Photo of Sydney Cole, Psychologist in Heath, TX
Sydney Cole
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Heath, TX 75032  (Online Only)
Finding help can feel overwhelming, daunting, and scary. It is a vulnerable feeling to trust someone with your deepest insecurities and pain. My goal is to be a soft place to land where you feel compassion and understanding. We all need someone in our lives who will listen without judgment and care for us without conditions. Anxiety, depression, pain, and illness do not have to take away your power any longer. Struggling with mental health can be an all-consuming and isolating experience. You don't have to walk this path alone.
Finding help can feel overwhelming, daunting, and scary. It is a vulnerable feeling to trust someone with your deepest insecurities and pain. My goal is to be a soft place to land where you feel compassion and understanding. We all need someone in our lives who will listen without judgment and care for us without conditions. Anxiety, depression, pain, and illness do not have to take away your power any longer. Struggling with mental health can be an all-consuming and isolating experience. You don't have to walk this path alone.
(972) 573-8367 View (972) 573-8367

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amanda Cortez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Heath, TX
Amanda Cortez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lavon, TX 75166
I have experience with chronic illness, caregiver stress, grief/trauma, domestic violence, mental health disorders, stressful life events, parenting/family issues.
As a social worker, I enjoy helping others cope with whatever challenges they face. From my social work experience, I found that counseling provides a way for me to assist people to work through difficult life situations and then grow as a result. Through counseling we will work together to discover your unique strengths. Building on those strengths, we will find solutions and strategies to help you navigate life's challenges. I earned my Bachelor of Social Work at St. Louis University and Master of Social Work from the University of Houston.
I have experience with chronic illness, caregiver stress, grief/trauma, domestic violence, mental health disorders, stressful life events, parenting/family issues.
As a social worker, I enjoy helping others cope with whatever challenges they face. From my social work experience, I found that counseling provides a way for me to assist people to work through difficult life situations and then grow as a result. Through counseling we will work together to discover your unique strengths. Building on those strengths, we will find solutions and strategies to help you navigate life's challenges. I earned my Bachelor of Social Work at St. Louis University and Master of Social Work from the University of Houston.
(469) 844-4241 View (469) 844-4241
Photo of Meltzer Counseling PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Heath, TX
Meltzer Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Rowlett, TX 75088
Meltzer Counseling is located in Richardson, Texas. We offer counseling services to adults, adolescents, children, couples. Clinicians accept health insurance, some clinicians offer therapy services on a sliding scale. Additionally, we offer short-term FREE family therapy for qualifying families. All clinicians are direct and respectful and our goal is to utilize the best fit for each client's needs. Therapists specialize in mood, eating disorders, addiction , anger management, self-harm behaviors, suicidal ideation ,trauma, EMDR, PTSD, grief and loss issues, communication skills, family and relationship dynamics.
Meltzer Counseling is located in Richardson, Texas. We offer counseling services to adults, adolescents, children, couples. Clinicians accept health insurance, some clinicians offer therapy services on a sliding scale. Additionally, we offer short-term FREE family therapy for qualifying families. All clinicians are direct and respectful and our goal is to utilize the best fit for each client's needs. Therapists specialize in mood, eating disorders, addiction , anger management, self-harm behaviors, suicidal ideation ,trauma, EMDR, PTSD, grief and loss issues, communication skills, family and relationship dynamics.
(972) 954-6256 View (972) 954-6256
Photo of Vincent Ramos Ph.d., Psychologist in Heath, TX
Vincent Ramos Ph.d.
Psychologist, LP, LSSP
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75087  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with work or home life stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or addiction? Are you confused and longing for meaningful purpose, success, and fulfillment at home or work? If you are reading this, it suggests you are searching for answers. Trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I offer therapy/coaching that is client-centered, compassionate, and grounded in psychological science. ACT is not strictly the reduction of symptoms. The goal is development of mental and emotional flexibility that allows clients to adapt effectively to a variety of problems and to live meaningful and rich lives.
Are you struggling with work or home life stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or addiction? Are you confused and longing for meaningful purpose, success, and fulfillment at home or work? If you are reading this, it suggests you are searching for answers. Trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I offer therapy/coaching that is client-centered, compassionate, and grounded in psychological science. ACT is not strictly the reduction of symptoms. The goal is development of mental and emotional flexibility that allows clients to adapt effectively to a variety of problems and to live meaningful and rich lives.
