Photo of Lori B. Yoder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emmaus, PA
Lori B. Yoder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Emmaus, PA 18049
"If you don't transform your grief, you will transmit it." -Tim Shriver. If you have experienced, or are experiencing, a loss and/or life transition, allow me to help you transform your grief so that you will not transmit it. I feel it is a privilege to walk beside those who are on a grief journey. I offer a safe, kind, compassionate, non-judgmental listening ear, and bereavement support. Life may never be as it once was, but you can experience happiness again. Grief is never resolved, but it can be reconciled.
"If you don't transform your grief, you will transmit it." -Tim Shriver. If you have experienced, or are experiencing, a loss and/or life transition, allow me to help you transform your grief so that you will not transmit it. I feel it is a privilege to walk beside those who are on a grief journey. I offer a safe, kind, compassionate, non-judgmental listening ear, and bereavement support. Life may never be as it once was, but you can experience happiness again. Grief is never resolved, but it can be reconciled.
(267) 915-6506 View (267) 915-6506

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Donna Kindig, Counselor in Emmaus, PA
Donna Kindig
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104
I treat many different presenting issues including but not limited to anxiety and depression, life changes, family and relationship issues, communication issues, grief and loss.
I strive to help adults and couples find improved emotional health. If you are feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed and want to feel better, I invite you to reach out.
I treat many different presenting issues including but not limited to anxiety and depression, life changes, family and relationship issues, communication issues, grief and loss.
I strive to help adults and couples find improved emotional health. If you are feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed and want to feel better, I invite you to reach out.
(610) 467-2083 View (610) 467-2083
Photo of Leah Cofield, Pre-Licensed Professional in Emmaus, PA
Leah Cofield
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18015
Grief, trauma, insecurities, anxiety and depression do not discriminate. You are not alone. If you find it difficult to move beyond it and you feel stuck, this is normal. Our body keeps score and remembers. This is why I integrate techniques that connect the mind and body. It is important to release stored up tension and stress, as well as addressing our core beliefs about our experiences. While creating coping mechanisms is important I will also help you discover root causes and address obstacles in a holistic manner.
Grief, trauma, insecurities, anxiety and depression do not discriminate. You are not alone. If you find it difficult to move beyond it and you feel stuck, this is normal. Our body keeps score and remembers. This is why I integrate techniques that connect the mind and body. It is important to release stored up tension and stress, as well as addressing our core beliefs about our experiences. While creating coping mechanisms is important I will also help you discover root causes and address obstacles in a holistic manner.
(610) 550-8219 View (610) 550-8219
Photo of April Gabriel, M.S., LMFT- Couples, Family & Indv in Emmaus, PA
April Gabriel, M.S., LMFT- Couples, Family & Indv
MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18101  (Online Only)
The transition into parenthood can be exhausting! The amount of responsibility of caring for a new baby can feel overwhelming, isolating and even scary. You are not alone and with help you can heal. I’ll give you the tools and resources you need to begin healing and start living again! While I do work with couples and individuals, my true passion lies in working with parents! It is my great honor to join you while you begin a new chapter, start gaining hope and much deserved relief!
The transition into parenthood can be exhausting! The amount of responsibility of caring for a new baby can feel overwhelming, isolating and even scary. You are not alone and with help you can heal. I’ll give you the tools and resources you need to begin healing and start living again! While I do work with couples and individuals, my true passion lies in working with parents! It is my great honor to join you while you begin a new chapter, start gaining hope and much deserved relief!
(267) 362-4011 View (267) 362-4011
Photo of Genevieve Kim, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emmaus, PA
Genevieve Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18103  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Life is full of joys, sorrows, grief, and loss. Sometimes we need the guidance of someone outside our family and friends to help us process those things that cause us anxiety or stress. If you're looking for someone to help you move past feeling "stuck" and move forward to a place of wholeness and healing, meeting with a therapist may be that nudge you need.
Life is full of joys, sorrows, grief, and loss. Sometimes we need the guidance of someone outside our family and friends to help us process those things that cause us anxiety or stress. If you're looking for someone to help you move past feeling "stuck" and move forward to a place of wholeness and healing, meeting with a therapist may be that nudge you need.
