Family Therapy in Lisle, IL

Photo of Jessica L McCormack, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lisle, IL
Jessica L McCormack
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
Waitlist for new clients
As a high achiever, you rarely make time to prioritize yourself. Though you have accomplished many things, there are still feelings of worthlessness, imperfection, or "not enough" nagging at you. You want to be happy, but joy and contentment feels uncomfortable and you rarely take time to celebrate your wins. You feel disconnected from your friends and family, and wonder how everyone else is so happy when you feel like an imposter at work, in your relationship, or as a parent.
As a high achiever, you rarely make time to prioritize yourself. Though you have accomplished many things, there are still feelings of worthlessness, imperfection, or "not enough" nagging at you. You want to be happy, but joy and contentment feels uncomfortable and you rarely take time to celebrate your wins. You feel disconnected from your friends and family, and wonder how everyone else is so happy when you feel like an imposter at work, in your relationship, or as a parent.
(708) 761-6905 View (708) 761-6905
Photo of Laura A Clay, Counselor in Lisle, IL
Laura A Clay
Counselor, LCPC, ATR, EMDR
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
We'll get to the root of the problem so you can feel better using powerful techniques including; EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Brainspotting (BSP), art therapy and more.
Sick of dating jerks? Are you afraid of missing the red flags? I specialize in helping women heal from narcissistic and emotionally abusive relationships. These toxic relationships lead to self doubt, negative self talk and a lost sense of self. Isn't it time to find confidence, heal from the past and learn to love yourself so that you can have healthy relationships? Therapy can help you find ways to find relief so that you can be more in control of your life. My passion is helping my clients truly believe they are good enough and deserve more! Is it possible. There is light at the end of the tunnel.
We'll get to the root of the problem so you can feel better using powerful techniques including; EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Brainspotting (BSP), art therapy and more.
Sick of dating jerks? Are you afraid of missing the red flags? I specialize in helping women heal from narcissistic and emotionally abusive relationships. These toxic relationships lead to self doubt, negative self talk and a lost sense of self. Isn't it time to find confidence, heal from the past and learn to love yourself so that you can have healthy relationships? Therapy can help you find ways to find relief so that you can be more in control of your life. My passion is helping my clients truly believe they are good enough and deserve more! Is it possible. There is light at the end of the tunnel.
(630) 313-4986 View (630) 313-4986
Photo of Melissa Sogavo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lisle, IL
Melissa Sogavo
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MA, ATR
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
By leading with tenderness & vulnerability, I meet people in their struggle, eye to eye. Together, we work to get your feet on solid ground so you can thrive in the everyday hustle of work & family life and reach your goals. I help empower clients to find their growth mindset & fill in the gaps where practical skills & tools are needed. Working with me is not for the faint of heart. It takes work to change the things we don’t like about ourselves. It takes grit to face obstacles that stand in the way. It takes courage to face trauma and build resilience. And I believe every human being is worth it.
By leading with tenderness & vulnerability, I meet people in their struggle, eye to eye. Together, we work to get your feet on solid ground so you can thrive in the everyday hustle of work & family life and reach your goals. I help empower clients to find their growth mindset & fill in the gaps where practical skills & tools are needed. Working with me is not for the faint of heart. It takes work to change the things we don’t like about ourselves. It takes grit to face obstacles that stand in the way. It takes courage to face trauma and build resilience. And I believe every human being is worth it.
(331) 259-8654 x712 View (331) 259-8654 x712
Photo of Kenyatta Williams, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lisle, IL
Kenyatta Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, DMin
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
Her expertise covers areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, cognitive distortions, family systems, self-esteem, coping skills and faith-based counseling, among others.
With over 16 years of dedicated experience in the human services field, Dr. Kenyatta has had the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals. Her extensive tenure in the behavioral health field has equipped Dr. Williams with a versatile skill set that allows her to meet each client exactly where they are. She excels in providing invaluable support to individuals grappling with unique challenges, helping them navigate their personal journeys effectively. Dr. Williams is deeply passionate about guiding individuals toward a profound understanding of themselves and empowering them with the essential tools needed.
Her expertise covers areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, cognitive distortions, family systems, self-esteem, coping skills and faith-based counseling, among others.