(214) 393-8978 View (214) 393-8978
Photo of Isabel Fink, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Heath, TX
Isabel Fink
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT
Verified Verified
Royse City, TX 75189
Not accepting new clients at this time, waitlist available! Isabel is honored to come alongside individuals and couples of all ages on a journey to understand behaviors, explore systems that shape and influence, identify triggers and coping strategies, reframe problematic narratives and face challenges in life. She demonstrates compassion and non-judgement while holding space for difficult conversations and exploration. Her holistic, person centered approach will meet you where you are, so you can get to where you want to go. Join her today and start your journey! Isabel is supervised by Rachel Falbo, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S.
Not accepting new clients at this time, waitlist available! Isabel is honored to come alongside individuals and couples of all ages on a journey to understand behaviors, explore systems that shape and influence, identify triggers and coping strategies, reframe problematic narratives and face challenges in life. She demonstrates compassion and non-judgement while holding space for difficult conversations and exploration. Her holistic, person centered approach will meet you where you are, so you can get to where you want to go. Join her today and start your journey! Isabel is supervised by Rachel Falbo, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S.
(469) 314-8735 View (469) 314-8735
Photo of Allison Tardif Art Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor in Heath, TX
Allison Tardif Art Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAAT , LPC, ATR-BC, CLAT
Verified Verified
Rockwall, TX 75032  (Online Only)
www.allisontardif.com Licensed in TX, CT, VA. As a Licensed Professional Counselor & Board Certified Art Therapist, I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to facilitate self-awareness, growth, and change. Engaging in therapy requires courage. My approach is strength based, client centered, mind body focused, and holistically grounded. As an art therapist, clients have the option to engage in art therapy (but not required). No art experience is required. The creative process and artwork are explored to uncover insight into thoughts & feelings.
www.allisontardif.com Licensed in TX, CT, VA. As a Licensed Professional Counselor & Board Certified Art Therapist, I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to facilitate self-awareness, growth, and change. Engaging in therapy requires courage. My approach is strength based, client centered, mind body focused, and holistically grounded. As an art therapist, clients have the option to engage in art therapy (but not required). No art experience is required. The creative process and artwork are explored to uncover insight into thoughts & feelings.
(469) 415-1326 View (469) 415-1326

Online Therapists

Photo of Think Tank Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Heath, TX
Think Tank Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Now accepting new clients! Here at Think Tank Counseling, we understand that mental health needs are as unique as you are. Whether you are struggling with an ongoing issue or a recent hardship; there is help. We offer accessible, affordable therapy services, nutritional coaching, and psychological testing according to each individual's needs and circumstances.Think Tank Counseling is a family owned business that believes collaboration is the key to successful outcomes in treatment. We are not just here to listen but to work hand in hand with you to reach your goals. You have as much to offer in your own healing as we do.
Now accepting new clients! Here at Think Tank Counseling, we understand that mental health needs are as unique as you are. Whether you are struggling with an ongoing issue or a recent hardship; there is help. We offer accessible, affordable therapy services, nutritional coaching, and psychological testing according to each individual's needs and circumstances.Think Tank Counseling is a family owned business that believes collaboration is the key to successful outcomes in treatment. We are not just here to listen but to work hand in hand with you to reach your goals. You have as much to offer in your own healing as we do.
(469) 629-7266 View (469) 629-7266
Photo of Holly Lockett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Heath, TX
Holly Lockett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034
My goal is to make your therapeutic experience as fulfilling as possible. I use a solutions focused/cognitive behavioral approach to therapy that helps people reach their goals as efficiently as possible. I work with a large variety of people by providing individual counseling, family counseling and activity therapy, filial therapy, grief resolution, teen counseling, and group therapy.
My goal is to make your therapeutic experience as fulfilling as possible. I use a solutions focused/cognitive behavioral approach to therapy that helps people reach their goals as efficiently as possible. I work with a large variety of people by providing individual counseling, family counseling and activity therapy, filial therapy, grief resolution, teen counseling, and group therapy.
