Experiential Therapy in Somerset, NJ

Photo of Caneel Schipper, LAC, NCC, Counselor
Caneel Schipper
Counselor, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
My ideal client is curious about themselves and the world and actively participates in the therapeutic process. I enjoy working with young adults and older adults, but I'm not limited to these populations. My ideal client is at a place of feeling "stuck" in their life. Whether that be a career transition, deciding on a college major, feeling lost in a relationship, or a new onset of symptoms. I am also comfortable with helping individuals unpack their past to understand their current habits. My ideal client wants to understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to develop self-awareness and self-compassion along the way.
My ideal client is curious about themselves and the world and actively participates in the therapeutic process. I enjoy working with young adults and older adults, but I'm not limited to these populations. My ideal client is at a place of feeling "stuck" in their life. Whether that be a career transition, deciding on a college major, feeling lost in a relationship, or a new onset of symptoms. I am also comfortable with helping individuals unpack their past to understand their current habits. My ideal client wants to understand their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors to develop self-awareness and self-compassion along the way.
(973) 434-5439 View (973) 434-5439
Photo of Kapil Nayar, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kapil Nayar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
Ideally, I work with all individuals. My ideal client would be one who has depression and anxiety, needs stress management techniques, and is open to meditative exercises.
Ideally, I work with all individuals. My ideal client would be one who has depression and anxiety, needs stress management techniques, and is open to meditative exercises.
(973) 283-5177 View (973) 283-5177
Photo of Melissa Cramutolo, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Cramutolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
(973) 604-0264 View (973) 604-0264
Photo of Margaret Nichols - Institute for Personal Growth — Sex Therapy, PhD, LCSW, LPC, LMFT, Psychologist
Institute for Personal Growth — Sex Therapy
Psychologist, PhD, LCSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
Thinking of therapy? Ask for the for the first session free. IPG has 3 offices throughout New Jersey (Highland Park, Jersey City, and Freehold), with almost 30 therapists, many of whom are experts in sex therapy. Because many sexual problems affect relationships, not just individuals, our sex therapists also have extensive training in various forms of couples therapy, so we are ideally equipped to handle relationship problems with a sexual component. Whether your concern is primarily a sexual issue or part of a larger marital issue, we are the right choice. We also work of course with individuals for various sex-related concerns.
Thinking of therapy? Ask for the for the first session free. IPG has 3 offices throughout New Jersey (Highland Park, Jersey City, and Freehold), with almost 30 therapists, many of whom are experts in sex therapy. Because many sexual problems affect relationships, not just individuals, our sex therapists also have extensive training in various forms of couples therapy, so we are ideally equipped to handle relationship problems with a sexual component. Whether your concern is primarily a sexual issue or part of a larger marital issue, we are the right choice. We also work of course with individuals for various sex-related concerns.
(866) 948-7629 View (866) 948-7629
Photo of Sarina A Mulleavey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarina A Mulleavey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Somerset, NJ 08873
I am passionate about working with men and women ages 18 years-old to older adults who are navigating life’s challenges, who feel blue, overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, angry, who are not able to concentrate in college or at the workplace, who are unsettled due to their trauma and utilize bad coping skills. I help individuals grow while they feel stuck and shut down. I provide various forms of therapeutic treatment, not just talk therapy. My specialized experience and trainings are broad from: Gottman Marriage/Couples L1 L2 Psycho-education, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, Trauma, Gestalt , Hypnosis, Yoga, and Holistic Treatments.
I am passionate about working with men and women ages 18 years-old to older adults who are navigating life’s challenges, who feel blue, overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, angry, who are not able to concentrate in college or at the workplace, who are unsettled due to their trauma and utilize bad coping skills. I help individuals grow while they feel stuck and shut down. I provide various forms of therapeutic treatment, not just talk therapy. My specialized experience and trainings are broad from: Gottman Marriage/Couples L1 L2 Psycho-education, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, Trauma, Gestalt , Hypnosis, Yoga, and Holistic Treatments.
(848) 224-6305 View (848) 224-6305