With over 16 years of dedicated experience in the human services field, Dr. Kenyatta has had the privilege of working with a diverse range of individuals. Her extensive tenure in the behavioral health field has equipped Dr. Williams with a versatile skill set that allows her to meet each client exactly where they are. She excels in providing invaluable support to individuals grappling with unique challenges, helping them navigate their personal journeys effectively. Dr. Williams is deeply passionate about guiding individuals toward a profound understanding of themselves and empowering them with the essential tools needed.
(331) 259-8230 View (331) 259-8230
Photo of Mariah Carstens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lisle, IL
Mariah Carstens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
Along with my professional experience are my personal experiences as a firefighter wife & the daughter of a former police officer & the influence it has on my desire to continually support first responders, their family members, & those within this community.
My professional experience best equips me to work alongside teens and adults through their personal stories of anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, and relationships to find growth through healing. I've continued to see the strength of resiliency in every individual and their capacity to motivate change. And I look forward to the opportunity to support new clients within the current chapter of their lives.
Along with my professional experience are my personal experiences as a firefighter wife & the daughter of a former police officer & the influence it has on my desire to continually support first responders, their family members, & those within this community.
My professional experience best equips me to work alongside teens and adults through their personal stories of anxiety, depression, difficult life transitions, and relationships to find growth through healing. I've continued to see the strength of resiliency in every individual and their capacity to motivate change. And I look forward to the opportunity to support new clients within the current chapter of their lives.
(630) 448-8703 x705 View (630) 448-8703 x705
Photo of Jodi R Metcalf, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lisle, IL
Jodi R Metcalf
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, ACHT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
Individuals/Couples/Families Experiencing Challenges with: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Interpersonal Relationships, Behavioral Issues, Professional/Career Challenges, the Family System, Self-Esteem/Identity Issues and Life Transitions. Ages: Adolescents, Young Adults, Adults, Seniors. Clients consistently find Jodi to be supportive, understanding, accepting, and tremendously easy to talk to.
Individuals/Couples/Families Experiencing Challenges with: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Interpersonal Relationships, Behavioral Issues, Professional/Career Challenges, the Family System, Self-Esteem/Identity Issues and Life Transitions. Ages: Adolescents, Young Adults, Adults, Seniors. Clients consistently find Jodi to be supportive, understanding, accepting, and tremendously easy to talk to.
(779) 207-3802 View (779) 207-3802
Photo of Sheila Adamo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lisle, IL
Sheila Adamo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
My extensive history of helping families with special needs includes providing the family the support needed to address the complex issues they encounter.
I enjoy empowering people of all ages to create a unique path that will accentuate their strengths while also providing support and space to address any obstacles that may block their progress. Finding one’s voice and having the confidence and knowledge to guide you in becoming an authentic individual is both a challenging and enriching process that I would feel honored to participate in with you. Whether you have a young child just starting this journey or have many different life experiences, I believe that investing in yourself through therapy, self-care, and introspection will lead to a much happier and authentic life. ​
My extensive history of helping families with special needs includes providing the family the support needed to address the complex issues they encounter.
I enjoy empowering people of all ages to create a unique path that will accentuate their strengths while also providing support and space to address any obstacles that may block their progress. Finding one’s voice and having the confidence and knowledge to guide you in becoming an authentic individual is both a challenging and enriching process that I would feel honored to participate in with you. Whether you have a young child just starting this journey or have many different life experiences, I believe that investing in yourself through therapy, self-care, and introspection will lead to a much happier and authentic life. ​
(331) 210-9673 x713 View (331) 210-9673 x713
Photo of Lara Govendo, Pre-Licensed Professional in Lisle, IL
Lara Govendo
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532  (Online Only)
There are many individuals who, at some point in their lives, will experience trauma. Often causing a myriad of ripple effects, trauma occurs in different ways for each person- such as depression, anxiety, co-dependency, negative self-image, and unhealthy family dynamics/relationships. Whether it stems from childhood, medical or mental health struggles, relationships, or specific events, there are various origins of trauma in our stories. I have experience walking alongside individuals to uncover how trauma changes one's mindset to aid them in getting to the root of unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors.
