, please call or email us today for more information or to make an appointment with one of our counselors.
We have numerous therapists with extensive training and experience to provide in-person therapy throughout the Austin/Round Rock areas or online sessions throughout Texas-therapists that can help you or your family with anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, abuse, grief & loss, relationship problems, divorce, ADHD, autism, school and behavioral problems, etc.
At Psychotherapy Associates, we believe in providing a safe, nurturing and effective psychotherapy to individuals, couples, children and families in crisis or other major life transitions. We also offer play therapy, EMDR for teens and adults, as well as court and CPS-mandated services for all age groups. Additionally, we work very closely with doctors, pediatricians, schools and other specialists out in the community to provide the best continuity of care for our clients. If we can be of help to you or someone you care about, please call or email us today for more information or to make an appointment with one of our counselors.
(512) 750-5098 View (512) 750-5098
Photo of Wellness Restoration Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elgin, TX
Wellness Restoration Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
Connection with family and friends is vital to one's happiness, and therapy provides the tools for just that.
Therapy starts with understanding a person and seeing the world from that person's eyes.
Connection with family and friends is vital to one's happiness, and therapy provides the tools for just that.
Therapy starts with understanding a person and seeing the world from that person's eyes.
(281) 377-9687 View (281) 377-9687
Photo of Joy Welch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Elgin, TX
Joy Welch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78701  (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 F. Sean Redeker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elgin, TX
F. Sean Redeker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78750
I provide individual, couples (romantic and professional), and family therapy, and have expertise in working with adolescents and with anxiety/depression disorders.
My role as a therapist is to facilitate growth and change by assisting my clients in realizing and exploring the primary concerns in their lives. My job is to help them get "unstuck," so that they can choose other ways to live. I offer tools that can help them communicate better, establish necessary and healthy boundaries, manage anger and fear healthily, and eliminate self-destructive and self-harming behavior. Most importantly, I offer assistance in improving the self, which can enrich and increase the joy in my client's lives.
I provide individual, couples (romantic and professional), and family therapy, and have expertise in working with adolescents and with anxiety/depression disorders.
My role as a therapist is to facilitate growth and change by assisting my clients in realizing and exploring the primary concerns in their lives. My job is to help them get "unstuck," so that they can choose other ways to live. I offer tools that can help them communicate better, establish necessary and healthy boundaries, manage anger and fear healthily, and eliminate self-destructive and self-harming behavior. Most importantly, I offer assistance in improving the self, which can enrich and increase the joy in my client's lives.
(512) 649-8144 View (512) 649-8144
Photo of Charlene Mesa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elgin, TX
Charlene Mesa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78253  (Online Only)
I believe in helping rebuild relationships within families and helping each family member be the best version of themselves.
I truly believe that everyone can benefit from therapy at some point in their lives. Seeking out treatment is a big step and it's important to find the right Therapist to help you. I offer treatment based on your needs and help create a positive mindset for those motivated for change.
I believe in helping rebuild relationships within families and helping each family member be the best version of themselves.
I truly believe that everyone can benefit from therapy at some point in their lives. Seeking out treatment is a big step and it's important to find the right Therapist to help you. I offer treatment based on your needs and help create a positive mindset for those motivated for change.
(210) 741-9019 View (210) 741-9019
Photo of Elizabeth Devine, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elgin, TX
Elizabeth Devine
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701
Pulling from 20 years in the field, I have specialized experience with relationship dynamics, family therapy, complex emotional wounding and trauma, parent coaching and consulting, children and adolescents, substance use disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, severe mental illness, life transitions, and disordered eating.
Have you tried everything to understand or fix a problem, but it just keeps showing up? I believe complicated problems require complex understanding. I aim to help every client gain greater insight into themselves and the dynamics at play in their life, relationships, and experience. Insight alone can have a powerful and significant impact on progress and is at the heart of my work. However, lasting change often also requires learning and trying new ways of interacting with the world. I offer information, suggestions, and encouragement to assist you in feeling, thinking, and, ultimately, living better.
Pulling from 20 years in the field, I have specialized experience with relationship dynamics, family therapy, complex emotional wounding and trauma, parent coaching and consulting, children and adolescents, substance use disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, severe mental illness, life transitions, and disordered eating.
Have you tried everything to understand or fix a problem, but it just keeps showing up? I believe complicated problems require complex understanding. I aim to help every client gain greater insight into themselves and the dynamics at play in their life, relationships, and experience. Insight alone can have a powerful and significant impact on progress and is at the heart of my work. However, lasting change often also requires learning and trying new ways of interacting with the world. I offer information, suggestions, and encouragement to assist you in feeling, thinking, and, ultimately, living better.
