Photo of Robert Pellerin, M.A., Ph.D., Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada
Robert Pellerin, M.A., Ph.D.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pahrump, NV 89041
I believe we arrive at places along life's continuum that lead to growth and strength, even though they can appear intensely difficult at times. Together, we will find the strong points you possess to help you get through what you are experiencing and onto the next leg of your journey. If you're looking for a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist to assist you in your life adventure, be it involving stress, grief, trauma, managing anger, a family situation, marriage, sexuality, spirituality, unemployment/under-employment, academics, internet addiction, or a disabling condition, I stand ready to lend support.
I believe we arrive at places along life's continuum that lead to growth and strength, even though they can appear intensely difficult at times. Together, we will find the strong points you possess to help you get through what you are experiencing and onto the next leg of your journey. If you're looking for a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist to assist you in your life adventure, be it involving stress, grief, trauma, managing anger, a family situation, marriage, sexuality, spirituality, unemployment/under-employment, academics, internet addiction, or a disabling condition, I stand ready to lend support.
(916) 878-7657 View (916) 878-7657
Geoff Kettling
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, CRC, MFT-I
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89502  (Online Only)
Though I am beginning my practice in marriage and family therapy, I have 20 years experience working with persons with disabilities from youth to adults in multitude of settings and dynamics.
Fundamentally I believe in meeting a client where he, she, or they are at in the moment. Knowing where a client is followed by learning where they want go in personal development. Working with clients to help them along their journey to that goal. Sometimes goals change, or circumstances emerge that alter a path. Transitioning to new goals or paths, or after bump in the road or derailment getting back on track is not easy. Everyone needs support to help through transitions and hurdles. One of the most difficult things a person does is ask for help –walking through the door the first time.
Though I am beginning my practice in marriage and family therapy, I have 20 years experience working with persons with disabilities from youth to adults in multitude of settings and dynamics.
Fundamentally I believe in meeting a client where he, she, or they are at in the moment. Knowing where a client is followed by learning where they want go in personal development. Working with clients to help them along their journey to that goal. Sometimes goals change, or circumstances emerge that alter a path. Transitioning to new goals or paths, or after bump in the road or derailment getting back on track is not easy. Everyone needs support to help through transitions and hurdles. One of the most difficult things a person does is ask for help –walking through the door the first time.
(775) 636-7767 View (775) 636-7767
Photo of Alan Raddatz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nevada
Alan Raddatz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89117
Hello, I'm Alan Raddatz, director of Valley View Family Counseling Services. I'm here to interact with my patients through psychotherapy & counseling for individuals, couples and families with a competent and caring focus on understanding my clients needs, behaviors and communications to help achieve meaningful loving relationships and positive life outcomes. In preparation for this field I have had an extended clinical training background comprised of a two year internship followed by a five year residency with master therapist mentors in analytical, cognitive behavioral and alternative holistic modalities.
Hello, I'm Alan Raddatz, director of Valley View Family Counseling Services. I'm here to interact with my patients through psychotherapy & counseling for individuals, couples and families with a competent and caring focus on understanding my clients needs, behaviors and communications to help achieve meaningful loving relationships and positive life outcomes. In preparation for this field I have had an extended clinical training background comprised of a two year internship followed by a five year residency with master therapist mentors in analytical, cognitive behavioral and alternative holistic modalities.
(702) 766-5431 View (702) 766-5431
Photo of Riley Bidwell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nevada
Riley Bidwell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT-I
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89145
With an educational background in marriage and family therapy, I am able to collaborate with clients to co-create or "re-author" a new story of growth and healing.
Hello! My name is Riley Bidwell. I am a Marriage and Family Therapy Intern. I work with individuals, couples, and families who navigate an array of circumstances including, but not limited to, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties, LGBTQIA+ identification, major life transitions, and so on. I believe that people can move through problems easier when they are met with empathy and connection to others.
With an educational background in marriage and family therapy, I am able to collaborate with clients to co-create or "re-author" a new story of growth and healing.
