Photo of Sarah Heller Inc., Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20910, MD
Sarah Heller Inc.
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
My therapeutic orientations are Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Family Systems, Psycho-Educational, and Solution Focused.
My down to earth style, arising from over 25 years of experience working with adults, adolescents and children, creates a comfortable, safe environment where together we learn to understand you. I provide individual, couples and family therapy to enable you to better cope with life's continuing challenges. I have extensive experience with individuals who are having trouble coping with depression, anxiety and trauma history. I also enjoy working with couples who are struggling in their relationships. I have a certificate in Advanced Trauma Treatment and I use Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my work with couples.
My therapeutic orientations are Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Family Systems, Psycho-Educational, and Solution Focused.
My down to earth style, arising from over 25 years of experience working with adults, adolescents and children, creates a comfortable, safe environment where together we learn to understand you. I provide individual, couples and family therapy to enable you to better cope with life's continuing challenges. I have extensive experience with individuals who are having trouble coping with depression, anxiety and trauma history. I also enjoy working with couples who are struggling in their relationships. I have a certificate in Advanced Trauma Treatment and I use Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my work with couples.
(240) 752-6789 View (240) 752-6789
Photo of Andrew Wald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20910, MD
Andrew Wald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
The best clients are ones who are motivated to change. I enjoy working with clients who are willing to look at themselves and explore how best to create the changes they desire. I work with their strengths to overcome any hurdles on their way to a better quality of life. Everyone faces challenges. I help clients realize that how you face those challenges can make all the difference. I work with teenagers, adults, and seniors.
The best clients are ones who are motivated to change. I enjoy working with clients who are willing to look at themselves and explore how best to create the changes they desire. I work with their strengths to overcome any hurdles on their way to a better quality of life. Everyone faces challenges. I help clients realize that how you face those challenges can make all the difference. I work with teenagers, adults, and seniors.
(301) 710-9346 View (301) 710-9346
Photo of Jackie Bookman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20910, MD
Jackie Bookman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I am well-versed in working with people of all ages and life experiences, including those coping with depression and anxiety, stress, loss, lack of motivation, adjustment, trauma, and life transitions. I am particularly interested in working with individuals on early adulthood life transitions including college, early career, engagement/early marriage, and pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenthood. I work with individuals to build awareness and insight, find effective coping skills, and have healthy, satisfying relationships.
I am well-versed in working with people of all ages and life experiences, including those coping with depression and anxiety, stress, loss, lack of motivation, adjustment, trauma, and life transitions. I am particularly interested in working with individuals on early adulthood life transitions including college, early career, engagement/early marriage, and pregnancy, postpartum, and early parenthood. I work with individuals to build awareness and insight, find effective coping skills, and have healthy, satisfying relationships.
(301) 960-3532 View (301) 960-3532
Photo of Tatiana Willams, Marriage & Family Therapist in 20910, MD
Tatiana Willams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Throughout our lives, we may find ourselves at a crossroads, struggling to navigate our life’s path. You may be experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, lack of motivation, relationship conflict, family discord, issues adapting to life transitions, or struggling to find balance in your life. I am here to support you, on your journey toward healing. You are taking the first step toward developing a healthier relationship with yourself, your spouse/partner, and your family members. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families who have endured trauma and are struggling to heal emotional wounds.
Throughout our lives, we may find ourselves at a crossroads, struggling to navigate our life’s path. You may be experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, lack of motivation, relationship conflict, family discord, issues adapting to life transitions, or struggling to find balance in your life. I am here to support you, on your journey toward healing. You are taking the first step toward developing a healthier relationship with yourself, your spouse/partner, and your family members. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families who have endured trauma and are struggling to heal emotional wounds.
(301) 205-5938 View (301) 205-5938
Photo of Monica Rene Testa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20910, MD
Monica Rene Testa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
Through talk therapy with individuals and couples, I assist clients as they navigate challenges surrounding anxiety, anger management, communication, family dynamics and behavioral modification.
'What worries you, masters you.' Do worries, stress and fears cause imbalance in your life? I work with individual clients to identify and reframe core beliefs and assumptions, and shift challenging patterns and behaviors. 'Love does not dominate; it cultivates.' Relationships require openness, curiosity, and trust. Couples counseling provides a nonjudgmental, distraction-free space to share and listen. Clients explore challenges, identify strengths, and mutually gain deeper understanding of themselves and the relationship. Couples therapy is self-pay only. I am licensed to serve clients living in Maryland and Virginia.
Through talk therapy with individuals and couples, I assist clients as they navigate challenges surrounding anxiety, anger management, communication, family dynamics and behavioral modification.
