Photo of Vaughn E Harvey, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vaughn E Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Rosedale, MD 21237
With over 20 years of experience, helping you find a solution to difficult situations is my commitment. Developing coping skills to better deal with a life challenge, trauma such as sexual victimization and offending, marital/couple concerns, life phase transition, anger management, grief/loss are just a few of the areas I can help with. I also have extensive experience in the area of child behavior for issues such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). My expertise includes counseling and coaching, as well as providing assistance in conjunction with the family, school or doctor to develop a plan of support.
With over 20 years of experience, helping you find a solution to difficult situations is my commitment. Developing coping skills to better deal with a life challenge, trauma such as sexual victimization and offending, marital/couple concerns, life phase transition, anger management, grief/loss are just a few of the areas I can help with. I also have extensive experience in the area of child behavior for issues such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). My expertise includes counseling and coaching, as well as providing assistance in conjunction with the family, school or doctor to develop a plan of support.
(443) 470-6807 View (443) 470-6807
Photo of Morgan Russo, LGMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Morgan Russo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LGMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
With individuals I use a combination of psychodynamic, IFS (Internal Family Systems), and CBT.
My clients are looking for a change, whether they are couples or individuals. My couples generally say they are looking for "better communication," however that often translates into looking for a deeper connection and bond with each other. I work with couples to understand their histories, their arguments, and learn how to connect instead of disconnect. The individuals I see in general have anxiety. I work with them to understand why they have anxiety, where it came from, and how to 'release' that anxious part.
With individuals I use a combination of psychodynamic, IFS (Internal Family Systems), and CBT.
My clients are looking for a change, whether they are couples or individuals. My couples generally say they are looking for "better communication," however that often translates into looking for a deeper connection and bond with each other. I work with couples to understand their histories, their arguments, and learn how to connect instead of disconnect. The individuals I see in general have anxiety. I work with them to understand why they have anxiety, where it came from, and how to 'release' that anxious part.
(240) 376-4054 View (240) 376-4054
Photo of Dr. Cassandra Clarke-Williams, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Dr. Cassandra Clarke-Williams
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208  (Online Only)
My family couldn’t empower me because they had never been empowered.
My mission has been to empower and educate teen girls and women. As a teen, I wished that I had someone to empower me. My family was old school, which meant that they used a lot of tactics that weren’t uplifting to me as a teenager. My self-esteem was really low as a result. I know today that my family didn’t know any better. They were parenting the way that they were parented. In my 20-plus years of working with mothers and teens, I see the same parenting mistakes taking place today, much similar to how I was raised. Parenting has so much to do with who we are as individuals. We can’t give our daughters what we don’t have.
My family couldn’t empower me because they had never been empowered.
My mission has been to empower and educate teen girls and women. As a teen, I wished that I had someone to empower me. My family was old school, which meant that they used a lot of tactics that weren’t uplifting to me as a teenager. My self-esteem was really low as a result. I know today that my family didn’t know any better. They were parenting the way that they were parented. In my 20-plus years of working with mothers and teens, I see the same parenting mistakes taking place today, much similar to how I was raised. Parenting has so much to do with who we are as individuals. We can’t give our daughters what we don’t have.
(443) 917-3771 View (443) 917-3771
Photo of Bruce Ferguson - Bruce Ferguson, LCPC, LCPC, LCADC, LMFT, Counselor
Bruce Ferguson, LCPC
Counselor, LCPC, LCADC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Towson, MD 21204
Hi. How are you coping? Life keeps changing so drastically. It doesn't seem real. So many existential questions come to mind, for instance: how will I stay safe?; who's in charge?; what does the future hold? It makes sense that we feel sad, worried or even out of control. This is normal under the circumstances. What gives you joy and peace? What about: sticking to the facts; not panicking; limiting the news; laughter; hobbies; spirituality; loving family, friends and pets to the fullest? Talking to a counselor can also help. I'm available for in-person and virtual sessions. Virtual is convenient, safe and insurance covers it.
Hi. How are you coping? Life keeps changing so drastically. It doesn't seem real. So many existential questions come to mind, for instance: how will I stay safe?; who's in charge?; what does the future hold? It makes sense that we feel sad, worried or even out of control. This is normal under the circumstances. What gives you joy and peace? What about: sticking to the facts; not panicking; limiting the news; laughter; hobbies; spirituality; loving family, friends and pets to the fullest? Talking to a counselor can also help. I'm available for in-person and virtual sessions. Virtual is convenient, safe and insurance covers it.
