Therapists in Franklin County, OH

Photo of Latisha Marie Fowler, Psychologist in Franklin County, OH
Latisha Marie Fowler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gahanna, OH 43230
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist who provides services to women from across the lifespan with a broad range of clinical needs. My clinical training as a generalist has afforded me extensive experiences working with those seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and interpersonal distress. In addition to individual therapy, I also provide couples and family therapy.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist who provides services to women from across the lifespan with a broad range of clinical needs. My clinical training as a generalist has afforded me extensive experiences working with those seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and interpersonal distress. In addition to individual therapy, I also provide couples and family therapy.
(614) 408-5043 View (614) 408-5043
Photo of Ashley L Alexander, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin County, OH
Ashley L Alexander
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220
I specialize in helping people of all ages and backgrounds experiencing imbalance in their personal, family, or professional life. I match myskills with your needs, wants and expectations. Together, we identify patterns in your life that no longer serve you and create a plan to help you accomplish what is most important toyou. While we may process the past, we focus on practicing new, more effective behaviors. I believe therapy is a collaborative process that I, as your therapist, can meet youwhere you are to help you, your child, your teen, your partner, and/or your family navigate through together.
I specialize in helping people of all ages and backgrounds experiencing imbalance in their personal, family, or professional life. I match myskills with your needs, wants and expectations. Together, we identify patterns in your life that no longer serve you and create a plan to help you accomplish what is most important toyou. While we may process the past, we focus on practicing new, more effective behaviors. I believe therapy is a collaborative process that I, as your therapist, can meet youwhere you are to help you, your child, your teen, your partner, and/or your family navigate through together.
(614) 656-4395 x05 View (614) 656-4395 x05
Photo of Laura Karn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin County, OH
Laura Karn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Dublin, OH 43017
Whether you are struggling with stress, life transitions, feeling down or have conflict in your relationships, I will help you get unstuck from unwanted patterns, grow your skill to navigate challenging scenarios and develop healthier relationships. I provide individual, couple and family therapy. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, trauma/distressing events, parenting issues, and couples.
Whether you are struggling with stress, life transitions, feeling down or have conflict in your relationships, I will help you get unstuck from unwanted patterns, grow your skill to navigate challenging scenarios and develop healthier relationships. I provide individual, couple and family therapy. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, trauma/distressing events, parenting issues, and couples.
(380) 333-5889 View (380) 333-5889
Photo of Maureen Scelza, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin County, OH
Maureen Scelza
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT-S
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43228
As a Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Grief Recovery Specialist I am trained to work with individuals, couples and families.
"The secret of change is to focus all your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new." Starting therapy can come with many emotions; fear, sadness, confusion, desperation, or many of the other emotions we all have. Despite that, you are here, and I know the strength it requires make that step. Therapy is a deeply personal and unique process. Together, we will work to establish your goals and we will work at your pace towards resolution. I am free of judgement towards all things that make you, you.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist and Certified Grief Recovery Specialist I am trained to work with individuals, couples and families.
"The secret of change is to focus all your energy not on fighting the old, but on building the new." Starting therapy can come with many emotions; fear, sadness, confusion, desperation, or many of the other emotions we all have. Despite that, you are here, and I know the strength it requires make that step. Therapy is a deeply personal and unique process. Together, we will work to establish your goals and we will work at your pace towards resolution. I am free of judgement towards all things that make you, you.
(380) 207-1472 View (380) 207-1472
Photo of Balanced Behavioral Health Solutions, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin County, OH
Balanced Behavioral Health Solutions, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43209  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients. Balanced Behavioral Health Solutions offers individual, couples, and family counseling. We are a team of licensed and experienced therapists who are passionate about helping you overcome your challenges and achieve your goals. Whether you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or any other mental health concern, we are here to support you and provide you with effective and personalized care. ​
Currently accepting new clients. Balanced Behavioral Health Solutions offers individual, couples, and family counseling. We are a team of licensed and experienced therapists who are passionate about helping you overcome your challenges and achieve your goals. Whether you are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, or any other mental health concern, we are here to support you and provide you with effective and personalized care. ​
(614) 437-6527 View (614) 437-6527
Photo of Queer Owned & Staffed - Affirming Pathways, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin County, OH
Queer Owned & Staffed - Affirming Pathways
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
We're here to assist with challenges including, but not limited to, finding your authentic self, navigating gender, sexual/affectional, and relationship diverse minority stressors, disclosures, LGBTQ+ family support, any relational topics, ethical non-monogamy, Kink/BDSM, trauma, Neurodiversity (we have diagnosed clinicians), and more!.