'What worries you, masters you.' Do worries, stress and fears cause imbalance in your life? I work with individual clients to identify and reframe core beliefs and assumptions, and shift challenging patterns and behaviors. 'Love does not dominate; it cultivates.' Relationships require openness, curiosity, and trust. Couples counseling provides a nonjudgmental, distraction-free space to share and listen. Clients explore challenges, identify strengths, and mutually gain deeper understanding of themselves and the relationship. Couples therapy is self-pay only. I am licensed to serve clients living in Maryland and Virginia.
(301) 259-1409 View (301) 259-1409
Photo of Gwyneth Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20910, MD
Gwyneth Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I am committed to providing effective, empirically tested, affordable treatment. My approach is honest, collaborative, interactive, and nonjudgmental. Often in life we buy into stories about ourselves that seem to protect us but ultimately prevent us from moving toward the things we value. We get caught up in judging whether a behavior is good or bad, rather than asking if it is effective in creating the life that we envision.
I am committed to providing effective, empirically tested, affordable treatment. My approach is honest, collaborative, interactive, and nonjudgmental. Often in life we buy into stories about ourselves that seem to protect us but ultimately prevent us from moving toward the things we value. We get caught up in judging whether a behavior is good or bad, rather than asking if it is effective in creating the life that we envision.
(202) 800-1905 View (202) 800-1905
Photo of Melinda C Salzman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20910, MD
Melinda C Salzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Each fall, I work with surviving family members of Fallen Firefighters.
I believe it is possible for people to change. For over 25 years, I have been working with teens, adults and seniors, helping them reassess what they want out of life and how to get it, change their approach to work and relationships, and heal the emotional and spiritual pain of loss, anxiety and depression. My areas of special interest include: Couples Therapy: Resolving Conflict and Deepening Intimacy; Grief and Loss: Healing the Pain of Loss and Adjusting to Living--Washingtonian magazine has named me a Top 10 Grief Therapist; Chronic Illness and Care Giving: Balancing Reality and Hope
Each fall, I work with surviving family members of Fallen Firefighters.
I believe it is possible for people to change. For over 25 years, I have been working with teens, adults and seniors, helping them reassess what they want out of life and how to get it, change their approach to work and relationships, and heal the emotional and spiritual pain of loss, anxiety and depression. My areas of special interest include: Couples Therapy: Resolving Conflict and Deepening Intimacy; Grief and Loss: Healing the Pain of Loss and Adjusting to Living--Washingtonian magazine has named me a Top 10 Grief Therapist; Chronic Illness and Care Giving: Balancing Reality and Hope
(301) 288-1431 View (301) 288-1431
Photo of Hannah Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor in 20910, MD
Hannah Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPAT, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
My approach is holistic, combining talk therapy, coaching, guided imagery, energy work, systemic family constellations and mind-body modalities.
Are there issues in your life and you can't figure out what is going on and what would help? Do you feel like you're stuck in patterns or cycles that keep repeating but don't feel good and are making life difficult? Do you long for a deep sense of feeling supported, grounded, and ok? Do you struggle with feelings of self doubt, guilt, shame, not being good enough and self criticism? Do you feel caught up in the "should" and "supposed to" messages of your family, culture and society and don't know how to be you? Do you long to be seen for all of who you are? Could you use some support with how to navigate this complicated world?
My approach is holistic, combining talk therapy, coaching, guided imagery, energy work, systemic family constellations and mind-body modalities.
Are there issues in your life and you can't figure out what is going on and what would help? Do you feel like you're stuck in patterns or cycles that keep repeating but don't feel good and are making life difficult? Do you long for a deep sense of feeling supported, grounded, and ok? Do you struggle with feelings of self doubt, guilt, shame, not being good enough and self criticism? Do you feel caught up in the "should" and "supposed to" messages of your family, culture and society and don't know how to be you? Do you long to be seen for all of who you are? Could you use some support with how to navigate this complicated world?
(240) 998-8330 View (240) 998-8330
Photo of David O Black, Psychologist in 20910, MD
David O Black
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
As a pediatric neuropsychologist I provide comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations to children, adolescents, and young adults. I specialize in evaluation of of autism, social, and self regulatory problems as well as learning disabilities, attention disorders, and medical conditions such as epilepsy, traumatic brain injuries, and genetic disorders. I also provide ongoing individual and family consultation and support, including assisting families navigate the transition to adulthood. I also assist with implementation of treatment plans and school placement decisions, attends school meetings (including IEP and due process hearings), and conduct forensic evaluation and expert testimony in cases that involve autism spectrum disorders.
As a pediatric neuropsychologist I provide comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations to children, adolescents, and young adults. I specialize in evaluation of of autism, social, and self regulatory problems as well as learning disabilities, attention disorders, and medical conditions such as epilepsy, traumatic brain injuries, and genetic disorders. I also provide ongoing individual and family consultation and support, including assisting families navigate the transition to adulthood. I also assist with implementation of treatment plans and school placement decisions, attends school meetings (including IEP and due process hearings), and conduct forensic evaluation and expert testimony in cases that involve autism spectrum disorders.