(443) 371-9846 View (443) 371-9846
Photo of Virginia Barnes Ricketts - Virginia Barnes Ricketts, MS, LCPC, MS, LCPC
Virginia Barnes Ricketts, MS, LCPC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
I also work with individuals who have no prior mental health diagnosis, but who are encountering life or family transitions and want supportive counseling to achieve greater wellness and peak performance.
I am a counselor and psychotherapist working with adults ages 21 and above as well as couples. My training and experience includes a broad range of mental health conditions. I use an integrative and strengths-based approach to therapy that emphasizes cognitive change and emotion-regulation. My style in working with clients is interactive and educational. Client goals are central to the therapy process.
I also work with individuals who have no prior mental health diagnosis, but who are encountering life or family transitions and want supportive counseling to achieve greater wellness and peak performance.
I am a counselor and psychotherapist working with adults ages 21 and above as well as couples. My training and experience includes a broad range of mental health conditions. I use an integrative and strengths-based approach to therapy that emphasizes cognitive change and emotion-regulation. My style in working with clients is interactive and educational. Client goals are central to the therapy process.
(410) 472-5101 View (410) 472-5101
Photo of Cynthia L Rebholz, MS, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia L Rebholz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, MD 21550  (Online Only)
Medical Family Therapy: I assist individuals/families coping with chronic medical issues.
Everyone needs support sometimes. You may be looking to tune-up your life, or rekindle your relationship, I understand coping with stress and issues can leave you feeling alone and questioning yourself. If you're feeling anxious or wondering what's happened to your loving relationship, let's talk. Getting to the heart of the matter can resolve barriers, create connection.and decrease stress. I'll help you process your next steps and regain confidence, utilizing multiple approaches to help you find peace and balance. You will discover keys to dissolving issues including parallel lives, anxiety, trauma, and depression.
Medical Family Therapy: I assist individuals/families coping with chronic medical issues.
Everyone needs support sometimes. You may be looking to tune-up your life, or rekindle your relationship, I understand coping with stress and issues can leave you feeling alone and questioning yourself. If you're feeling anxious or wondering what's happened to your loving relationship, let's talk. Getting to the heart of the matter can resolve barriers, create connection.and decrease stress. I'll help you process your next steps and regain confidence, utilizing multiple approaches to help you find peace and balance. You will discover keys to dissolving issues including parallel lives, anxiety, trauma, and depression.
(240) 770-2862 View (240) 770-2862
Photo of Jacquelyn Wilson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacquelyn Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Timonium, MD 21093
I specialize in individual, family, couples, and group therapy, with a focus on assisting children and families facing a wide range of behavioral health issues.
I am Jacquelyn Wilson, a Licensed Clinical Therapist (LCT) with a passion for helping individuals, couples, families, and children navigate the complexities of behavioral health issues. I am dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive environment where you can explore your unique journey towards healing and growth. As an experienced Licensed Master Social Worker, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the therapeutic process. My therapeutic approach is inclusive and sensitive to diverse backgrounds, including race, gender, class, religion, sexual orientation, and relationship status.
I specialize in individual, family, couples, and group therapy, with a focus on assisting children and families facing a wide range of behavioral health issues.
I am Jacquelyn Wilson, a Licensed Clinical Therapist (LCT) with a passion for helping individuals, couples, families, and children navigate the complexities of behavioral health issues. I am dedicated to providing a compassionate and supportive environment where you can explore your unique journey towards healing and growth. As an experienced Licensed Master Social Worker, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the therapeutic process. My therapeutic approach is inclusive and sensitive to diverse backgrounds, including race, gender, class, religion, sexual orientation, and relationship status.
(410) 846-6497 View (410) 846-6497
Photo of Hannah Snyder, LCPAT, LCPC, Art Therapist
Hannah Snyder
Art Therapist, LCPAT, LCPC
Verified Verified
Sykesville, MD 21784
I am an art therapist who integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Positive Psychology in my work to treat Anxiety and ADHD in teens and adults. Although this is my specialization, I also have experience working with clients struggling with identity, depression, bipolar disorder, and relationship struggles. I provide individual and group services to her clients, in addition to family and parent coaching.
