Photo of Heidi C. Donovan, PhD, Psychologist
Heidi C. Donovan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
Donovan and her family relocated to Orlando.
Dr. Donovan earned her doctorate in Counseling Psychology and Human Systems from the Florida State University in 2001. Her specialty was in neuropsychology, with a research emphasis in neuropsychological assessment of patients with traumatic brain injuries. She completed her residency at the VA Medical Center, Washington D.C. and post-doc in Clinical Psychology at Carolina Psychological Health Services. Dr. Donovan worked in private practice for several years before accepting a position as Senior Psychologist for the Florida Department of Corrections in 2004, where she was responsible for the provision of mental health services to over 1,200 inmates in a close-management correctional institution.
Donovan and her family relocated to Orlando.
Dr. Donovan earned her doctorate in Counseling Psychology and Human Systems from the Florida State University in 2001. Her specialty was in neuropsychology, with a research emphasis in neuropsychological assessment of patients with traumatic brain injuries. She completed her residency at the VA Medical Center, Washington D.C. and post-doc in Clinical Psychology at Carolina Psychological Health Services. Dr. Donovan worked in private practice for several years before accepting a position as Senior Psychologist for the Florida Department of Corrections in 2004, where she was responsible for the provision of mental health services to over 1,200 inmates in a close-management correctional institution.
(850) 633-1789 View (850) 633-1789
Photo of Nina Elder, MA, LMFT, ACS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nina Elder
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ACS
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765
We have been sharing a universal experience that has amplified many difficult to manage feelings and emotions. Whether it's new or been building up, this can feel overwhelming, isolating, or shut us down completely. If you are reading this and looking for someone to help you or your family process what you’re going through, I would love to assist you in that. If I am not the right fit, I am more than happy to provide you with guidance on what to do next.
We have been sharing a universal experience that has amplified many difficult to manage feelings and emotions. Whether it's new or been building up, this can feel overwhelming, isolating, or shut us down completely. If you are reading this and looking for someone to help you or your family process what you’re going through, I would love to assist you in that. If I am not the right fit, I am more than happy to provide you with guidance on what to do next.
(407) 537-6591 View (407) 537-6591
Photo of Bobbi E Barber - Mindful Counseling FL, MS, LMHC, , CCTP
Mindful Counseling FL
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765
Hi! My name is Bobbi Barber. I'm a mental health professional with a strong background in applied behavior analysis. My expertise includes ABA, Mindfulness, ACT, CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, and internal family systems. I am certified in Gottman Level 1 and Prepare/Enriched certified. My clinical practice focuses on supporting teens and adults facing emotional conflicts, grief, loss, harmful behavior patterns, self-harm tendencies, body-focused repetitive behaviors, and interpersonal conflict resolution.
Hi! My name is Bobbi Barber. I'm a mental health professional with a strong background in applied behavior analysis. My expertise includes ABA, Mindfulness, ACT, CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, and internal family systems. I am certified in Gottman Level 1 and Prepare/Enriched certified. My clinical practice focuses on supporting teens and adults facing emotional conflicts, grief, loss, harmful behavior patterns, self-harm tendencies, body-focused repetitive behaviors, and interpersonal conflict resolution.
(407) 604-2431 View (407) 604-2431
Photo of Mirella Caro-Cortes, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Mirella Caro-Cortes
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765
In my free time, I love spending time with my family.
Do you feel like you’re not being heard by your partner? Or not appreciated? Whether aimed at addressing small issues or dealing with potentially relationship-breaking challenges, therapy can help you each feel valued, heard, and connected. In a non-judgmental, supportive environment I meet with couples or individuals online from all over Florida, in the privacy of their own homes. We dive deep into the issues that are creating anger, hurt, or frustration. I help the couple or individual turn conflict into an opportunity for self-growth. The process is virtually identical to the work done in the office.
In my free time, I love spending time with my family.
Do you feel like you’re not being heard by your partner? Or not appreciated? Whether aimed at addressing small issues or dealing with potentially relationship-breaking challenges, therapy can help you each feel valued, heard, and connected. In a non-judgmental, supportive environment I meet with couples or individuals online from all over Florida, in the privacy of their own homes. We dive deep into the issues that are creating anger, hurt, or frustration. I help the couple or individual turn conflict into an opportunity for self-growth. The process is virtually identical to the work done in the office.
