Family Therapy in Arlington, TX

Photo of Caroline Ahls, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caroline Ahls
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76011
Other areas of experience include family crisis and conflict, addiction recovery, grief and loss, and anxiety and depression.
Hello! Perhaps you are searching Psychology Today for a loved one or for yourself, or simply to acquaint yourself with counseling. I commend for exploring your options. I have over nine years of experience providing therapy for a variety of issues. When clients begin therapy, many of them are searching for a space to fully express themselves and to process their struggles. Many are looking for a safe person to confide in without feeling judged. My hope is that you find that here and begin to identify ways to move forward.
Other areas of experience include family crisis and conflict, addiction recovery, grief and loss, and anxiety and depression.
Hello! Perhaps you are searching Psychology Today for a loved one or for yourself, or simply to acquaint yourself with counseling. I commend for exploring your options. I have over nine years of experience providing therapy for a variety of issues. When clients begin therapy, many of them are searching for a space to fully express themselves and to process their struggles. Many are looking for a safe person to confide in without feeling judged. My hope is that you find that here and begin to identify ways to move forward.
(682) 463-1596 View (682) 463-1596
Photo of Aimee Murray, LPC, MS, Counselor
Aimee Murray
Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76017
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, or overwhelmed? Going through relationship problems? Experiencing trauma? Life is too short for that! My goal is to guide you through any obstacles you may be experiencing and get you to where you are finding meaning and purpose in your career, family, friendships, and all other areas of life.
Are you looking for someone who is real and authentic to talk to? It's rumored that therapy is typically a one-sided conversation that offers few chances for genuine interaction between the client and the counselor. That is not me! I am that counselor that will offer you a personal connection in order to facilitate growth and healing. My goal is to offer you support and guidance in whatever life situations you are experiencing.
Do you feel depressed, anxious, angry, or overwhelmed? Going through relationship problems? Experiencing trauma? Life is too short for that! My goal is to guide you through any obstacles you may be experiencing and get you to where you are finding meaning and purpose in your career, family, friendships, and all other areas of life.
Are you looking for someone who is real and authentic to talk to? It's rumored that therapy is typically a one-sided conversation that offers few chances for genuine interaction between the client and the counselor. That is not me! I am that counselor that will offer you a personal connection in order to facilitate growth and healing. My goal is to offer you support and guidance in whatever life situations you are experiencing.
(682) 310-5500 View (682) 310-5500
Photo of Shirley A Willis - Dr. Willis, Psychologist, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Willis, Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76017
I work with individuals experiencing chronic stress either from previous or current circumstances. Problems may relate to loss or trauma. There may be relationship or family conflict. Problems may exist in the work place or arise after retirement. A person may be having health problem or facing death. Decision-making and problem solving may be difficult. Feelings of fear, worry and even panic may exist. Depression may be setting in. Our struggles vary and change over time. Is your struggle lasting too long. Do you feel stuck and unable to move forward? Are you getting tired of the struggle? Don't ever give up
I work with individuals experiencing chronic stress either from previous or current circumstances. Problems may relate to loss or trauma. There may be relationship or family conflict. Problems may exist in the work place or arise after retirement. A person may be having health problem or facing death. Decision-making and problem solving may be difficult. Feelings of fear, worry and even panic may exist. Depression may be setting in. Our struggles vary and change over time. Is your struggle lasting too long. Do you feel stuck and unable to move forward? Are you getting tired of the struggle? Don't ever give up
(817) 405-4986 View (817) 405-4986
Photo of Elaine Peterson, MSW, LMSW
Elaine Peterson
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76015
Are you ready to Water the Garden Within! My name is Elaine, and I am here to support you on your healing journey. In my therapeutic practice, I have a strong focus on assisting individuals and families in finding relief and restoring balance in their lives. I firmly believe in a client-centered approach, where your needs and goals are at the forefront of our work together. Together, we will explore various areas that may be impacting your well-being, such as improving self-esteem, managing anxiety and depression, addressing family dynamics, and navigating through grief.