(267) 310-1594 View (267) 310-1594

Online Therapists

Photo of Myriam Rosefort, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emmaus, PA
Myriam Rosefort
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , LBSC
Verified Verified
Lansdowne, PA 19050
I provide individual, marriage and family therapy and child/adolescent therapy.
Doesn't it feel like life can be so unpredictable sometimes. Sometimes you may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? I’m a firm believer that it is important to meet clients where they are at and to be culturally sensitive. My therapeutic style is holistic and eclectic. I take great pride in assuring my clients that this is a safe space where they can vent, express themselves freely, feel validated, and not be judged. I specialize in individual therapy, marriage and family therapy. My objective is to create a safe space for you to assist you with processing your traumas, challenges, and areas in which you feel stuck.
I provide individual, marriage and family therapy and child/adolescent therapy.
Doesn't it feel like life can be so unpredictable sometimes. Sometimes you may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? I’m a firm believer that it is important to meet clients where they are at and to be culturally sensitive. My therapeutic style is holistic and eclectic. I take great pride in assuring my clients that this is a safe space where they can vent, express themselves freely, feel validated, and not be judged. I specialize in individual therapy, marriage and family therapy. My objective is to create a safe space for you to assist you with processing your traumas, challenges, and areas in which you feel stuck.
(484) 261-1380 View (484) 261-1380
Photo of Latinia M. Shell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Emmaus, PA
Latinia M. Shell
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lancaster, PA 17603
I provide individual therapy for adolescents, teens, adults, as well as couples, families, and group counseling. Through a highly personalized approach tailored to each client's individual needs, I assist clients in identifying limiting beliefs and outmoded coping mechanisms that may be standing in the way. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues. Services provided span from therapy for depression and anxiety to relationship and family counseling, stress management, anger management and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I hope to help clients attain the personal growth they're striving for.
I provide individual therapy for adolescents, teens, adults, as well as couples, families, and group counseling. Through a highly personalized approach tailored to each client's individual needs, I assist clients in identifying limiting beliefs and outmoded coping mechanisms that may be standing in the way. I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues. Services provided span from therapy for depression and anxiety to relationship and family counseling, stress management, anger management and beyond. In a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, I hope to help clients attain the personal growth they're striving for.
(717) 801-1159 View (717) 801-1159
Photo of Carol Musser, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emmaus, PA
Carol Musser
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I care deeply about helping my clients reach their goals by identifying strengths, discovering possibilities, and finding balance in the troublesome areas of their lives. The journey to healing and wholeness requires a safe place to process the difficulties in life, and by walking together, we create that safety so that the client may regain a sense of fullness in their life, enrich their relationships, and find their unique purpose and meaning in life.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I care deeply about helping my clients reach their goals by identifying strengths, discovering possibilities, and finding balance in the troublesome areas of their lives. The journey to healing and wholeness requires a safe place to process the difficulties in life, and by walking together, we create that safety so that the client may regain a sense of fullness in their life, enrich their relationships, and find their unique purpose and meaning in life.
(717) 422-9559 View (717) 422-9559
Photo of Barbara Macleod, Licensed Professional Counselor in Emmaus, PA
Barbara Macleod
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAACD, MAC
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18505
Some treatments I have specifically trained in are EMDR ,CBT, DBT,RET, PTSD,Imago,family of origin,inner child, shame work, experiencial, etc.
As a young adult I sought out counseling to help me navigate my life's issues. It felt most beneficial when a therapist, by listening and understanding me, in a nonjudgmental, supportive and educational way, seemed to meet me where I was at both emotionally and mentally- giving me hope, the tools, the time and the motivation I needed to heal.These healing experiences gave me the desire to help others. Thus following their positive examples, I have approached everyone's treatment on an individual basis- knowing everyone is different emotionally and mentally, and are coming from different life experiences.
Some treatments I have specifically trained in are EMDR ,CBT, DBT,RET, PTSD,Imago,family of origin,inner child, shame work, experiencial, etc.
