Family Therapy in Houston, TX

Richard A Lourie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77063
I am accepting referrals age 16+; and have a wide range of experience including helping individuals with depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues.
As an experienced psychologist, my goal is to help you achieve your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't undo difficult circumstances of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges as you create a better future. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process and together we will discover the perceptions or behaviors that may be holding you back and help you create more successful life habits. We may employ cognitive-behavioral, somatic, supportive and other approaches tailored to your specific needs in order to facilitate your growth toward a more positive future.
I am accepting referrals age 16+; and have a wide range of experience including helping individuals with depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues.
As an experienced psychologist, my goal is to help you achieve your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't undo difficult circumstances of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges as you create a better future. Psychotherapy is a collaborative process and together we will discover the perceptions or behaviors that may be holding you back and help you create more successful life habits. We may employ cognitive-behavioral, somatic, supportive and other approaches tailored to your specific needs in order to facilitate your growth toward a more positive future.
(832) 979-5769 x1 View (832) 979-5769 x1
Photo of Kevin Spain, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kevin Spain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77069
I have a Bachelor's degree from Baylor University, a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Counseling from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
Let's face it. We all experience situations and circumstances in our lives that challenge and inhibit us from fully thriving. I am passionate in coming alongside those who are hurting and those who desire a fresh, objective perspective to get through the stuck areas of their life. My approach is simple... meet people where they are, listen to them and approach their issue with well-researched treatment modalities.
I have a Bachelor's degree from Baylor University, a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Counseling from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
Let's face it. We all experience situations and circumstances in our lives that challenge and inhibit us from fully thriving. I am passionate in coming alongside those who are hurting and those who desire a fresh, objective perspective to get through the stuck areas of their life. My approach is simple... meet people where they are, listen to them and approach their issue with well-researched treatment modalities.
(832) 981-2920 View (832) 981-2920
Photo of Mel Sutton, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mel Sutton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77006  (Online Only)
Issues I commonly help with are family of origin problems, dating, premarital issues, infertility, pregnancy & postpartum issues, codependency, and mood disorders.
Your decision to start the journey of healing is a tremendous act of love turned inward. In individual counseling, I provide support and encouragement as you rewrite your story and work toward creating the life you want. In the couples therapy process, partners learn to improve communication, build intimacy, and solve conflict in a respectful way. All of my sessions are trauma sensitive and will be a safe space for repair.
Issues I commonly help with are family of origin problems, dating, premarital issues, infertility, pregnancy & postpartum issues, codependency, and mood disorders.
Your decision to start the journey of healing is a tremendous act of love turned inward. In individual counseling, I provide support and encouragement as you rewrite your story and work toward creating the life you want. In the couples therapy process, partners learn to improve communication, build intimacy, and solve conflict in a respectful way. All of my sessions are trauma sensitive and will be a safe space for repair.
(832) 304-2501 View (832) 304-2501
Photo of Ashley Giles, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Giles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77027  (Online Only)
I help clients with: Relationship Concerns, Premarital Therapy, Women's issues and Sexual Concerns, Money Disagreements, Communication Skills, Parenting Challenges, Extended Family Conflict, Changes and Stress in Relationships, Self-Esteem, and Anxiety.
No one is given a guidebook on how to navigate relationships with others or with ourselves and this missing information often leaves us feeling unfulfilled, unhappy, and unstable. At each session, we'll set goals specific to your needs to work toward immediate changes.
I help clients with: Relationship Concerns, Premarital Therapy, Women's issues and Sexual Concerns, Money Disagreements, Communication Skills, Parenting Challenges, Extended Family Conflict, Changes and Stress in Relationships, Self-Esteem, and Anxiety.
No one is given a guidebook on how to navigate relationships with others or with ourselves and this missing information often leaves us feeling unfulfilled, unhappy, and unstable. At each session, we'll set goals specific to your needs to work toward immediate changes.
(409) 204-0355 View (409) 204-0355
Photo of Daphane Joy Harris, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daphane Joy Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058
Is your relationship/marriage on the verge of driving you crazy? Do you say one thing but they often hear something else? Or, do you feel trapped by the pain of your past and need help getting over childhood hurts? There is hope! Whatever the problem or difficulty, therapy can help so that you can begin to live the life you were born to live. I am a Marriage & Family Therapist and I want to help you be the best you.
