Photo of Fran Singson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia
Fran Singson
Pre-Licensed Professional, PC-R, CRC, MS
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
This includes drawing from multicultural counseling theory, feminist theory, family systems, internal family systems, existentialism, and empowerment theory.
I specialize in providing counseling for racial identity and cultural issues (specifically in first and second Asian Americans/immigrants), navigating significant life transitions, and grief from a cultural perspective. My goal is to help you live a life that aligns with your values and move from a space of surviving to thriving. At the core of my approach is the belief that the therapeutic relationship is the strongest force in inciting growth. A sense of authentic trust and comfort is instrumental to begin doing "the work" and creating lasting change.
This includes drawing from multicultural counseling theory, feminist theory, family systems, internal family systems, existentialism, and empowerment theory.
I specialize in providing counseling for racial identity and cultural issues (specifically in first and second Asian Americans/immigrants), navigating significant life transitions, and grief from a cultural perspective. My goal is to help you live a life that aligns with your values and move from a space of surviving to thriving. At the core of my approach is the belief that the therapeutic relationship is the strongest force in inciting growth. A sense of authentic trust and comfort is instrumental to begin doing "the work" and creating lasting change.
(703) 952-3149 View (703) 952-3149
Photo of Takhyun Cho, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Takhyun Cho
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LCPC, ACS, NCC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
Hello, and thank you for considering me as your therapist. My areas of expertise include working with individuals of all ages struggling with behavioral and emotional issues, including anger management, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. Additionally, I have experience working with clients struggling with spiritual issues and those with family members with emotional struggles. I am also qualified to provide clinical supervision (VA & MD) to intern counselors, helping them develop their skills and knowledge to become effective therapists. I am also pleased to offer therapy sessions in Korean as well.
Hello, and thank you for considering me as your therapist. My areas of expertise include working with individuals of all ages struggling with behavioral and emotional issues, including anger management, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. Additionally, I have experience working with clients struggling with spiritual issues and those with family members with emotional struggles. I am also qualified to provide clinical supervision (VA & MD) to intern counselors, helping them develop their skills and knowledge to become effective therapists. I am also pleased to offer therapy sessions in Korean as well.
(703) 420-7481 View (703) 420-7481
Photo of Rachel Birkeland O'Neal, Marriage & Family Therapist in Virginia
Rachel Birkeland O'Neal
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
As a Cross Cultural individual who grew up in Asia, I am fluent in English, Cantonese, and conversational Mandarin. I have years of experience working with children in multiple settings and in multiple countries. I completed clinical training in SYMBIS premarital counseling, Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 1), TBRI for children from hard places, ASIST suicide prevention, and CBASP intervention for chronic depression. Currently, I am currently a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am also working towards becoming a Registered Play Therapist.
As a Cross Cultural individual who grew up in Asia, I am fluent in English, Cantonese, and conversational Mandarin. I have years of experience working with children in multiple settings and in multiple countries. I completed clinical training in SYMBIS premarital counseling, Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 1), TBRI for children from hard places, ASIST suicide prevention, and CBASP intervention for chronic depression. Currently, I am currently a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am also working towards becoming a Registered Play Therapist.
(434) 425-7480 View (434) 425-7480
Photo of Danielle Sims, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Danielle Sims
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chantilly, VA 20151
Danielle utilizes evidence-based treatment approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems theory, EMDR etc.
Sometimes it can feel like our lives are out of control or that our emotions get the best of us. Danielle is passionate about empowering clients through identifying thought patterns, negative emotions and behavioral patterns. As a trained EMDR therapist, she can also help you deal with past traumas that are still impacting you today.
Danielle utilizes evidence-based treatment approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems theory, EMDR etc.
Sometimes it can feel like our lives are out of control or that our emotions get the best of us. Danielle is passionate about empowering clients through identifying thought patterns, negative emotions and behavioral patterns. As a trained EMDR therapist, she can also help you deal with past traumas that are still impacting you today.
(571) 458-1133 View (571) 458-1133
Photo of Marigold Counseling Services, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Virginia
Marigold Counseling Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Life can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate at times. These challenges can often lead to feelings of hopelessness and anxiety. Therapy can empower you and provide you with the tools needed to manage your obstacles. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over fifteen years of experience providing counseling to individuals, couples, and families. I value establishing a safe and open counseling environment for clients to feel heard and accepted.