We have immediate availability with multiple therapists and free consults to help you find the best fit! As a Queer-Owned and staffed group practice, we focus on supporting gender, sexual/affectional, and relationship structure diverse communities (LGBTQ+), including ethical non-monogamy, BDSM/Kink, etc. Our priority is fostering a therapeutic space where everyone feels safe, respected, and truly understood. We deeply value providing knowledgeable and affirming mental healthcare for all individuals, relationships, families, and youth.
We're here to assist with challenges including, but not limited to, finding your authentic self, navigating gender, sexual/affectional, and relationship diverse minority stressors, disclosures, LGBTQ+ family support, any relational topics, ethical non-monogamy, Kink/BDSM, trauma, Neurodiversity (we have diagnosed clinicians), and more!.
We have immediate availability with multiple therapists and free consults to help you find the best fit! As a Queer-Owned and staffed group practice, we focus on supporting gender, sexual/affectional, and relationship structure diverse communities (LGBTQ+), including ethical non-monogamy, BDSM/Kink, etc. Our priority is fostering a therapeutic space where everyone feels safe, respected, and truly understood. We deeply value providing knowledgeable and affirming mental healthcare for all individuals, relationships, families, and youth.
(740) 273-6555 View (740) 273-6555
Photo of Cori L. Page, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin County, OH
Cori L. Page
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dublin, OH 43017
Whether your personal life feels confusing, overwhelming, and stuck or your most meaningful relationships are marked by significant pain, unresolved arguments, and disconnection- meeting with a trusted professional can help you feel more fully yourself and able to build healthier relationships. I provide individual, couple, family, and group therapy. While I work with a broad range of relational and mental health challenges, I focus on treating trauma, infidelity, addictions, and couples issues. I am trained in Restoration Therapy, including a forgiveness model, EMDR trained, CSAT candidate, Prepare Enrich trainer.
Whether your personal life feels confusing, overwhelming, and stuck or your most meaningful relationships are marked by significant pain, unresolved arguments, and disconnection- meeting with a trusted professional can help you feel more fully yourself and able to build healthier relationships. I provide individual, couple, family, and group therapy. While I work with a broad range of relational and mental health challenges, I focus on treating trauma, infidelity, addictions, and couples issues. I am trained in Restoration Therapy, including a forgiveness model, EMDR trained, CSAT candidate, Prepare Enrich trainer.
(614) 503-7808 View (614) 503-7808
Photo of Jesse Thornton, Psychologist in Franklin County, OH
Jesse Thornton
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
Thornton specializes in relationship and family counseling.
Dr. Thornton is a licensed psychologist who offers private counseling to individuals, couples and families. He offers a warm and confidential space to explore and repair relationships. He believes through insight and guided experience we are able to repair past hurts and discover positive change in our lives. He relies on scientifically proven theories and strives to provide a supportive environment where clients feel comfortable saying anything on their mind and are able to feel understood. Please relax and unburden yourself in this place.
Thornton specializes in relationship and family counseling.
Dr. Thornton is a licensed psychologist who offers private counseling to individuals, couples and families. He offers a warm and confidential space to explore and repair relationships. He believes through insight and guided experience we are able to repair past hurts and discover positive change in our lives. He relies on scientifically proven theories and strives to provide a supportive environment where clients feel comfortable saying anything on their mind and are able to feel understood. Please relax and unburden yourself in this place.
(614) 328-9335 View (614) 328-9335
Photo of James Heckman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin County, OH
James Heckman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
By creating a safe environment in which to explore emotions and inner patterns, we identify roadblocks which are interfering with the goals that the individual or family want to achieve. We use our meetings to gain understanding, create new ideas and support putting changes into practice.