Is your relationship/marriage on the verge of driving you crazy? Do you say one thing but they often hear something else? Or, do you feel trapped by the pain of your past and need help getting over childhood hurts? There is hope! Whatever the problem or difficulty, therapy can help so that you can begin to live the life you were born to live. I am a Marriage & Family Therapist and I want to help you be the best you.
(346) 258-5642 View (346) 258-5642
Photo of Tom Stevens, LPC-S, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tom Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77070
I have also appeared on radio and television programs to speak about parenting and bullying, as well as hosting my own internet radio talk show on parenting and family relationships.
Finding the right therapist means finding the right fit for you. With over 20 years in private practice, I pride myself on helping you feel comfortable and confident that you will get the answers you need to a better life. I specialize in parenting and play therapy with children, working with higher level athletes, and couples. I have also hosted my own internet radio talk show on parenting and family relationships, and have appeared on television and radio programs (talking about parenting and bullying).
I have also appeared on radio and television programs to speak about parenting and bullying, as well as hosting my own internet radio talk show on parenting and family relationships.
Finding the right therapist means finding the right fit for you. With over 20 years in private practice, I pride myself on helping you feel comfortable and confident that you will get the answers you need to a better life. I specialize in parenting and play therapy with children, working with higher level athletes, and couples. I have also hosted my own internet radio talk show on parenting and family relationships, and have appeared on television and radio programs (talking about parenting and bullying).
(281) 402-8805 View (281) 402-8805
Photo of Kearin Alise Miller, MS, LMFT, CST-Can, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kearin Alise Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CST-Can
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77009  (Online Only)
Things that I have helped these clients address are religious abuse and healing, "one in one out", health status, and family.
Everyone has their own unique story and I will work to understand yours. I work with a variety of people including individuals, couples and families from a wide variety of professions, family situations, race, age and religious affiliations. Some of the issues I have experience and success working with are sexual dysfunction, infidelity, communication issues, trauma, and mental disorders. My approach looks at the entire person and the “system” in and surrounding them. I examine elements of people’s lives like their physical well-being, emotional coping and conflict resolution skills.
Things that I have helped these clients address are religious abuse and healing, "one in one out", health status, and family.
Everyone has their own unique story and I will work to understand yours. I work with a variety of people including individuals, couples and families from a wide variety of professions, family situations, race, age and religious affiliations. Some of the issues I have experience and success working with are sexual dysfunction, infidelity, communication issues, trauma, and mental disorders. My approach looks at the entire person and the “system” in and surrounding them. I examine elements of people’s lives like their physical well-being, emotional coping and conflict resolution skills.
(832) 558-3225 View (832) 558-3225
Photo of Pansy Wade - Wade & Associates Counseling Group, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wade & Associates Counseling Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77008  (Online Only)
I am an advocate for the hurting individual, wanting to help those who have been held back by disappointments and life struggles by providing individual, couples, group, & family counseling.
I am an advocate for the hurting individual, wanting to help those who have been held back by disappointments and life struggles by providing individual, couples, group, & family counseling.
(832) 906-3461 View (832) 906-3461
Photo of John Vincent, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Vincent
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77046
divorce, retirement, grief/loss) With couples, I focus on premarital counseling, communication problems, conflict resolution, sexual dysfunction, step- family challenges, and issues of trust.
I am a licensed, board certified clinical psychologist and marriage and family therapist. In addition to my clinical practice with adults, couples and families, I am a professor in a doctoral level clinical psychology program. When working with individuals and couples, I begin with a thorough assessment of problem areas and strengths and then formulate a plan to address those issues using the latest, evidence-based treatment methods. Based on a thorough understanding of the interplay between thoughts, feelings and actions. The people I work with learn to replace self-defeating strategies with constructive alternatives.
divorce, retirement, grief/loss) With couples, I focus on premarital counseling, communication problems, conflict resolution, sexual dysfunction, step- family challenges, and issues of trust.