Hello! My name is Riley Bidwell. I am a Marriage and Family Therapy Intern. I work with individuals, couples, and families who navigate an array of circumstances including, but not limited to, self-esteem issues, relationship difficulties, LGBTQIA+ identification, major life transitions, and so on. I believe that people can move through problems easier when they are met with empathy and connection to others.
(702) 935-6591 View (702) 935-6591
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Counselor in Nevada
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Counselor, PhD, NCC, CPC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89101
in Marriage and Family therapy from Nova Southeastern University.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
in Marriage and Family therapy from Nova Southeastern University.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(702) 766-9087 View (702) 766-9087
Photo of Dr. Juan Garcia, Psychologist in Nevada
Dr. Juan Garcia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89135
With a Ph.D. credential, Dr. Garcia proudly provides a comprehensive counseling service that is sparse for this area. Dr. Garcia's training background is joined with a personable and compassionate demeanor that helps to serve the local community, which is ranked 44th in the country for Ph.D.-trained Psychotherapists (i.e., "Psychologists") per capita. Counseling services include Pre-Marital, Marriage, Couples, Individual, Family, Crisis, Sex Therapy, & Group Counseling.
With a Ph.D. credential, Dr. Garcia proudly provides a comprehensive counseling service that is sparse for this area. Dr. Garcia's training background is joined with a personable and compassionate demeanor that helps to serve the local community, which is ranked 44th in the country for Ph.D.-trained Psychotherapists (i.e., "Psychologists") per capita. Counseling services include Pre-Marital, Marriage, Couples, Individual, Family, Crisis, Sex Therapy, & Group Counseling.
(702) 291-8364 View (702) 291-8364
Photo of Children & Family Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nevada
Children & Family Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carson City, NV 89701
The younger the child the more important it is that the parent(s) and family be an active partner in the therapy.
Our mission is to advocate for couples, children and families with mental and behavioral health needs, To ensure that each client is provided with the means necessary to gain independence, self esteem, better coping and problem solving skills to reach their fullest potential in social and emotional growth. Life events such as parental job loss, family stress, health issues, divorce, domestic violence, frequent anger and hostility between parents, step-parenting, single parenting without support, to name only a few, can derail healthy development and create a cascade of escalating behavior problems at home and in the community.
The younger the child the more important it is that the parent(s) and family be an active partner in the therapy.
Our mission is to advocate for couples, children and families with mental and behavioral health needs, To ensure that each client is provided with the means necessary to gain independence, self esteem, better coping and problem solving skills to reach their fullest potential in social and emotional growth. Life events such as parental job loss, family stress, health issues, divorce, domestic violence, frequent anger and hostility between parents, step-parenting, single parenting without support, to name only a few, can derail healthy development and create a cascade of escalating behavior problems at home and in the community.
(775) 990-4883 View (775) 990-4883
Photo of Dr. Ronald S Pak, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada
Dr. Ronald S Pak
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pahrump, NV 89048
I've created my own program as well that integrates Mentalization, CBT-p, and family therapy, which has been clinically successful in remission and recovery from psychosis.
If Depression, Past Traumas, and Anxiety are lowering the quality of your life, I would love to help. My approach of treatment focuses more on Understanding and Exploration in a safe and accepting environment, rather than that old "fix a broken person" model. Together, we can work towards insight and growth, which I believe in return will increase the quality of your relationships and life. I feel if we can widen our spectrum of thinking, it can widen our spectrum of feeling, which then widens our spectrum of choosing and reacting to the perpetual challenges of this very uncertain and demanding world.
I've created my own program as well that integrates Mentalization, CBT-p, and family therapy, which has been clinically successful in remission and recovery from psychosis.
If Depression, Past Traumas, and Anxiety are lowering the quality of your life, I would love to help. My approach of treatment focuses more on Understanding and Exploration in a safe and accepting environment, rather than that old "fix a broken person" model. Together, we can work towards insight and growth, which I believe in return will increase the quality of your relationships and life. I feel if we can widen our spectrum of thinking, it can widen our spectrum of feeling, which then widens our spectrum of choosing and reacting to the perpetual challenges of this very uncertain and demanding world.