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Leigh Fagerstrom, LCSW, LCADC, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leigh Fagerstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
My therapeutic approaches include trauma informed care, humanistic and experiential therapy.
I look forward to collaborating with you throughout this empowering process. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and PTSD, addiction, family conflicts and difficulty managing stress and emotions. I am trained in sand play therapy and certified in DBT. I hope to offer you a safe and authentic space while we work towards your sustainable wellness and post traumatic growth. I have extensive experience working with older children, teens, adults and families.
My therapeutic approaches include trauma informed care, humanistic and experiential therapy.
I look forward to collaborating with you throughout this empowering process. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and PTSD, addiction, family conflicts and difficulty managing stress and emotions. I am trained in sand play therapy and certified in DBT. I hope to offer you a safe and authentic space while we work towards your sustainable wellness and post traumatic growth. I have extensive experience working with older children, teens, adults and families.
(732) 838-9887 View (732) 838-9887
Photo of Elizabeth Tedeschi, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Tedeschi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Somerville, NJ 08876  (Online Only)
Far too often we are weighed down by heavy emotions; intrusive thoughts and conditioned patterns. Through my varied experience I have been able to witness firsthand--that even in the most dire circumstances positive change is possible. My philosophy is to provide you with patience; positivity and pragmatism while varying the therapeutic approach to fit your current needs. To foster motivation and facilitate insight, I utilize a combination of strength-based techniques. I also believe in the significance of incorporating your interests and creativity (e.g. art, music, theatre and humor) into sessions.
Far too often we are weighed down by heavy emotions; intrusive thoughts and conditioned patterns. Through my varied experience I have been able to witness firsthand--that even in the most dire circumstances positive change is possible. My philosophy is to provide you with patience; positivity and pragmatism while varying the therapeutic approach to fit your current needs. To foster motivation and facilitate insight, I utilize a combination of strength-based techniques. I also believe in the significance of incorporating your interests and creativity (e.g. art, music, theatre and humor) into sessions.
(973) 310-5294 View (973) 310-5294
Photo of Valerie Rosen, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie Rosen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Brunswick, NJ 08901  (Online Only)
Greetings! It is a fundamental part of the human condition to have hope and a purpose in our lives, work, & relationships. Too often, these dimensions of our existence go overlooked and untouched in favor of addressing mental-emotional well-being through the lens of a medical model which emphasizes pathology and the need to consult with an expert to solve our problems. I am here to encourage you in this: You can learn to be the expert in your own life! My role is to journey with you towards this realization, so that you can ultimately stand on this truth. To do this, we will work together to help you establish a central life Hope.
Greetings! It is a fundamental part of the human condition to have hope and a purpose in our lives, work, & relationships. Too often, these dimensions of our existence go overlooked and untouched in favor of addressing mental-emotional well-being through the lens of a medical model which emphasizes pathology and the need to consult with an expert to solve our problems. I am here to encourage you in this: You can learn to be the expert in your own life! My role is to journey with you towards this realization, so that you can ultimately stand on this truth. To do this, we will work together to help you establish a central life Hope.
(908) 751-1228 View (908) 751-1228
Photo of Christianna Capra - Spring Reins of Hope, LLC, ES
Spring Reins of Hope, LLC
ES
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hillsborough, NJ 08844
Sometimes it's difficult to speak the words? Sometimes it is hard to find answers. We believe our clients have their own best solutions from within and that Horses assist us in on that path. Spring Reins of Hope (SRoH) was founded in 2009 under the Eagala Model of equine-assisted services. The horses provide an experiential/ solution focused therapeutic model that can act as a fast-track intervention therapy alongside traditional therapies (collaborating with your therapist), or as a stand-alone alternative to talk therapy. We have licensed professionals and follow HIPAA guidelines while we 'get to the horse of the matter'.
Sometimes it's difficult to speak the words? Sometimes it is hard to find answers. We believe our clients have their own best solutions from within and that Horses assist us in on that path. Spring Reins of Hope (SRoH) was founded in 2009 under the Eagala Model of equine-assisted services. The horses provide an experiential/ solution focused therapeutic model that can act as a fast-track intervention therapy alongside traditional therapies (collaborating with your therapist), or as a stand-alone alternative to talk therapy. We have licensed professionals and follow HIPAA guidelines while we 'get to the horse of the matter'.
(732) 497-3247 View (732) 497-3247
Photo of Nancy Kislin - Nancy Kislin Psychotherapy, MSW, LCSW, MFT, Coach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Kislin Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MFT, Coach
Verified Verified
Warren, NJ 07059
Is stress overflowing into all aspects of your life, affecting the quality of your relationships? Are feelings of anxiety and depression keeping you stuck at your job or in your marriage? Are you constantly angry at your partner for not listening or understanding you? Perhaps you are always angry at your children for not listening to you? I can help you! I will listen, ask questions and together we will develop strategies to deal with depression, anxiety, grief/separation and other life issues. I am a committed active member of your path towards symptom relief and deeper self-awareness.
Is stress overflowing into all aspects of your life, affecting the quality of your relationships? Are feelings of anxiety and depression keeping you stuck at your job or in your marriage? Are you constantly angry at your partner for not listening or understanding you? Perhaps you are always angry at your children for not listening to you? I can help you! I will listen, ask questions and together we will develop strategies to deal with depression, anxiety, grief/separation and other life issues. I am a committed active member of your path towards symptom relief and deeper self-awareness.
(973) 814-4779 View (973) 814-4779