As a young adult I sought out counseling to help me navigate my life's issues. It felt most beneficial when a therapist, by listening and understanding me, in a nonjudgmental, supportive and educational way, seemed to meet me where I was at both emotionally and mentally- giving me hope, the tools, the time and the motivation I needed to heal.These healing experiences gave me the desire to help others. Thus following their positive examples, I have approached everyone's treatment on an individual basis- knowing everyone is different emotionally and mentally, and are coming from different life experiences.
(570) 216-5575 View (570) 216-5575
Photo of Lisa Higgins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emmaus, PA
Lisa Higgins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, GC-C, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
King Of Prussia, PA 19406
I specialize in adults struggling with adult ADHD, anxiety, stress, or worry, family dynamics, grief and loss, and marriage counseling.
You find yourself worrying, lying awake, and unsure how to turn off your brain. Maybe you don’t feel heard in your marriage or relationship, don't feel appreciated, or that you’re always having "the same argument". Or you've recently lost a loved one and are not sure what to do next, how to grieve, or just need someone to listen. Maybe you need help meeting deadlines, being on time, or organizing yourself so you can remember important dates. Overall, you’re ready for a change. You are ready to live the life you've dreamed of. I want to help you get there. Visit my website to book a consultation appointment directly with me.
I specialize in adults struggling with adult ADHD, anxiety, stress, or worry, family dynamics, grief and loss, and marriage counseling.
You find yourself worrying, lying awake, and unsure how to turn off your brain. Maybe you don’t feel heard in your marriage or relationship, don't feel appreciated, or that you’re always having "the same argument". Or you've recently lost a loved one and are not sure what to do next, how to grieve, or just need someone to listen. Maybe you need help meeting deadlines, being on time, or organizing yourself so you can remember important dates. Overall, you’re ready for a change. You are ready to live the life you've dreamed of. I want to help you get there. Visit my website to book a consultation appointment directly with me.
(610) 557-3034 View (610) 557-3034
Photo of Donna J Cardinal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emmaus, PA
Donna J Cardinal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BASW, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dillsburg, PA 17019  (Online Only)
I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities (cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, family systems, strength based, behavioral psychodynamic).
There are times in life when you may need someone to talk to. Do you long for a greater sense of balance in your life? Therapy can help you with making difficult decisions, changing problematic behaviors and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. I am Donna J Cardinal. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I provide individual, couples and family counseling. I am accepting new clients.
I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities (cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, family systems, strength based, behavioral psychodynamic).
There are times in life when you may need someone to talk to. Do you long for a greater sense of balance in your life? Therapy can help you with making difficult decisions, changing problematic behaviors and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. I am Donna J Cardinal. I am a licensed clinical social worker. I provide individual, couples and family counseling. I am accepting new clients.
(717) 502-9741 View (717) 502-9741
Photo of Nourish Center for Therapy & Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Emmaus, PA
Nourish Center for Therapy & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Our practice has a team of therapists who specialize in working with trauma, life stressors, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, neurodivergence, self-esteem, family support and self discovery.
In need of change and encouragement? A supportive, accepting and accountable relationship with your therapist is key to see positive change. It is time for you to be free of what has kept you stuck and hurting. Our team are down to earth, relatable therapists ready to help you heal. Our practice offers a wide range of services for children, adolescents and adults such as traditional talk therapy, EMDR, somatic body work & dance movement therapy. Nourish also offers EMDR intensives. Reach out today to connect!
Our practice has a team of therapists who specialize in working with trauma, life stressors, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, neurodivergence, self-esteem, family support and self discovery.
In need of change and encouragement? A supportive, accepting and accountable relationship with your therapist is key to see positive change. It is time for you to be free of what has kept you stuck and hurting. Our team are down to earth, relatable therapists ready to help you heal. Our practice offers a wide range of services for children, adolescents and adults such as traditional talk therapy, EMDR, somatic body work & dance movement therapy. Nourish also offers EMDR intensives. Reach out today to connect!