(702) 903-1309 View (702) 903-1309
Photo of Donald E Stepro, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada
Donald E Stepro
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89108
Some of my clinical experience includes working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, relationship issues, marriage conflict, family conflict, anger issues, self-esteem issues, sexual abuse, and grief and loss.
*Accepting new clients* I am a therapist for individuals, couples, and families and view this as a collaborative process. All of us experience struggles in life. If you find that coping with these struggles is more difficult than you ever imagined; you may want to consider therapy. A safe, understanding, empathetic, and confidential environment is provided so that we can explore your concerns. It is an honor to listen to the experiences and stories that my clients are willing to share. I enjoy working with a variety of people. I have experience working with clients of the LDS faith. I am also LGBT+ affirmative.
Some of my clinical experience includes working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, relationship issues, marriage conflict, family conflict, anger issues, self-esteem issues, sexual abuse, and grief and loss.
*Accepting new clients* I am a therapist for individuals, couples, and families and view this as a collaborative process. All of us experience struggles in life. If you find that coping with these struggles is more difficult than you ever imagined; you may want to consider therapy. A safe, understanding, empathetic, and confidential environment is provided so that we can explore your concerns. It is an honor to listen to the experiences and stories that my clients are willing to share. I enjoy working with a variety of people. I have experience working with clients of the LDS faith. I am also LGBT+ affirmative.
(702) 707-4081 View (702) 707-4081
Photo of Dr. Patrick Scott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nevada
Dr. Patrick Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LFAPA, DCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89102
Dr. Scott is committed to facilitating the healing, recovery and integration of motivated, proactive clients who are interested in approaching their behavioral health from an eclectic and multi-disciplinary approach. He uses many traditional and non-traditional techniques that are described below. His commitment is to start where the client is and assist them in the process of self-discovery, mastery and holistic wellness. Sessions are from 50 minutes to 5 hours and treatment plans are specifically customized to each individual and family. Typical treatment duration lasts from a few sessions to several years.
Dr. Scott is committed to facilitating the healing, recovery and integration of motivated, proactive clients who are interested in approaching their behavioral health from an eclectic and multi-disciplinary approach. He uses many traditional and non-traditional techniques that are described below. His commitment is to start where the client is and assist them in the process of self-discovery, mastery and holistic wellness. Sessions are from 50 minutes to 5 hours and treatment plans are specifically customized to each individual and family. Typical treatment duration lasts from a few sessions to several years.
(702) 570-2190 View (702) 570-2190
Photo of Rich Mcguffin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada
Rich Mcguffin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Minden, NV 89423  (Online Only)
I am licensed in the State of Nevada as a Marriage and Family Therapist.
I believe that we all have issues and struggles in life and there are times when we need a trained professional counselor to help us navigate through life's storms. My philosophy is that every person is responsible to create meaning in their lives and to fulfill our potential as human beings. My approach is empathetic and non-judgmental. It is my goal with every individual, every couple and every family to help facilitate peace, joy and a sense of fulfillment in their lives. Specialized training in couples therapy through The Couples Institute, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) through EMDR International Assoc.
I am licensed in the State of Nevada as a Marriage and Family Therapist.
I believe that we all have issues and struggles in life and there are times when we need a trained professional counselor to help us navigate through life's storms. My philosophy is that every person is responsible to create meaning in their lives and to fulfill our potential as human beings. My approach is empathetic and non-judgmental. It is my goal with every individual, every couple and every family to help facilitate peace, joy and a sense of fulfillment in their lives. Specialized training in couples therapy through The Couples Institute, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) through EMDR International Assoc.
(775) 589-2826 View (775) 589-2826
Photo of Joe da Costa, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada
Joe da Costa
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89002  (Online Only)
I am an inclusive Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who strives to make each client feel heard within a safe environment. I have experience working with members of various communities including the LGBTQIA population, sex/gender diverse persons, individuals practicing ethical non-monogamy, and are in non-traditional relationships.