(214) 960-2506 View (214) 960-2506
Photo of Deisy Ybarra, Licensed Professional Counselor in Heath, TX
Deisy Ybarra
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76135
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist and EMDR Certified. I work with parents who see their children or teens struggle with anxiety, depression, or have experienced trauma. My practice is focused on working with the entire family system. Many times parents seek services for their child. When they come to my office, we work on helping the parent be a partner in the healing process. My approach is different than other child therapist because I involve the parents in every step of the process and encourage them to be the parents that they want to be. It is hard to see your child suffer. I'm here to help
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist and EMDR Certified. I work with parents who see their children or teens struggle with anxiety, depression, or have experienced trauma. My practice is focused on working with the entire family system. Many times parents seek services for their child. When they come to my office, we work on helping the parent be a partner in the healing process. My approach is different than other child therapist because I involve the parents in every step of the process and encourage them to be the parents that they want to be. It is hard to see your child suffer. I'm here to help
(817) 242-5591 View (817) 242-5591
Photo of Dr. Monte Miller - Christian Psychologist, Psychologist in Heath, TX
Dr. Monte Miller - Christian Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
22 Endorsed
Southlake, TX 76092  (Online Only)
Infidelity (and/or other sexual issues - porn, performance anxiety, depression, anxiety) can be crushing to you and your family. I know all the steps needed to repair the relationship and make it better than ever. Am a full psychologist & sex therapist. No shaming or judging. I offer direct & tough, but compassionate, Biblically-based Christian care. I also deal with relationship problems, especially for men who haven't been in therapy before, but for women as well. I work with Performance Anxiety, & PTSD Abuse/Trauma recovery. I have both my Masters & Doctoral degrees. I use CBT. No psychobabble BS. 25 yrs of experience.
Infidelity (and/or other sexual issues - porn, performance anxiety, depression, anxiety) can be crushing to you and your family. I know all the steps needed to repair the relationship and make it better than ever. Am a full psychologist & sex therapist. No shaming or judging. I offer direct & tough, but compassionate, Biblically-based Christian care. I also deal with relationship problems, especially for men who haven't been in therapy before, but for women as well. I work with Performance Anxiety, & PTSD Abuse/Trauma recovery. I have both my Masters & Doctoral degrees. I use CBT. No psychobabble BS. 25 yrs of experience.
(210) 361-3354 View (210) 361-3354
Photo of Dr. Michael Contreras, Licensed Professional Counselor in Heath, TX
Dr. Michael Contreras
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC, ADC, ICADC, DOT-SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical interests include: marriage and family counseling, school difficulties and behavior referrals, adolescent issues, crisis intervention, substance abuse, PTSD, and depression.
My client population includes children, adolescents and adults. I work with individuals as well as families. I facilitate numerous groups and skills training curriculum in various topics including adolescent first offenders, anger management, divorce and separation, parenting, and teen issues.
My clinical interests include: marriage and family counseling, school difficulties and behavior referrals, adolescent issues, crisis intervention, substance abuse, PTSD, and depression.
My client population includes children, adolescents and adults. I work with individuals as well as families. I facilitate numerous groups and skills training curriculum in various topics including adolescent first offenders, anger management, divorce and separation, parenting, and teen issues.
(817) 849-6835 View (817) 849-6835
Photo of Counseling Center of North Texas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Heath, TX
Counseling Center of North Texas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wylie, TX 75098
***Now offering telehealth services*** Counseling Center of North Texas has multiple therapists with the education, experience, and desire to help you or a loved one with whatever obstacles you may face including conflict with family, relationships, school, and/or work, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health disorders, grief/trauma, stressful life events, adoptions, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and self-harm/other unhealthy coping skills. Christian counseling is available. We see children 3 and up, adolescents, adults, and seniors for individual, marital, family, and group counseling.
***Now offering telehealth services*** Counseling Center of North Texas has multiple therapists with the education, experience, and desire to help you or a loved one with whatever obstacles you may face including conflict with family, relationships, school, and/or work, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health disorders, grief/trauma, stressful life events, adoptions, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and self-harm/other unhealthy coping skills. Christian counseling is available. We see children 3 and up, adolescents, adults, and seniors for individual, marital, family, and group counseling.
(469) 275-4107 View (469) 275-4107
Photo of Connections Wellness Group, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Heath, TX
Connections Wellness Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, PhD, MD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Denton, TX 76210
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, play therapy, EMDR, psychiatric evaluations, medication management, forensic counseling, and more!.