(215) 709-2160 View (215) 709-2160
Photo of Jane Ajaya, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Emmaus, PA
Jane Ajaya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSEd, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18901
If you find discord between different parts of yourself and between you and people or situations in your life, consider embarking on this journey to personal freedom and self-discovery. This work is about finding your own inner balance and resolution and feeling free to express your authenticity. I work with mood disorders, anxiety, sleep, stress, family and relationship conflicts, compulsions and addictions. I use my own mix of many theoretical and practice techniques in the service of your resolution, integration and wholeness, with special expertise in relationship counseling, spirituality and gender issues.
If you find discord between different parts of yourself and between you and people or situations in your life, consider embarking on this journey to personal freedom and self-discovery. This work is about finding your own inner balance and resolution and feeling free to express your authenticity. I work with mood disorders, anxiety, sleep, stress, family and relationship conflicts, compulsions and addictions. I use my own mix of many theoretical and practice techniques in the service of your resolution, integration and wholeness, with special expertise in relationship counseling, spirituality and gender issues.
(215) 234-1339 View (215) 234-1339
Photo of Steve Parker (New Day Behavioral Health), Psychologist in Emmaus, PA
Steve Parker (New Day Behavioral Health)
Psychologist, MC, MS
Verified Verified
Landenberg, PA 19350
Couples and family therapy focuses on effective communication skills, emotional connection, mutual understanding, problem-solving, conflict resolution, caring behaviors, division of labor, and parenting.
A full range of behavioral health services are provided so you can achieve true emotional and psychological well-being in a timely manner. Since cognitive-behavior therapy has been shown by research to be the most successful treatment approach, you will learn new skills and techniques to improve your mood and self-esteem. Actively working as a team, we will focus on solutions tailored to your unique concerns in a warm, trusting, and empathic environment. If you have relationship problems, we will cover effective communication and conflict resolution skills from the world-famous Gottman Institute. I look forward to serving you!
Couples and family therapy focuses on effective communication skills, emotional connection, mutual understanding, problem-solving, conflict resolution, caring behaviors, division of labor, and parenting.
A full range of behavioral health services are provided so you can achieve true emotional and psychological well-being in a timely manner. Since cognitive-behavior therapy has been shown by research to be the most successful treatment approach, you will learn new skills and techniques to improve your mood and self-esteem. Actively working as a team, we will focus on solutions tailored to your unique concerns in a warm, trusting, and empathic environment. If you have relationship problems, we will cover effective communication and conflict resolution skills from the world-famous Gottman Institute. I look forward to serving you!
(302) 364-0945 View (302) 364-0945
Photo of Main Line Counseling Specialists , Licensed Professional Counselor in Emmaus, PA
Main Line Counseling Specialists
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Paoli, PA 19301
Are you or someone you care deeply about struggling? Our team of counseling specialists provides elite therapeutic services to adults, adolescents and young adults in the Greater Philadelphia area. This has been a trying year for all. Relationships and teens have taken the hardest hit. Our team of licensed professionals have helped countless clients restructure, rebuild and recommit to the dreams that they once had. We believe that the mental health of you and your loved ones is what is most important in order to restore balance to work, life, school, family, and the individual.
Are you or someone you care deeply about struggling? Our team of counseling specialists provides elite therapeutic services to adults, adolescents and young adults in the Greater Philadelphia area. This has been a trying year for all. Relationships and teens have taken the hardest hit. Our team of licensed professionals have helped countless clients restructure, rebuild and recommit to the dreams that they once had. We believe that the mental health of you and your loved ones is what is most important in order to restore balance to work, life, school, family, and the individual.
(484) 895-1550 View (484) 895-1550
Photo of Robin Kevles-Necowitz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Emmaus, PA
Robin Kevles-Necowitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Fairless Hills, PA 19030
I help couples struggling with marital infidelity, unmet emotional needs, communication issues and family of origin dynamics.
Welcome! My style is direct, honest, engaging and fun. I have 33 years of experience working with couples, families and individuals.
I help couples struggling with marital infidelity, unmet emotional needs, communication issues and family of origin dynamics.
Welcome! My style is direct, honest, engaging and fun. I have 33 years of experience working with couples, families and individuals.
