Photo of Linda L Richards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in League City, TX
Linda L Richards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573  (Online Only)
I see individuals who are struggling with anxiety/transitions in life (career/relationship/school/grief), family of origin issues, relationship issues, depression and self esteem/self worth/confidence.
Please note: I am providing telehealth only at this time. Say no and mean it! Learn to believe in yourself! Our own thoughts/beliefs can cause us to feel ineffective or incapable. Struggling with anxiety, anger or family of origin difficulties(controlling or distant parents), low self esteem/self worth and toxic family systems can affect our ability to see ourselves realistically or be self critical. This can negatively affect our mood. You can learn to control anxiety and thoughts with techniques, practice, changing your self talk and addressing beliefs about yourself.
I see individuals who are struggling with anxiety/transitions in life (career/relationship/school/grief), family of origin issues, relationship issues, depression and self esteem/self worth/confidence.
Please note: I am providing telehealth only at this time. Say no and mean it! Learn to believe in yourself! Our own thoughts/beliefs can cause us to feel ineffective or incapable. Struggling with anxiety, anger or family of origin difficulties(controlling or distant parents), low self esteem/self worth and toxic family systems can affect our ability to see ourselves realistically or be self critical. This can negatively affect our mood. You can learn to control anxiety and thoughts with techniques, practice, changing your self talk and addressing beliefs about yourself.
(281) 949-7103 View (281) 949-7103
Photo of Friendswood Counseling Center, LLC, Counselor in League City, TX
Friendswood Counseling Center, LLC
Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cindy Castillo, Licensed Professional Counselor in League City, TX
Cindy Castillo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Friendswood, TX 77546
I am trained in Trauma Focused - Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Parent- Child Interaction, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy, Couples Therapy and Group Therapy.
I have 20+ years of experience working in psychiatric hospitals, medical facilities, community health centers, pediatric clinics, schools, and residential treatment centers. I offered many years to working with children, adolescents, parents, and families through child protective services, rape crisis centers, shelters, neighborhood centers, and adoption centers. I am experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders including PTSD, Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, & Psychosis including the management of other symptoms that stem from family/ relationship conflict, social difficulties, poor school performance, and violence/ abuse.
I am trained in Trauma Focused - Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Parent- Child Interaction, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy, Couples Therapy and Group Therapy.
I have 20+ years of experience working in psychiatric hospitals, medical facilities, community health centers, pediatric clinics, schools, and residential treatment centers. I offered many years to working with children, adolescents, parents, and families through child protective services, rape crisis centers, shelters, neighborhood centers, and adoption centers. I am experienced in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders including PTSD, Depression, Trauma, Anxiety, & Psychosis including the management of other symptoms that stem from family/ relationship conflict, social difficulties, poor school performance, and violence/ abuse.
(346) 242-6663 View (346) 242-6663
Photo of Ashley Barrera, Licensed Professional Counselor in League City, 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 Ashley Deleon, Marriage & Family Therapist in League City, TX
Ashley Deleon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, Coach
Verified Verified
Friendswood, TX 77546
Do you have a hard time expressing your feelings that results in feeling anxious or sad? Do you feel unheard or misunderstood? I love to help individuals who are serious about their healing journey and ready to take the next step. Let's get your power back that resides inside of you to establish a sense of happiness, fulfillment, self-worth, self-love, and wholeness utilizing a holistic approach. have worked working with victims of sexual assault, women recovering from addiction, children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I believe in focusing on the whole body for long-lasting results. Email is best to contact me!
Do you have a hard time expressing your feelings that results in feeling anxious or sad? Do you feel unheard or misunderstood? I love to help individuals who are serious about their healing journey and ready to take the next step. Let's get your power back that resides inside of you to establish a sense of happiness, fulfillment, self-worth, self-love, and wholeness utilizing a holistic approach. have worked working with victims of sexual assault, women recovering from addiction, children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I believe in focusing on the whole body for long-lasting results. Email is best to contact me!
(346) 707-2320 View (346) 707-2320
Photo of Kellie Hill, Licensed Professional Counselor in League City, TX
Kellie Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058
Imagine a life you’re happy waking up to each morning. It’s possible! You hold the power and ability to make it a reality. I’m simply here to help you find the answers within yourself. I just provide an opportunity to work through the issues that are bothering you most. I know the thought of seeing a counselor can be intimidating. However, I hope you give yourself the chance to make each day one you enjoy. I have been working with children, adolescents, adults, and families for 17 years using techniques to help change faulty thinking patterns and behaviors.
Imagine a life you’re happy waking up to each morning. It’s possible! You hold the power and ability to make it a reality. I’m simply here to help you find the answers within yourself. I just provide an opportunity to work through the issues that are bothering you most. I know the thought of seeing a counselor can be intimidating. However, I hope you give yourself the chance to make each day one you enjoy. I have been working with children, adolescents, adults, and families for 17 years using techniques to help change faulty thinking patterns and behaviors.
