Photo of Todd Handelman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Todd Handelman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
By providing a supportive, active partnership with my clients we work together to create improved functioning at work, relationships, personal health and ongoing family dynamics.
Since 1992 I have helped clients age 13-73 respond to challenges facing them throughout their life cycles. Throughout my career I have facilitated my clients in developing skills and learning to ways to cope with the demands of school, socialization challenges, relationship dynamics, depression, anxiety, ADHD, sexuality, professional/career development and sports performance enhancement.
By providing a supportive, active partnership with my clients we work together to create improved functioning at work, relationships, personal health and ongoing family dynamics.
Since 1992 I have helped clients age 13-73 respond to challenges facing them throughout their life cycles. Throughout my career I have facilitated my clients in developing skills and learning to ways to cope with the demands of school, socialization challenges, relationship dynamics, depression, anxiety, ADHD, sexuality, professional/career development and sports performance enhancement.
(301) 859-7251 View (301) 859-7251
A Step Ahead Preventive & Holistic Wellness Ctr
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
Optimum mental health is a key ingredient to a successful life. Life circumstances and bio-psycho-social dispositions can affect our intrinsic need to be happy and realize our full potential. Accurate, preventive, timely and holistic diagnosis and interventions can save lives. My practice is integrative in nature with holistic mind-body, substance abuse and mental health, loss and grief, cultural sensitivity and competence and family system approaches. My practice offers both psychiatric and psychological assessments and treatments in collaboration with psychiatric and somatic health care providers. Healing possible, Therapy works.
Optimum mental health is a key ingredient to a successful life. Life circumstances and bio-psycho-social dispositions can affect our intrinsic need to be happy and realize our full potential. Accurate, preventive, timely and holistic diagnosis and interventions can save lives. My practice is integrative in nature with holistic mind-body, substance abuse and mental health, loss and grief, cultural sensitivity and competence and family system approaches. My practice offers both psychiatric and psychological assessments and treatments in collaboration with psychiatric and somatic health care providers. Healing possible, Therapy works.
(301) 265-3632 View (301) 265-3632
Photo of Keith T Foster, Psychologist in Maryland
Keith T Foster
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Waitlist for new clients
I serve on the faculty of a Family Medicine Residency Program where I teach physicians the importance of establishing an empathic relationship with their patients; the value of effective communication; and the need to include the patient in the decision-making involved in their medical care.
My years of experience and training have taught me the importance of good listening. By learning who you are and what you want in your life, I am best able to help you restore or enhance the quality of life you seek. I limit my practice to adults in individual therapy or relationship counseling. While there is no magic in therapy, there is an opportunity to feel better now, avoid future emotional pitfalls and be better able to deal with those that cannot be avoided. As a compassionate and experienced professional, I look forward to assisting you.
I serve on the faculty of a Family Medicine Residency Program where I teach physicians the importance of establishing an empathic relationship with their patients; the value of effective communication; and the need to include the patient in the decision-making involved in their medical care.
My years of experience and training have taught me the importance of good listening. By learning who you are and what you want in your life, I am best able to help you restore or enhance the quality of life you seek. I limit my practice to adults in individual therapy or relationship counseling. While there is no magic in therapy, there is an opportunity to feel better now, avoid future emotional pitfalls and be better able to deal with those that cannot be avoided. As a compassionate and experienced professional, I look forward to assisting you.
(410) 415-1431 View (410) 415-1431
Photo of Gina Pursley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Gina Pursley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Hello and thank you for visiting my site. I'm a mature woman who has a passion for helping others obtain their best self. My experience is vast and successful including substance abuse, codependency, raising special needs children, couples work, anxiety and depression, trauma, as well as family and relationship issues. My schedule is six days a week and I also run substance abuse groups. Please feel free to call me and have a chat.
Hello and thank you for visiting my site. I'm a mature woman who has a passion for helping others obtain their best self. My experience is vast and successful including substance abuse, codependency, raising special needs children, couples work, anxiety and depression, trauma, as well as family and relationship issues. My schedule is six days a week and I also run substance abuse groups. Please feel free to call me and have a chat.