(407) 512-8815 View (407) 512-8815
Photo of Rene Morago-Barton - Morago Counseling Services, MS, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Morago Counseling Services
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
As a mother of 4 vastly different and wonderful children in a blended family.
Sometimes in life we run into times that are hard to navigate alone; entering a new phase in life, getting through a break-up or trouble in a relationship, communicating with one another, anger, life transitions, parenting issues and/or blended families. Possibly you, your child or you both have ADHD? I can help with tools for focus and tips for making your day start and go more smoothly, to include that troublesome homework time. Experiencing parenting issues, anxiety and/or depression, I can help you and/or your family work things out and get to a better place.
As a mother of 4 vastly different and wonderful children in a blended family.
Sometimes in life we run into times that are hard to navigate alone; entering a new phase in life, getting through a break-up or trouble in a relationship, communicating with one another, anger, life transitions, parenting issues and/or blended families. Possibly you, your child or you both have ADHD? I can help with tools for focus and tips for making your day start and go more smoothly, to include that troublesome homework time. Experiencing parenting issues, anxiety and/or depression, I can help you and/or your family work things out and get to a better place.
(321) 204-8599 View (321) 204-8599
Photo of Ashlen Bell Moss - Ashlen Moss Counseling LLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Ashlen Moss Counseling LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
Ashlen Moss, M.A. is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She is passionate about creating a safe place for clients to be honest about life's difficulties. Ashlen's specialties include chronic illness, relational struggles, family dysfunction, grief, adoption, ministry burnout, life transitions, anxiety, and depression. Ashlen is a Christian and offers that perspective to others who desire that in their counseling journey. That being said, she welcomes clients from all faith and religious backgrounds.
Ashlen Moss, M.A. is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida. She is passionate about creating a safe place for clients to be honest about life's difficulties. Ashlen's specialties include chronic illness, relational struggles, family dysfunction, grief, adoption, ministry burnout, life transitions, anxiety, and depression. Ashlen is a Christian and offers that perspective to others who desire that in their counseling journey. That being said, she welcomes clients from all faith and religious backgrounds.
(407) 499-8255 View (407) 499-8255
Photo of Garrett Mark Leslie, MA, LMHC, FLCS, Counselor
Garrett Mark Leslie
Counselor, MA, LMHC, FLCS
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765
I have a relational approach that fosters a mix of warmth & acceptance along with clinical clarity and positive outcomes. My focus and understanding is that the "The therapist can only take someone as far as they have been themselves." So I understand the stuck place you are in with your marriage, your personal life, the desperation and hurt, feeling lost and alone and the journey needed for optimal healing/health. I will personally walk with you and your family to care and provide real change that actually lasts! Finally, Our Team approach at Tree of Life is extensive and exemplary...
I have a relational approach that fosters a mix of warmth & acceptance along with clinical clarity and positive outcomes. My focus and understanding is that the "The therapist can only take someone as far as they have been themselves." So I understand the stuck place you are in with your marriage, your personal life, the desperation and hurt, feeling lost and alone and the journey needed for optimal healing/health. I will personally walk with you and your family to care and provide real change that actually lasts! Finally, Our Team approach at Tree of Life is extensive and exemplary...
(407) 917-8481 View (407) 917-8481
Photo of Melanie Rose, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melanie Rose
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765
As a therapist with my own family, and 19 years of professional counseling experience, I understand how the quality of our relationships contribute greatly to our overall sense of well-being.
Life is full of transitions, and it can be difficult to navigate life changes. Do you feel frustrated, alone, misunderstood, or sad due to family conflict, an unfulfilling romantic relationship, low self esteem, stress, or parenting your children? Relationships can be complicated, and it is disheartening to feel stuck in situations that cause anxiety, sadness, or stress. Tension can build even more if you have a child or teen who is struggling with their behavior or emotions. This can negatively affect school, work, or home life. It takes courage to reach out for professional help.
As a therapist with my own family, and 19 years of professional counseling experience, I understand how the quality of our relationships contribute greatly to our overall sense of well-being.
Life is full of transitions, and it can be difficult to navigate life changes. Do you feel frustrated, alone, misunderstood, or sad due to family conflict, an unfulfilling romantic relationship, low self esteem, stress, or parenting your children? Relationships can be complicated, and it is disheartening to feel stuck in situations that cause anxiety, sadness, or stress. Tension can build even more if you have a child or teen who is struggling with their behavior or emotions. This can negatively affect school, work, or home life. It takes courage to reach out for professional help.