There are many individuals who, at some point in their lives, will experience trauma. Often causing a myriad of ripple effects, trauma occurs in different ways for each person- such as depression, anxiety, co-dependency, negative self-image, and unhealthy family dynamics/relationships. Whether it stems from childhood, medical or mental health struggles, relationships, or specific events, there are various origins of trauma in our stories. I have experience walking alongside individuals to uncover how trauma changes one's mindset to aid them in getting to the root of unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors.
(331) 260-0680 x714 View (331) 260-0680 x714
Photo of Patricia M Cunningham, Counselor in Lisle, IL
Patricia M Cunningham
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
I believe in the peaceful resolution of conflict, whether it is internal conflict caused by anxiety, depression, stress or just feeling stuck or external conflict with partners, children, family ,co-workers, or friends. Self-understanding and self-acceptance are key to personal health and creating healthy relationships. Knowing who we are and what we believe is the start. Being able to communicate that to others is essential to bringing peace into our lives.
I believe in the peaceful resolution of conflict, whether it is internal conflict caused by anxiety, depression, stress or just feeling stuck or external conflict with partners, children, family ,co-workers, or friends. Self-understanding and self-acceptance are key to personal health and creating healthy relationships. Knowing who we are and what we believe is the start. Being able to communicate that to others is essential to bringing peace into our lives.
(630) 599-8849 View (630) 599-8849
Photo of Jennifer N Knox, Counselor in Lisle, IL
Jennifer N Knox
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CDVP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed in your life and want to gain control back again? I am dedicated to helping people with the struggles they are facing by developing a caring relationship in which to work toward mutually determined therapeutic goals. I provide individual and family counseling and enjoy working with a variety of people.
Are you feeling depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed in your life and want to gain control back again? I am dedicated to helping people with the struggles they are facing by developing a caring relationship in which to work toward mutually determined therapeutic goals. I provide individual and family counseling and enjoy working with a variety of people.
(630) 765-5355 View (630) 765-5355
Photo of Mark L Ramirez, Counselor in Lisle, IL
Mark L Ramirez
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
I enjoy treating individuals who feel "stuck" in their lives. There are many obstacles in life that create dismay and life dissatisfaction including phase of life issues, grief and loss, issues with intimacy and attachment, career dissatisfaction, unresolved family of origin issues and impulsive/compulsive coping behaviors to name a few. I enjoy helping people getting back to thriving and feeling generally content with themselves and their lives.
I enjoy treating individuals who feel "stuck" in their lives. There are many obstacles in life that create dismay and life dissatisfaction including phase of life issues, grief and loss, issues with intimacy and attachment, career dissatisfaction, unresolved family of origin issues and impulsive/compulsive coping behaviors to name a few. I enjoy helping people getting back to thriving and feeling generally content with themselves and their lives.
(630) 280-3828 View (630) 280-3828
Photo of Simone Schmale, Counselor in Lisle, IL
Simone Schmale
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
My areas of strength include: anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, pediatric cancer, complex family dynamics, divorce, blended families, eating disorders, cutting, sensory, attachment, adoption, developmental milestones and gifted.
Counseling research studies consistently state that one of the biggest factors for growth and healing are strongly connected to the relationship between you and your therapist. I take a compassionate and collaborative approach with my clients as we work through the life struggles and circumstances while drawing upon your unique strengths with multi-faceted, evidence-based practices. I firmly believe that we do the best we can even when we don't do or act how we wish. My relationship with clients is one of trust, collaboration and building insights and skills that lead to new, life-enhancing experiences.
My areas of strength include: anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, pediatric cancer, complex family dynamics, divorce, blended families, eating disorders, cutting, sensory, attachment, adoption, developmental milestones and gifted.
Counseling research studies consistently state that one of the biggest factors for growth and healing are strongly connected to the relationship between you and your therapist. I take a compassionate and collaborative approach with my clients as we work through the life struggles and circumstances while drawing upon your unique strengths with multi-faceted, evidence-based practices. I firmly believe that we do the best we can even when we don't do or act how we wish. My relationship with clients is one of trust, collaboration and building insights and skills that lead to new, life-enhancing experiences.
(630) 557-6933 View (630) 557-6933
Photo of Liza Devaney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lisle, IL
Liza Devaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
Seeking help is a strength! Please reach out if you need an empathetic, nonjudgmental person to assist you in dealing with any mental health, family or relationship issues.
