Photo of Bernadet Yaghobian, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91423, CA
Bernadet Yaghobian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Reiki Practitioner, I use an integrative approach that addresses the mind, body, and spirit to support my clients' well-being.
As an individual, you have a great capacity for creativity, decision-making, and imagination. However, past experiences may have caused emotional pain and hindered your ability to connect with others, find peace in everyday life, and move forward. These experiences still affect your present challenges, but you are motivated to address and heal your wounds. By changing the way you view your life's story, you hope to feel safe, heard, and increase your self-esteem and confidence.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Reiki Practitioner, I use an integrative approach that addresses the mind, body, and spirit to support my clients' well-being.
As an individual, you have a great capacity for creativity, decision-making, and imagination. However, past experiences may have caused emotional pain and hindered your ability to connect with others, find peace in everyday life, and move forward. These experiences still affect your present challenges, but you are motivated to address and heal your wounds. By changing the way you view your life's story, you hope to feel safe, heard, and increase your self-esteem and confidence.
(323) 859-6294 View (323) 859-6294
Photo of Dianne Stern Gorsey, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91423, CA
Dianne Stern Gorsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
I am bilingual Spanish and have taught parenting classes in both languages helping parents improve their family dynamic.
Feeling sad, mad, anxious, confused, overwhelmed, lonely, stuck? In my private practice I see individuals and couples dealing with depression and anxiety, life transitions including aging, retirement, illness, divorce, death of spouse, empty nest and career transitions as well as domestic violence, and parenting. I utilize a variety of theoretical orientations and interventions all tailored to the needs of each client. I am California certified to see survivors of domestic abuse. If you are ready to make changes in your life, therapy might be the conduit through which you can discover alternatives and improve your life.
I am bilingual Spanish and have taught parenting classes in both languages helping parents improve their family dynamic.
Feeling sad, mad, anxious, confused, overwhelmed, lonely, stuck? In my private practice I see individuals and couples dealing with depression and anxiety, life transitions including aging, retirement, illness, divorce, death of spouse, empty nest and career transitions as well as domestic violence, and parenting. I utilize a variety of theoretical orientations and interventions all tailored to the needs of each client. I am California certified to see survivors of domestic abuse. If you are ready to make changes in your life, therapy might be the conduit through which you can discover alternatives and improve your life.
(818) 918-3211 View (818) 918-3211
Photo of Tessa Gordon - Eating Disorder Specialist, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91423, CA
Tessa Gordon - Eating Disorder Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
Eating disorders can feel hopeless, but they aren’t. Whether this is your first time seeking help or your umpteenth time, I believe everyone can recover.  Just as there are many reasons why an eating disorder manifests in your life, the way you recover will be just as unique. If there was a one-size-fits-all solution, that would perhaps be as deceptive as the problem itself. Whether it’s perfectionism, judgment, loneliness, self-improvement, health, fear, family issues… Together we will discover what invites these problems into your life and begin to find what recovery means for you.
Eating disorders can feel hopeless, but they aren’t. Whether this is your first time seeking help or your umpteenth time, I believe everyone can recover.  Just as there are many reasons why an eating disorder manifests in your life, the way you recover will be just as unique. If there was a one-size-fits-all solution, that would perhaps be as deceptive as the problem itself. Whether it’s perfectionism, judgment, loneliness, self-improvement, health, fear, family issues… Together we will discover what invites these problems into your life and begin to find what recovery means for you.
(415) 300-4582 View (415) 300-4582
Pine Psychological Services, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Given that I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Clinical Psychologist and Psychoanalyst, one might deduce that I am very intelligent and really good at what I do. Of course, there are other possibilities like I'm a glutton for punishment or just another ordinary obsessive over-achiever. The point is that credentials and education are but one important factor that go into making a good psychotherapist. I strive to NOT make assumtions, but to listen, understand, respect, be sensitive yet objective and flexible, tailoring the treatment to the needs of my patient instead of the other way around.
Given that I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Clinical Psychologist and Psychoanalyst, one might deduce that I am very intelligent and really good at what I do. Of course, there are other possibilities like I'm a glutton for punishment or just another ordinary obsessive over-achiever. The point is that credentials and education are but one important factor that go into making a good psychotherapist. I strive to NOT make assumtions, but to listen, understand, respect, be sensitive yet objective and flexible, tailoring the treatment to the needs of my patient instead of the other way around.
(310) 275-1867 View (310) 275-1867
Photo of Sufi Yousefi Farkhan, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91423, CA
Sufi Yousefi Farkhan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of family behavioral health and wellness services. Our practice offers the latest in behavioral health including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of family behavioral health and wellness services. Our practice offers the latest in behavioral health including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life.