I am a licensed, board certified clinical psychologist and marriage and family therapist. In addition to my clinical practice with adults, couples and families, I am a professor in a doctoral level clinical psychology program. When working with individuals and couples, I begin with a thorough assessment of problem areas and strengths and then formulate a plan to address those issues using the latest, evidence-based treatment methods. Based on a thorough understanding of the interplay between thoughts, feelings and actions. The people I work with learn to replace self-defeating strategies with constructive alternatives.
(713) 338-9223 View (713) 338-9223
Photo of M. Sue S Echols, LPC, BCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
M. Sue S Echols
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BCPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77077  (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome to my profile. I am a clinical psychotherapist, licensed as an LPC in Texas. I have been working in the field of mental health, in various capacities for the past 34 years, and in private practice for 29 of those, including currently. I have had many years of trainings, and hold multiple certifications. My work has included, but is not limited to; issues with anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, abuse and domestic violence; marriage and family, couples/relationships; custody, LGBQT; gender identity; addictions; terminal issues, death and dying; multicultural issues, and many others.
Hello, and welcome to my profile. I am a clinical psychotherapist, licensed as an LPC in Texas. I have been working in the field of mental health, in various capacities for the past 34 years, and in private practice for 29 of those, including currently. I have had many years of trainings, and hold multiple certifications. My work has included, but is not limited to; issues with anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, abuse and domestic violence; marriage and family, couples/relationships; custody, LGBQT; gender identity; addictions; terminal issues, death and dying; multicultural issues, and many others.
(832) 551-2501 View (832) 551-2501
Photo of Troy Gremillion Psychotherapist And Life Coach, MA, LMFT, LPC, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Troy Gremillion Psychotherapist And Life Coach
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77055
I energize clients to transform their lives by showing them how embracing change as a dynamic process is fun, deeply profound and life-changing, and one that greatly enhances connections with family and friends.
Who really gets you? Not feeling heard or appreciated? Lonely? Time to be bold? Change is hard and can be scary, but we change by taking one small step. That takes courage. Asking for help is really okay. I offer a caring and safe space in which you get to explore your emotional needs, overcome limiting and perfectionistic beliefs, and create a vision for a richer and more meaningful life. My approach to therapy is collaborative, holistic, non-authoritarian and respectful, and I take into consideration your relationships, family traditions, work life, cultural and spiritual beliefs, and social and sexual identities -- in short, your STORY!
I energize clients to transform their lives by showing them how embracing change as a dynamic process is fun, deeply profound and life-changing, and one that greatly enhances connections with family and friends.
Who really gets you? Not feeling heard or appreciated? Lonely? Time to be bold? Change is hard and can be scary, but we change by taking one small step. That takes courage. Asking for help is really okay. I offer a caring and safe space in which you get to explore your emotional needs, overcome limiting and perfectionistic beliefs, and create a vision for a richer and more meaningful life. My approach to therapy is collaborative, holistic, non-authoritarian and respectful, and I take into consideration your relationships, family traditions, work life, cultural and spiritual beliefs, and social and sexual identities -- in short, your STORY!
(713) 396-1697 View (713) 396-1697
Photo of Karen Nelson Thomas, LCSW, CSAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Nelson Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77098
I have trained in family of origin and trauma work with Pia Mellody.
Contrary to popular opinion that can characterize therapy as designed for unhealthy or dysfunctional people, my experience and belief is that therapy is for people seeking to improve their lives and their relationships. Whether it is a relationship with ourselves, with a spouse, partner, family or friends, many of us long for better connections and more empowerment in our lives. The good news is that we can learns skills to live more satisfying lives. Research on brain plasticity validates that we can change. Research also suggests we tend to do what we have already done, whether it works or not! Therapy can change this!
I have trained in family of origin and trauma work with Pia Mellody.
Contrary to popular opinion that can characterize therapy as designed for unhealthy or dysfunctional people, my experience and belief is that therapy is for people seeking to improve their lives and their relationships. Whether it is a relationship with ourselves, with a spouse, partner, family or friends, many of us long for better connections and more empowerment in our lives. The good news is that we can learns skills to live more satisfying lives. Research on brain plasticity validates that we can change. Research also suggests we tend to do what we have already done, whether it works or not! Therapy can change this!
