Family Therapy in Southern Pines, NC

Photo of Denise Frutchey, Psychologist in Southern Pines, NC
Denise Frutchey
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
I have been a licensed clinical psychologist for over 35 years. I have devoted my career to working with clients of all ages who come to me with some form of emotional distress or problems in living. I help them to understand the cause of their pain, educate about the importance of healthy boundaries and guide them to find relief and workable solutions. To this end I use family of origin therapy, psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and EMDR. I address such concerns as anxiety and depression, panic, trauma, self-esteem and couples and family conflict.
I have been a licensed clinical psychologist for over 35 years. I have devoted my career to working with clients of all ages who come to me with some form of emotional distress or problems in living. I help them to understand the cause of their pain, educate about the importance of healthy boundaries and guide them to find relief and workable solutions. To this end I use family of origin therapy, psychodynamic therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy and EMDR. I address such concerns as anxiety and depression, panic, trauma, self-esteem and couples and family conflict.
(910) 601-3351 View (910) 601-3351
Photo of Ikigai Counseling and Consulting PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Southern Pines, NC
Ikigai Counseling and Consulting PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A, CCTP II, CCATP
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387  (Online Only)
Collaborative Problem Solving, attachment, and family systems.
We are committed and passionate about helping individuals and families overcome anxiety, panic, depression, and trauma. Life experiences such as grief, loss and trauma can all contribute to the overwhelming feeling and sense of disconnection from others, difficulty with emotional regulation, and relationship challenges. We believe in the importance of not only addressing immediate needs but identifying and working through the root causes of challenges to make lasting changes. We enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and families to process trauma, interpersonal conflict, relationship challenges, and grief/loss.
Collaborative Problem Solving, attachment, and family systems.
We are committed and passionate about helping individuals and families overcome anxiety, panic, depression, and trauma. Life experiences such as grief, loss and trauma can all contribute to the overwhelming feeling and sense of disconnection from others, difficulty with emotional regulation, and relationship challenges. We believe in the importance of not only addressing immediate needs but identifying and working through the root causes of challenges to make lasting changes. We enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and families to process trauma, interpersonal conflict, relationship challenges, and grief/loss.
(919) 823-6456 View (919) 823-6456
Photo of Jessica Moretz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southern Pines, NC
Jessica Moretz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
I work with adults and teens experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, family dynamics, relationship concerns, communication issues, and religious trauma.
Now accepting new clients! Are you tired of feeling stuck? Do you imagine having someone you can process your feelings with that will help you navigate challenging emotions? I appreciate partnering with clients to empower them as they navigate difficult transitions and challenges in life.
I work with adults and teens experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, family dynamics, relationship concerns, communication issues, and religious trauma.
Now accepting new clients! Are you tired of feeling stuck? Do you imagine having someone you can process your feelings with that will help you navigate challenging emotions? I appreciate partnering with clients to empower them as they navigate difficult transitions and challenges in life.
(910) 460-3921 View (910) 460-3921
Photo of Nicole Sutton LCSW, LCAS, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southern Pines, NC
Nicole Sutton LCSW, LCAS, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southern Pines, NC 28387
Stressors come in many forms: family issues, relationship struggles, grief and loss, addiction, health problems, just to name a few. Often, these create conflicts – internal and external – and confusion about who we are, what we stand for, and what our life priorities are. My approach is designed to help clients disentangle these conflicts and to make sense of the confusion. During this process, clients learn about self-validation, finding a stable sense of identity and self, effective communication in relationships with others and oneself, creating healthy boundaries, and reducing stress.
Stressors come in many forms: family issues, relationship struggles, grief and loss, addiction, health problems, just to name a few. Often, these create conflicts – internal and external – and confusion about who we are, what we stand for, and what our life priorities are. My approach is designed to help clients disentangle these conflicts and to make sense of the confusion. During this process, clients learn about self-validation, finding a stable sense of identity and self, effective communication in relationships with others and oneself, creating healthy boundaries, and reducing stress.
(910) 387-1423 View (910) 387-1423
Photo of Traci Lee Kaiser, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southern Pines, NC
Traci Lee Kaiser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, Veteran
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387  (Online Only)
I specialize in Trauma-focused work, occupational stress, mood disorders, family (parenting and marital) stress, difficult life changes, and all things Anxiety.