Are you ready to Water the Garden Within! My name is Elaine, and I am here to support you on your healing journey. In my therapeutic practice, I have a strong focus on assisting individuals and families in finding relief and restoring balance in their lives. I firmly believe in a client-centered approach, where your needs and goals are at the forefront of our work together. Together, we will explore various areas that may be impacting your well-being, such as improving self-esteem, managing anxiety and depression, addressing family dynamics, and navigating through grief.
(817) 634-5956 View (817) 634-5956
Photo of Paige T Ellison, MA, MEd, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Paige T Ellison
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76016
My counseling education includes training in individual, marriage/couples/family therapy, divorce mediation, and educational counseling.
This practice is NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Please call if you are seeking help to make changes in your life. Many people have at least one area where they would like improvement. This might include mental well-being, addiction, intimate/parent-child/friend/work relationships, school/work life, etc. Sometimes it’s easy to know what needs attention in our lives; other times we find ourselves baffled by what is going on inside ourselves. My practice is about supporting you in identifying the kind of life you want and finding the best way to achieve that life. I am progressively oriented.
My counseling education includes training in individual, marriage/couples/family therapy, divorce mediation, and educational counseling.
This practice is NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. Please call if you are seeking help to make changes in your life. Many people have at least one area where they would like improvement. This might include mental well-being, addiction, intimate/parent-child/friend/work relationships, school/work life, etc. Sometimes it’s easy to know what needs attention in our lives; other times we find ourselves baffled by what is going on inside ourselves. My practice is about supporting you in identifying the kind of life you want and finding the best way to achieve that life. I am progressively oriented.
(469) 658-8853 View (469) 658-8853
Photo of Sam Weaver, MA, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sam Weaver
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76013
For 20+ years, I have counseled individuals, couples, and families, served as youth pastor, marriage/family counselor, worked within in-patient and out-patient treatment centers, probate/drug courts, and psychiatric hospital settings.
Life can be tough, with it's many challenges, distractions, and unpredictable tragedies and disappointments. Fortunately, you don't have to face them alone. I believe that through strategic planning, new learned coping skills, and spiritual guidance, personal and relational healing is possible. I love working with couples, but believe that even one person can make a difference in the condition of a relationship as they learn better ways to communicate and deal with their own issues.
For 20+ years, I have counseled individuals, couples, and families, served as youth pastor, marriage/family counselor, worked within in-patient and out-patient treatment centers, probate/drug courts, and psychiatric hospital settings.
Life can be tough, with it's many challenges, distractions, and unpredictable tragedies and disappointments. Fortunately, you don't have to face them alone. I believe that through strategic planning, new learned coping skills, and spiritual guidance, personal and relational healing is possible. I love working with couples, but believe that even one person can make a difference in the condition of a relationship as they learn better ways to communicate and deal with their own issues.
(817) 813-9571 View (817) 813-9571
Photo of Glenise Ferguson, MSW, LCSW, EMDR tr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Glenise Ferguson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR tr
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76013
I offer mental health services treating depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, Life and situational adjustment related issues, men's issues, women's issues, divorce issues, co-parenting issues, family conflict, grief and loss, relationship issues, career and workplace issues, brief based counseling, and other mental health challenges.
I align best with adult men and women seeking support to help with the management of mental health symptoms or challenges. I assist individuals who are self-motivated, open, and curious to explore the "why's" of your life that may keep you feeling "stuck", "lost", or not so great about the trajectory of your life or things. I am licensed to practice in the states of Texas and Colorado and I would be honored if you allowed me to walk alongside you as you walk your journey back to you. I also offer personal development consulting/coaching to adults not seeking therapy services. Simply Thrive and Be well.
I offer mental health services treating depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, Life and situational adjustment related issues, men's issues, women's issues, divorce issues, co-parenting issues, family conflict, grief and loss, relationship issues, career and workplace issues, brief based counseling, and other mental health challenges.
I align best with adult men and women seeking support to help with the management of mental health symptoms or challenges. I assist individuals who are self-motivated, open, and curious to explore the "why's" of your life that may keep you feeling "stuck", "lost", or not so great about the trajectory of your life or things. I am licensed to practice in the states of Texas and Colorado and I would be honored if you allowed me to walk alongside you as you walk your journey back to you. I also offer personal development consulting/coaching to adults not seeking therapy services. Simply Thrive and Be well.