I am an inclusive Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who strives to make each client feel heard within a safe environment. I have experience working with members of various communities including the LGBTQIA population, sex/gender diverse persons, individuals practicing ethical non-monogamy, and are in non-traditional relationships.
(702) 830-4893 View (702) 830-4893
Photo of Tom Harrison, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada
Tom Harrison
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Reno, NV 89502
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been a practicing therapist and university professor for close to 30 years. My interests and specialties focus on couples and individual therapy. My clients are high-functioning and are generally experiencing life transitions, relational difficulties, communication issues, stress, career, or general life concerns. More often than not, clients present with anxieties, sexual issues, decreased goals, diminished hopefulness, feelings of guilt, anger, and resentment, miscommunications, and/or a belief of existing rather than living. Please visit my website at tomharrisonphdmft@gmail.com if you would like more detailed information. Thank you.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and have been a practicing therapist and university professor for close to 30 years. My interests and specialties focus on couples and individual therapy. My clients are high-functioning and are generally experiencing life transitions, relational difficulties, communication issues, stress, career, or general life concerns. More often than not, clients present with anxieties, sexual issues, decreased goals, diminished hopefulness, feelings of guilt, anger, and resentment, miscommunications, and/or a belief of existing rather than living. Please visit my website at tomharrisonphdmft@gmail.com if you would like more detailed information. Thank you.
(775) 293-4602 View (775) 293-4602
Photo of Sam Heinrichs, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada
Sam Heinrichs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89052
Sam is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist holding licenses in Nevada and California. A native of Iowa, he lived in Southern California for 30 years and settled in Las Vegas in 2020. He graduated from Grand View College – Des Moines, Iowa with a bachelor's d and a Master of Science degree in Counseling from California State University – Long Beach. After many years of working in the corporate world of mental health, he is returning to his real passion – working directly with individuals, couples, and families to assist with the challenges people encountered on this journey called life.
Sam is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist holding licenses in Nevada and California. A native of Iowa, he lived in Southern California for 30 years and settled in Las Vegas in 2020. He graduated from Grand View College – Des Moines, Iowa with a bachelor's d and a Master of Science degree in Counseling from California State University – Long Beach. After many years of working in the corporate world of mental health, he is returning to his real passion – working directly with individuals, couples, and families to assist with the challenges people encountered on this journey called life.
(702) 487-9270 View (702) 487-9270
Photo of Lawrence Jackson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada
Lawrence Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Las Vegas, NV 89144  (Online Only)
"Awareness brings the opportunity for change." I am a firm believer that awareness is the first step towards change. The next and most important step is intentionality; investing in the process of change. I am a Couple & Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples and families. I believe that therapy is a resource that anyone can utilize. I am a collaborative therapist who will work with you to transform your investment into change!
"Awareness brings the opportunity for change." I am a firm believer that awareness is the first step towards change. The next and most important step is intentionality; investing in the process of change. I am a Couple & Family Therapist who works with individuals, couples and families. I believe that therapy is a resource that anyone can utilize. I am a collaborative therapist who will work with you to transform your investment into change!
(725) 208-5397 View (725) 208-5397
Photo of Micha Wiesenberg, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Nevada
Micha Wiesenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT, MA, IFS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Henderson, NV 89012
Learn how to radiate the qualities that will attract the right partner. Build a warm and connected relationship with your spouse. Give your children the gift of an emotionally healthy home that will set them up for happiness and success. I am passionate about guiding individuals, couples, and families to build a foundation for a warm and fulfilling family life. I blend the experience of over 20yrs of marriage and fathering 6 kids with extensive clinical training and ancient wisdom. Over the last 15yrs, my compassionate but honest approach has assisted people to achieve real change. Call/text to set up a free consultation.
Learn how to radiate the qualities that will attract the right partner. Build a warm and connected relationship with your spouse. Give your children the gift of an emotionally healthy home that will set them up for happiness and success. I am passionate about guiding individuals, couples, and families to build a foundation for a warm and fulfilling family life. I blend the experience of over 20yrs of marriage and fathering 6 kids with extensive clinical training and ancient wisdom. Over the last 15yrs, my compassionate but honest approach has assisted people to achieve real change. Call/text to set up a free consultation.