(832) 280-8189 View (832) 280-8189
Photo of Acinta Monteverde, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Acinta Monteverde
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77075
Welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 12 years of experience in the field. I work with clients ages 13 and above who have depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I am most comfortable working with clients who are self-motivated and do not have active addictions or suicidality. I use a Carl Rogers' client-centered approach with the gentleness of unconditional positive regard is one that describes my own. I also incorporate a mindfulness-based approach using self-compassion and awareness. My approach is holistic and eclectic and I customize the approach to each client's unique needs and openness.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 12 years of experience in the field. I work with clients ages 13 and above who have depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I am most comfortable working with clients who are self-motivated and do not have active addictions or suicidality. I use a Carl Rogers' client-centered approach with the gentleness of unconditional positive regard is one that describes my own. I also incorporate a mindfulness-based approach using self-compassion and awareness. My approach is holistic and eclectic and I customize the approach to each client's unique needs and openness.
(817) 587-6339 View (817) 587-6339
Photo of Ava Burris Profota, LCSW-S, CSAT-S, CMAT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ava Burris Profota
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CSAT-S, CMAT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77027
Growing up in a family with alcoholic parents who were probably love addicted to each other was certainly chaotic & painful.
My specialty is intimacy disorders including sex/love addiction & avoidance. Bad relationships can ruin your life & your happiness; however, relationships can be turned around. When addiction is present, the chances of real intimacy are small. Love addiction is a powerful & debilitating disorder that is very serious & potentially life threatening. Developmental trauma (also known as family of origin trauma or codependence) is a set up for self esteem & intimacy issues. If left untreated developmental trauma can lead to depression, anxiety, addiction & physical illness (Pia Mellody's). You're not alone!
Growing up in a family with alcoholic parents who were probably love addicted to each other was certainly chaotic & painful.
My specialty is intimacy disorders including sex/love addiction & avoidance. Bad relationships can ruin your life & your happiness; however, relationships can be turned around. When addiction is present, the chances of real intimacy are small. Love addiction is a powerful & debilitating disorder that is very serious & potentially life threatening. Developmental trauma (also known as family of origin trauma or codependence) is a set up for self esteem & intimacy issues. If left untreated developmental trauma can lead to depression, anxiety, addiction & physical illness (Pia Mellody's). You're not alone!
(281) 916-3783 View (281) 916-3783
Photo of Estefania Ballesteros, MA, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Estefania Ballesteros
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77005  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Certified Sex Therapist. I have extensive experience working with couples who struggle with assertive communication in their relationship and wish to learn new and healthier ways to interact. I also specialize in working with clients facing sexual/intimacy issues such as sexless marriages, low libido, and sexual shame. At my practice, I offer premarital counseling and work with clients that deal with anxiety, depression, adjustment to life transitions, stress management, grief, and loss. My clients report noticing improvement in their challenges after 4-6 sessions.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Certified Sex Therapist. I have extensive experience working with couples who struggle with assertive communication in their relationship and wish to learn new and healthier ways to interact. I also specialize in working with clients facing sexual/intimacy issues such as sexless marriages, low libido, and sexual shame. At my practice, I offer premarital counseling and work with clients that deal with anxiety, depression, adjustment to life transitions, stress management, grief, and loss. My clients report noticing improvement in their challenges after 4-6 sessions.
(346) 708-5984 View (346) 708-5984
Photo of Elysia Burgess, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elysia Burgess
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77019  (Online Only)
Are you feeling like you don't have anyone you can really be your true self with? Many clients have friends and family they can talk to, but in many cases, receive judgemental, biased feedback. In our sessions, you have the freedom to be who you truly are! My approach focuses on your possibilities for healing, growth, and understanding. My belief is that counseling is a journey we travel together!
Are you feeling like you don't have anyone you can really be your true self with? Many clients have friends and family they can talk to, but in many cases, receive judgemental, biased feedback. In our sessions, you have the freedom to be who you truly are! My approach focuses on your possibilities for healing, growth, and understanding. My belief is that counseling is a journey we travel together!