(281) 549-4705 View (281) 549-4705
Photo of Cleo Browder, Licensed Professional Counselor in League City, TX
Cleo Browder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC, ERPSCC, CEAP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77058  (Online Only)
I believe in promoting healing and healthy mind through effective psychotherapy. Life as magnificent as it is, comes with challenges that can overwhelm an individual to the point where his/her daily functioning is significantly impaired. Psychotherapy provides a means for managing and coping with issues that at some time or another interfere with daily functioning. My goal is to assist individuals with learning how to manage/cope with the challenges presented by life.
I believe in promoting healing and healthy mind through effective psychotherapy. Life as magnificent as it is, comes with challenges that can overwhelm an individual to the point where his/her daily functioning is significantly impaired. Psychotherapy provides a means for managing and coping with issues that at some time or another interfere with daily functioning. My goal is to assist individuals with learning how to manage/cope with the challenges presented by life.
(713) 597-2516 View (713) 597-2516
Photo of Susan E Avila, Licensed Professional Counselor in League City, TX
Susan E Avila
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058
(832) 721-7114 View (832) 721-7114

Online Therapists

Photo of Heather Roberts, Marriage & Family Therapist in League City, TX
Heather Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I believe that every client has the tools and knowledge necessary to improve their lives. This knowledge becomes hidden by the stress and responsibilities we face on a daily basis. My role as a therapist is to help you uncover those tools in order for you to live a more fulfilling life. If your family is facing a difficult challenge, if you need a different perspective on a situation, or if you are at a loss of what to do with your teen's behavior, I would be honored to help you throughout the process of positive change.
I believe that every client has the tools and knowledge necessary to improve their lives. This knowledge becomes hidden by the stress and responsibilities we face on a daily basis. My role as a therapist is to help you uncover those tools in order for you to live a more fulfilling life. If your family is facing a difficult challenge, if you need a different perspective on a situation, or if you are at a loss of what to do with your teen's behavior, I would be honored to help you throughout the process of positive change.
(281) 602-3316 View (281) 602-3316
Photo of Colton Rouse, Licensed Professional Counselor in League City, TX
Colton Rouse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77002  (Online Only)
Licensed as both a Professional Counselor and a Marriage & Family Therapist, I bring knowledge and experience from both fields into my work.
I'm proud of you. Awareness is the first step and searching for a therapist means you are already on a path to self-betterment. My role is to be a companion, someone to walk that path with you and help unlock personal insights and perspectives to improve your quality of life. Change is the unknown, so it is scary and difficult. We can become too comfortable in our routine of life, but your presence here means you are ready for the next adventure. Allow me to connect with you to fulfill my life's purpose and help you reach your full potential. You are not alone and you are cared for, even by people you haven't met yet.
Licensed as both a Professional Counselor and a Marriage & Family Therapist, I bring knowledge and experience from both fields into my work.
I'm proud of you. Awareness is the first step and searching for a therapist means you are already on a path to self-betterment. My role is to be a companion, someone to walk that path with you and help unlock personal insights and perspectives to improve your quality of life. Change is the unknown, so it is scary and difficult. We can become too comfortable in our routine of life, but your presence here means you are ready for the next adventure. Allow me to connect with you to fulfill my life's purpose and help you reach your full potential. You are not alone and you are cared for, even by people you haven't met yet.
(512) 890-3105 View (512) 890-3105
Photo of Wendy Williams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in League City, TX
Wendy Williams, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494
AFTERNOON APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE! Are you or your family struggling emotionally with life's challenges, you have tried everything to fix the problem with no avail, and you don't know where else to turn? I can help. Through focusing on your strengths, helping you create healthy habits, and teaching you healthy coping skills, I can help you and/or your family cope with and overcome family issues/couples issues, mental illness, work through struggles you may face during each stage of life, and work through traumatic life experiences so you can live a life free of emotional pain.
AFTERNOON APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE! Are you or your family struggling emotionally with life's challenges, you have tried everything to fix the problem with no avail, and you don't know where else to turn? I can help. Through focusing on your strengths, helping you create healthy habits, and teaching you healthy coping skills, I can help you and/or your family cope with and overcome family issues/couples issues, mental illness, work through struggles you may face during each stage of life, and work through traumatic life experiences so you can live a life free of emotional pain.
(832) 734-9102 View (832) 734-9102
Photo of Danielle Ellis, Licensed Professional Counselor in League City, TX
Danielle Ellis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77382  (Online Only)
Dani provides individual, couples, and family counseling to clients who are 13 years old and over.
