LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Bolton, MA

Photo of Michelle Grasso - Synergy Wellness Center, LMHC, Counselor
Synergy Wellness Center
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, MA 01740
Synergy Wellness Center supports the emotional, physical, and spiritual health of wellness seekers, with a distinct focus on caregiver support. Whether you are caring for loved ones, or are a caregiver by profession, Synergy offers an array of services customized to your individualized needs, including acupuncture, massage therapy, reflexology, yoga, energy healing, mental health counseling, life coaching, nutritional counseling, essential oils, speech/language consultations, inspiring workshops, and corporate wellness programs. Our team serves adults, youth, couples, and families,. We look forward to serving you at Synergy.
Synergy Wellness Center supports the emotional, physical, and spiritual health of wellness seekers, with a distinct focus on caregiver support. Whether you are caring for loved ones, or are a caregiver by profession, Synergy offers an array of services customized to your individualized needs, including acupuncture, massage therapy, reflexology, yoga, energy healing, mental health counseling, life coaching, nutritional counseling, essential oils, speech/language consultations, inspiring workshops, and corporate wellness programs. Our team serves adults, youth, couples, and families,. We look forward to serving you at Synergy.
(978) 310-3740 View (978) 310-3740
Photo of Michelle Stakutis, LMHC, Counselor
Michelle Stakutis
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bolton, MA 01740
Sometimes we know we need to make a change and it takes us a while to be ready for it. Sometimes things happen in our lives that require us to get immediate support. Whether it's needing a compassionate ear to listen to us, some new coping strategies to deal with ongoing stressors, or guidance on even where to start, we can all benefit from counseling. I am prepared to guide you through this process and work on your goals, whether long term or immediate.
Sometimes we know we need to make a change and it takes us a while to be ready for it. Sometimes things happen in our lives that require us to get immediate support. Whether it's needing a compassionate ear to listen to us, some new coping strategies to deal with ongoing stressors, or guidance on even where to start, we can all benefit from counseling. I am prepared to guide you through this process and work on your goals, whether long term or immediate.
(351) 666-5662 View (351) 666-5662
Photo of Erin Chetwynd - Erin Chetwynd-LMHC, LMHC, Counselor
Erin Chetwynd-LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bolton, MA 01740  (Online Only)
Anxiety and depression can be a daily struggle that feels isolating and overwhelming. I work with you to build a positive therapeutic relationship in order to find hope and learn ways to feel better. I work with adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and anger management. My goal is to help you feel more empowered and connected while learning to be kinder to yourself. We will work together to help you identify and build on your strengths and learn healthy strategies to manage life when it feels difficult.
Anxiety and depression can be a daily struggle that feels isolating and overwhelming. I work with you to build a positive therapeutic relationship in order to find hope and learn ways to feel better. I work with adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and anger management. My goal is to help you feel more empowered and connected while learning to be kinder to yourself. We will work together to help you identify and build on your strengths and learn healthy strategies to manage life when it feels difficult.
(351) 200-8878 View (351) 200-8878
Photo of Jessica Marquis, LMHC, Counselor
Jessica Marquis
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bolton, MA 01740  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Currently only meeting with clients via telemedicine. In my practice, I focus on creating a calming space where reflection is welcomed. I believe in the importance of a space where you can fully live in the present moment with your thoughts and feelings. Life can be filled with hardships, challenges, and transitions. Within this space, I make it a goal to support all of my clients in finding their inner needs, wants, and strengths that often become dismissed through the chaos of life. I take a holistic, collaborative, and person centered approach as I fully believe the client is the expert of themselves.
Currently only meeting with clients via telemedicine. In my practice, I focus on creating a calming space where reflection is welcomed. I believe in the importance of a space where you can fully live in the present moment with your thoughts and feelings. Life can be filled with hardships, challenges, and transitions. Within this space, I make it a goal to support all of my clients in finding their inner needs, wants, and strengths that often become dismissed through the chaos of life. I take a holistic, collaborative, and person centered approach as I fully believe the client is the expert of themselves.