I am an art therapist who integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Positive Psychology in my work to treat Anxiety and ADHD in teens and adults. Although this is my specialization, I also have experience working with clients struggling with identity, depression, bipolar disorder, and relationship struggles. I provide individual and group services to her clients, in addition to family and parent coaching.
(410) 671-0413 View (410) 671-0413
Photo of Courtney Dinsmore, PsyD, JD, Psychologist
Courtney Dinsmore
Psychologist, PsyD, JD
Verified Verified
Chevy Chase, MD 20815
Hello. I am Dr. Courtney Dinsmore. I help individuals and couples who want better relationships so that they feel content, happy and fulfilled. Sometimes we loose our equilibrium. In your life, this may look a few different ways. You may feel that you are clearly communicating what you want and need, but people don’t seem to understand you. You become angry over minor things that did not used to bother you. It is more difficult to relate to your partner or engage in the intimacy you once had. Things that used to satisfy you no longer do. You love your family, but wish you were closer.
Hello. I am Dr. Courtney Dinsmore. I help individuals and couples who want better relationships so that they feel content, happy and fulfilled. Sometimes we loose our equilibrium. In your life, this may look a few different ways. You may feel that you are clearly communicating what you want and need, but people don’t seem to understand you. You become angry over minor things that did not used to bother you. It is more difficult to relate to your partner or engage in the intimacy you once had. Things that used to satisfy you no longer do. You love your family, but wish you were closer.
(202) 991-3681 View (202) 991-3681
Photo of Dwayne L Buckingham - R.E.A.L. Therapy Solutions - Dr. Dwayne Buckingham, PhD, LCSW-C, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
R.E.A.L. Therapy Solutions - Dr. Dwayne Buckingham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C, BCD
Verified Verified
Laurel, MD 20707  (Online Only)
As a culturally sensitive and highly skilled psychotherapist with more than 25 years of experience, I have dedicated my life to treating military members, veterans, adults, teens and couples who have experienced adversity and suffers from a variety of psychological and behavioral challenges such as trauma, relationship distress, domestic violence, depression, grief, anxiety and family dysfunction. My ideal client has an unwavering desire to reach his/her full potential and is ready to do the work. Known as "The E.R. Doctor" I have developed a reputation for helping my clients successfully overcome adversity and recover from trauma.
As a culturally sensitive and highly skilled psychotherapist with more than 25 years of experience, I have dedicated my life to treating military members, veterans, adults, teens and couples who have experienced adversity and suffers from a variety of psychological and behavioral challenges such as trauma, relationship distress, domestic violence, depression, grief, anxiety and family dysfunction. My ideal client has an unwavering desire to reach his/her full potential and is ready to do the work. Known as "The E.R. Doctor" I have developed a reputation for helping my clients successfully overcome adversity and recover from trauma.
(240) 917-2023 View (240) 917-2023
Photo of Kimberly A. Davis - Renewed Behavioral Health & Wellness, LLC, PsyD, LCPC, LPC, VTT, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renewed Behavioral Health & Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LCPC, LPC, VTT, ACS
Verified Verified
Camp Springs, MD 20746  (Online Only)
Renew your mind, discover unhealthy patterns in your relationships, strengthen family bonds, and heal from invisible wounds. We are an agency that is invested in our clients shifting towards emotional health, healing and wholeness.
Renew your mind, discover unhealthy patterns in your relationships, strengthen family bonds, and heal from invisible wounds. We are an agency that is invested in our clients shifting towards emotional health, healing and wholeness.
(301) 281-4690 View (301) 281-4690
Photo of Larkin Plato, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larkin Plato
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20904
Out of the hundreds of therapists listed, how do you know who is right for you? Most likely, you’ll want to talk to an experienced therapist who understands how struggling with stress can lead to feeling depressed, moody, irritable or anxious. Whether, you’ve lost connection with your family or find yourself spending needless energy meeting the expectations of others; you’ll want to talk to a therapist who will help you feel safe and supported.
Out of the hundreds of therapists listed, how do you know who is right for you? Most likely, you’ll want to talk to an experienced therapist who understands how struggling with stress can lead to feeling depressed, moody, irritable or anxious. Whether, you’ve lost connection with your family or find yourself spending needless energy meeting the expectations of others; you’ll want to talk to a therapist who will help you feel safe and supported.