By creating a safe environment in which to explore emotions and inner patterns, we identify roadblocks which are interfering with the goals that the individual or family want to achieve. We use our meetings to gain understanding, create new ideas and support putting changes into practice.
(614) 664-8042 View (614) 664-8042
Photo of Darrin Peterson, Counselor in Franklin County, OH
Darrin Peterson
Counselor, MA, MEd, CBC, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Reynoldsburg, OH 43068
"Just when the caterpillar thought its life was over, it became a butterfly" --- anonymous. Do you feel like you are stuck in a cocoon, without any options for movement? Are you feeling like the caterpillar who thought its life was over, as yet unable to break free, but having a sense that with some work and time a new life is possible? Metamorphosis may be the place for you to get started. We offer individual, family, couples and group counseling in a small private setting.
"Just when the caterpillar thought its life was over, it became a butterfly" --- anonymous. Do you feel like you are stuck in a cocoon, without any options for movement? Are you feeling like the caterpillar who thought its life was over, as yet unable to break free, but having a sense that with some work and time a new life is possible? Metamorphosis may be the place for you to get started. We offer individual, family, couples and group counseling in a small private setting.
(614) 944-8240 x101 View (614) 944-8240 x101
Photo of Elizabeth Thiel, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Franklin County, OH
Elizabeth Thiel
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hilliard, OH 43026  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger, depression, family and relationship issues, life transitions, teen issues, career counseling, and domestic violence.
I am glad you are here! Life is tough at times. Relationships can be as well. We are not meant to try to deal with it all alone. Wouldn't it be freeing to take charge of your own life? What if someone could come alongside you to help you take steps to explore yourself, deal with the past, become the best version of yourself, work through hard times, and meet your goals? As a team, we will build on your strengths so that you leave our sessions feeling equipped and empowered! Taking the first step to seek a more fulfilling life or relationship takes courage. I will support that process and look forward to our journey together!
I enjoy helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger, depression, family and relationship issues, life transitions, teen issues, career counseling, and domestic violence.
I am glad you are here! Life is tough at times. Relationships can be as well. We are not meant to try to deal with it all alone. Wouldn't it be freeing to take charge of your own life? What if someone could come alongside you to help you take steps to explore yourself, deal with the past, become the best version of yourself, work through hard times, and meet your goals? As a team, we will build on your strengths so that you leave our sessions feeling equipped and empowered! Taking the first step to seek a more fulfilling life or relationship takes courage. I will support that process and look forward to our journey together!
(614) 591-8205 View (614) 591-8205
Photo of Erik Buskard, Counselor in Franklin County, OH
Erik Buskard
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220  (Online Only)
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, and depression.
I am licensed in Ohio and Maine with 7 years of professional work experience. . I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It's hard to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support, empower, and challenge you in that journey
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, and depression.
I am licensed in Ohio and Maine with 7 years of professional work experience. . I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It's hard to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support, empower, and challenge you in that journey
(614) 683-2268 View (614) 683-2268
Photo of New Hope Therapists, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin County, OH
New Hope Therapists
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43222
I offer Individual, couple, and family counseling, CANS assessments, IHBT, CPST, Substance Use Assessments & referrals, In-Home Senior/Hospice Therapeutic Services.
Hi there! My name is Eric Eghan, I am a therapist at New Hope Therapists. I am inspired by my faith and believe that a tender plant can shoot and blossom from a dry ground. I believe in the harvest no matter how dry the ground may be. I believe healing and growth can occur no matter how difficult the situation may be. I believe a new you can emerge from the same old you. I am hopeful about your situation just as a tree has hope that it will sprout again when cut off. I keep hoping even when there is no reason for hope.
I offer Individual, couple, and family counseling, CANS assessments, IHBT, CPST, Substance Use Assessments & referrals, In-Home Senior/Hospice Therapeutic Services.
Hi there! My name is Eric Eghan, I am a therapist at New Hope Therapists. I am inspired by my faith and believe that a tender plant can shoot and blossom from a dry ground. I believe in the harvest no matter how dry the ground may be. I believe healing and growth can occur no matter how difficult the situation may be. I believe a new you can emerge from the same old you. I am hopeful about your situation just as a tree has hope that it will sprout again when cut off. I keep hoping even when there is no reason for hope.