(781) 917-3465 View (781) 917-3465

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of JJ Jarrard - Rainbow Counseling & Consultation LLC, LMHC, Counselor
Rainbow Counseling & Consultation LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a therapist that understands what it is like to be queer? Or a therapist that can help you navigate the ups and downs of non traditional relationships or family styles? You deserve therapy that is affirming and judgement-free while working through difficulties with communication, intimacy, mental health, sleep, eating, addiction, career stress, faith/religion, gender dysphoria and/or transitioning. You deserve therapy in the comfort of your own home that is easily accessible through computer or phone via secure tele-health.
Are you looking for a therapist that understands what it is like to be queer? Or a therapist that can help you navigate the ups and downs of non traditional relationships or family styles? You deserve therapy that is affirming and judgement-free while working through difficulties with communication, intimacy, mental health, sleep, eating, addiction, career stress, faith/religion, gender dysphoria and/or transitioning. You deserve therapy in the comfort of your own home that is easily accessible through computer or phone via secure tele-health.
(508) 403-9111 View (508) 403-9111
Photo of Dennis Manchester-Miles, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dennis Manchester-Miles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Marlborough, MA 01752  (Online Only)
I am also extremely interested in supporting people of color, couples, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
My name is Dennis, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who has approximately twenty-five years of experience in the field of Social Work. I take a person-centered approach to treatment always keeping your goals at the forefront. I aim to recognize the inherent strengths within an individual as we move together throughout your healing journey. My treatment modality is Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (C.B.T) and occasionally tapping into elements of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (D.B.T). My goal is to create a space that is safe, empowering, and nonjudgmental.
I am also extremely interested in supporting people of color, couples, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
My name is Dennis, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) who has approximately twenty-five years of experience in the field of Social Work. I take a person-centered approach to treatment always keeping your goals at the forefront. I aim to recognize the inherent strengths within an individual as we move together throughout your healing journey. My treatment modality is Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (C.B.T) and occasionally tapping into elements of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (D.B.T). My goal is to create a space that is safe, empowering, and nonjudgmental.
(774) 541-1539 View (774) 541-1539
Photo of Caitlin Straubel, LMHC, Counselor
Caitlin Straubel
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
West Boylston, MA 01583
I am a licensed therapist with twelve years of clinical experience. I enjoy helping people become their authentic selves through the creation of a strong therapeutic alliance in which people feel comfortable addressing negative thoughts and processing life experiences. I support individuals working to overcome life's challenges related to anxiety, relationship stress, and parenting difficulties. I specialize in working with transgender and gender exploring individuals.
I am a licensed therapist with twelve years of clinical experience. I enjoy helping people become their authentic selves through the creation of a strong therapeutic alliance in which people feel comfortable addressing negative thoughts and processing life experiences. I support individuals working to overcome life's challenges related to anxiety, relationship stress, and parenting difficulties. I specialize in working with transgender and gender exploring individuals.
(774) 450-6061 View (774) 450-6061
Photo of Rowen Beaudoin-Colegrove, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rowen Beaudoin-Colegrove
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Boylston, MA 01583  (Online Only)
I am a queer and transmasculine identified family therapist licensed in MA. I am most passionate about family systems work, having trained at the University of Massachusetts in marriage and family therapy. I support people best when approaching treatment through the lens of the systems they are a part of. I believe that people do not exist in a bubble. The interactions that we have with others influence the ways we move through the world. I work with people on understanding these interactions in unique ways to better serve their futures.
I am a queer and transmasculine identified family therapist licensed in MA. I am most passionate about family systems work, having trained at the University of Massachusetts in marriage and family therapy. I support people best when approaching treatment through the lens of the systems they are a part of. I believe that people do not exist in a bubble. The interactions that we have with others influence the ways we move through the world. I work with people on understanding these interactions in unique ways to better serve their futures.
(508) 501-8979 View (508) 501-8979
Photo of Jessika Hobbs, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessika Hobbs
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Leominster, MA 01453  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with children and families to help them navigate struggles surrounding relationships, self-esteem, trauma, divorces/breakups, stress, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ identities, depression, Borderline Personality, life transitions, and developing coping skills through a trauma-informed and structural lens.