(267) 281-3099 View (267) 281-3099
Photo of CityCouples Online Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emmaus, PA
CityCouples Online Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
Our therapists are experts in couple therapy who specialize in helping you restore emotional connection, process betrayal, work together, prepare for a transition, manage family expectations, and more.
You're going through a relationship crisis, feeling confused about how to get on the same page, or frustrated with the state of your connection. You remember when things were different, and you're ready to make changes that will get you on the path to the future you hope to have, together. We know how to help! We offer expert online therapy for couples in New York, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Worldwide. Take a look at our available therapists at citycouples.net/meet-our-team. Our specialities include communication, betrayal recovery, ENM, LGBTQIA+ relationships, and more.
Our therapists are experts in couple therapy who specialize in helping you restore emotional connection, process betrayal, work together, prepare for a transition, manage family expectations, and more.
You're going through a relationship crisis, feeling confused about how to get on the same page, or frustrated with the state of your connection. You remember when things were different, and you're ready to make changes that will get you on the path to the future you hope to have, together. We know how to help! We offer expert online therapy for couples in New York, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Worldwide. Take a look at our available therapists at citycouples.net/meet-our-team. Our specialities include communication, betrayal recovery, ENM, LGBTQIA+ relationships, and more.
(833) 204-3561 View (833) 204-3561
Photo of Rod White in Emmaus, PA
Rod White
PhD, MFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
I work with individuals and couples, often working with developmental transition, interpersonal conflict and relationships, depression, anxiety, family and systems issues.
I enjoy the diversity of my clients, walking with adults of all ages and backgrounds. In 2011 I turned into the joys of psychotherapy as a second career. I see my main job as listening carefully, mirroring your process with empathy and helping you move toward the goals you set, whether they are about reaching deeper inside or moving into the practical steps you need to take next week. My experience and spirituality are assets you can rely on, but they will not direct your own process of understanding, healing and maturation.
I work with individuals and couples, often working with developmental transition, interpersonal conflict and relationships, depression, anxiety, family and systems issues.
I enjoy the diversity of my clients, walking with adults of all ages and backgrounds. In 2011 I turned into the joys of psychotherapy as a second career. I see my main job as listening carefully, mirroring your process with empathy and helping you move toward the goals you set, whether they are about reaching deeper inside or moving into the practical steps you need to take next week. My experience and spirituality are assets you can rely on, but they will not direct your own process of understanding, healing and maturation.
(215) 621-8762 View (215) 621-8762
Photo of The Family Wellness Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emmaus, PA
The Family Wellness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MATS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
(717) 229-0492 x1 View (717) 229-0492 x1
Photo of Bucks Support Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Emmaus, PA
Bucks Support Services
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Newtown, PA 18940
Bucks LGBTQ Center offers individual, couples, family and group services to members of the LGBTQ+ community; Bucks ESC incorporates HAES, mindfulness and experiential work while supporting body neutrality and nutrition counseling from an intuitive eating approach; Bucks Recovery Center works with an "all paths to recovery" approach to addiction recovery.
Bucks Support Services, located in Newtown & Buckingham, PA, is comprised of four speciality branches; Bucks Eating Support Collaborative, Bucks LGBTQ Center, Bucks Recovery Center. & Bucks Family Support Center. In addition to those speciality areas, we treat a wide array of psychological concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, family/support system and relationship issues, adjustment disorders, and disorders of childhood, among others. We are a gender affirming & HAES informed space.
Bucks LGBTQ Center offers individual, couples, family and group services to members of the LGBTQ+ community; Bucks ESC incorporates HAES, mindfulness and experiential work while supporting body neutrality and nutrition counseling from an intuitive eating approach; Bucks Recovery Center works with an "all paths to recovery" approach to addiction recovery.
Bucks Support Services, located in Newtown & Buckingham, PA, is comprised of four speciality branches; Bucks Eating Support Collaborative, Bucks LGBTQ Center, Bucks Recovery Center. & Bucks Family Support Center. In addition to those speciality areas, we treat a wide array of psychological concerns, including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, personality disorders, family/support system and relationship issues, adjustment disorders, and disorders of childhood, among others. We are a gender affirming & HAES informed space.
(267) 263-7017 View (267) 263-7017
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.