(410) 885-6596 View (410) 885-6596
Photo of Melanie Eisman Garber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Melanie Eisman Garber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20817  (Online Only)
I am an individual and family therapist that works primarily with adolescents, young adults and adults. My practice integrates traditional psychotherapy with a myriad of techniques to help clients channel their inner strength and make positive and desired changes in their lives. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) while also utilizing mindfulness, strengths-based and eclectic approaches to therapy. I am extremely passionate about working with adolescents, young adults and adults dealing with life transitions, relationship, peer issues and failure to launch.
I am an individual and family therapist that works primarily with adolescents, young adults and adults. My practice integrates traditional psychotherapy with a myriad of techniques to help clients channel their inner strength and make positive and desired changes in their lives. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) while also utilizing mindfulness, strengths-based and eclectic approaches to therapy. I am extremely passionate about working with adolescents, young adults and adults dealing with life transitions, relationship, peer issues and failure to launch.
(240) 594-8645 View (240) 594-8645
Photo of Chesapeake Bay Psychological Services LLC in Maryland
Chesapeake Bay Psychological Services LLC
Verified Verified
Stevensville, MD 21666
We have been providing outpatient mental healthcare, including therapy and counseling, to children, adults, and families since 2006. Our team includes licensed psychologists, professional counselors, and clinical social workers. Our mission is to provide excellent mental healthcare to our community, while keeping our services affordable by accepting most insurance. It is our belief that every client and every family deserves to be treated equitably, with genuine care and respect. Visit our website to learn more or to schedule an appointment. We will do our best to help.
We have been providing outpatient mental healthcare, including therapy and counseling, to children, adults, and families since 2006. Our team includes licensed psychologists, professional counselors, and clinical social workers. Our mission is to provide excellent mental healthcare to our community, while keeping our services affordable by accepting most insurance. It is our belief that every client and every family deserves to be treated equitably, with genuine care and respect. Visit our website to learn more or to schedule an appointment. We will do our best to help.
(410) 609-9782 View (410) 609-9782
Photo of Carrie C Mead, Counselor in Maryland
Carrie C Mead
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ellicott City, MD 21043  (Online Only)
I would love to help your family, too.
Accepting new clients! If you feel constantly overwhelmed and you struggle to set healthy boundaries, I can help. Whether you are facing divorce, caring for elderly parents or small kids, or simply have 'too much' going on, I can help. Let therapy be your safe place to process your feelings, hopes, fears, and heal from past traumas. Empaths, highly sensitive people, therapists and healers, I am here for you, too. We are often the last to ask for help as we find it easier to help others instead of ourselves. Let's break that cycle! I offer you a judgment-free zone for healing from burnout, chronic stress, and compassion fatigue.
I would love to help your family, too.
Accepting new clients! If you feel constantly overwhelmed and you struggle to set healthy boundaries, I can help. Whether you are facing divorce, caring for elderly parents or small kids, or simply have 'too much' going on, I can help. Let therapy be your safe place to process your feelings, hopes, fears, and heal from past traumas. Empaths, highly sensitive people, therapists and healers, I am here for you, too. We are often the last to ask for help as we find it easier to help others instead of ourselves. Let's break that cycle! I offer you a judgment-free zone for healing from burnout, chronic stress, and compassion fatigue.
(443) 951-3986 View (443) 951-3986
Photo of Cecilia (Si) Han, Psychologist in Maryland
Cecilia (Si Si) Han
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP-CN
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21043
I also offer individual and family psychotherapy to empower clients to take control of their lives, foster long-healing and wellbeing, and lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
Individuals with history of complex medical conditions, traumatic or non-traumatic brain injuries, chronic pain, dementia, or other neurological conditions may experience changes in cognitive, behavioral and emotional functioning. I am passionate about helping these individuals adjust, cope, and function effectively in their daily, occupational and social pursuits. Using a personalized approach, I am committed to understand each client's unique needs and empower them to work through complex situations within an open, supportive environment to achieve their highest level of functioning and quality of life possible.
I also offer individual and family psychotherapy to empower clients to take control of their lives, foster long-healing and wellbeing, and lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
Individuals with history of complex medical conditions, traumatic or non-traumatic brain injuries, chronic pain, dementia, or other neurological conditions may experience changes in cognitive, behavioral and emotional functioning. I am passionate about helping these individuals adjust, cope, and function effectively in their daily, occupational and social pursuits. Using a personalized approach, I am committed to understand each client's unique needs and empower them to work through complex situations within an open, supportive environment to achieve their highest level of functioning and quality of life possible.