Life can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate at times. These challenges can often lead to feelings of hopelessness and anxiety. Therapy can empower you and provide you with the tools needed to manage your obstacles. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over fifteen years of experience providing counseling to individuals, couples, and families. I value establishing a safe and open counseling environment for clients to feel heard and accepted.
(571) 200-6382 View (571) 200-6382
Photo of Rafee Al-Mansur, Marriage & Family Therapist in Virginia
Rafee Al-Mansur
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101
I am a Marriage and Family Therapy providing individual, couple, and family therapy in McLean, Virginia. I obtained my Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Johns Hopkins University, and my Master's degree in Couple and Family Therapy from the University of Maryland. I am currently a candidate in training to become a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist. I also teach free 6-week workshops for couples on communication and managing financial stress through the Together Program (TogetherProgram.org).
I am a Marriage and Family Therapy providing individual, couple, and family therapy in McLean, Virginia. I obtained my Bachelor's degree in Sociology from Johns Hopkins University, and my Master's degree in Couple and Family Therapy from the University of Maryland. I am currently a candidate in training to become a Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist. I also teach free 6-week workshops for couples on communication and managing financial stress through the Together Program (TogetherProgram.org).
(703) 810-3935 View (703) 810-3935
Photo of Light Counseling in Virginia
Light Counseling
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
At Light Counseling, our team of professionally trained and compassionate clinicians are here to help you overcome life’s challenges with evidence-based practices and a distinctly Christian approach. Our professionals specialize in helping with many of the following issues: ADD/ADHD, Adolescence Adjustments, Alcohol Abuse and Addictions, Anger Management, Anxiety, Attachment Disorders, Child Abuse/Victim Support, Childhood Behavioral Problems, Compulsions, Depression, Drug Abuse and Addiction, Family Issues, Grief and Loss, Infidelity, Marital Stress, Men’s Issues, Obsession, Panic Attacks, Parenting and Step-Parenting Concerns, Phobias, Pornography, Post Traumatic Stress Issues, and more.
At Light Counseling, our team of professionally trained and compassionate clinicians are here to help you overcome life’s challenges with evidence-based practices and a distinctly Christian approach. Our professionals specialize in helping with many of the following issues: ADD/ADHD, Adolescence Adjustments, Alcohol Abuse and Addictions, Anger Management, Anxiety, Attachment Disorders, Child Abuse/Victim Support, Childhood Behavioral Problems, Compulsions, Depression, Drug Abuse and Addiction, Family Issues, Grief and Loss, Infidelity, Marital Stress, Men’s Issues, Obsession, Panic Attacks, Parenting and Step-Parenting Concerns, Phobias, Pornography, Post Traumatic Stress Issues, and more.
(434) 425-7702 View (434) 425-7702
Photo of Esther Levine, Resident in Counseling in Virginia
Esther Levine
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23322
My focus is on working with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, anger issues, family conflict, parenting, issues with self-esteem, difficulties with coping, betrayal trauma, harm reduction, and addiction.
Imagine a space where you can be your authentic self, express your deepest concerns without fear, where your thoughts and feelings matter, and where your experiences are acknowledged and respected. I am a Resident in Counseling who is here to guide, support, and empower you every step of the way on your journey towards healing. I work with children ages 4 & up, adolescents, adults, individuals, groups, couples, and families to explore strategies to navigate challenges, develop coping mechanisms, and build a strong foundation for your mental and emotional well-being.
My focus is on working with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, anger issues, family conflict, parenting, issues with self-esteem, difficulties with coping, betrayal trauma, harm reduction, and addiction.
Imagine a space where you can be your authentic self, express your deepest concerns without fear, where your thoughts and feelings matter, and where your experiences are acknowledged and respected. I am a Resident in Counseling who is here to guide, support, and empower you every step of the way on your journey towards healing. I work with children ages 4 & up, adolescents, adults, individuals, groups, couples, and families to explore strategies to navigate challenges, develop coping mechanisms, and build a strong foundation for your mental and emotional well-being.