Change is hard, but worth it. Clients can expect an empathic and caring, but no-nonsense, approach to tackling issues. I specialize in Military/Veteran issues, anxiety and trauma treatment to clients residing anywhere in TX, NC & AK. No travel required! I provide a non-judgmental atmosphere that enables frank, honest discussions that promote change. I have a good history with clients seeking out initial care as well as those who have been unsuccessful with other therapists. I do not accept insurance, as I believe care should be authentic and person-centered without coding or billing guidelines dictating care.
I specialize in Trauma-focused work, occupational stress, mood disorders, family (parenting and marital) stress, difficult life changes, and all things Anxiety.
Change is hard, but worth it. Clients can expect an empathic and caring, but no-nonsense, approach to tackling issues. I specialize in Military/Veteran issues, anxiety and trauma treatment to clients residing anywhere in TX, NC & AK. No travel required! I provide a non-judgmental atmosphere that enables frank, honest discussions that promote change. I have a good history with clients seeking out initial care as well as those who have been unsuccessful with other therapists. I do not accept insurance, as I believe care should be authentic and person-centered without coding or billing guidelines dictating care.
(979) 491-9875 View (979) 491-9875
Photo of Play Therapy of the Pines, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southern Pines, NC
Play Therapy of the Pines, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, RPT-S™
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
Waitlist for new clients
Megan) and current (Kayla) military spouse, we know the challenges that military families face on a daily basis and want you and your family to feel supported during life's transitions and stressors.
We like to consider ourselves play connoisseurs! Dr. Megan (owner) is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Registered Play Therapist, and Kayla is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Both Dr. Megan and Kayla have advanced training in different play therapy modalities and truly specialize in working with children. They believe in empowering children to make their own choices, take responsibility, and assert their autonomy by engaging in an accepting, safe, and trusting therapeutic relationship. Our office is designed for kids with adults in mind! :)
Megan) and current (Kayla) military spouse, we know the challenges that military families face on a daily basis and want you and your family to feel supported during life's transitions and stressors.
We like to consider ourselves play connoisseurs! Dr. Megan (owner) is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Registered Play Therapist, and Kayla is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Both Dr. Megan and Kayla have advanced training in different play therapy modalities and truly specialize in working with children. They believe in empowering children to make their own choices, take responsibility, and assert their autonomy by engaging in an accepting, safe, and trusting therapeutic relationship. Our office is designed for kids with adults in mind! :)
(910) 446-1650 View (910) 446-1650
Photo of Tracy Goldberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southern Pines, NC
Tracy Goldberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
I am happy to help and feel honored to be able to assist military family members with any struggles they may have.
If you are looking for someone who can help you resolve concerns in a nonjudgmental environment, I am available to assist you! I enjoy working with children, adolescents and their families. I also enjoy working with adults and couples. I like to help examine your difficulties and provide new insight into situations that may assist you or your family member (s) in making changes.
I am happy to help and feel honored to be able to assist military family members with any struggles they may have.
If you are looking for someone who can help you resolve concerns in a nonjudgmental environment, I am available to assist you! I enjoy working with children, adolescents and their families. I also enjoy working with adults and couples. I like to help examine your difficulties and provide new insight into situations that may assist you or your family member (s) in making changes.
(910) 725-6336 View (910) 725-6336
Photo of Kardia Counseling & Consulting, PLLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Southern Pines, NC
Kardia Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, NCC, LCAS, AADC, LMHC, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southern Pines, NC 28387  (Online Only)
CLINICAL FOCUS: Deployment Challenges Addictive Disorders Family Dynamics Marital Issues Grief & Loss School Difficulties Depression Anxiety Adjustment Disorders PTSD PSYCHO-EDUCATION FOCUS: Adjustment Parenting Relapse Prevention Reintegration Child Development Teacher Mentoring Forgiveness.
Kardia Counseling & Consulting began with the idea that the healing process is as much about what you feel and think as it is HOW you think about your feelings; the notion that healing, at its core is the repairing of our soul; to be done respectfully, compassionately and with conscious intention. The realignment of our innermost "being-ness" with that of our true nature could indeed recenter and heal us; that our deepest desires for internal peace, blissful coexistence with loved ones and even the contemplation of true happiness is within our reach.