(424) 363-4511 View (424) 363-4511
Photo of Lynne Friedman-Gell, Psychologist in 91423, CA
Lynne Friedman-Gell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
My expertise includes developmental and family trauma & mental health issues anxiety, depression, stress, alcoholism, substance abuse & sabotaging behaviors.
My expertise as a therapist is in creating a safe and trusting connection as the foundation of our work. Are you struggling with anxiety, addiction, trauma, depression or multiple issues? Through collaboration, attunement and curiosity, explore the life you want, what interferes with achieving it, and how life experiences influence relational dynamics and perceptions of the world. I support this process of exploration towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life, with healthier connections to self and others. Treatment focus is also on strengths and experiencing a sense of empowerment, resiliency, aliveness and joy in your life.
My expertise includes developmental and family trauma & mental health issues anxiety, depression, stress, alcoholism, substance abuse & sabotaging behaviors.
My expertise as a therapist is in creating a safe and trusting connection as the foundation of our work. Are you struggling with anxiety, addiction, trauma, depression or multiple issues? Through collaboration, attunement and curiosity, explore the life you want, what interferes with achieving it, and how life experiences influence relational dynamics and perceptions of the world. I support this process of exploration towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life, with healthier connections to self and others. Treatment focus is also on strengths and experiencing a sense of empowerment, resiliency, aliveness and joy in your life.
(424) 401-3705 View (424) 401-3705
Photo of Stephanie Groom, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91423, CA
Stephanie Groom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
I work with individuals, children, couples, and family with the same objective to discover and grow.
Everyone has a life story filled with unique colors. Each color represents personal experiences, strengths, behaviors, relationships, and our inner world. Sometimes we find it hard to navigate through challenges and to face realities, which are unfamiliar and/or unexpected. Prior experiences may interrupt our current way of interacting, thinking, relating, and managing daily life. Stress contributes to increased anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, and relational issues. Trauma can debilitate individuals, couples, and families creating abrupt internal changes and fears. Grief over individual loss needs to be honored and acknowledged. Change occurs as a direct result of uncovering new insights.
I work with individuals, children, couples, and family with the same objective to discover and grow.
Everyone has a life story filled with unique colors. Each color represents personal experiences, strengths, behaviors, relationships, and our inner world. Sometimes we find it hard to navigate through challenges and to face realities, which are unfamiliar and/or unexpected. Prior experiences may interrupt our current way of interacting, thinking, relating, and managing daily life. Stress contributes to increased anxiety, depression, behavioral problems, and relational issues. Trauma can debilitate individuals, couples, and families creating abrupt internal changes and fears. Grief over individual loss needs to be honored and acknowledged. Change occurs as a direct result of uncovering new insights.
(818) 918-2057 View (818) 918-2057
Photo of Mariya Kriv, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91423, CA
Mariya Kriv
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Please call or email me for an individual, couples or family therapy consultation today.
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
Please call or email me for an individual, couples or family therapy consultation today.
As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(818) 962-6433 View (818) 962-6433
Photo of Stephanie Kavoulakos, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91423, CA
Stephanie Kavoulakos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Reaching out to a therapist can be a difficult step to take. I know the profound pain that can come with dealing with mental health challenges, including addiction...yours, or as a family member affected by another person's addictive behaviors. I understand how traumatic growing up with an alcoholic/addicted or a dysfunctional parent can be, or being involved in an unhealthy relationship. These experiences can lead to devastating feelings - shame, abandonment, depression, anxiety, isolation, anger, and much more. I invite you to share your feelings in a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel understood & heard.
Reaching out to a therapist can be a difficult step to take. I know the profound pain that can come with dealing with mental health challenges, including addiction...yours, or as a family member affected by another person's addictive behaviors. I understand how traumatic growing up with an alcoholic/addicted or a dysfunctional parent can be, or being involved in an unhealthy relationship. These experiences can lead to devastating feelings - shame, abandonment, depression, anxiety, isolation, anger, and much more. I invite you to share your feelings in a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel understood & heard.
(747) 207-4590 View (747) 207-4590
Photo of Jennifer Schneider, Psychologist in 91423, CA
Jennifer Schneider
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
By exploring and understanding one's personal and family history, individuals can more thoroughly explore their choices and make better decisions to live a happier and more fulfilling life.
In my therapy practice, I nurture a trusting relationship; one in which clients can feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings. I work collaboratively and am interactive in my approach to therapy. I believe it is the relationship between a client and therapist that is paramount in creating lasting change and personal healing. Developing trust, understanding and authenticity is essential before any meaningful healing can take place. I work with my patients to help them achieve an awareness of themselves and their personal histories in order to broaden and deepen their sense of self-efficacy and self-esteem.
By exploring and understanding one's personal and family history, individuals can more thoroughly explore their choices and make better decisions to live a happier and more fulfilling life.