(214) 225-2417 View (214) 225-2417
Photo of Kenyatta Black, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kenyatta Black
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76016
As a wife, mother, sister, and mentor, I understand financial stress and the overwhelming feeling of trying to balance career and family responsibilities.
I believe one of the most important aspects of therapy is that you, the client, feel comfortable and safe with your therapist. My goal is to provide a down-to-earth atmosphere where you feel free to be open and honest without judgment. Together we will work to build on your strengths allowing you to feel a greater sense of empowerment.
As a wife, mother, sister, and mentor, I understand financial stress and the overwhelming feeling of trying to balance career and family responsibilities.
I believe one of the most important aspects of therapy is that you, the client, feel comfortable and safe with your therapist. My goal is to provide a down-to-earth atmosphere where you feel free to be open and honest without judgment. Together we will work to build on your strengths allowing you to feel a greater sense of empowerment.
(469) 490-1442 View (469) 490-1442
Photo of Teshia L. Kyser, PhD, LPC-S, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teshia L. Kyser
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76010
As a Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy and 13 years of experience as a Certified School Counselor, I have worked with clients from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
It is my goal to provide a positive therapeutic relationship with my clients who are seeking to make positive changes in their lives. As a Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and Certified School Counselor, I am extensively trained in a variety of therapeutic techniques, however the most important aspect of my practice is building positive and respectful relationships with my clients. I believe without mutual respect and understanding therapy will not be productive. I specialize in providing therapeutic services to: Adults, Couples, Children, Teenagers, and Families.
As a Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy and 13 years of experience as a Certified School Counselor, I have worked with clients from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
It is my goal to provide a positive therapeutic relationship with my clients who are seeking to make positive changes in their lives. As a Doctor of Marriage and Family Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and Certified School Counselor, I am extensively trained in a variety of therapeutic techniques, however the most important aspect of my practice is building positive and respectful relationships with my clients. I believe without mutual respect and understanding therapy will not be productive. I specialize in providing therapeutic services to: Adults, Couples, Children, Teenagers, and Families.
(817) 438-1689 View (817) 438-1689
Photo of Laura Rosser, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Rosser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76017
I find it a privilege to have the opportunity to assist you, your child, your family, or your relationship.
Howdy! The techniques I utilize are from the foundations of Person Centered and Solution Focused Theory with some art therapy mixed in (if you are comfortable with experimenting with creative therapy). To begin, we will discuss what goals you would like to accomplish during our time together. My philosophy of therapy is, I feel you are the authority in your life and therapy can be a catalyst to identify barriers keeping you from achieving goals. We join together as a team to process, help identify goals, and strategize in making the positive change you would like to see in your life.
I find it a privilege to have the opportunity to assist you, your child, your family, or your relationship.
Howdy! The techniques I utilize are from the foundations of Person Centered and Solution Focused Theory with some art therapy mixed in (if you are comfortable with experimenting with creative therapy). To begin, we will discuss what goals you would like to accomplish during our time together. My philosophy of therapy is, I feel you are the authority in your life and therapy can be a catalyst to identify barriers keeping you from achieving goals. We join together as a team to process, help identify goals, and strategize in making the positive change you would like to see in your life.
(817) 242-5996 View (817) 242-5996
Photo of Meghan Springer, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meghan Springer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76011
If you find your child to be struggling, let's work together to create an environment and build a toolkit where your child and family can thrive.
Does your child or teen struggle behaviorally or to regulate their emotions? Do you at times feel like they are bouncing off the walls and unable to maintain focus? Have you gotten a phone call home from school about concerns related to your child? Maybe you have noticed an increase in anxiety or depression. Or their social skills are limiting their friendships creating a negative school experience. Being a child and teen in our day and age can be extremely challenging as they face heightened emotions, social media expectations, academic challenges, sports pressures and more.
If you find your child to be struggling, let's work together to create an environment and build a toolkit where your child and family can thrive.
Does your child or teen struggle behaviorally or to regulate their emotions? Do you at times feel like they are bouncing off the walls and unable to maintain focus? Have you gotten a phone call home from school about concerns related to your child? Maybe you have noticed an increase in anxiety or depression. Or their social skills are limiting their friendships creating a negative school experience. Being a child and teen in our day and age can be extremely challenging as they face heightened emotions, social media expectations, academic challenges, sports pressures and more.