CLINICAL FOCUS: Deployment Challenges Addictive Disorders Family Dynamics Marital Issues Grief & Loss School Difficulties Depression Anxiety Adjustment Disorders PTSD PSYCHO-EDUCATION FOCUS: Adjustment Parenting Relapse Prevention Reintegration Child Development Teacher Mentoring Forgiveness.
Kardia Counseling & Consulting began with the idea that the healing process is as much about what you feel and think as it is HOW you think about your feelings; the notion that healing, at its core is the repairing of our soul; to be done respectfully, compassionately and with conscious intention. The realignment of our innermost "being-ness" with that of our true nature could indeed recenter and heal us; that our deepest desires for internal peace, blissful coexistence with loved ones and even the contemplation of true happiness is within our reach.
(910) 722-1062 View (910) 722-1062
Photo of Leah Shea Witenbarger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southern Pines, NC
Leah Shea Witenbarger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
Being a military spouse/family of 19 years, I have a passion to work with veterans and their families.
With 18 years experience, I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples on many different barriers to fulfilling their own potential. My desire is to meet each individual where they are to work towards gaining control over any personal challenges they are experiencing. I pull from many different psychotherapy theories to meet many unique needs and my specialties are diverse.
Being a military spouse/family of 19 years, I have a passion to work with veterans and their families.
With 18 years experience, I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults, and couples on many different barriers to fulfilling their own potential. My desire is to meet each individual where they are to work towards gaining control over any personal challenges they are experiencing. I pull from many different psychotherapy theories to meet many unique needs and my specialties are diverse.
(910) 722-4761 View (910) 722-4761
Photo of Tricia Kendrick Buttkus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southern Pines, NC
Tricia Kendrick Buttkus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southern Pines, NC 28387  (Online Only)
Having two college aged children, Tricia understands the challenges of raising a family and maintaining healthy relationships in today's changing, demanding, and stressful high tech social media world.
Tricia believes in being hands on interactive with her clients, and does not utilize passive listening. She understands most importantly, that although your pain and experiences may be similar to someone else, that no two people are alike, therefore, the degree to which it effects you is unique and personal to yourself. She is compassionate and her goal is to empower you to get back in touch with your needs, and find effective / healthy ways to get your core needs met. Tricia believes in treating the whole person, as it is the most successful way to achieve life long happiness within yourself, and your relationships.
Having two college aged children, Tricia understands the challenges of raising a family and maintaining healthy relationships in today's changing, demanding, and stressful high tech social media world.
Tricia believes in being hands on interactive with her clients, and does not utilize passive listening. She understands most importantly, that although your pain and experiences may be similar to someone else, that no two people are alike, therefore, the degree to which it effects you is unique and personal to yourself. She is compassionate and her goal is to empower you to get back in touch with your needs, and find effective / healthy ways to get your core needs met. Tricia believes in treating the whole person, as it is the most successful way to achieve life long happiness within yourself, and your relationships.
(714) 482-6686 View (714) 482-6686
Photo of Chad Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist in Southern Pines, NC
Chad Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
As a Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, I provide confidential and therapeutic services for individuals, couples, and families struggling with life's ups and downs. Creating a safe environment for clients to express their feelings, needs, wants, and ideas for change is vital for transitioning into a new and desired state.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist, I provide confidential and therapeutic services for individuals, couples, and families struggling with life's ups and downs. Creating a safe environment for clients to express their feelings, needs, wants, and ideas for change is vital for transitioning into a new and desired state.
(855) 847-2521 View (855) 847-2521
Photo of Enhanced Care Counseling & Consulting Services, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Southern Pines, NC
Enhanced Care Counseling & Consulting Services
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, CAS
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
I provide individual, couple, family, group, etc.
I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who is dedicated to individuals from all walks of life cope with anxiety, depression etc. I am friendly and compassionate to all and everyone I meet. My counseling process involves a collaborative relationship between client and counselor in an open environment where my clients is free to share their thoughts and feelings honestly. Thus, your active participation and personal and personal work outside of session are essential for counseling to be effective. I may ask you to try various things outside of the counseling hour to help you reach your goal.
I provide individual, couple, family, group, etc.