I have over twenty years of social work experience. I have worked in foster care and adoption, in a psychiatric hospital and am currently working in private practice. My patients include children, adolescents, adults and couples. I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief issues, conflict resolution, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, OCD, addictions, issues related to divorce and family/marital conflicts. I use a variety of treatment modalities based on the individual needs of the patient. My therapeutic approach is a non-judgmental blending of eastern and western philosophies thereby helping patients develop acceptance and develop better coping strategies to deal with their challenges.
Seeking help is a strength! Please reach out if you need an empathetic, nonjudgmental person to assist you in dealing with any mental health, family or relationship issues.
I have over twenty years of social work experience. I have worked in foster care and adoption, in a psychiatric hospital and am currently working in private practice. My patients include children, adolescents, adults and couples. I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief issues, conflict resolution, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, social anxiety, OCD, addictions, issues related to divorce and family/marital conflicts. I use a variety of treatment modalities based on the individual needs of the patient. My therapeutic approach is a non-judgmental blending of eastern and western philosophies thereby helping patients develop acceptance and develop better coping strategies to deal with their challenges.
(630) 884-4319 View (630) 884-4319
Photo of Cody M White, Counselor in Lisle, IL
Cody M White
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
I engage clients primarily in individual, couples, and family therapy.
Life is complex. It may seem more complicated and terrifying than we might like, but it does not have to feel overwhelming. I want to help you find the skills and insight for you to thrive. Each person is unique and it is important to me to work collaboratively with you to develop a plan that will best fit your needs. I want to help you feel more in control and grounded.
I engage clients primarily in individual, couples, and family therapy.
Life is complex. It may seem more complicated and terrifying than we might like, but it does not have to feel overwhelming. I want to help you find the skills and insight for you to thrive. Each person is unique and it is important to me to work collaboratively with you to develop a plan that will best fit your needs. I want to help you feel more in control and grounded.
(630) 521-3028 View (630) 521-3028
Photo of Dr. Samantha (Weinstein) Hickman, Psychologist in Lisle, IL
Dr. Samantha (Weinstein) Hickman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience in providing individual, couples, and family therapy to adolescents and adults. I treat a variety of issues and diagnoses, including difficulties related to developmental and life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationships, previous trauma (physical, sexual, emotional abuse), and gender and sexual identity concerns.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience in providing individual, couples, and family therapy to adolescents and adults. I treat a variety of issues and diagnoses, including difficulties related to developmental and life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationships, previous trauma (physical, sexual, emotional abuse), and gender and sexual identity concerns.
(630) 480-4408 View (630) 480-4408
Photo of Elizabeth L. Dubiel, Counselor in Lisle, IL
Elizabeth L. Dubiel
Counselor, MA, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532  (Online Only)
My specialty areas include: depression, anxiety, grief, couple/marriage counseling, Christian counseling, identity issues, recovery after a separation or divorce, infidelity, new transitions, career/college counseling, family conflict, work environment issues, impostor syndrome, teacher/administration/education work-related stress, and parenting stress.
Hello! At the beginning, my focus will be on getting to know you. Everyone has a story to tell and as you tell yours, I will be looking for your personal character strengths (we all have them). Your character strengths will help you achieve the positive change(s) you are seeking. Once I get a grasp on your strengths, we will combine your natural strengths with new strategies and supports from a variety of research-based resources. It is my goal that each and every counseling session be preventative, proactive, and/or empowering. Often, you will be given homework so the therapy continues even when we are not meeting.
My specialty areas include: depression, anxiety, grief, couple/marriage counseling, Christian counseling, identity issues, recovery after a separation or divorce, infidelity, new transitions, career/college counseling, family conflict, work environment issues, impostor syndrome, teacher/administration/education work-related stress, and parenting stress.
Hello! At the beginning, my focus will be on getting to know you. Everyone has a story to tell and as you tell yours, I will be looking for your personal character strengths (we all have them). Your character strengths will help you achieve the positive change(s) you are seeking. Once I get a grasp on your strengths, we will combine your natural strengths with new strategies and supports from a variety of research-based resources. It is my goal that each and every counseling session be preventative, proactive, and/or empowering. Often, you will be given homework so the therapy continues even when we are not meeting.