(757) 780-1176 View (757) 780-1176
Photo of Amy Wu, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia
Amy Wu
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LMFT-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stone Ridge, VA 20105
I provide therapy to individuals and families with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, trauma, parenting and family conflict.
Sometimes our fears and stressors can affect the way we interact with the world and can take a toll on the mind, body, and impact relationships. I believe healing from within, starts with compassion and feeling seen. Whether you want to prioritize your mental health or work on relational issues - having a nonjudgmental and supportive safe space can open the door to potential change and growth. When clients are willing to learn and explore beneath the surface of their day-to-day living, they open up new ways to better connect with themselves and with others. I use a collaborative, warm, and mindfulness approach to therapy.
I provide therapy to individuals and families with anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, trauma, parenting and family conflict.
Sometimes our fears and stressors can affect the way we interact with the world and can take a toll on the mind, body, and impact relationships. I believe healing from within, starts with compassion and feeling seen. Whether you want to prioritize your mental health or work on relational issues - having a nonjudgmental and supportive safe space can open the door to potential change and growth. When clients are willing to learn and explore beneath the surface of their day-to-day living, they open up new ways to better connect with themselves and with others. I use a collaborative, warm, and mindfulness approach to therapy.
(703) 454-5583 View (703) 454-5583
Photo of Hyesun Jeong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Hyesun Jeong
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MPhilEd, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031  (Online Only)
I am also a military spouse who understands a range of feelings and experiences that all family members go through.
Do you remember a time when you were calm and at peace? Has it been difficult to see the light ahead of you and find ways to get back on track in your life? What if you can get on that path you envisioned and able to return to your previous level of functioning? I believe we all have stories to tell and your story matters. I understand that it can be quiet challenging and scary to know at which point you felt lost in control of your life. It can be even scarier to know whom to rely on or whom to open up to during this most critical time.
I am also a military spouse who understands a range of feelings and experiences that all family members go through.
Do you remember a time when you were calm and at peace? Has it been difficult to see the light ahead of you and find ways to get back on track in your life? What if you can get on that path you envisioned and able to return to your previous level of functioning? I believe we all have stories to tell and your story matters. I understand that it can be quiet challenging and scary to know at which point you felt lost in control of your life. It can be even scarier to know whom to rely on or whom to open up to during this most critical time.
(571) 200-2492 View (571) 200-2492
Photo of Hae-Jin Hwang in Virginia
Hae-Jin Hwang
MA, CIRT, VA QMHP, NJ AMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031  (Online Only)
I believes that the well-being and happiness of society and the nation is achieved when each member of the family, the smallest social unit, is built happily, also provide counseling for victims of physical, sexual and mental abuse and violence.
I call myself as a relationship therapist because I value a relationship and want to help people to improve their relationship. I have learned that when people struggle with relationship with their family or intimate part, they often experience various psychological symptoms and emotional distress, such as depression, anxiety, sadness, and helpless feelings.
I believes that the well-being and happiness of society and the nation is achieved when each member of the family, the smallest social unit, is built happily, also provide counseling for victims of physical, sexual and mental abuse and violence.
I call myself as a relationship therapist because I value a relationship and want to help people to improve their relationship. I have learned that when people struggle with relationship with their family or intimate part, they often experience various psychological symptoms and emotional distress, such as depression, anxiety, sadness, and helpless feelings.
(571) 322-8731 View (571) 322-8731
Photo of Hyung Sook Kim, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Hyung Sook Kim
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I specialize in adolescent, adult, couple, and family counseling.
When everyday life gets you down, sometimes asking for help can be the hardest. I see therapy as a journey that we take together; providing trauma inform care, CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, substance abuse treatment, and support for growth and change.
I specialize in adolescent, adult, couple, and family counseling.
When everyday life gets you down, sometimes asking for help can be the hardest. I see therapy as a journey that we take together; providing trauma inform care, CBT, DBT, psychodynamic, substance abuse treatment, and support for growth and change.
(571) 554-5704 View (571) 554-5704
Photo of LB Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
LB Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Ashburn, VA 20147  (Online Only)
Navigating through life stressors can be challenging, and it’s normal to feel stuck, overwhelmed or lost from time to time. I’m here to help. I’m a Licensed Therapist in NY and VA with 8+ years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I help clients with a wide range of behavioral and mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, and family conflict.