In my therapy practice, I nurture a trusting relationship; one in which clients can feel safe to explore their thoughts and feelings. I work collaboratively and am interactive in my approach to therapy. I believe it is the relationship between a client and therapist that is paramount in creating lasting change and personal healing. Developing trust, understanding and authenticity is essential before any meaningful healing can take place. I work with my patients to help them achieve an awareness of themselves and their personal histories in order to broaden and deepen their sense of self-efficacy and self-esteem.
(310) 402-0621 View (310) 402-0621
Photo of Stephanie Fierro, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91423, CA
Stephanie Fierro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91423
Hello, my name is Stephanie Fierro-Haldorson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have experience working with couples, LGBTQIA+ community, adolescents, foster youth, trauma, addiction, and children ages 5-17. I have worked with so many different persons. I am comfortable working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community (adults and children), trauma, foster youth, couples, those with addiction, anxiety, and depression.
Hello, my name is Stephanie Fierro-Haldorson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have experience working with couples, LGBTQIA+ community, adolescents, foster youth, trauma, addiction, and children ages 5-17. I have worked with so many different persons. I am comfortable working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community (adults and children), trauma, foster youth, couples, those with addiction, anxiety, and depression.
(424) 677-2630 View (424) 677-2630
Photo of Uchechukwu Alozie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91423, CA
Uchechukwu Alozie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91423
My name is Uchechi Alozie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy is seeing my client within their environment and not just the issues they are presenting. My approach is trying to aid my clients holistically. I have worked with family units for more than 10 years. And have worked with individuals with chronic mental illness for 6 years. My goal is to help clients by determining what is influencing and impacting the client in their environment rather than looking just at the presenting issues.
My name is Uchechi Alozie. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy is seeing my client within their environment and not just the issues they are presenting. My approach is trying to aid my clients holistically. I have worked with family units for more than 10 years. And have worked with individuals with chronic mental illness for 6 years. My goal is to help clients by determining what is influencing and impacting the client in their environment rather than looking just at the presenting issues.
(760) 823-8366 View (760) 823-8366
Photo of Hilary Matthews, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91423, CA
Hilary Matthews
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91423
Hello, my name is Hilary Matthews and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and substance abuse counselor in Nevada, California, Utah and Oregon. I use different modalities in therapy. most often using Cognitive Behavior techniques for a number of symptoms and diagnoses, including but not limited to mood disorders, trauma, grief, relationships, stress, and substance use. I enjoy working with older teens and adults ages 16-65. I am experienced in treating anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, substance use, relationships and other stressors.
Hello, my name is Hilary Matthews and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and substance abuse counselor in Nevada, California, Utah and Oregon. I use different modalities in therapy. most often using Cognitive Behavior techniques for a number of symptoms and diagnoses, including but not limited to mood disorders, trauma, grief, relationships, stress, and substance use. I enjoy working with older teens and adults ages 16-65. I am experienced in treating anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, trauma, grief, substance use, relationships and other stressors.
(916) 659-5060 View (916) 659-5060
Photo of Brandy Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91423, CA
Brandy Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91423
I am an LCSW in the state of California and Georgia. I have been in the field for over 15 years. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked with a wide range of clients such as LGBTQ, depression, stress, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, physical trauma, emotional abuse, relationship problems, family conflicts, intimacy-related issues, parenting problems, anger management, and the like.
I am an LCSW in the state of California and Georgia. I have been in the field for over 15 years. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I have worked with a wide range of clients such as LGBTQ, depression, stress, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, trauma, physical trauma, emotional abuse, relationship problems, family conflicts, intimacy-related issues, parenting problems, anger management, and the like.
(661) 228-8121 View (661) 228-8121
Photo of Mina Badie, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91423, CA
Mina Badie
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
As an Integrative Therapist, I have nine years of experience working with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief and loss, marital problems, family conflict, and relational/parenting issues.
Are you pursuing higher emotional and mental health, better personal or professional relationships, or relief from anxiety or depression? I can help you reach your mental health goals and potential by collaborating to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a supportive, non-judgmental, and compassionate setting. I use a variety of treatment modalities tailored to individual needs. I do offer teletherapy sessions.
As an Integrative Therapist, I have nine years of experience working with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, grief and loss, marital problems, family conflict, and relational/parenting issues.
Are you pursuing higher emotional and mental health, better personal or professional relationships, or relief from anxiety or depression? I can help you reach your mental health goals and potential by collaborating to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a supportive, non-judgmental, and compassionate setting. I use a variety of treatment modalities tailored to individual needs. I do offer teletherapy sessions.
(323) 375-3514 View (323) 375-3514
Photo of Rachel White, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91423, CA
Rachel White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
With a compassionate family system lens, I collaborate with clients to support them in creating personalized goals to promote a greater sense of self awareness and personal growth.