(702) 941-8410 View (702) 941-8410
Photo of Jim Studer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada
Jim Studer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR , NCC
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89509
I have been working as a Marriage and Family Therapist since September, 2016. I retired from Washoe County School District where I served as a teacher and administrator with students from pre-k through high school. I provide individual, family, and couples counseling in my private practice and I work in Carson City School District providing counseling services for students. My background includes work with individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. I am interested in working with a wide variety of clients including children, adolescents, and adults and hope I can be of assistance to you and your family.
I have been working as a Marriage and Family Therapist since September, 2016. I retired from Washoe County School District where I served as a teacher and administrator with students from pre-k through high school. I provide individual, family, and couples counseling in my private practice and I work in Carson City School District providing counseling services for students. My background includes work with individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. I am interested in working with a wide variety of clients including children, adolescents, and adults and hope I can be of assistance to you and your family.
(775) 391-7102 View (775) 391-7102
Photo of Mauricio Jacob Silva, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Nevada
Mauricio Jacob Silva
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, MFT-I, EMDR
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89129
I offer Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, EMDR Trauma work, and/or Workshops.
Emotional and relational traumas are primary causes of pain and dysfunction in the lives of many. I utilize a candid and direct approach through EMDR, CBT, and IFS to deal with issues such as depression, codependence, low-esteem and others, promoting and enabling self agency and resilience so that my clients can have an abundant and purposeful life.
I offer Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy, Family Therapy, EMDR Trauma work, and/or Workshops.
Emotional and relational traumas are primary causes of pain and dysfunction in the lives of many. I utilize a candid and direct approach through EMDR, CBT, and IFS to deal with issues such as depression, codependence, low-esteem and others, promoting and enabling self agency and resilience so that my clients can have an abundant and purposeful life.
(702) 466-1565 View (702) 466-1565
Photo of Jimmy Monaghan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nevada
Jimmy Monaghan
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, CCMHC, MAC, LCPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Las Vegas, NV 89130
In Nevada I work as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor-Supervisior and a secondary for CPC-I's . I have Clinical Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology and Counselor Education with emphasis in Couple and Family Therapy. The ideal client for Rise is anyone who may feel as if the door has shut, who is feeling lost, struggling with life's trials, who may not be able to communicate to their loved ones. In short, anyone who feels as if they don't fit in their skin.
In Nevada I work as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor-Supervisior and a secondary for CPC-I's . I have Clinical Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology and Counselor Education with emphasis in Couple and Family Therapy. The ideal client for Rise is anyone who may feel as if the door has shut, who is feeling lost, struggling with life's trials, who may not be able to communicate to their loved ones. In short, anyone who feels as if they don't fit in their skin.
(702) 935-5246 View (702) 935-5246
Photo of Michael Litano, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Nevada
Michael Litano
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, MFT-I
Verified Verified
Reno, NV 89509
I specialize in working with family systems and also counseling individuals with trauma, anxiety, stress, and PTS.
Inevitably, life brings waves of uncertainty for all of us. As a clinician, there is no greater honor than to walk alongside my clients through their challenges. The foundation of the counseling environment I seek to provide is rooted in nurturing and supportive qualities, allowing for a safe and non- judgmental space to foster new insights and growth. Confidentiality and trust are emphasized as the catalyst for strong rapport, which I believe to be crucial to the effectiveness of the counseling experience.
I specialize in working with family systems and also counseling individuals with trauma, anxiety, stress, and PTS.
Inevitably, life brings waves of uncertainty for all of us. As a clinician, there is no greater honor than to walk alongside my clients through their challenges. The foundation of the counseling environment I seek to provide is rooted in nurturing and supportive qualities, allowing for a safe and non- judgmental space to foster new insights and growth. Confidentiality and trust are emphasized as the catalyst for strong rapport, which I believe to be crucial to the effectiveness of the counseling experience.
(775) 542-9432 View (775) 542-9432
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.