(331) 244-0592 View (331) 244-0592
Photo of Jennifer Manfre, Psychologist in Lisle, IL
Jennifer Manfre
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
Manfre utilizes a strengths-based approach to treatment and integrates a variety of techniques specific to the needs of each client which often include cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, behavior modification and parent education.
Dr. Manfre is a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience conducting psychological and neuropsychological evaluations. Dr. Manfre is ADOS certified and served as an Early Intervention Provider for 8 years. Her areas of clinical interest include working with children and adolescents struggling with depression or anxiety, behavior management and parent-child attachment difficulties, and assessment and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Manfre utilizes a strengths-based approach to treatment and integrates a variety of techniques specific to the needs of each client which often include cognitive-behavioral therapy, family systems therapy, behavior modification and parent education.
Dr. Manfre is a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience conducting psychological and neuropsychological evaluations. Dr. Manfre is ADOS certified and served as an Early Intervention Provider for 8 years. Her areas of clinical interest include working with children and adolescents struggling with depression or anxiety, behavior management and parent-child attachment difficulties, and assessment and treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders.
(630) 968-0792 View (630) 968-0792
Photo of Antonio D Salvat, Marriage & Family Therapist in Lisle, IL
Antonio D Salvat
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
Waitlist for new clients
Salvat specializes in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy in couples therapy, family therapy, and individual therapy.
Antonio Salvat, Psy.D., LMFT has a doctorate in clinical psychology and is a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist. He specializes in individual, couples, and family therapy with adolescents and adults of various backgrounds and sexual orientations. Dr. Salvat has worked with people struggling with depression, anxiety, Asperger's Syndrome (autism spectrum), Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, thought disorders, emotional disorders, sexuality and gender, co-dependency, boundary issues, and general life problems.
Salvat specializes in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy in couples therapy, family therapy, and individual therapy.
Antonio Salvat, Psy.D., LMFT has a doctorate in clinical psychology and is a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist. He specializes in individual, couples, and family therapy with adolescents and adults of various backgrounds and sexual orientations. Dr. Salvat has worked with people struggling with depression, anxiety, Asperger's Syndrome (autism spectrum), Borderline Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, thought disorders, emotional disorders, sexuality and gender, co-dependency, boundary issues, and general life problems.
(630) 358-4288 View (630) 358-4288
Photo of Adam S Ratner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lisle, IL
Adam S Ratner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
Individuals/Families Experiencing Challenges with: Depression, Anxiety, Interpersonal Relationships, Behavioral Issues, Professional/Career Challenges, the Family System and Life Transitions. Ages: Adolescent, Young Adult, Adult. Clients consistently find Adam to be very down to earth, accepting and tremendously easy to talk to. Each quickly learns that Adam always strives to over deliver on the care and services he provides. For more information please visit: https://www.growwellnessgroup.com
Individuals/Families Experiencing Challenges with: Depression, Anxiety, Interpersonal Relationships, Behavioral Issues, Professional/Career Challenges, the Family System and Life Transitions. Ages: Adolescent, Young Adult, Adult. Clients consistently find Adam to be very down to earth, accepting and tremendously easy to talk to. Each quickly learns that Adam always strives to over deliver on the care and services he provides. For more information please visit: https://www.growwellnessgroup.com
(331) 702-9356 View (331) 702-9356
Photo of Steve Heuertz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Lisle, IL
Steve Heuertz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
Steve also considers the family system and the role it plays within an individual's life.
Steve is an Illinois State Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has been providing services to individuals, couples and families for over 10 years. Steve received his Bachelor's Degree in psychology from the University of Kansas in 2002 and his Master's Degree in social work from the University of Chicago in 2004. Since then he has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings as either a clinical therapist or administrator.
Steve also considers the family system and the role it plays within an individual's life.
Steve is an Illinois State Licensed Clinical Social Worker that has been providing services to individuals, couples and families for over 10 years. Steve received his Bachelor's Degree in psychology from the University of Kansas in 2002 and his Master's Degree in social work from the University of Chicago in 2004. Since then he has worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings as either a clinical therapist or administrator.
(630) 618-2314 View (630) 618-2314
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.