Healing takes time and I’m honored to support my clients journey of self exploration and growth. Together we will process and gently work through past traumas or internalized narratives that were potentially needed in the past for survival, yet may no longer serve in the present moment. I treat a wide range of mental health concerns including Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Depression, Life Transitions and Developmental Disorders. LGBTQ+ ally.
With a compassionate family system lens, I collaborate with clients to support them in creating personalized goals to promote a greater sense of self awareness and personal growth.
Healing takes time and I’m honored to support my clients journey of self exploration and growth. Together we will process and gently work through past traumas or internalized narratives that were potentially needed in the past for survival, yet may no longer serve in the present moment. I treat a wide range of mental health concerns including Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Mood Disorders, Depression, Life Transitions and Developmental Disorders. LGBTQ+ ally.
(818) 450-5967 View (818) 450-5967
Photo of Ari Labowitz -Relationship Specialist, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91423, CA
Ari Labowitz -Relationship Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
***ARE YOU STRUGGLING WITH A RELATIONSHIP?*** I became a therapist because I am passionate about helping people just like you get the relationship of their dreams, whether with their current partner or someone new. ​Wondering if things can get better? ​Always arguing? ​Does your relationship lack passion and intimacy?​ Struggling with communication? ​Wishing you had more fun? Looking for therapy in the comfort of your own home, or anywhere you are? I am a relationship expert who provides online therapy.
***ARE YOU STRUGGLING WITH A RELATIONSHIP?*** I became a therapist because I am passionate about helping people just like you get the relationship of their dreams, whether with their current partner or someone new. ​Wondering if things can get better? ​Always arguing? ​Does your relationship lack passion and intimacy?​ Struggling with communication? ​Wishing you had more fun? Looking for therapy in the comfort of your own home, or anywhere you are? I am a relationship expert who provides online therapy.
(323) 673-2686 View (323) 673-2686
Photo of Jesse Sandler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91423, CA
Jesse Sandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
Do you need a little more support and structure in your life? I run a variety of high energy groups to help keep you on track, including "I Hate Weekends" (a Sunday support group for people who tend to isolate on the weekends), "You Can't Stop The Waves, But You Can Learn To Surf" (a cognitive therapy group for depression and anxiety), and "Back to Life, Back to Reality" (a life transition group). It's amazing what can happen when people stop being polite and start getting real...
Do you need a little more support and structure in your life? I run a variety of high energy groups to help keep you on track, including "I Hate Weekends" (a Sunday support group for people who tend to isolate on the weekends), "You Can't Stop The Waves, But You Can Learn To Surf" (a cognitive therapy group for depression and anxiety), and "Back to Life, Back to Reality" (a life transition group). It's amazing what can happen when people stop being polite and start getting real...
(310) 929-6686 View (310) 929-6686
Photo of Kelly Anna Strickland, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 91423, CA
Kelly Anna Strickland
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, relationship issues, or just feel that something is missing in your life? You have the power to make a change! I applaud you for taking the first step to creating the life you deserve by reaching out for help. I believe we all have the capacity to grow, and the right therapist can help you discover your inner wisdom for powerful, transformative shifts. As an integrative, person-centered therapist, I work with my clients using evidence-supported approaches to let go of unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, deepen personal insight, and create more meaningful relationships.
Are you struggling with depression, relationship issues, or just feel that something is missing in your life? You have the power to make a change! I applaud you for taking the first step to creating the life you deserve by reaching out for help. I believe we all have the capacity to grow, and the right therapist can help you discover your inner wisdom for powerful, transformative shifts. As an integrative, person-centered therapist, I work with my clients using evidence-supported approaches to let go of unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, deepen personal insight, and create more meaningful relationships.
(747) 291-0040 View (747) 291-0040
Photo of Richard Berg, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91423, CA
Richard Berg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Do you want to turn your life around? Do you hope to find a way out and end the pain you may be feeling now ? Are you going thru life now and thinking "I have to turn my life around". In my twenty years of experience, I have come to understand that sticking to the process of therapy is a courageous first step. When you are in pain, it is very hard to find the hope and motivation to stay the course. I know participating in therapy can help. I can help you reap these benefits. It requires committing to this process. Commitment is the key and I believe that helping you gain insight will give you the power to find your way out.
Do you want to turn your life around? Do you hope to find a way out and end the pain you may be feeling now ? Are you going thru life now and thinking "I have to turn my life around". In my twenty years of experience, I have come to understand that sticking to the process of therapy is a courageous first step. When you are in pain, it is very hard to find the hope and motivation to stay the course. I know participating in therapy can help. I can help you reap these benefits. It requires committing to this process. Commitment is the key and I believe that helping you gain insight will give you the power to find your way out.
(747) 229-0875 x818645 View (747) 229-0875 x818645
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.