Photo of Nancy M Cullinan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy M Cullinan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bridgewater, NJ 08807
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years’ experience. As a Focusing Oriented Therapist, I have found that teaching focusing helps people learn to listen to an inner guiding voice that reveals what is true and right for them. Teaching focusing gives individuals more confidence in themselves and in sensing and knowing what is best for them. Learning focusing help individuals to trust their gut so they can live their own truth. Focusing is a gentle, fast and effective therapy as compared with other treatment models. Learning how to focus will enable you to find and change where your life is stuck and/or cramped.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years’ experience. As a Focusing Oriented Therapist, I have found that teaching focusing helps people learn to listen to an inner guiding voice that reveals what is true and right for them. Teaching focusing gives individuals more confidence in themselves and in sensing and knowing what is best for them. Learning focusing help individuals to trust their gut so they can live their own truth. Focusing is a gentle, fast and effective therapy as compared with other treatment models. Learning how to focus will enable you to find and change where your life is stuck and/or cramped.
(908) 460-7264 View (908) 460-7264
Photo of Angela C Cruz - Angela C Cruz LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela C Cruz LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Raritan, NJ 08869
I have over 15 years' experience working with couples and individuals. I specialize in treating couples experiencing relationship issues from different backgrounds and cultures. While the relationship itself is the focus in couples counseling, I help each partner to pay attention to self-improvement and self-awareness. The therapy process is collaborative, I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each couple. With compassion and understanding, I work with the couple to help them build on their strengths and attain the growth they are committed to accomplishing.
I have over 15 years' experience working with couples and individuals. I specialize in treating couples experiencing relationship issues from different backgrounds and cultures. While the relationship itself is the focus in couples counseling, I help each partner to pay attention to self-improvement and self-awareness. The therapy process is collaborative, I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each couple. With compassion and understanding, I work with the couple to help them build on their strengths and attain the growth they are committed to accomplishing.
(908) 448-8083 View (908) 448-8083
Photo of Megan Mormile, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Mormile
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Branchburg, NJ 08876
Welcome! Therapy has the potential to positively change the direction of your life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked with both adults and adolescents for the past 25 years. My work with clients centers around dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, social issues, life transitions, as well as, school and work-related difficulties. I have extensive experience working with both undergraduate and graduate level college students. I offer a judgement-free atmosphere where individuals can feel validated and supported throughout the therapeutic process.
Welcome! Therapy has the potential to positively change the direction of your life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked with both adults and adolescents for the past 25 years. My work with clients centers around dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, social issues, life transitions, as well as, school and work-related difficulties. I have extensive experience working with both undergraduate and graduate level college students. I offer a judgement-free atmosphere where individuals can feel validated and supported throughout the therapeutic process.
(908) 386-4053 View (908) 386-4053
Photo of Dr. Brittni E. Poster, PhD, HSP, Psychologist
Dr. Brittni E. Poster
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgewater, NJ 08807  (Online Only)
We often underestimate the effect of past experiences on our personality, self-image, and current relational patterns. Together, we will bridge gaps between the past and present and identify the patterns of behavior, coping, and interpersonal functioning that no longer serve you. My approach to therapy is non-judgmental, empathic, and candid, with humoristic relief. I firmly believe that therapy isn't changing you if it isn't challenging you. I strive to build a solid therapeutic relationship and supportive foundation to safely explore uncomfortable thoughts and feelings and promote a greater understanding of self and others.
We often underestimate the effect of past experiences on our personality, self-image, and current relational patterns. Together, we will bridge gaps between the past and present and identify the patterns of behavior, coping, and interpersonal functioning that no longer serve you. My approach to therapy is non-judgmental, empathic, and candid, with humoristic relief. I firmly believe that therapy isn't changing you if it isn't challenging you. I strive to build a solid therapeutic relationship and supportive foundation to safely explore uncomfortable thoughts and feelings and promote a greater understanding of self and others.
(646) 832-4331 View (646) 832-4331
Photo of Suzy Spira - Center for Expansive Living, LCSW, Reiki, Master, APP, ICP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Center for Expansive Living
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Reiki, Master, APP, ICP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belle Mead, NJ 08502
Have you ever left a therapy session feeling overwhelmed, anxious, angry, depressed, or shut down? Have you ever gone to therapy and not had words to explain why you are seeking support? In my practice, I provide space for clients to explore their lives, their patterns, and their challenges and then, help them learn to regulate the nervous system so that they leave feeling, lighter, more relaxed, more at ease, and clearer than when they entered. Together we will focus on helping you build the life you want and help you digest experiences ready to be integrated.
Have you ever left a therapy session feeling overwhelmed, anxious, angry, depressed, or shut down? Have you ever gone to therapy and not had words to explain why you are seeking support? In my practice, I provide space for clients to explore their lives, their patterns, and their challenges and then, help them learn to regulate the nervous system so that they leave feeling, lighter, more relaxed, more at ease, and clearer than when they entered. Together we will focus on helping you build the life you want and help you digest experiences ready to be integrated.
(609) 905-4641 View (609) 905-4641
Photo of Gwen Blake Birch Tree Therapeutic Arts, EdS, LPC, MFT, ICST, SAC, SAC,CZT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gwen Blake Birch Tree Therapeutic Arts