(410) 995-9475 View (410) 995-9475
Photo of Reji Abhilash, Psychologist in Maryland
Reji Abhilash
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852
My ideal client is one who has psychological mindedness to seek help & attains mental stability & self-acceptance to overcome their distress. I have the privilege of working with a wide variety of clients (children, adolescents, and adults) in providing appropriate interventions, targeting recovery & progress. I provide specialized evidence-based intervention for clients diagnosed with anxiety (OCD, panic attacks & social anxiety), depression, grief, trauma and PTSD, addiction, schizophrenia, bipolar & personality disorders (BPD), Alzheimer's & dementia including caretaking burden of the family to improve their quality of life.
My ideal client is one who has psychological mindedness to seek help & attains mental stability & self-acceptance to overcome their distress. I have the privilege of working with a wide variety of clients (children, adolescents, and adults) in providing appropriate interventions, targeting recovery & progress. I provide specialized evidence-based intervention for clients diagnosed with anxiety (OCD, panic attacks & social anxiety), depression, grief, trauma and PTSD, addiction, schizophrenia, bipolar & personality disorders (BPD), Alzheimer's & dementia including caretaking burden of the family to improve their quality of life.
(301) 900-6396 View (301) 900-6396
Photo of Geraldine E McBrinn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Geraldine E McBrinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
I have experience in individual, family, and group therapy.
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE. The idea of therapy can be overwhelming for anyone that hasn't sought it before or for someone who desires to restart therapy. My job as a licensed clinical social worker is not only to support you with whatever issue is taking place, but also to make you feel comfortable and safe to communicate what is usually very personal.
I have experience in individual, family, and group therapy.
TELETHERAPY AVAILABLE. The idea of therapy can be overwhelming for anyone that hasn't sought it before or for someone who desires to restart therapy. My job as a licensed clinical social worker is not only to support you with whatever issue is taking place, but also to make you feel comfortable and safe to communicate what is usually very personal.
(301) 273-1728 View (301) 273-1728
Photo of Carroll Counseling Ctrs - Mt. Airy And Eldersburg, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland
Carroll Counseling Ctrs - Mt. Airy And Eldersburg
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Eldersburg, MD 21784
Life today is difficult with all the demands placed on us by our family, work and our own need to achieve. Add to this the emotional stress of family conflict, divorce, defiant children, an illness or death in the family, and you begin to understand why more and more people are seeking the help of mental health professionals.
Life today is difficult with all the demands placed on us by our family, work and our own need to achieve. Add to this the emotional stress of family conflict, divorce, defiant children, an illness or death in the family, and you begin to understand why more and more people are seeking the help of mental health professionals.
(443) 233-0359 View (443) 233-0359
Photo of Dr. Leda Kaveh, Psychologist in Maryland
Dr. Leda Kaveh
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gaithersburg, MD 20878
Kaveh & her team sees individuals for a range of issues including anxiety, depression, unsatisfying relationships, LGBTQ issues, overwhelming emotions, self-esteem, academic challenges, family discord, lack of motivation as well as workplace challenges.
Dr. Kaveh is the owner/director of Washington Psychological Wellness. Dr. Kaveh is passionate about helping people live the lives they have envisioned by bringing values of honesty, kindness, humor & compassion to the practice. She works to inspire change, create greater self-awareness & improve one's life. She provides a comfortable and collaborative environment in which you can take risks and explore different ways of thinking, feeling & being. Her aim is to help you gain clarity about the underlying causes of your problems, provide strategies to help you cope & empower you to trust your inner voice & live each day authentically.
Kaveh & her team sees individuals for a range of issues including anxiety, depression, unsatisfying relationships, LGBTQ issues, overwhelming emotions, self-esteem, academic challenges, family discord, lack of motivation as well as workplace challenges.
Dr. Kaveh is the owner/director of Washington Psychological Wellness. Dr. Kaveh is passionate about helping people live the lives they have envisioned by bringing values of honesty, kindness, humor & compassion to the practice. She works to inspire change, create greater self-awareness & improve one's life. She provides a comfortable and collaborative environment in which you can take risks and explore different ways of thinking, feeling & being. Her aim is to help you gain clarity about the underlying causes of your problems, provide strategies to help you cope & empower you to trust your inner voice & live each day authentically.