(380) 212-2755 View (380) 212-2755
Photo of Kris J Snyder, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin County, OH
Kris J Snyder
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grove City, OH 43123
Hello, and congratulations on taking the first steps toward self-healing and self-mastery. I am an Independently Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (IMFT) with over 30+ years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked across several states and gained valuable experience connecting and collaborating with a diverse clientele, addressing a wide range of issues. I have also co-facilitated several Sue Johnson's Hold Me Tight weekend retreats.
Hello, and congratulations on taking the first steps toward self-healing and self-mastery. I am an Independently Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (IMFT) with over 30+ years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked across several states and gained valuable experience connecting and collaborating with a diverse clientele, addressing a wide range of issues. I have also co-facilitated several Sue Johnson's Hold Me Tight weekend retreats.
(380) 600-9509 View (380) 600-9509
Photo of Nexus Counseling Group, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin County, OH
Nexus Counseling Group, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Gahanna, OH 43230
My area of expertise includes: children and adolescent issues, as well as adults that are dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, addictions, relationships, couples counseling, divorce and family dynamics, career counseling.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed or needing direction with personal or professional relationships? I will help to teach you the necessary tools to healthier relationships, greater mental well-being, becoming more efficient at home and work and finally have a more positive outlook on the future. I have a variety of experience which has only helped my ability of becoming an effective therapist.
My area of expertise includes: children and adolescent issues, as well as adults that are dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, addictions, relationships, couples counseling, divorce and family dynamics, career counseling.
Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed or needing direction with personal or professional relationships? I will help to teach you the necessary tools to healthier relationships, greater mental well-being, becoming more efficient at home and work and finally have a more positive outlook on the future. I have a variety of experience which has only helped my ability of becoming an effective therapist.
(614) 472-8341 View (614) 472-8341
Photo of Olivia Delahunty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin County, OH
Olivia Delahunty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43220
I provide Family Based Treatment (FBT) and Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E), both evidence-based approaches to eating disorder treatment.
I work with adolescents and adults who struggle with issues related to food, body image, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, self-compassion, and self-worth. I provide holistic, evidence-based care and work with my clients in a genuine, realistic way to meet their therapeutic goals as they heal their relationship with food, movement, and find peace within their bodies. I believe in empowering caregivers and families to be a part of the treatment and healing of eating disorders and welcome diversity among clients including all body sizes, abilities, races, sexualities, genders, and religions.
I provide Family Based Treatment (FBT) and Enhanced Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-E), both evidence-based approaches to eating disorder treatment.
I work with adolescents and adults who struggle with issues related to food, body image, anxiety, depression, perfectionism, self-compassion, and self-worth. I provide holistic, evidence-based care and work with my clients in a genuine, realistic way to meet their therapeutic goals as they heal their relationship with food, movement, and find peace within their bodies. I believe in empowering caregivers and families to be a part of the treatment and healing of eating disorders and welcome diversity among clients including all body sizes, abilities, races, sexualities, genders, and religions.
(614) 665-8568 View (614) 665-8568
Photo of Katie McDonald, Licensed Professional Counselor in Franklin County, OH
Katie McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, adjustment problems, low self-esteem, grief/loss, dysfunctional family dynamics, or you are a parent with a child with difficult/problem behaviors, please reach out and request an appointment with me by calling or texting 614-547-9233.
If you don't feel comfortable in traditional talk therapy, you may have a different learning style that deserves respect. There are four main learning styles: visual, auditory, reading/writing and kinesthetic, which requires physical interaction with the environment. If you are a visual person or need more engagement, then art therapy may be the best fit for you. Art Therapy is a method of self-expression that creates a safe and nonjudgmental space. The focus is on the process of creating and the meaning you bring to your art. No artistic talent is required. I offer telehealth (virtual) services to children, adolescents and adults.
If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, adjustment problems, low self-esteem, grief/loss, dysfunctional family dynamics, or you are a parent with a child with difficult/problem behaviors, please reach out and request an appointment with me by calling or texting 614-547-9233.