Danielle "Dani" Ellis is a counselor, coach, and psychotherapist who helps people having difficulty coping with emotional or behavioral problems that are affecting their happiness and peace of mind. She assists her clients by focusing on resilience, empowerment, assertiveness, and positive actionable change. Treatment is based on a wellness perspective where clients are understood, accepted, and encouraged to focus on their individual uniqueness and strengths rather than identifying with an illness or diagnosis. She helps clients heal from trauma, confront unhealthy habits, develop insight and awareness, and learn new ways to cope.
Dani provides individual, couples, and family counseling to clients who are 13 years old and over.
Danielle "Dani" Ellis is a counselor, coach, and psychotherapist who helps people having difficulty coping with emotional or behavioral problems that are affecting their happiness and peace of mind. She assists her clients by focusing on resilience, empowerment, assertiveness, and positive actionable change. Treatment is based on a wellness perspective where clients are understood, accepted, and encouraged to focus on their individual uniqueness and strengths rather than identifying with an illness or diagnosis. She helps clients heal from trauma, confront unhealthy habits, develop insight and awareness, and learn new ways to cope.
(713) 893-3989 View (713) 893-3989
Photo of Debbie Martin, Licensed Professional Counselor in League City, TX
Debbie Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77084  (Online Only)
Do you wonder how you can take control of your own emotions and reactions? Let me help you achieve emotional balance in your life. I have counseling experience working with clients struggling with divorce, communication problems, depression, grief, parenting issues, and anxiety. I enjoy working with children, teens, adults, and families. I also enjoy working with clients with eating disorders and adolescents that self-harm. I'm a therapist at Hope & Harmony Therapy, where I facilitate individual, family & couples counseling; as well as counseling groups.
Do you wonder how you can take control of your own emotions and reactions? Let me help you achieve emotional balance in your life. I have counseling experience working with clients struggling with divorce, communication problems, depression, grief, parenting issues, and anxiety. I enjoy working with children, teens, adults, and families. I also enjoy working with clients with eating disorders and adolescents that self-harm. I'm a therapist at Hope & Harmony Therapy, where I facilitate individual, family & couples counseling; as well as counseling groups.
(281) 628-2450 View (281) 628-2450
Photo of Hanh Vo, Psychologist in League City, TX
Hanh Vo
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77068
Individuals, Couples, Family, and Adolescents.
"You are here on earth because there is something that only you can do!" Choosing Now as the time to act and being fully present in your body and in your relationships will take you to infinite possibilities. All of life's answers lie in how deep you are connected to yourself. Do not turn your attention elsewhere to look for the truth, for it is nowhere to be found but within your body.
Individuals, Couples, Family, and Adolescents.
"You are here on earth because there is something that only you can do!" Choosing Now as the time to act and being fully present in your body and in your relationships will take you to infinite possibilities. All of life's answers lie in how deep you are connected to yourself. Do not turn your attention elsewhere to look for the truth, for it is nowhere to be found but within your body.
(832) 769-8736 View (832) 769-8736
Photo of Tonya M Boyd, Licensed Professional Counselor in League City, TX
Tonya M Boyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77007  (Online Only)
I come from a diverse family and am a LBGTQ+ allied therapist and an active social justice, BLM, and equality advocate.
We all deserve to feel at home and safe in our bodies and minds, and it’s my passion to help others find this place. Are you in need of affordable and flexible counseling? Do you feel stressed, overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated with life? Are you seeking support, guidance, and understanding? Do you feel you have little support, and no one to talk to or listen? Are you seeking self-empowerment? Are you seeking to overcome life’s challenges and reach your personal goals? You came to the right profile. Here at Ellie Mental Heath, we accept self-pay and insurance. Hit me up to schedule your appointment.
I come from a diverse family and am a LBGTQ+ allied therapist and an active social justice, BLM, and equality advocate.
We all deserve to feel at home and safe in our bodies and minds, and it’s my passion to help others find this place. Are you in need of affordable and flexible counseling? Do you feel stressed, overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated with life? Are you seeking support, guidance, and understanding? Do you feel you have little support, and no one to talk to or listen? Are you seeking self-empowerment? Are you seeking to overcome life’s challenges and reach your personal goals? You came to the right profile. Here at Ellie Mental Heath, we accept self-pay and insurance. Hit me up to schedule your appointment.
(210) 417-4809 View (210) 417-4809
Photo of Tiffany Morish, Licensed Professional Counselor in League City, TX
Tiffany Morish
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77057
Often, we rely on our chosen family for support and guidance.
Welcome to my page! I'm Tiffany Morish, a licensed professional counselor in Texas. I bring cultural diversity and competency to each session. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQ -related issues, trauma, abuse, and anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I use Person-Centered therapy to aid you in finding the solutions on your own, which leave you feeling empowered.
Often, we rely on our chosen family for support and guidance.