(469) 960-4001 View (469) 960-4001
Photo of Amy Boelkens, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Boelkens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76013
Are you experiencing changes in life that are leaving you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Whether it is grief, life transitions, family challenges or a resurgence of anxiety or depression, you do not have to go at it alone. My goal is to provide an encouraging, non-judgmental, confidential space for you to process your concerns and work towards your healing and coping with whatever circumstances life has brought your way. We can build the skills for a more balanced, happier life together.
Are you experiencing changes in life that are leaving you feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Whether it is grief, life transitions, family challenges or a resurgence of anxiety or depression, you do not have to go at it alone. My goal is to provide an encouraging, non-judgmental, confidential space for you to process your concerns and work towards your healing and coping with whatever circumstances life has brought your way. We can build the skills for a more balanced, happier life together.
(817) 854-1877 View (817) 854-1877
Photo of Carol R. Doss, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carol R. Doss
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76013
I encourage individuals to take control of their lives by enabling them to direct their own thoughts, feelings and behavior, thus experiencing personal power. Developing healthy, happy relationships with mates and children can be the most difficult challenges we face...and the most important. I can help. As Clinical Director of the Family Counseling Center Association, I help clients learn how to value themselves and others. We help adults and children discover their strengths and release their inner potential which leads to the creation of stronger relationships and greater success in life.
I encourage individuals to take control of their lives by enabling them to direct their own thoughts, feelings and behavior, thus experiencing personal power. Developing healthy, happy relationships with mates and children can be the most difficult challenges we face...and the most important. I can help. As Clinical Director of the Family Counseling Center Association, I help clients learn how to value themselves and others. We help adults and children discover their strengths and release their inner potential which leads to the creation of stronger relationships and greater success in life.
(817) 646-2190 View (817) 646-2190
Photo of LaShaunn L Bold, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaShaunn L Bold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76013  (Online Only)
Areas of expertise include Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Family Therapy.
As a Social Worker with nearly 30 years of experience assisting children and families, I believe we all need help finding our way in life from time to time. I enjoy helping people of all ages navigate what can sometimes be a difficult path. Whether those difficulties develop from family, peer, or workplace relationships, I help clients identify strengths and limitations. Through supportive counseling clients can identify effective strengths based solutions. Clients will learn how to better understand their roles in relationships and develop skills for relationship improvement that allow success.
Areas of expertise include Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Family Therapy.
As a Social Worker with nearly 30 years of experience assisting children and families, I believe we all need help finding our way in life from time to time. I enjoy helping people of all ages navigate what can sometimes be a difficult path. Whether those difficulties develop from family, peer, or workplace relationships, I help clients identify strengths and limitations. Through supportive counseling clients can identify effective strengths based solutions. Clients will learn how to better understand their roles in relationships and develop skills for relationship improvement that allow success.
(682) 219-1735 View (682) 219-1735
Photo of Cindy Epps, BS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Cindy Epps
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76013
Life can be a roller coaster journey at times. Outwardly you sound confident, but you second guess yourself constantly. You laugh, joke and play around others, but inside there is a void that nothing or no one can seem to fill. You appear like a well-oiled machine to family, friends, and co-workers but seem to contemplate your reason for living. You don’t have to figure things out on your own. You are not alone. There is someone you can call for help. Someone that is experienced in helping you begin to feel in control of your feelings again. Here at Realign Counseling we care, and we will help you to understand your feeling
Life can be a roller coaster journey at times. Outwardly you sound confident, but you second guess yourself constantly. You laugh, joke and play around others, but inside there is a void that nothing or no one can seem to fill. You appear like a well-oiled machine to family, friends, and co-workers but seem to contemplate your reason for living. You don’t have to figure things out on your own. You are not alone. There is someone you can call for help. Someone that is experienced in helping you begin to feel in control of your feelings again. Here at Realign Counseling we care, and we will help you to understand your feeling
(682) 463-1087 View (682) 463-1087
Photo of Destiny Williams, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Destiny Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76016
Congratulation on taking such an important step! I work to help families build stronger relationships and to empower each member of the family to be the change agent in their life.