(407) 807-6143 View (407) 807-6143
Photo of Catherine Rutter, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Catherine Rutter
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
Waitlist for new clients
I work with adolescents and adults offering individual and family counseling.
Seeking help for yourself or someone you care about is not an easy task and you want to find a competent professional. Whether you are looking for support in improving your quality of life or you are suffering from relationship issues, depression and anxiety, a life crisis or any other stressors, you have come to the right place. I pride myself on being a competent, compassionate, accepting, and client-focused therapist. I prefer to not only use my developed skill set, but also the client’s strengths and resources to meet their individualized needs and accomplish their therapeutic goals.
I work with adolescents and adults offering individual and family counseling.
Seeking help for yourself or someone you care about is not an easy task and you want to find a competent professional. Whether you are looking for support in improving your quality of life or you are suffering from relationship issues, depression and anxiety, a life crisis or any other stressors, you have come to the right place. I pride myself on being a competent, compassionate, accepting, and client-focused therapist. I prefer to not only use my developed skill set, but also the client’s strengths and resources to meet their individualized needs and accomplish their therapeutic goals.
(407) 988-0925 View (407) 988-0925
Photo of Janelle Ramdass, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Janelle Ramdass
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765  (Online Only)
Along with being a Nationally Certified Counselor, I am also Marriage, Family, and Relationship certified.
I am committed to helping others overcome the pain and difficulty they are experiencing and helping them reach their goals. By promoting healing, change, and positive behaviors you can reach personal well-being. Counseling will help to bring hope and clarity to your life. In our sessions we will work towards relieving your situation and recognizing your strengths. I provide a relaxing, comfortable, and open environment where you can be yourself.
Along with being a Nationally Certified Counselor, I am also Marriage, Family, and Relationship certified.
I am committed to helping others overcome the pain and difficulty they are experiencing and helping them reach their goals. By promoting healing, change, and positive behaviors you can reach personal well-being. Counseling will help to bring hope and clarity to your life. In our sessions we will work towards relieving your situation and recognizing your strengths. I provide a relaxing, comfortable, and open environment where you can be yourself.
(407) 550-0342 View (407) 550-0342
Photo of Colbert Sims - CLS3 Mental Health Fitness, P-MHC
CLS3 Mental Health Fitness
P-MHC
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765  (Online Only)
I specialize in Behavior Management, Creating healthy coping skills, Anxiety/Depression, MEN issues, DBT, CBT, Social-Emotional Skills, Reality Therapy, Anger Management, Family Conflict, Oppositional Defiance (ODD), ADHD.
I'm inspired to empower individuals faced with life challenges by assisting them understand their own emotional patterns, and direct them towards being the best version of themselves. Remember, I'm here to help! Collaboration is the key to unlocking your inner-peace, balance, and walking in your purpose!
I specialize in Behavior Management, Creating healthy coping skills, Anxiety/Depression, MEN issues, DBT, CBT, Social-Emotional Skills, Reality Therapy, Anger Management, Family Conflict, Oppositional Defiance (ODD), ADHD.
I'm inspired to empower individuals faced with life challenges by assisting them understand their own emotional patterns, and direct them towards being the best version of themselves. Remember, I'm here to help! Collaboration is the key to unlocking your inner-peace, balance, and walking in your purpose!
(321) 386-1953 View (321) 386-1953
Photo of Christina Williams, MA, RMHCI, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christina Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765
I work with a variety of people carrying different mental and emotional burdens including, depression, anxiety, disorders (personality, mood, thought), life adjustments (any life changes), trauma, relationship issues, family issues, career issues, women's issues, and race-based traumatic stress.
Does time heal all? I know we like to think so but unfortunately, it doesn’t always work out that way. Some of us carry our trauma from the past, along the burdens of daily life. Some of us have had recent experiences that are making us feel lost and unsure of the direction we are heading in. Some of us struggle with the families we were born into or the family we’ve created. As humans, we are all searching for guidance, empathy, emotional connections, and someone to listen to our stories. We aspire to achieve our goals, follow our dreams, resolve our issues, and heal our emotional wounds.
I work with a variety of people carrying different mental and emotional burdens including, depression, anxiety, disorders (personality, mood, thought), life adjustments (any life changes), trauma, relationship issues, family issues, career issues, women's issues, and race-based traumatic stress.