(301) 679-7663 View (301) 679-7663
Photo of Teresa Méndez, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teresa M Méndez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
Psychodynamic psychotherapy has the capacity to change us deeply. But it can also be subtle: allowing for a sense of "staying the same while changing," as we hold onto the parts of ourselves we value, while better understanding those parts that may be getting in the way. I work from the belief that meaningful and lasting change occurs in the context of relationships - including the relationship between therapist and patient. People come to me with painful relationships, difficult family dynamics, uncomfortable mood or anxiety symptoms, a general feeling that something isn't right, or the desire to simply know themselves better.
Psychodynamic psychotherapy has the capacity to change us deeply. But it can also be subtle: allowing for a sense of "staying the same while changing," as we hold onto the parts of ourselves we value, while better understanding those parts that may be getting in the way. I work from the belief that meaningful and lasting change occurs in the context of relationships - including the relationship between therapist and patient. People come to me with painful relationships, difficult family dynamics, uncomfortable mood or anxiety symptoms, a general feeling that something isn't right, or the desire to simply know themselves better.
(202) 817-2402 View (202) 817-2402
Photo of Nanci Brown, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nanci Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
I am an experienced therapist working with individuals and coupl for over 20 years. During this time I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and couples. My clients begin therapy as a means of overcoming obstacles or issues that prevent them from moving forward toward the individual goals they have set for themselves, whatever they may be. I help them assess and explore clear and realistic goals. I developed my early expertise working with adolescents with social, emotional, family or school issues. Since my early practice and training, I have gone on to also develop expertise in individual, couple and family counseling.
I am an experienced therapist working with individuals and coupl for over 20 years. During this time I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and couples. My clients begin therapy as a means of overcoming obstacles or issues that prevent them from moving forward toward the individual goals they have set for themselves, whatever they may be. I help them assess and explore clear and realistic goals. I developed my early expertise working with adolescents with social, emotional, family or school issues. Since my early practice and training, I have gone on to also develop expertise in individual, couple and family counseling.
(301) 686-7903 View (301) 686-7903
Photo of Judeline Altema-Commey, LCPC, ACS,  C-DBT, CTRP
Judeline Altema-Commey
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ACS, C-DBT, CTRP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hanover, MD 21076
I work with a broad spectrum of clients providing individual, family, couple, group therapy, and focus on minority women’s issues, coping with race and racism in the workplace, recognizing and constructively dealing with systemic racism, sexism, homophobia and ableism.
Healing can begin today! Guidance of Hope, LLC offers online and in-person counseling geared towards reconstructing your life to address challenges, changes, and pain to create growth, peace, and empowerment! My goal is to provide multiculturally competent and inclusive clinical services that are grounded in evidence-based practices. I specialize in Trauma, Depression, Stress and Anger Management, Self-Esteem,Relationship /Communication Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Dual Diagnosis Disorders, and Grief.
I work with a broad spectrum of clients providing individual, family, couple, group therapy, and focus on minority women’s issues, coping with race and racism in the workplace, recognizing and constructively dealing with systemic racism, sexism, homophobia and ableism.
Healing can begin today! Guidance of Hope, LLC offers online and in-person counseling geared towards reconstructing your life to address challenges, changes, and pain to create growth, peace, and empowerment! My goal is to provide multiculturally competent and inclusive clinical services that are grounded in evidence-based practices. I specialize in Trauma, Depression, Stress and Anger Management, Self-Esteem,Relationship /Communication Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Dual Diagnosis Disorders, and Grief.
(240) 202-1435 View (240) 202-1435
Photo of Jordan McGill, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan McGill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21207
Successful experience in individual, group, family, couples therapy and case management with a specialization in trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and substance use disorders across the lifespan.
A strong believer in the power of positive thinking, I encourage you to “live your best life” and promote an independent, sustainable, standard of thriving by using a strengths-based perspective.
Successful experience in individual, group, family, couples therapy and case management with a specialization in trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and substance use disorders across the lifespan.
A strong believer in the power of positive thinking, I encourage you to “live your best life” and promote an independent, sustainable, standard of thriving by using a strengths-based perspective.
(667) 326-9192 View (667) 326-9192
Photo of Lisa Makstein, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Makstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
North Potomac, MD 20878  (Online Only)
I work collaboratively as a divorce coach alongside attorneys to create a more positive outcome for the entire family.