(240) 209-9124 View (240) 209-9124
Photo of Maryland Neuropsychological Services, LLC, Psychologist in Maryland
Maryland Neuropsychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, NCC
Verified Verified
Germantown, MD 20876
Although past family experiences may come up in therapy, the past is not the focus.
Services provided by a pediatric neuropsychologist who is also a licensed clinical psychologist, in the state of Maryland. Therapy is provided to individuals across the lifespan (children and adults). Client issues we can help with includes grief, stress management, anxiety, depression, life issues, compulsions and obsessions, and an umbrella of sexual issues (including voyeurism, exhibitionism, pedophilia, sexuality and issues having sex, and more), neurodevelopmental disorders (autism/ADHD), and trauma. Founder: Dr. Sarah Gardner, PsyD, NCC
Although past family experiences may come up in therapy, the past is not the focus.
Services provided by a pediatric neuropsychologist who is also a licensed clinical psychologist, in the state of Maryland. Therapy is provided to individuals across the lifespan (children and adults). Client issues we can help with includes grief, stress management, anxiety, depression, life issues, compulsions and obsessions, and an umbrella of sexual issues (including voyeurism, exhibitionism, pedophilia, sexuality and issues having sex, and more), neurodevelopmental disorders (autism/ADHD), and trauma. Founder: Dr. Sarah Gardner, PsyD, NCC
(410) 834-4913 View (410) 834-4913
Photo of Kashira Brooks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Kashira Brooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Centreville, MD 21617  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is holistic and person-centered, drawing from extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
Greetings, I'm Kashira, a licensed therapist with over a decade of experience in the field. As a mother, I find considerable fulfillment in providing assistance to other mothers who are confronting the daily challenges associated with parenting. My client base encompasses adults, couples, and individuals facing issues such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and family dynamics.
My therapeutic approach is holistic and person-centered, drawing from extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
Greetings, I'm Kashira, a licensed therapist with over a decade of experience in the field. As a mother, I find considerable fulfillment in providing assistance to other mothers who are confronting the daily challenges associated with parenting. My client base encompasses adults, couples, and individuals facing issues such as depression, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, and family dynamics.
(410) 449-1693 View (410) 449-1693
Photo of Erin L Teigen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
Erin L Teigen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ellicott City, MD 21043  (Online Only)
When working with me, you can anticipate feeling empowered to leverage your strengths, build resilience and find meaning through challenges. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, many of whom need help with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, panic attacks, PTSD, grief, ADHD, family issues, and coping with disease and disability. You may expect me to offer an inclusive, family-centered approach to care that also considers the role of the human-and-animal bond. Clients that notice the most growth working with me are those seeking increases in self worth, communication skills and emotional regulation.
When working with me, you can anticipate feeling empowered to leverage your strengths, build resilience and find meaning through challenges. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, many of whom need help with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, panic attacks, PTSD, grief, ADHD, family issues, and coping with disease and disability. You may expect me to offer an inclusive, family-centered approach to care that also considers the role of the human-and-animal bond. Clients that notice the most growth working with me are those seeking increases in self worth, communication skills and emotional regulation.
(443) 323-0143 View (443) 323-0143
Photo of RENU 2, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maryland
RENU 2, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
Grief and loss, medical issues, divorce, military family life and dependency are all germane to life and require us to adjust accordingly.
My ideal client is someone who is open to the transformation process in therapy. I have treated patients from ages 18-80 with varying diagnoses. They range from mentally-ill to severely mentally-ill, and often suffer with co-morbidities. It is important to remember that you have everything you need inside of you to heal.
Grief and loss, medical issues, divorce, military family life and dependency are all germane to life and require us to adjust accordingly.
My ideal client is someone who is open to the transformation process in therapy. I have treated patients from ages 18-80 with varying diagnoses. They range from mentally-ill to severely mentally-ill, and often suffer with co-morbidities. It is important to remember that you have everything you need inside of you to heal.
(240) 823-4280 View (240) 823-4280
Photo of An Angel's Touch, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Maryland
An Angel's Touch, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lanham, MD 20706  (Online Only)
I earned a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling with a specialty in Marriage and Family at Maryville University in St. Louis, MO. I am licensed in both Washington, DC and Maryland. For more than 18 years, I have held various positions in the Social Service industry including managing a private practice, case manager, individual and group counselor, supervisor, trainer and clinic director. My education and professional experience gives me a unique and effective Solution Focused and Strength Based approach to counseling. I work to provide clients with tailored treatment plans that can be integrated into their daily lives.