Does time heal all? I know we like to think so but unfortunately, it doesn’t always work out that way. Some of us carry our trauma from the past, along the burdens of daily life. Some of us have had recent experiences that are making us feel lost and unsure of the direction we are heading in. Some of us struggle with the families we were born into or the family we’ve created. As humans, we are all searching for guidance, empathy, emotional connections, and someone to listen to our stories. We aspire to achieve our goals, follow our dreams, resolve our issues, and heal our emotional wounds.
(407) 337-8426 View (407) 337-8426
Photo of Ashley Constanzo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Constanzo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
I am a bilingual EMDR therapist who helps others heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult family relationships, dissociation, and other distressing things.
Are you living in survival mode or on auto-pilot? You may struggle with anxiety, overthinking, and self-doubt. You question if you are "good enough" and often doubt yourself. You might be trying to find which parts of you are "you" and which parts are what you became to please others or survive. Many people feel this way after living through stressful experiences, bad relationships, or trauma. Imagine if you could start understanding the "why" behind your thoughts and feelings and learn the "how" you can get to a place of clarity, confidence, and feeling in control. Your past doesn't have to decide your future.
I am a bilingual EMDR therapist who helps others heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult family relationships, dissociation, and other distressing things.
Are you living in survival mode or on auto-pilot? You may struggle with anxiety, overthinking, and self-doubt. You question if you are "good enough" and often doubt yourself. You might be trying to find which parts of you are "you" and which parts are what you became to please others or survive. Many people feel this way after living through stressful experiences, bad relationships, or trauma. Imagine if you could start understanding the "why" behind your thoughts and feelings and learn the "how" you can get to a place of clarity, confidence, and feeling in control. Your past doesn't have to decide your future.
(407) 449-7183 View (407) 449-7183
Photo of Emily Berndt, MA
Emily Berndt
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
Reach out today and discover how counseling can help your family.
Your teen seems like they want nothing to do with you. They're struggling and won't tell you what's going on. You want to be a supportive parent. There's just so much tension at home. It feels like you’re constantly walking on eggshells. You miss your kid. They're your everything! And when they shut you out, it hurts.
Reach out today and discover how counseling can help your family.
Your teen seems like they want nothing to do with you. They're struggling and won't tell you what's going on. You want to be a supportive parent. There's just so much tension at home. It feels like you’re constantly walking on eggshells. You miss your kid. They're your everything! And when they shut you out, it hurts.
(407) 205-2802 View (407) 205-2802
Photo of Tim Lloyd, PhD, LMFT, BCBA, MCAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tim Lloyd
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, BCBA, MCAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
Over the last 20 years, I’ve worked with individuals and families in the context of pastoral counseling, family therapy, and clinical practice providing an evidence-based approach that is uniquely Christian in foundation and principle.
Welcome to my profile. Navigating the uncertainties of life can be extremely challenging. During times of crisis, we often feel the added pressure to have all of the answers and to be decisive. It’s hard to “carry the weight of the world” when things are unraveling. My passion is to bring hope and healing to those that are hurting. I believe that the best therapy is non-judgmental and relevant. I promise to meet you where you’re at and provide you with an anchor of stability while working together to find the path of restoration and renewal.
Over the last 20 years, I’ve worked with individuals and families in the context of pastoral counseling, family therapy, and clinical practice providing an evidence-based approach that is uniquely Christian in foundation and principle.
Welcome to my profile. Navigating the uncertainties of life can be extremely challenging. During times of crisis, we often feel the added pressure to have all of the answers and to be decisive. It’s hard to “carry the weight of the world” when things are unraveling. My passion is to bring hope and healing to those that are hurting. I believe that the best therapy is non-judgmental and relevant. I promise to meet you where you’re at and provide you with an anchor of stability while working together to find the path of restoration and renewal.
(407) 543-1368 View (407) 543-1368
Photo of Lilly Vargas, MA
Lilly Vargas
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
Are there any deep disappointments lingering within you? Do you feel alone, unlovable or misunderstood? Are you struggling with your child, spouse or any other relationship? Life issues and disappointments are heavy burdens to bear alone. Thoughts and feelings of unworthiness and/or rejection were never meant for you. And, it takes a village to grow a family. These life-matters were meant to be lived with others, disappointments were meant to be shared, and not good enough feelings were meant to be challenged. Would you consider help? Would you let me be that person for you, your child or adolescent in this season?