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, MFT, ICST, SAC, SAC,CZT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Branchburg, NJ 08853
Moving toward soothing unfamiliar and familiar stress is a critical part of therapeutic healing. Life struggles and incongruence often cause avoidance, overthinking, big emotions, or unhelpful habits and attitudes, which tend to cycle and leave you to feel unresolved. Creating clarity and identifying what needs change in your life opens new ways to cope, creating space for amazing change in your life today. gaining clarity and moving toward to a more, meaningful, congruent and focused life. Individuals (child-adults), couples, and families are welcome. I offer appointments (8am - 8pm) in my new office space (and online).
Moving toward soothing unfamiliar and familiar stress is a critical part of therapeutic healing. Life struggles and incongruence often cause avoidance, overthinking, big emotions, or unhelpful habits and attitudes, which tend to cycle and leave you to feel unresolved. Creating clarity and identifying what needs change in your life opens new ways to cope, creating space for amazing change in your life today. gaining clarity and moving toward to a more, meaningful, congruent and focused life. Individuals (child-adults), couples, and families are welcome. I offer appointments (8am - 8pm) in my new office space (and online).
(908) 838-4184 View (908) 838-4184
Photo of Ruth Homer, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth Homer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NJ 08844  (Online Only)
My ideal clients are facing challenges in relationships, emotional regulation and behavioral addiction. I have 12 years experience in counseling and have been in private practice for 4 years. I offer a warm and supportive (virtual) environment where clients feel heard and understood. Together we explore interactions in relationships, old personal narratives and develop skillful practices and responses. We discover childhood connections, "parts" and faulty feedback loops, all while aimed at the goal of integration into a more accepting state of being. My approach is experiential, DBT supported and IFS/Attachment informed.
My ideal clients are facing challenges in relationships, emotional regulation and behavioral addiction. I have 12 years experience in counseling and have been in private practice for 4 years. I offer a warm and supportive (virtual) environment where clients feel heard and understood. Together we explore interactions in relationships, old personal narratives and develop skillful practices and responses. We discover childhood connections, "parts" and faulty feedback loops, all while aimed at the goal of integration into a more accepting state of being. My approach is experiential, DBT supported and IFS/Attachment informed.
(908) 460-7202 View (908) 460-7202
Photo of Stacey Nicholas - Inner Light Counseling NJ, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inner Light Counseling NJ
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Somerville, NJ 08876
Our therapists are here to help you get through the struggles you might be facing. Each therapist is devoted to helping you work through such issues as relationship conflict, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, LGBTQ issues, grief and loss, marriage and relationship counseling and many more. When you call our office, we will match you up with the best therapist suited to meet your needs and help you with the particular issues you might be dealing with at the time.
Our therapists are here to help you get through the struggles you might be facing. Each therapist is devoted to helping you work through such issues as relationship conflict, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, LGBTQ issues, grief and loss, marriage and relationship counseling and many more. When you call our office, we will match you up with the best therapist suited to meet your needs and help you with the particular issues you might be dealing with at the time.
(908) 707-0212 View (908) 707-0212
Photo of Cathy M Rosa - Embodied Art Therapy & Yoga, LLC, MS, ATR-BC, EMDR-T, LPAT, ATCS, Art Therapist
Embodied Art Therapy & Yoga, LLC
Art Therapist, MS, ATR-BC, EMDR-T, LPAT, ATCS
Verified Verified
Raritan, NJ 08869
Waitlist for new clients
*I'm accepting clients with am/early pm availability* Unhelpful behaviors, emotions, thoughts, & beliefs sometimes indicate we don't have the words&life experiences on which to reflect and find solutions/hope. These can be an expression of unmet needs, uncommunicated truths, insufficient coping skills, and can be signals that something is not OK. There is hope. People can communicate, heal, grow, understand, empathize, & manage their lives to thrive, succeed, and feel satisfied. Together we can find a way. I also coach parents to help best understand/communicate with their child/teen/developmentally disabled adult child.
*I'm accepting clients with am/early pm availability* Unhelpful behaviors, emotions, thoughts, & beliefs sometimes indicate we don't have the words&life experiences on which to reflect and find solutions/hope. These can be an expression of unmet needs, uncommunicated truths, insufficient coping skills, and can be signals that something is not OK. There is hope. People can communicate, heal, grow, understand, empathize, & manage their lives to thrive, succeed, and feel satisfied. Together we can find a way. I also coach parents to help best understand/communicate with their child/teen/developmentally disabled adult child.
(848) 246-2483 View (848) 246-2483
Photo of Jacqueline Crocker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Crocker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Brunswick, NJ 08816
Your goals may be to live your best life, be your best self, and feel happy, however you may find yourself feeling stuck, having anxiety or fears preventing you from moving forward, or maybe you just feel unmotivated or unhopeful. Therapy can help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself, gain new perspectives of your situations, provide support, and be a change agent in your journey. My approach is compassionate and non-judgmental. Therapy is a collaborative effort and I focus on establishing trust to help people feel comfortable and safe to explore their inner conflicts. Read my full bio at www.onesteptherapycenter.com.
Your goals may be to live your best life, be your best self, and feel happy, however you may find yourself feeling stuck, having anxiety or fears preventing you from moving forward, or maybe you just feel unmotivated or unhopeful. Therapy can help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself, gain new perspectives of your situations, provide support, and be a change agent in your journey. My approach is compassionate and non-judgmental. Therapy is a collaborative effort and I focus on establishing trust to help people feel comfortable and safe to explore their inner conflicts. Read my full bio at www.onesteptherapycenter.com.
(848) 212-8716 View (848) 212-8716
Experiential Therapy