I have over 3 years of experience working with youths, adults, and families, specializing in individual and family therapy, addressing various challenges including depression, anxiety, BPD, suicidal ideation, changes in family dynamics, trauma, attachment, and life transitions. I draw on my knowledge of CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, attachment theory, solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and person-centered therapy to help clients reach their goals. I truly believe that everyone is capable of change and I promise to help you realize your strengths and support you as you navigate challenges big and small.
I specialize in working with children and families to help them navigate struggles surrounding relationships, self-esteem, trauma, divorces/breakups, stress, anxiety, LGBTQIA+ identities, depression, Borderline Personality, life transitions, and developing coping skills through a trauma-informed and structural lens.
I have over 3 years of experience working with youths, adults, and families, specializing in individual and family therapy, addressing various challenges including depression, anxiety, BPD, suicidal ideation, changes in family dynamics, trauma, attachment, and life transitions. I draw on my knowledge of CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, attachment theory, solution-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and person-centered therapy to help clients reach their goals. I truly believe that everyone is capable of change and I promise to help you realize your strengths and support you as you navigate challenges big and small.
(978) 953-3785 View (978) 953-3785
Photo of Chloe Blair, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Chloe Blair
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults through their life transitions and changes. I am also passionate about my work with the LGBTQ+ community and strive to help individuals in the community overcome negative thought patterns, learn self-acceptance, and feel safe in their own body. I work to provide clients with a safe space in order to foster a comfortable and trustworthy therapeutic relationship.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults through their life transitions and changes. I am also passionate about my work with the LGBTQ+ community and strive to help individuals in the community overcome negative thought patterns, learn self-acceptance, and feel safe in their own body. I work to provide clients with a safe space in order to foster a comfortable and trustworthy therapeutic relationship.
(508) 393-2731 View (508) 393-2731
Photo of Erika Krause, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Krause
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
West Boylston, MA 01583
One of the bravest things one can do is ask for help or support. Whether this is your first time seeking out therapy or you have dabbled before, congratulations on taking this step! Perhaps you have experienced a trauma, loss, are dealing with symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, are LGBTQIA+, or are simply looking to live life as your most authentic self. Maybe you are going through a life transition, having relationship issues, or maybe you just want to start building a therapeutic connection. Regardless of the WHY, you deserve a safe, judgement-free space to begin this journey. Take a deep breath. Let's begin.
One of the bravest things one can do is ask for help or support. Whether this is your first time seeking out therapy or you have dabbled before, congratulations on taking this step! Perhaps you have experienced a trauma, loss, are dealing with symptoms of anxiety, depression, ADHD, are LGBTQIA+, or are simply looking to live life as your most authentic self. Maybe you are going through a life transition, having relationship issues, or maybe you just want to start building a therapeutic connection. Regardless of the WHY, you deserve a safe, judgement-free space to begin this journey. Take a deep breath. Let's begin.
(508) 761-1308 View (508) 761-1308
Photo of Brigitte Manseau, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brigitte Manseau
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and suicidality. Additionally, I am passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ youth and adults including individuals who are questioning their gender and/or sexuality. I have worked in community mental health, school-based, LGBTQIA+ youth program, and town youth and family agency settings which has allowed for me to have a variation in populations I have served.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and suicidality. Additionally, I am passionate about working with LGBTQIA+ youth and adults including individuals who are questioning their gender and/or sexuality. I have worked in community mental health, school-based, LGBTQIA+ youth program, and town youth and family agency settings which has allowed for me to have a variation in populations I have served.
(508) 393-2731 View (508) 393-2731
Photo of Kathleen Benoit, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Benoit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Boylston, MA 01583
I am a mental health clinician with a passion for working with those going through major life events. This could be young adults navigating their way through life stressors such as school, careers, relationships, and family or new moms/ dads adjusting to parental life and anything in between. My other special passion areas include working with Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, LGBTQ+ issues. I believe everyone deserves a place to talk without judgment or fear of others expectations of them. I strive to offer a welcoming and supportive space for all.