We are a GROUP practice of psychiatrists and counselors with the goal of being (1) easily accessible, (2) affordable, and (3) profoundly competent. Our psychiatrists and therapists are accepting new clients and we can typically provide new patient appointments in a matter of hours, not weeks or months. Our team is made up of Harvard students, college professors, international speakers, and advanced trained fully licensed practitioners. We offer a profoundly talented team with over 150+ years of combined experience, without losing a single ounce of individualized compassion, care, and genuine love for what we do every day.
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy, play therapy, EMDR, psychiatric evaluations, medication management, forensic counseling, and more!.
We are a GROUP practice of psychiatrists and counselors with the goal of being (1) easily accessible, (2) affordable, and (3) profoundly competent. Our psychiatrists and therapists are accepting new clients and we can typically provide new patient appointments in a matter of hours, not weeks or months. Our team is made up of Harvard students, college professors, international speakers, and advanced trained fully licensed practitioners. We offer a profoundly talented team with over 150+ years of combined experience, without losing a single ounce of individualized compassion, care, and genuine love for what we do every day.
(940) 220-3884 View (940) 220-3884
Photo of Jason Volden Anderson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Heath, TX
Jason Volden Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75208
Have you even felt powerless? Maybe you’ve felt it in a relationship, or in your family, or at your job. Maybe at times you've felt powerless against your own mind. I believe that there’s a deep well of power that exists inside you. All you have to do is find it and reconnect to it. I would be honored to take that journey of self-discovery with you. You are far more powerful than you know, and I hope to help you explore your power.
Have you even felt powerless? Maybe you’ve felt it in a relationship, or in your family, or at your job. Maybe at times you've felt powerless against your own mind. I believe that there’s a deep well of power that exists inside you. All you have to do is find it and reconnect to it. I would be honored to take that journey of self-discovery with you. You are far more powerful than you know, and I hope to help you explore your power.
(469) 253-8804 View (469) 253-8804
Photo of Living Well Family and Child Institute, Licensed Professional Counselor in Heath, TX
Living Well Family and Child Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS LPC, MS Ed,, BS Ed,
Verified Verified
Irving, TX 75062
Enjoy counseling while experiencing a natural outdoor atmosphere or in-office setting. Dr. Aragon has 20 years of experience in Academic Teaching/Research and 15 years in Educational and Family counseling. My specialty involves court appointed Child Custody Evaluations, Adoptions, weight-loss management, Chronic Pain, and family relationships (e.g., couples, youth/adolescences and young adulthood). Therapy is engaged with a primary focus on generational trauma, anxiety, depression communication styles, Identity/Self-Esteem, and intimate re-engagement after chronic illness (e.g., Alzheimer's, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, etc.)
Enjoy counseling while experiencing a natural outdoor atmosphere or in-office setting. Dr. Aragon has 20 years of experience in Academic Teaching/Research and 15 years in Educational and Family counseling. My specialty involves court appointed Child Custody Evaluations, Adoptions, weight-loss management, Chronic Pain, and family relationships (e.g., couples, youth/adolescences and young adulthood). Therapy is engaged with a primary focus on generational trauma, anxiety, depression communication styles, Identity/Self-Esteem, and intimate re-engagement after chronic illness (e.g., Alzheimer's, diabetes, erectile dysfunction, etc.)
(214) 628-7225 View (214) 628-7225
Photo of Lisa K Fulfor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Heath, TX
Lisa K Fulfor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Frisco, TX 75034  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked in various settings and issues of practice include sexual identity, relationship concerns, divorce, blended family adjustments, victims of domestic violence or sexual assault, as well as survivors of childhood trauma (physical, emotional or sexual abuse).
Carl Rogers once said, "When a person realizes he has been deeply heard, his eyes moisten. I think in some real sense he is weeping for joy. It is as though he were saying, "Thank God, somebody heard me. Someone knows what it's like to be me." We all experience times in our lives where we just need to be heard, to be validated, to find some direction. It is my belief that a therapeutic relationship with a genuine therapist who provides an authentic, nonjudgmental, safe environment is the most important factor for growth and positive outcomes.
I have worked in various settings and issues of practice include sexual identity, relationship concerns, divorce, blended family adjustments, victims of domestic violence or sexual assault, as well as survivors of childhood trauma (physical, emotional or sexual abuse).