Welcome to my page! I'm Tiffany Morish, a licensed professional counselor in Texas. I bring cultural diversity and competency to each session. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, LGBTQ -related issues, trauma, abuse, and anger management. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I use Person-Centered therapy to aid you in finding the solutions on your own, which leave you feeling empowered.
(281) 688-4779 View (281) 688-4779
Photo of Dr. Kinnari Birla, Psychologist in League City, TX
Dr. Kinnari Birla
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pearland, TX 77584  (Online Only)
We are accepting clients for individual, couples, family, children and adolescents.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you, as stated by Dr. Maya Angelou, resonates deeply with our mission at Elvive Psychological Services. Founded by Dr. Birla, our practice is dedicated to empowering individuals to have a voice. Our therapists act as catalysts in your journey, offering a safe and supportive environment to foster psychological flexibility amidst life's trials. Committed to inclusivity, we serve a diverse population with various emotional and behavioral challenges. Our clinical approaches are rooted in evidence-based and culturally sensitive care, customized to meet needs of each client.
We are accepting clients for individual, couples, family, children and adolescents.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you, as stated by Dr. Maya Angelou, resonates deeply with our mission at Elvive Psychological Services. Founded by Dr. Birla, our practice is dedicated to empowering individuals to have a voice. Our therapists act as catalysts in your journey, offering a safe and supportive environment to foster psychological flexibility amidst life's trials. Committed to inclusivity, we serve a diverse population with various emotional and behavioral challenges. Our clinical approaches are rooted in evidence-based and culturally sensitive care, customized to meet needs of each client.
(281) 949-6371 View (281) 949-6371
Photo of Barbara J. Washington, Licensed Professional Counselor in League City, TX
Barbara J. Washington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CART
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77272  (Online Only)
I have successfully taught children as early as those in Program Head Start, before becoming a Texas Teacher & School Counselor, and ultimately a LPC-Supervisor . As a child advocate who tries to understand the needs of the child in hopes of helping with mental or emotional turmoil. One may say or think that I specialize in treating children? This would be false, because I can't recall a situation where I could help the child without helping the parents, and even the whole family. Family history and dynamics plays a "Huge" role in your child's development and behaviors.
I have successfully taught children as early as those in Program Head Start, before becoming a Texas Teacher & School Counselor, and ultimately a LPC-Supervisor . As a child advocate who tries to understand the needs of the child in hopes of helping with mental or emotional turmoil. One may say or think that I specialize in treating children? This would be false, because I can't recall a situation where I could help the child without helping the parents, and even the whole family. Family history and dynamics plays a "Huge" role in your child's development and behaviors.
(713) 772-9085 View (713) 772-9085
Photo of Woods D. Dixon, Licensed Professional Counselor in League City, TX
Woods D. Dixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77070
I also promote mindfulness and self-care and especially enjoy practicing Family Systems Therapy.
Many of us struggle with the fear of letting go...of something. It can be a frightening process and you may feel hopeless and helpless at times. However, the empowerment that can be gained by letting go and ridding yourself of negative thoughts can be truly life changing. It may be hard, but my role is to help you reach your personal goals. Counseling is my second career. In the earlier part of my life, I earned an MBA and spent 10 years working in international sales and marketing. I was moved to begin a new career helping other people after counseling personally turned my life around and provided me with balance and peace.
I also promote mindfulness and self-care and especially enjoy practicing Family Systems Therapy.
Many of us struggle with the fear of letting go...of something. It can be a frightening process and you may feel hopeless and helpless at times. However, the empowerment that can be gained by letting go and ridding yourself of negative thoughts can be truly life changing. It may be hard, but my role is to help you reach your personal goals. Counseling is my second career. In the earlier part of my life, I earned an MBA and spent 10 years working in international sales and marketing. I was moved to begin a new career helping other people after counseling personally turned my life around and provided me with balance and peace.
(281) 214-6549 View (281) 214-6549
Photo of Karah Lawshe, Licensed Professional Counselor in League City, TX
Karah Lawshe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Katy, TX 77494  (Online Only)
My educational and working background includes self-esteem, marital issues, trauma, depression, grief, loss, anxiety, family issues, sexual assault, domestic violence, and LGBTQ+ issues.
My approach to therapy is meeting the individual needs of each client through a supportive and collaborative working relationship. I prefer a client-centered therapeutic approach, which puts the client first. I also adapt additional therapeutic theories and techniques best fit for the individual.
My educational and working background includes self-esteem, marital issues, trauma, depression, grief, loss, anxiety, family issues, sexual assault, domestic violence, and LGBTQ+ issues.
My approach to therapy is meeting the individual needs of each client through a supportive and collaborative working relationship. I prefer a client-centered therapeutic approach, which puts the client first. I also adapt additional therapeutic theories and techniques best fit for the individual.
(281) 761-6979 View (281) 761-6979

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.