Sometimes we have a clear view of the problem and other times we only know that something just does not feel right. My goal is to help your child unravel issues and confusing emotions to move towards healing. I will work with you as the parent during your child's treatment process to provide you with tools to utilize at home. I am a highly experienced therapist who specializes in working with parents, teens, and tweens.
Congratulation on taking such an important step! I work to help families build stronger relationships and to empower each member of the family to be the change agent in their life.
Sometimes we have a clear view of the problem and other times we only know that something just does not feel right. My goal is to help your child unravel issues and confusing emotions to move towards healing. I will work with you as the parent during your child's treatment process to provide you with tools to utilize at home. I am a highly experienced therapist who specializes in working with parents, teens, and tweens.
(972) 460-6346 View (972) 460-6346
Photo of Ivon Herrera, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ivon Herrera
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76010  (Online Only)
I have primarily worked with individuals who identify as immigrants or children of immigrants. Concerns have ranged from adjustment, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, family conflict, grief, life transitions and stress. Additionally, I work with transgenerational and intergenerational trauma addressing themes such as culture.
I have primarily worked with individuals who identify as immigrants or children of immigrants. Concerns have ranged from adjustment, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, family conflict, grief, life transitions and stress. Additionally, I work with transgenerational and intergenerational trauma addressing themes such as culture.
(214) 393-7123 View (214) 393-7123
Photo of Lincoya Young, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lincoya Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76017  (Online Only)
My specialty areas include: trauma, child abuse, parenting issues , family therapy, coping with loss, play therapy, stress management and life transitions.
I have experience working with community-based mental health agencies, managed care, and private practice. My passion is working with children and families. The family is an important institution to society, that needs to be preserved. I am sensitive to the client's perspective and cultural beliefs. I take a Solution Focus approach believing that the client is truly the expert and ultimately holds the solution to the problem_
My specialty areas include: trauma, child abuse, parenting issues , family therapy, coping with loss, play therapy, stress management and life transitions.
I have experience working with community-based mental health agencies, managed care, and private practice. My passion is working with children and families. The family is an important institution to society, that needs to be preserved. I am sensitive to the client's perspective and cultural beliefs. I take a Solution Focus approach believing that the client is truly the expert and ultimately holds the solution to the problem_
(817) 756-7955 View (817) 756-7955
Photo of Courtney Thompson, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Courtney Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76016
Many individuals struggle, or know someone who is struggling. counseling is a great way to get back to the life you want to live! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide individual counseling for teens, adolescents, and adults. I specialize addressing anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and life transitions. I use a future focused, narrative approach to help you develop life long tools that will help you live a healthier life.
Many individuals struggle, or know someone who is struggling. counseling is a great way to get back to the life you want to live! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I provide individual counseling for teens, adolescents, and adults. I specialize addressing anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and life transitions. I use a future focused, narrative approach to help you develop life long tools that will help you live a healthier life.
(817) 934-7765 View (817) 934-7765
Photo of Cheryl B Larrabee, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheryl B Larrabee
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76017
I work especially with patients who need counseling for bipolar, marriage counseling, unresolved anger, grief, divorce, fear, anxiety, depression, OCD and family/relationship issues.
Problems in life can cause people to stain their future with hopelessness. I love to help people see how their present problems associate with issues from their past while we work on establishing a new future with healthy thinking processes and hope. Therapy can help you control your emotions while reacting to problems, redirect issues in relationships that have gotten off-track, establish boundaries, increase your self-esteem and focus on a positive future.
I work especially with patients who need counseling for bipolar, marriage counseling, unresolved anger, grief, divorce, fear, anxiety, depression, OCD and family/relationship issues.
Problems in life can cause people to stain their future with hopelessness. I love to help people see how their present problems associate with issues from their past while we work on establishing a new future with healthy thinking processes and hope. Therapy can help you control your emotions while reacting to problems, redirect issues in relationships that have gotten off-track, establish boundaries, increase your self-esteem and focus on a positive future.
(817) 484-0844 View (817) 484-0844
1
...
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.