I am a mental health clinician with a passion for working with those going through major life events. This could be young adults navigating their way through life stressors such as school, careers, relationships, and family or new moms/ dads adjusting to parental life and anything in between. My other special passion areas include working with Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, LGBTQ+ issues. I believe everyone deserves a place to talk without judgment or fear of others expectations of them. I strive to offer a welcoming and supportive space for all.
(774) 369-0633 View (774) 369-0633
Photo of Ronnie McKenney II, LMHC, Counselor
Ronnie McKenney II
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Marlborough, MA 01752  (Online Only)
I welcome people of all races, LGBTQ, religions, and cultures.
*NEW CLIENTS ACCEPTED via TELEHEALTH* Ever feel like you have a way to do something, and though it does not work the way it seems like it should, you feel it “works for you?” Do you find that you have a way of behaving and struggle to break free from yourself? I find that humans act in patterns. We think about a problem and act in a way that is the most comfortable to us and tend to repeat these patterns regardless of the result. I work with people living with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger concerns, separation/loss/grief issues, and people coping with discrimination.
I welcome people of all races, LGBTQ, religions, and cultures.
*NEW CLIENTS ACCEPTED via TELEHEALTH* Ever feel like you have a way to do something, and though it does not work the way it seems like it should, you feel it “works for you?” Do you find that you have a way of behaving and struggle to break free from yourself? I find that humans act in patterns. We think about a problem and act in a way that is the most comfortable to us and tend to repeat these patterns regardless of the result. I work with people living with depression, anxiety, trauma, anger concerns, separation/loss/grief issues, and people coping with discrimination.
(508) 538-3760 View (508) 538-3760
Photo of Rollins Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rollins Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Northborough, MA 01532
We treat depression, anxiety, substance use, stress-related issues, trauma, self-esteem issues, mood disorders, grief and loss, LGBTQ, and first responders.
Rollins Counseling Center offers individual and family counseling to adolescents and adults. We offer Telehealth! In-person visits are available in our Westford location and will be available in our Marlborough location in December, 2021. We have a team of licensed clinicians that utilize evidenced based therapies to effectively treat a wide range of issues that affect one’s quality of life. Treatment modalities include psychodynamic therapy, CBT, family systems, mind-body approaches, hypnotherapy and EMDR.
We treat depression, anxiety, substance use, stress-related issues, trauma, self-esteem issues, mood disorders, grief and loss, LGBTQ, and first responders.
Rollins Counseling Center offers individual and family counseling to adolescents and adults. We offer Telehealth! In-person visits are available in our Westford location and will be available in our Marlborough location in December, 2021. We have a team of licensed clinicians that utilize evidenced based therapies to effectively treat a wide range of issues that affect one’s quality of life. Treatment modalities include psychodynamic therapy, CBT, family systems, mind-body approaches, hypnotherapy and EMDR.
(978) 999-2165 View (978) 999-2165
Photo of Peter O'Brien, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Peter O'Brien
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Hudson, MA 01749
I work with adults and members of the LGBTQIA+ community who have challenges with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also work with people who have experienced tough stuff in their childhood, or who are struggling with grief, relationship issues, or difficulties managing their emotions. My goal is to help you stop feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and living life at a frenzied pace. Instead, our sessions can empower you to make big changes, encourage you to see healing and transformation as possible, and help guide you through positive changes to where things feel manageable again.
I work with adults and members of the LGBTQIA+ community who have challenges with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also work with people who have experienced tough stuff in their childhood, or who are struggling with grief, relationship issues, or difficulties managing their emotions. My goal is to help you stop feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, and living life at a frenzied pace. Instead, our sessions can empower you to make big changes, encourage you to see healing and transformation as possible, and help guide you through positive changes to where things feel manageable again.
(781) 693-3200 View (781) 693-3200
Photo of Nicole Jean Larocque, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Jean Larocque
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Acton, MA 01720
Concerns addressed; anxiety, mood disorder, trauma or difficult past events, grief and loss, coping with medical illness; both treatment of yourself or a loved one, healthy adjustment to life transitions (job changes, new parenthood, retirement, aging, support for parents of LGBTQ+ youth).