I am an experienced Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who is dedicated to individuals from all walks of life cope with anxiety, depression etc. I am friendly and compassionate to all and everyone I meet. My counseling process involves a collaborative relationship between client and counselor in an open environment where my clients is free to share their thoughts and feelings honestly. Thus, your active participation and personal and personal work outside of session are essential for counseling to be effective. I may ask you to try various things outside of the counseling hour to help you reach your goal.
(910) 606-6817 View (910) 606-6817
Photo of Rose Yarborough, Licensed Professional Counselor in Southern Pines, NC
Rose Yarborough
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, JSOTS, CATP
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
If going to a traditional office for therapy and medication management doesn't appeal to you, there is another option. Harley Grace Farm & Counseling Center combines evidence based mental health treatment with a non-traditional setting. Both therapy and medication management is offered. Therapy is designed to meet your individual needs; you can take a walk on the farm's trails, utilize activities with horses to actually practice new skills necessary to meet your goals or select one of the seating areas on the farm. The farm is a safe place of acceptance, growth & healing as we are all deserving of happiness & second chances.
If going to a traditional office for therapy and medication management doesn't appeal to you, there is another option. Harley Grace Farm & Counseling Center combines evidence based mental health treatment with a non-traditional setting. Both therapy and medication management is offered. Therapy is designed to meet your individual needs; you can take a walk on the farm's trails, utilize activities with horses to actually practice new skills necessary to meet your goals or select one of the seating areas on the farm. The farm is a safe place of acceptance, growth & healing as we are all deserving of happiness & second chances.
(910) 585-9074 View (910) 585-9074
Photo of Caroline Myers Clinical Supervisor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southern Pines, NC
Caroline Myers Clinical Supervisor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Caroline Myers - an LCSW in Ohio, North Carolina and Colorado. My specialization is transitional life events - military service related, divorce, grief, pregnancy, parenthood and more. Working together, I hope to assist you in identifying and achieving your goals in a sustainable way for your future. I customize each session to you as an individual, how you learn, engage, and process the world around you. We will focus on mindfulness-based therapy, while referencing past experiences and planning for the future. Looking forward to connecting and seeing if I can be the support you need!
Hi, I am Caroline Myers - an LCSW in Ohio, North Carolina and Colorado. My specialization is transitional life events - military service related, divorce, grief, pregnancy, parenthood and more. Working together, I hope to assist you in identifying and achieving your goals in a sustainable way for your future. I customize each session to you as an individual, how you learn, engage, and process the world around you. We will focus on mindfulness-based therapy, while referencing past experiences and planning for the future. Looking forward to connecting and seeing if I can be the support you need!
(910) 335-9301 View (910) 335-9301
Photo of Doug Hoover @ SOAR Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Southern Pines, NC
Doug Hoover @ SOAR Counseling and Consulting, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
Everyone who cares deserves to be happy. Life is also full of ups and downs. This is especially true when it comes to relationships. Sometimes, we push through the struggles and eventually feel some relief. But other times we can feel stuck, repeating patterns or habits that get us nowhere or keep us in a rut. Anger or distancing from one another often replaces the love and closeness we want and deserve in our relationships. If you want to be happy again, or just be a better you, I am here for you.
Everyone who cares deserves to be happy. Life is also full of ups and downs. This is especially true when it comes to relationships. Sometimes, we push through the struggles and eventually feel some relief. But other times we can feel stuck, repeating patterns or habits that get us nowhere or keep us in a rut. Anger or distancing from one another often replaces the love and closeness we want and deserve in our relationships. If you want to be happy again, or just be a better you, I am here for you.
(910) 565-9317 View (910) 565-9317
Photo of DaTwon Canty, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Southern Pines, NC
DaTwon Canty
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCAS
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387  (Online Only)
Inconsistency and complacency are constantly at play in our lives of addiction. No, we do not lack the capacity for consistency, rather our pain-avoiding strategy leaves us feeling stuck in a cycle of grief and resentments. Hi, I am DaTwon Canty, if you or your loved one has found themselves stuck in a rut and your life is marred by alcohol or substance use, I am a licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and I welcome the opportunity to come alongside you to help restructure your strategy and bring to the conscious awareness the core issues that have kept you stuck in this cycle of chronic relapse. It’s time, you can be free again!