Are there any deep disappointments lingering within you? Do you feel alone, unlovable or misunderstood? Are you struggling with your child, spouse or any other relationship? Life issues and disappointments are heavy burdens to bear alone. Thoughts and feelings of unworthiness and/or rejection were never meant for you. And, it takes a village to grow a family. These life-matters were meant to be lived with others, disappointments were meant to be shared, and not good enough feelings were meant to be challenged. Would you consider help? Would you let me be that person for you, your child or adolescent in this season?
(321) 218-5650 View (321) 218-5650
Photo of Christine Braun, MS, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Christine Braun
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Oviedo, FL 32765
I have a passion to assist those who find themselves at a crossroad and unable to experience HOPE. I use my high energy and sense of humor to bring healing and hope to the clients I serve. I excel at coming up with innovative solutions which help people live with less pain and heal families. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults in individual, family, and group settings. I use a variety of techniques to tailor an individualized approach to best serve my clients.
I have a passion to assist those who find themselves at a crossroad and unable to experience HOPE. I use my high energy and sense of humor to bring healing and hope to the clients I serve. I excel at coming up with innovative solutions which help people live with less pain and heal families. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults in individual, family, and group settings. I use a variety of techniques to tailor an individualized approach to best serve my clients.
(407) 501-8757 View (407) 501-8757
Photo of Ashley Ricciardi, LMHC, Counselor
Ashley Ricciardi
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
I have a good understanding of dysfunctional family systems/codependency and attachment trauma.
I am Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I offer counseling to individuals and families struggling with self-esteem, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and different life stressors. I am fully committed to my clients' success and growth. It is my belief that the therapeutic relationship is a crucial element to therapy. I strive to facilitate an environment that is trusting, inviting, safe, nonjudgmental, and professional. I focus on serving, adults, adolescents, and families through individual and family therapy. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults who may be struggling with various transitional, interpersonal, and emotional challenges.
I have a good understanding of dysfunctional family systems/codependency and attachment trauma.
I am Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I offer counseling to individuals and families struggling with self-esteem, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and different life stressors. I am fully committed to my clients' success and growth. It is my belief that the therapeutic relationship is a crucial element to therapy. I strive to facilitate an environment that is trusting, inviting, safe, nonjudgmental, and professional. I focus on serving, adults, adolescents, and families through individual and family therapy. I specialize in working with adolescents and young adults who may be struggling with various transitional, interpersonal, and emotional challenges.
(407) 269-8846 View (407) 269-8846
Photo of Jennifer Paige Carnes, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Jennifer Paige Carnes
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
I treat those struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, anger, trauma, grief, self-esteem and self-confidence issues, adjustment issues, relationship and family issues, social and communication skills, OCD, school and occupational problems, and ADHD. Through empathy, I strive to understand each client's specific context and unique perspective, and view each counseling relationship as a collaborative endeavor. My personal, educational, and professional life experiences have provided me with a strong foundation of patience and compassion, along with critical knowledge and skills needed to effectively help my clients.
I treat those struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, anger, trauma, grief, self-esteem and self-confidence issues, adjustment issues, relationship and family issues, social and communication skills, OCD, school and occupational problems, and ADHD. Through empathy, I strive to understand each client's specific context and unique perspective, and view each counseling relationship as a collaborative endeavor. My personal, educational, and professional life experiences have provided me with a strong foundation of patience and compassion, along with critical knowledge and skills needed to effectively help my clients.
(407) 641-1356 View (407) 641-1356
Photo of Debora Haughton - Orlando Counseling Services, MS, LMHC, RMHCI, Counselor
Orlando Counseling Services
Counselor, MS, LMHC, RMHCI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oviedo, FL 32765
***Accepting new clients*** Orlando Counseling Services is a counseling practice whose mission is to bring evidence-based treatment to the Orlando area. We serve a broad spectrum of clients providing individual, couples, and family therapy. Our team of therapists have extensive experience helping people identify and overcome a variety of mental health concerns. Our therapists provide a supportive environment to meet you where you are and help you or your loved one on your path towards healing and change.
***Accepting new clients*** Orlando Counseling Services is a counseling practice whose mission is to bring evidence-based treatment to the Orlando area. We serve a broad spectrum of clients providing individual, couples, and family therapy. Our team of therapists have extensive experience helping people identify and overcome a variety of mental health concerns. Our therapists provide a supportive environment to meet you where you are and help you or your loved one on your path towards healing and change.
(407) 955-9195 View (407) 955-9195
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.