Navigating through life stressors can be challenging, and it’s normal to feel stuck, overwhelmed or lost from time to time. I’m here to help. I’m a Licensed Therapist in NY and VA with 8+ years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. I help clients with a wide range of behavioral and mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, and family conflict.
(703) 457-8557 View (703) 457-8557
Photo of Amanda Saoit, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Amanda Saoit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, EDMR, CBT, Trauma
Verified Verified
Salem, VA 24153  (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Amanda and I'm grateful for your courage to take this step. I’ve spent over a decade helping adults, youth (14 & older on case-by-case basis) and families overcome many different challenges: PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, and major life transitions. I also offer therapeutic support to those who want to grow their family through adoption. I use CBT, mindfulness, substance use recovery methods, strengths-based approach and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR). EMDR is scientifically proven as an effective form of treatment for PTSD, depression/anxiety and distressing events.
Hi there! My name is Amanda and I'm grateful for your courage to take this step. I’ve spent over a decade helping adults, youth (14 & older on case-by-case basis) and families overcome many different challenges: PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, and major life transitions. I also offer therapeutic support to those who want to grow their family through adoption. I use CBT, mindfulness, substance use recovery methods, strengths-based approach and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR). EMDR is scientifically proven as an effective form of treatment for PTSD, depression/anxiety and distressing events.
(469) 747-0398 View (469) 747-0398
Photo of Keystone Therapy Group, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Keystone Therapy Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCs, LMFTs
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
In counseling, we help clients with issues of anxiety, depression, peer/family/marital relationships, life stress/transitions, and trauma.
Now Accepting New Clients! Keystone Therapy Group was founded to provide support and guidance to clients who are struggling with symptoms, relationships, or life experiences. We believe that anxiety, depression, stress, etc. impact our thoughts and behaviors, getting in the way of who we want to be and how we interact with others. When our therapists provide a safe space for reflections, clients are able to understand the root of their symptoms and learn to make healthy changes in themselves or their relationships and pursue their ideal self. We enjoy working with clients who have an open mind and willingness to self-reflect.
In counseling, we help clients with issues of anxiety, depression, peer/family/marital relationships, life stress/transitions, and trauma.
Now Accepting New Clients! Keystone Therapy Group was founded to provide support and guidance to clients who are struggling with symptoms, relationships, or life experiences. We believe that anxiety, depression, stress, etc. impact our thoughts and behaviors, getting in the way of who we want to be and how we interact with others. When our therapists provide a safe space for reflections, clients are able to understand the root of their symptoms and learn to make healthy changes in themselves or their relationships and pursue their ideal self. We enjoy working with clients who have an open mind and willingness to self-reflect.
(703) 390-1182 View (703) 390-1182
Photo of Lora Delos Reyes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Virginia
Lora Delos Reyes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20155  (Online Only)
I enjoy bringing my love for nostalgic activities, Disney/Pixar, pop culture and music/musicals into the therapy room as relatable analogies/metaphors to process various issues including intergenerational family trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, depression and disenfranchised grief.
When we look back at our lives, there are often identifiable moments that shape the direction life takes next. Sometimes these moments come as an opportunity - a person who genuinely sees and unconditionally accepts you - or a choice. These moments can often alter the path of life. Too often people are mislabeled, overlooked, and forgotten, and their behaviors reflect as much. I hope to create a place for people to see and be seen as they wish themselves to be. My goal is to create a safe haven for you to Overcome barriers, Nurture relationships, and Empower yourself to take ownership and control of your life.
I enjoy bringing my love for nostalgic activities, Disney/Pixar, pop culture and music/musicals into the therapy room as relatable analogies/metaphors to process various issues including intergenerational family trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, depression and disenfranchised grief.
When we look back at our lives, there are often identifiable moments that shape the direction life takes next. Sometimes these moments come as an opportunity - a person who genuinely sees and unconditionally accepts you - or a choice. These moments can often alter the path of life. Too often people are mislabeled, overlooked, and forgotten, and their behaviors reflect as much. I hope to create a place for people to see and be seen as they wish themselves to be. My goal is to create a safe haven for you to Overcome barriers, Nurture relationships, and Empower yourself to take ownership and control of your life.