As a psychotherapist for the past 30+ years, I feel passionate about helping people experience more joy and contentment in their relationships and in their lives. I believe that every crisis or problem that arises also provides an opportunity for healing and growth. Whether you are depressed, anxious, having marital conflicts, parenting difficulties, recovering from a traumatic experience, or in the midst of a life transition, we can problem-solve together and discover new possibilities for you. My style can best be described as interactive and engaging. I am a supportive listener, yet give honest feedback and offer suggestions for positive actions.
I work collaboratively as a divorce coach alongside attorneys to create a more positive outcome for the entire family.
As a psychotherapist for the past 30+ years, I feel passionate about helping people experience more joy and contentment in their relationships and in their lives. I believe that every crisis or problem that arises also provides an opportunity for healing and growth. Whether you are depressed, anxious, having marital conflicts, parenting difficulties, recovering from a traumatic experience, or in the midst of a life transition, we can problem-solve together and discover new possibilities for you. My style can best be described as interactive and engaging. I am a supportive listener, yet give honest feedback and offer suggestions for positive actions.
(301) 485-6939 View (301) 485-6939
Photo of David Dodson, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Dodson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hagerstown, MD 21740  (Online Only)
Relationships - Marriage, Dating, Family, Co-Workers, Friends - Relationships are essential in our lives. If you are experiencing challenges within your relationships, please connect today. Relationships can become overwhelming quickly. If you are looking to change patterns, build connection, and discover healthy communication, please connect today. Each Relationship shares a story. Each individual story is created by past experiences, trauma, success, pain, and happiness. Build on what you know and create new opportunities to experience and learn the freedom and contentment that awaits in your relationships. Connect today!
Relationships - Marriage, Dating, Family, Co-Workers, Friends - Relationships are essential in our lives. If you are experiencing challenges within your relationships, please connect today. Relationships can become overwhelming quickly. If you are looking to change patterns, build connection, and discover healthy communication, please connect today. Each Relationship shares a story. Each individual story is created by past experiences, trauma, success, pain, and happiness. Build on what you know and create new opportunities to experience and learn the freedom and contentment that awaits in your relationships. Connect today!
(240) 693-5118 View (240) 693-5118
Photo of Sierra Coleman - The Haven Center, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sierra Coleman - The Haven Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852  (Online Only)
As a Couples and Family Therapist, my job is to help you decode your relationship, with yourself and one another.
My name is Sierra Coleman, and helping people is my calling. I feel lucky to be able to call myself a therapist as it’s my passion. I believe that each client has their own unique set of challenges and responds in their own way to different interventions, therefore my orientation is deeply person centered with an emphasis on experiential therapy. I believe that problems are interwoven parts of the whole person (mind, body, environment, and the interpersonal) and see counseling as a collaborative process to empower my clients.
As a Couples and Family Therapist, my job is to help you decode your relationship, with yourself and one another.
My name is Sierra Coleman, and helping people is my calling. I feel lucky to be able to call myself a therapist as it’s my passion. I believe that each client has their own unique set of challenges and responds in their own way to different interventions, therefore my orientation is deeply person centered with an emphasis on experiential therapy. I believe that problems are interwoven parts of the whole person (mind, body, environment, and the interpersonal) and see counseling as a collaborative process to empower my clients.
(301) 597-7710 View (301) 597-7710
Photo of Elana Dorfman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elana Dorfman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21215  (Online Only)
I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Cognitive Behavioral Techniques (CBT) to help clients understand their internal processes better.
Do you feel like there is something missing in your relationships? Are you feeling depressed, anxious, lonely, or angry? Are you struggling to understand why you behave and think a certain way? My philosophy is that positive relationships are the most important aspect to a healthy and fulfilling life. My greatest goal is to help others develop themselves so that they can more easily connect with others and reach a high level of satisfaction in their lives.
I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Cognitive Behavioral Techniques (CBT) to help clients understand their internal processes better.
Do you feel like there is something missing in your relationships? Are you feeling depressed, anxious, lonely, or angry? Are you struggling to understand why you behave and think a certain way? My philosophy is that positive relationships are the most important aspect to a healthy and fulfilling life. My greatest goal is to help others develop themselves so that they can more easily connect with others and reach a high level of satisfaction in their lives.
(410) 346-5587 View (410) 346-5587
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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.