If you don't feel comfortable in traditional talk therapy, you may have a different learning style that deserves respect. There are four main learning styles: visual, auditory, reading/writing and kinesthetic, which requires physical interaction with the environment. If you are a visual person or need more engagement, then art therapy may be the best fit for you. Art Therapy is a method of self-expression that creates a safe and nonjudgmental space. The focus is on the process of creating and the meaning you bring to your art. No artistic talent is required. I offer telehealth (virtual) services to children, adolescents and adults.
(614) 683-3028 View (614) 683-3028
Photo of Gestalt Columbus, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Franklin County, OH
Gestalt Columbus
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43230
The Gestalt Columbus team provides the highest quality counseling and psychotherapy services, whether individual, marital, child, couple, family, case management, parenting or group.
We are a group private practice with multiple therapists including EMDR and trauma informed clinicians. We also have a psychiatric nurse practitioner for medication management. We serve individuals, families, parents, couples, and groups. At Gestalt Columbus, we work alongside our clients to treat the whole person - mind and body. We understand the complexity of interpersonal relationships and the difficulty of changing established patterns with partners, family, friends and work associates. Solutions to deep, personal suffering must be rooted in real-life understanding and not just a quick fix or a one-size-fits-all approach.
The Gestalt Columbus team provides the highest quality counseling and psychotherapy services, whether individual, marital, child, couple, family, case management, parenting or group.
We are a group private practice with multiple therapists including EMDR and trauma informed clinicians. We also have a psychiatric nurse practitioner for medication management. We serve individuals, families, parents, couples, and groups. At Gestalt Columbus, we work alongside our clients to treat the whole person - mind and body. We understand the complexity of interpersonal relationships and the difficulty of changing established patterns with partners, family, friends and work associates. Solutions to deep, personal suffering must be rooted in real-life understanding and not just a quick fix or a one-size-fits-all approach.
(614) 860-5564 View (614) 860-5564
Photo of Amber Furness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Franklin County, OH
Amber Furness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
I work from an informed Internal Family Systems (IFS) model and often use “parts work” with my clients.
Do you find yourself constantly thinking about the future or the past, procrastinating issues in the present, and often feel like you're unable to live in the moment? Trauma, anxiety, and depression can be a great burden on our mental and physical well being. Through training and experience, I’ve learned that our brain and body have an innate ability to heal and recover. It is possible to find peace and feel more confident in who you are. I look at therapy as an opportunity for transformation. To improve your understanding and relationship with yourself and others.
I work from an informed Internal Family Systems (IFS) model and often use “parts work” with my clients.
Do you find yourself constantly thinking about the future or the past, procrastinating issues in the present, and often feel like you're unable to live in the moment? Trauma, anxiety, and depression can be a great burden on our mental and physical well being. Through training and experience, I’ve learned that our brain and body have an innate ability to heal and recover. It is possible to find peace and feel more confident in who you are. I look at therapy as an opportunity for transformation. To improve your understanding and relationship with yourself and others.
(614) 660-5312 View (614) 660-5312
Photo of The Couples Couch LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Franklin County, OH
The Couples Couch LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canal Winchester, OH 43110  (Online Only)
Welcome to the Couples Couch, where Derrick and Sherry, a married duo of over 25 years, offer not just couples therapy but a solid foundation for experiencing a fulfilling partnership and self-image. Imagine understanding the negative patterns in your marriage and addressing them with guidance from a certified life coach in Derrick and an Imago-trained marriage and family therapist in Sherry. We firmly believe in the sanctity of marriage and in the belief that you’ve chosen the right person to journey through life with.
Welcome to the Couples Couch, where Derrick and Sherry, a married duo of over 25 years, offer not just couples therapy but a solid foundation for experiencing a fulfilling partnership and self-image. Imagine understanding the negative patterns in your marriage and addressing them with guidance from a certified life coach in Derrick and an Imago-trained marriage and family therapist in Sherry. We firmly believe in the sanctity of marriage and in the belief that you’ve chosen the right person to journey through life with.
(380) 234-2156 View (380) 234-2156

See more therapy options for Franklin County

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.