I am a clinical social worker passionate about helping people find ways to their best selves. I provide a safe and supportive environment for the client in search of self-understanding. I believe people have the capacity to feel content, grateful and joyful but a lot of the time our preconceived notions of ourselves get in the way. Everyday I am amazed at people's resilience.
Concerns addressed; anxiety, mood disorder, trauma or difficult past events, grief and loss, coping with medical illness; both treatment of yourself or a loved one, healthy adjustment to life transitions (job changes, new parenthood, retirement, aging, support for parents of LGBTQ+ youth).
I am a clinical social worker passionate about helping people find ways to their best selves. I provide a safe and supportive environment for the client in search of self-understanding. I believe people have the capacity to feel content, grateful and joyful but a lot of the time our preconceived notions of ourselves get in the way. Everyday I am amazed at people's resilience.
(617) 826-1589 View (617) 826-1589
Photo of Sherrie L Vlahakis, MA, LSC
Sherrie L Vlahakis
MA, LSC
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742
Accepting new clients for summer 2024. I am a licensed counselor who provides therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I have over 25 years experience with a range of issues concerning relationships, anxiety, life transitions, dating, stress, infidelity, betrayal trauma, sexuality, school admissions, LGBTQ issues, co-dependency, divorce, elder issues, work, and education. I provide a safe place to share concerns, develop coping strategies, and to discover inner resources that we may not have known were there. The "Goodness of Fit" between client and therapist, and the treatment modality is important to initiate results.
Accepting new clients for summer 2024. I am a licensed counselor who provides therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I have over 25 years experience with a range of issues concerning relationships, anxiety, life transitions, dating, stress, infidelity, betrayal trauma, sexuality, school admissions, LGBTQ issues, co-dependency, divorce, elder issues, work, and education. I provide a safe place to share concerns, develop coping strategies, and to discover inner resources that we may not have known were there. The "Goodness of Fit" between client and therapist, and the treatment modality is important to initiate results.
(351) 777-8810 View (351) 777-8810
Photo of Erika Reimers - Erika Reimers LICSW, LLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Reimers LICSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maynard, MA 01754
I’ve supported multiple clients in the LGBTQIA+ community who have had experiences with transitioning, dysphoria, bullying and differences of views with family members.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in private practice with over a decade of experience working with adolescents and their families in their homes and in the community. In addition to working with adolescents and their family's I see young adults ages 18-35 virtually. I do my best work with adolescents who “don’t like therapy” or who have struggled to connect or engage with other therapists in the past. This happens for lots of reasons–but one major one is that sometimes sitting in an office staring at one another just feels too threatening.
I’ve supported multiple clients in the LGBTQIA+ community who have had experiences with transitioning, dysphoria, bullying and differences of views with family members.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in private practice with over a decade of experience working with adolescents and their families in their homes and in the community. In addition to working with adolescents and their family's I see young adults ages 18-35 virtually. I do my best work with adolescents who “don’t like therapy” or who have struggled to connect or engage with other therapists in the past. This happens for lots of reasons–but one major one is that sometimes sitting in an office staring at one another just feels too threatening.
(978) 605-4681 View (978) 605-4681
Photo of Randy Holmberg - Transcending Therapy LLC, LMHC, Counselor
Transcending Therapy LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Leominster, MA 01453
Now Accepting NEW Clients! Late evening sessions available! Our practice is designed to help adolescents and adults feel ready to take charge of their life and work towards future success. Therapy can seem scary or daunting, but we're here to take on some of that burden and help you on your personal path of growth and transcendence. We offer both in person and remote services to help meet your needs on your schedule. We have providers working during the day, afternoon, evenings and even weekends.
Now Accepting NEW Clients! Late evening sessions available! Our practice is designed to help adolescents and adults feel ready to take charge of their life and work towards future success. Therapy can seem scary or daunting, but we're here to take on some of that burden and help you on your personal path of growth and transcendence. We offer both in person and remote services to help meet your needs on your schedule. We have providers working during the day, afternoon, evenings and even weekends.
(978) 213-1288 View (978) 213-1288

See more therapy options for Bolton

LGBTQ+ Therapists

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?

Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?

While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.