I earned a Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling with a specialty in Marriage and Family at Maryville University in St. Louis, MO. I am licensed in both Washington, DC and Maryland. For more than 18 years, I have held various positions in the Social Service industry including managing a private practice, case manager, individual and group counselor, supervisor, trainer and clinic director. My education and professional experience gives me a unique and effective Solution Focused and Strength Based approach to counseling. I work to provide clients with tailored treatment plans that can be integrated into their daily lives.
(301) 691-5640 View (301) 691-5640
Photo of Andrew J Burns, Psychologist in Maryland
Andrew J Burns
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21208
I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and challenged family dynamics.
Choosing a child psychologist is not an easy task. I have been working as a licensed psychologist for over a decade, helping children, teens, young adults, and families cope with many of the difficulties they face. Primarily a specialist in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, I also use Behavior Therapy, Family Therapy, and traditional Individual/Interpersonal Therapy to help reach your goals. Also, I can perform psychological/psychoeducational evaluations to help guide a plan to improved grades and overall performance. Please feel free to call to discuss how I can help!
I specialize in treating ADHD, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and challenged family dynamics.
Choosing a child psychologist is not an easy task. I have been working as a licensed psychologist for over a decade, helping children, teens, young adults, and families cope with many of the difficulties they face. Primarily a specialist in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, I also use Behavior Therapy, Family Therapy, and traditional Individual/Interpersonal Therapy to help reach your goals. Also, I can perform psychological/psychoeducational evaluations to help guide a plan to improved grades and overall performance. Please feel free to call to discuss how I can help!
(410) 501-5015 View (410) 501-5015
Photo of Marion F Travers @ Lifemark, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland
Marion F Travers @ Lifemark
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC, LCADC, MAC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salisbury, MD 21804
Waitlist for new clients
Our therapists are trained in areas that include addiction, children, adolescents, marriage and family, grief, rehabilitation, trauma/EMDR, and groups.
LifeMark provides quality, clinical psychotherapy with a committment to excellence. We serve culturally diverse individuals, couples, families, and groups and enjoy working with people of all ages. We accommodate the individual needs of each of our clients and consider it a privilege to lean in to their stories and walk with them toward healing and wholeness. Our therapists are credentialed as Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors, Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselors, Master Addictions Counselors, National Certified Counselors, and Certified Rehabilitation Counselors.
Our therapists are trained in areas that include addiction, children, adolescents, marriage and family, grief, rehabilitation, trauma/EMDR, and groups.
LifeMark provides quality, clinical psychotherapy with a committment to excellence. We serve culturally diverse individuals, couples, families, and groups and enjoy working with people of all ages. We accommodate the individual needs of each of our clients and consider it a privilege to lean in to their stories and walk with them toward healing and wholeness. Our therapists are credentialed as Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselors, Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselors, Master Addictions Counselors, National Certified Counselors, and Certified Rehabilitation Counselors.
(443) 275-5361 View (443) 275-5361
Photo of Necole D Martinez, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland
Necole D Martinez
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Camp Springs, MD 20746
Necole D. Martinez is the Founder and Owner of House of Still, Incorporated. She is a licensed therapist in Maryland, Washington, DC, Virginia, and Georgia, with over 20 years of combined experience with Children, Family, and Adult Counseling. Necole’s passion has been to help heal individuals and families, teaching them how to accept past hurt and pain along with developing steps to transform into a happier self. She also enjoys assisting in mending broken families and bringing balance to the unit. Necole desires to help heal her community one conversation at a time, taking Mental Health out of the office and into the community.
Necole D. Martinez is the Founder and Owner of House of Still, Incorporated. She is a licensed therapist in Maryland, Washington, DC, Virginia, and Georgia, with over 20 years of combined experience with Children, Family, and Adult Counseling. Necole’s passion has been to help heal individuals and families, teaching them how to accept past hurt and pain along with developing steps to transform into a happier self. She also enjoys assisting in mending broken families and bringing balance to the unit. Necole desires to help heal her community one conversation at a time, taking Mental Health out of the office and into the community.
(202) 568-8286 View (202) 568-8286
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.