Carl Rogers once said, "When a person realizes he has been deeply heard, his eyes moisten. I think in some real sense he is weeping for joy. It is as though he were saying, "Thank God, somebody heard me. Someone knows what it's like to be me." We all experience times in our lives where we just need to be heard, to be validated, to find some direction. It is my belief that a therapeutic relationship with a genuine therapist who provides an authentic, nonjudgmental, safe environment is the most important factor for growth and positive outcomes.
(469) 425-2862 View (469) 425-2862
Photo of Michelle Dalton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Heath, TX
Michelle Dalton
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76001  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with couples, individuals, and families experiencing a variety of concerns, including communication problems, coping with chronic illnesses, coping with neurodiversity, and family conflict.
I believe in tailoring my approach to each unique case, as I believe each individual brings something different into the therapy room. I believe in setting collaborative goals to ensure you feel heard and that we are working towards the goals you have for your life.
I specialize in working with couples, individuals, and families experiencing a variety of concerns, including communication problems, coping with chronic illnesses, coping with neurodiversity, and family conflict.
I believe in tailoring my approach to each unique case, as I believe each individual brings something different into the therapy room. I believe in setting collaborative goals to ensure you feel heard and that we are working towards the goals you have for your life.
(817) 533-8298 View (817) 533-8298
Photo of Megan M Krizan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Heath, TX
Megan M Krizan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
We all wish life’s journey could be an easy one, but the reality is the path is not always smooth. Life can be filled with uncertainty, conflict, and hard choices. No matter what your age, there are times when life can leave you feeling lost. The good news is that this journey does not have to be faced alone. With a focus on compassion, connection, and what is developmentally appropriate, I can provide support and guidance through these challenges. Whether you are an adult, child, teen, parent, or whole family, I am able to help. I consider it a great privilege to be allowed to walk with people on their life's journey.
We all wish life’s journey could be an easy one, but the reality is the path is not always smooth. Life can be filled with uncertainty, conflict, and hard choices. No matter what your age, there are times when life can leave you feeling lost. The good news is that this journey does not have to be faced alone. With a focus on compassion, connection, and what is developmentally appropriate, I can provide support and guidance through these challenges. Whether you are an adult, child, teen, parent, or whole family, I am able to help. I consider it a great privilege to be allowed to walk with people on their life's journey.
(214) 934-0543 View (214) 934-0543
Photo of Grace Krueger, Pre-Licensed Professional in Heath, TX
Grace Krueger
Pre-Licensed Professional, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75219
Hello! I specialize in working with children and adults with disabilities, mood disorders, and those who are experiencing complex relationship issues (specifically in children and those who struggle with addictions, or have family members who struggle with addictions). In my career, I have worked with teenagers in a career counseling setting, children with disabilities (I have worked with children with Autism for over ten years), as well as teenagers and adults with persistent disabilities or mental health disorders.
Hello! I specialize in working with children and adults with disabilities, mood disorders, and those who are experiencing complex relationship issues (specifically in children and those who struggle with addictions, or have family members who struggle with addictions). In my career, I have worked with teenagers in a career counseling setting, children with disabilities (I have worked with children with Autism for over ten years), as well as teenagers and adults with persistent disabilities or mental health disorders.
(469) 649-7851 View (469) 649-7851
Photo of Lifeview Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor in Heath, TX
Lifeview Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lewisville, TX 75057
Marissa relocated to the DFW in 2014 with her husband and family.
Marissa Bell is a Licensed Professional Counselor committed to helping all people as they work on life’s journey. She focuses her practice on helping clients learn to love themselves and grow personally through all of life's adventures. Marissa has a heart for all people and and works with school aged children, college students, adults, and within a hospital setting. Marissa provides children with emotional support and self-regulating tools to use throughout life. Marissa’s desire is to help others learn to love themselves completely, and firmly believes that education is very important in understanding mental health.
Marissa relocated to the DFW in 2014 with her husband and family.
Marissa Bell is a Licensed Professional Counselor committed to helping all people as they work on life’s journey. She focuses her practice on helping clients learn to love themselves and grow personally through all of life's adventures. Marissa has a heart for all people and and works with school aged children, college students, adults, and within a hospital setting. Marissa provides children with emotional support and self-regulating tools to use throughout life. Marissa’s desire is to help others learn to love themselves completely, and firmly believes that education is very important in understanding mental health.
(214) 427-8389 View (214) 427-8389
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.