How does experiential therapy work?

Experiential therapy works by allowing an individual to use their creativity to re-imagine themselves and their lives in an effort to process their emotions. Experiential therapy may take many forms, including engaging clients through art, re-enactments, role-playing, music, or forms of physical recreation. By focusing on these activities, experiential therapists help individuals identify the emotions they associate with previous experiences and work together to cope with negative reactions, like fear, anger, or shame.

Is experiential therapy evidence-based?

Experiential therapy incorporates many therapy modalities, some of which have been more closely researched than others. Music therapy, for example, has been shown to help with sleep problems. Some studies find that art therapy can be beneficial for those with eating disorders or personality disorders, while other research suggests that such approaches have little impact.

How long does experiential therapy last?

The duration of experiential therapy will depend on the type of therapy used as well as the severity of the challenges an individual faces. Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Art therapy may comprise 10 to 15 weekly sessions. Music therapy sessions generally last between 30 and 50 minutes and can be scheduled weekly or on an as-needed basis. For each therapy type, clients should periodically discuss their goals with their therapist to make sure the two are aligned on process and progress.

Does experiential therapy help with trauma?

Trauma is one area where experiential therapy may be useful. Traumatic experiences such as combat or childhood abuse can be so painful that articulating them can be too scary or painful; creating visual art allows people to express themselves without words, and tell their story in a different way. Listening to music can be relaxing, while making music as part of a group provides plenty of opportunities to connect with other people. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, or who have been physically or emotionally abused.