Inconsistency and complacency are constantly at play in our lives of addiction. No, we do not lack the capacity for consistency, rather our pain-avoiding strategy leaves us feeling stuck in a cycle of grief and resentments. Hi, I am DaTwon Canty, if you or your loved one has found themselves stuck in a rut and your life is marred by alcohol or substance use, I am a licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and I welcome the opportunity to come alongside you to help restructure your strategy and bring to the conscious awareness the core issues that have kept you stuck in this cycle of chronic relapse. It’s time, you can be free again!
(910) 858-8373 View (910) 858-8373
Photo of John Lawson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southern Pines, NC
John Lawson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southern Pines, NC 28387
I am a Registered Play Therapist working with children who are hard to reach either because they are angry, anxious, or depressed. Children don't express themselves the same way that adults do, rather, they express themselves more naturally through play. Play is a child's natural way of relieving stress and play therapy is the best practice for working with children. Using Play Therapy most children are able to work through issues in a much shorter amount of time. For more information Call today (910) 407-0052 and check us out at www.AtlasChildCounseling.com
I am a Registered Play Therapist working with children who are hard to reach either because they are angry, anxious, or depressed. Children don't express themselves the same way that adults do, rather, they express themselves more naturally through play. Play is a child's natural way of relieving stress and play therapy is the best practice for working with children. Using Play Therapy most children are able to work through issues in a much shorter amount of time. For more information Call today (910) 407-0052 and check us out at www.AtlasChildCounseling.com
(910) 407-0052 View (910) 407-0052
Photo of Roilene Williamson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Southern Pines, NC
Roilene Williamson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Southern Pines, NC 28387
I believe that it is essential to incorporate the client’s strengths, culture, and worldview when developing and refining treatment. I use an integrative therapy approach that is rooted in Person-Centered, Attachment Theory, Strengths-Based, and Cognitive-Behavioral modalities. I am passionate about providing clients with a comfortable space to explore, refine, and develop tools and strategies that can benefit their present and future selves.
I believe that it is essential to incorporate the client’s strengths, culture, and worldview when developing and refining treatment. I use an integrative therapy approach that is rooted in Person-Centered, Attachment Theory, Strengths-Based, and Cognitive-Behavioral modalities. I am passionate about providing clients with a comfortable space to explore, refine, and develop tools and strategies that can benefit their present and future selves.
(910) 302-3774 View (910) 302-3774
Photo of Sara R. Byrd, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Southern Pines, NC
Sara R. Byrd
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
Life can be challenging, with many twists and turns along the way. We may even find that events and circumstances in life are not what we expected or are out of our control. In those times, we seek to find strength and encouragement to endure and perhaps even rebuild. I believe that everyone has the potential to rise above their circumstances, no matter what they may encounter. We can turn disappointment, hurt, or pain into learning experiences that help us grow.
Life can be challenging, with many twists and turns along the way. We may even find that events and circumstances in life are not what we expected or are out of our control. In those times, we seek to find strength and encouragement to endure and perhaps even rebuild. I believe that everyone has the potential to rise above their circumstances, no matter what they may encounter. We can turn disappointment, hurt, or pain into learning experiences that help us grow.
(910) 504-9276 View (910) 504-9276
Photo of Healing Reflections Pllc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Southern Pines, NC
Healing Reflections Pllc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Southern Pines, NC 28387
There are many reasons and life situations that move us toward seeking out therapy but making that decision to take the first step toward healing, for most clients, can be uncertain and often anxiety provoking. It's important for the therapists at Healing Reflections to create a compassionate and collaborative space to begin building a therapeutic relationship based on feelings of safety and a sense of trust helping clients to heal wounds, discover their purpose and feel more alive. Immediate Openings for new clients!
There are many reasons and life situations that move us toward seeking out therapy but making that decision to take the first step toward healing, for most clients, can be uncertain and often anxiety provoking. It's important for the therapists at Healing Reflections to create a compassionate and collaborative space to begin building a therapeutic relationship based on feelings of safety and a sense of trust helping clients to heal wounds, discover their purpose and feel more alive. Immediate Openings for new clients!
(910) 541-5380 View (910) 541-5380

See more therapy options for Southern Pines

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.