(512) 598-4392 View (512) 598-4392
Photo of Dennis Doke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Elgin, TX
Dennis Doke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
I completed my Master's Degree in Agency Counseling from the University of Nebraska in Kearney in 1987. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. I trained in cognitive therapy and in the Gottman Couple's Method (I completed Levels 1 & 2). I use the Gottman Couples Method in relationship and marriage counseling. Doctors John and Julie Gottman conceptualize a healthy relationship as a "Sound Relationship House" with seven floors that need attention throughout a relationship history.
I completed my Master's Degree in Agency Counseling from the University of Nebraska in Kearney in 1987. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. I trained in cognitive therapy and in the Gottman Couple's Method (I completed Levels 1 & 2). I use the Gottman Couples Method in relationship and marriage counseling. Doctors John and Julie Gottman conceptualize a healthy relationship as a "Sound Relationship House" with seven floors that need attention throughout a relationship history.
(737) 530-3371 View (737) 530-3371
Photo of Elizabeth A Crowder, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Elgin, TX
Elizabeth A Crowder
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Waco, TX 76701
In addition to a MA in Marriage, Family and Child Counseling, I have training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sexual Assault Advocacy, Trust Based Relational Intervention, Telehealth, Prepare Enrich and a Microcertification in Applied Positive Psychology.
I view therapy as a collaborative and holistic approach to the navigation of the human condition and as a safe space to explore everything life throws our way. As an existentialist and a relational therapist, my goal is to emphasize identity development, emotional insight and regulation, freedom and responsibility, effective communication, relational interdependence, and the creation of meaning. We are all walking through this world together and experiencing growth, hardship, change, love, and loss. Because we are human, I believe that every person can benefit from having a place to process emotions and an ear to listen with empathy
In addition to a MA in Marriage, Family and Child Counseling, I have training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sexual Assault Advocacy, Trust Based Relational Intervention, Telehealth, Prepare Enrich and a Microcertification in Applied Positive Psychology.
I view therapy as a collaborative and holistic approach to the navigation of the human condition and as a safe space to explore everything life throws our way. As an existentialist and a relational therapist, my goal is to emphasize identity development, emotional insight and regulation, freedom and responsibility, effective communication, relational interdependence, and the creation of meaning. We are all walking through this world together and experiencing growth, hardship, change, love, and loss. Because we are human, I believe that every person can benefit from having a place to process emotions and an ear to listen with empathy
(254) 269-7158 View (254) 269-7158
Photo of Inner Warrior Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elgin, TX
Inner Warrior Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78750
Feelings of hopelessness and anxiety can become paralyzing, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and stuck. It’s easy to resort to unhealthy thoughts and behaviors to cope with life’s endless challenges. Are you using drugs, alcohol, shopping or food to avoid your fears and emotions? Are you drowning in the should haves and what if’s? I work with clients pre-teen and up who are looking for help with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, codependency, stress, relationships, sleep disorders, work/life balance and life transitions. I also specialize in working with military-connected clients, first responders and their family members.
Feelings of hopelessness and anxiety can become paralyzing, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and stuck. It’s easy to resort to unhealthy thoughts and behaviors to cope with life’s endless challenges. Are you using drugs, alcohol, shopping or food to avoid your fears and emotions? Are you drowning in the should haves and what if’s? I work with clients pre-teen and up who are looking for help with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, codependency, stress, relationships, sleep disorders, work/life balance and life transitions. I also specialize in working with military-connected clients, first responders and their family members.
(512) 559-1057 View (512) 559-1057
Photo of The Counseling Spot, Licensed Professional Counselor in Elgin, TX
The Counseling Spot
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
Our Licensed Professional Counselors and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists know counseling can be an expensive investment.
Are you having trouble finding joy and happiness? Does anxiety get the best of you sometimes? Do you just want your life to be easier or more enjoyable? We're here to help. Our therapists work with adults, children and adolescents, couples and families. Whether you want to repair damaged relationships, prepare children and teens for the future, or overcome the effects of trauma we have a counselor who is ready to work with you. You deserve satisfaction, peace and joy in life. It's possible! Let us help.
Our Licensed Professional Counselors and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists know counseling can be an expensive investment.
Are you having trouble finding joy and happiness? Does anxiety get the best of you sometimes? Do you just want your life to be easier or more enjoyable? We're here to help. Our therapists work with adults, children and adolescents, couples and families. Whether you want to repair damaged relationships, prepare children and teens for the future, or overcome the effects of trauma we have a counselor who is ready to work with you. You deserve satisfaction, peace and joy in life. It's possible! Let us help.
(210) 328-1644 View (210) 328-1644

See more therapy options for Elgin

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.