(346) 639-2950 View (346) 639-2950
Photo of LaJuana Walker-McGill, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LaJuana Walker-McGill
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77002
These include: depression, stress, anxiety, anger management, grief & loss, family conflicts, work-related issues, interpersonal communication, etc.
Are you looking for ways to improve your quality of life? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor that is dedicated to helping others create positive outcomes for their lives. Through 24 years of experience in private practice, I have demonstrated my dedication to the empowerment of individuals and couples. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable environment that promotes positive outcomes for the clients that I serve. Virtual therapy appointments only.
These include: depression, stress, anxiety, anger management, grief & loss, family conflicts, work-related issues, interpersonal communication, etc.
Are you looking for ways to improve your quality of life? I am a Licensed Professional Counselor that is dedicated to helping others create positive outcomes for their lives. Through 24 years of experience in private practice, I have demonstrated my dedication to the empowerment of individuals and couples. My goal is to provide a safe and comfortable environment that promotes positive outcomes for the clients that I serve. Virtual therapy appointments only.
(346) 460-6062 View (346) 460-6062
Photo of Valorie George, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valorie George
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77024
I also provide parenting/ family work.
Life is complicated! Simply viewing my profile indicates you are seeking to grow in important areas of your life. Whether you are curious about improving relationships, expanding your work-life, or you are experiencing some uncomfortable, even painful emotions and anxiety, together we can explore new possibilities. I invite you to come in first and simply meet with me to see if it feels like a good "fit," a necessary and important aspect of a beneficial working relationship. Let's roll-up our sleeves and work together!
I also provide parenting/ family work.
Life is complicated! Simply viewing my profile indicates you are seeking to grow in important areas of your life. Whether you are curious about improving relationships, expanding your work-life, or you are experiencing some uncomfortable, even painful emotions and anxiety, together we can explore new possibilities. I invite you to come in first and simply meet with me to see if it feels like a good "fit," a necessary and important aspect of a beneficial working relationship. Let's roll-up our sleeves and work together!
(346) 209-1090 View (346) 209-1090
Photo of Dr. Derek Ream - Sugar Land Psychological Associates, PsyD, MS, Psychologist
Sugar Land Psychological Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77030  (Online Only)
Our team is skilled in a range of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based approaches, and family systems therapy, ensuring that treatment is personalized to meet the individual needs of each client.
As a group of psychologists, we specialize in providing tailored psychological care for children, teens, and adults, each with their own unique set of challenges and goals. For children, we offer support for emotional regulation, social skills development, and academic stress. With teens, we address anxiety, identity issues, peer pressure, and the often-overwhelming transition to adulthood. For adults, we provide guidance through life’s complex stressors, including relationship difficulties, career changes, and personal growth.
Our team is skilled in a range of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based approaches, and family systems therapy, ensuring that treatment is personalized to meet the individual needs of each client.
As a group of psychologists, we specialize in providing tailored psychological care for children, teens, and adults, each with their own unique set of challenges and goals. For children, we offer support for emotional regulation, social skills development, and academic stress. With teens, we address anxiety, identity issues, peer pressure, and the often-overwhelming transition to adulthood. For adults, we provide guidance through life’s complex stressors, including relationship difficulties, career changes, and personal growth.
(281) 843-1689 View (281) 843-1689
Photo of Ken Waldman, PhD, LMFT, Psychologist
Ken Waldman
Psychologist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77074  (Online Only)
I am also a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
I specialize in couples counseling and adult relationships. I have been doing couples work since 1977 and also have experience teaching graduate students in Marriage and Family Counseling. Courses included Separation, Divorce and Remarriage as well as Introduction to Marriage and Family Counseling. Previously I was Director of the Counseling Center at University of Houston where I had a staff of Psychologists and trained Psychologists.
I am also a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
I specialize in couples counseling and adult relationships. I have been doing couples work since 1977 and also have experience teaching graduate students in Marriage and Family Counseling. Courses included Separation, Divorce and Remarriage as well as Introduction to Marriage and Family Counseling. Previously I was Director of the Counseling Center at University of Houston where I had a staff of Psychologists and trained Psychologists.
(713) 338-9194 View (713) 338-9194
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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.