(571) 445-5195 View (571) 445-5195
Photo of Susannah J. Volkers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Susannah J. Volkers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MABC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22310  (Online Only)
Additionally, she is trained in Brief Strategic Family Therapy, utilizing a systemic approach to helping individuals, couples and families increase hope and rebuild trust.
If you are in a season of suffering, difficulty, or overwhelmed with life challenges, consider seeing Susannah for therapeutic services. Susannah is available to help individuals, couples and families with various issues, including, but not limited to: grief/loss, anxiety, trauma, adoption, identity formation, life transitions, eating issues, chronic illness, and depression. If desired, Susannah is able to integrate a Christian framework to guide her clients towards positive and sustainable change.
Additionally, she is trained in Brief Strategic Family Therapy, utilizing a systemic approach to helping individuals, couples and families increase hope and rebuild trust.
If you are in a season of suffering, difficulty, or overwhelmed with life challenges, consider seeing Susannah for therapeutic services. Susannah is available to help individuals, couples and families with various issues, including, but not limited to: grief/loss, anxiety, trauma, adoption, identity formation, life transitions, eating issues, chronic illness, and depression. If desired, Susannah is able to integrate a Christian framework to guide her clients towards positive and sustainable change.
(571) 366-7807 View (571) 366-7807
Photo of Vibha Thukral, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia
Vibha Thukral
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
Waitlist for new clients
Vibha "Minnie" Thukral: My clients desire to gain insight into their behaviors and relationship dynamics - in a work/school setting, with their families, friends, romantic partners, & themselves. They want to learn how to cope with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and chronic stress, while being true to themselves. My clients need a non-judgemental space to explore their values, identity, and purpose in life. They may want to heal from their upbringing, whether that means they come from an immigrant family, a family with a history of mental illness & trauma, and/or a dysfunctional upbringing.
Vibha "Minnie" Thukral: My clients desire to gain insight into their behaviors and relationship dynamics - in a work/school setting, with their families, friends, romantic partners, & themselves. They want to learn how to cope with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and chronic stress, while being true to themselves. My clients need a non-judgemental space to explore their values, identity, and purpose in life. They may want to heal from their upbringing, whether that means they come from an immigrant family, a family with a history of mental illness & trauma, and/or a dysfunctional upbringing.
(703) 783-4326 View (703) 783-4326
Photo of Lee Wong-Holland, Psychologist in Virginia
Lee Wong-Holland
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lansdowne, VA 20176  (Online Only)
Are worries and sadness interfering with your ability to enjoy life? Do family tensions lead to daily conflicts? When stress becomes overwhelming, I will support and guide you to overcome the struggles and improve your mood. The goal of our collaboration is for you to feel confident in facing your challenges. As a therapist, I believe in building upon your strengths to create change, and tailor my treatments to meet your unique needs. My clinical interests include stress, anxiety management, adjustment issues, self-esteem and identity development, and emotional/behavioral control.
Are worries and sadness interfering with your ability to enjoy life? Do family tensions lead to daily conflicts? When stress becomes overwhelming, I will support and guide you to overcome the struggles and improve your mood. The goal of our collaboration is for you to feel confident in facing your challenges. As a therapist, I believe in building upon your strengths to create change, and tailor my treatments to meet your unique needs. My clinical interests include stress, anxiety management, adjustment issues, self-esteem and identity development, and emotional/behavioral control.
(703) 844-2492 View (703) 844-2492
Photo of Hanako Baker, Psychologist in Virginia
Hanako Baker
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Hanako! I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Virginia. I am trained as a Marriage and Family Therapist as well. I use an integrative approach and typically lean toward a fluid experiential and process-oriented work. I will meet you where you are and value the relationship we build in co-creating a safe space. I am very honored to be a part of your journey! I am fluent in both Japanese and English.
Hello, I am Hanako! I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Virginia. I am trained as a Marriage and Family Therapist as well. I use an integrative approach and typically lean toward a fluid experiential and process-oriented work. I will meet you where you are and value the relationship we build in co-creating a safe space. I am very honored to be a part of your journey! I am fluent in both Japanese and English.
(804) 657-4555 View (804) 657-4555
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.