(202) 760-2591 View (202) 760-2591
Photo of Raymond L Crowel, Psychologist in 20910, MD
Raymond L Crowel
Psychologist, PsyD
Not Verified Not Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I am a clinical psychologist with 30 years experience working with adolescents, adults, and couples. I provide brief consultation to help you clarify the challenges you are facing, weigh options, and overcome inertia; individual psychotherapy when you are dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, or stress; and couples counseling to help you communicate effectively, solve problems jointly, and strengthen your relationship. I also work with individuals and couples whose careers may take them abroad and away from their families for extended periods and can make video conferencing services available in lieu of office-based appointments for established clients who are traveling.
I am a clinical psychologist with 30 years experience working with adolescents, adults, and couples. I provide brief consultation to help you clarify the challenges you are facing, weigh options, and overcome inertia; individual psychotherapy when you are dealing with issues such as anxiety, depression, or stress; and couples counseling to help you communicate effectively, solve problems jointly, and strengthen your relationship. I also work with individuals and couples whose careers may take them abroad and away from their families for extended periods and can make video conferencing services available in lieu of office-based appointments for established clients who are traveling.
(240) 348-6585 View (240) 348-6585
Photo of Garrett Marple - Counseling On Call, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20910, MD
Garrett Marple - Counseling On Call
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
Hey there! My name is Garrett and I am a therapist but also a mirror. I help clients examine how their learned negative thought patterns create their life outcomes and perspectives. I utilize a combination of CBT and solution-based modalities to help clients understand themselves and make changes for the better. Our sessions together will be a collaborative non judgmental space for you to work through your healing journey! My goal is for you to build the confidence and resilience needed to handle life’s ups and downs. I look forward to meeting you.
Hey there! My name is Garrett and I am a therapist but also a mirror. I help clients examine how their learned negative thought patterns create their life outcomes and perspectives. I utilize a combination of CBT and solution-based modalities to help clients understand themselves and make changes for the better. Our sessions together will be a collaborative non judgmental space for you to work through your healing journey! My goal is for you to build the confidence and resilience needed to handle life’s ups and downs. I look forward to meeting you.
(240) 339-8592 View (240) 339-8592
Photo of ML Ministries, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20910, MD
ML Ministries
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MDiv, MSPC, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
Discovering one's life purpose is often an elusive and uncertain journey. People can live most of their lives and never discover their purpose. When the experiences of pain, suffering, and grief seem to be the norm rather than peace, joy, and love, the question is often, "why do bad things happen to good people?" Understanding and embracing life's most challenging experiences make the difference between resilience and despair. Your story narrated through your own lens can help you discover your purpose through meaning-making of all your hurts and find hope in the midst of your healing.
Discovering one's life purpose is often an elusive and uncertain journey. People can live most of their lives and never discover their purpose. When the experiences of pain, suffering, and grief seem to be the norm rather than peace, joy, and love, the question is often, "why do bad things happen to good people?" Understanding and embracing life's most challenging experiences make the difference between resilience and despair. Your story narrated through your own lens can help you discover your purpose through meaning-making of all your hurts and find hope in the midst of your healing.
(410) 431-1114 View (410) 431-1114
Photo of Anne J Adelman, Psychologist in 20910, MD
Anne J Adelman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I am a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst in private practice in Chevy Chase, MD. Over the past 20 years I have been successfully helping adults, adolescents and children move through difficult moments and transitions in their lives. I work closely with each of my clients to understand their unique experience and collaborate with them in discovering a pathway through hard times towards a more fulfilling and positive future.
I am a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst in private practice in Chevy Chase, MD. Over the past 20 years I have been successfully helping adults, adolescents and children move through difficult moments and transitions in their lives. I work closely with each of my clients to understand their unique experience and collaborate with them in discovering a pathway through hard times towards a more fulfilling and positive future.
(301) 710-6368 View (301) 710-6368
Photo of Heather Lyle Cassidy, Psychologist in 20910, MD
Heather Lyle Cassidy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I’m a clinical psychologist specializing in understanding relationships, both with yourself and with others. I graduated from a psychology doctoral program in 2004 and have worked at psychiatric and health rehabilitation hospitals, community mental health center, and long term care facilities, treating adolescents, adults and seniors. I have had a full- time private practice for over 13 years.
I’m a clinical psychologist specializing in understanding relationships, both with yourself and with others. I graduated from a psychology doctoral program in 2004 and have worked at psychiatric and health rehabilitation hospitals, community mental health center, and long term care facilities, treating adolescents, adults and seniors. I have had a full- time private practice for over 13 years.
(202) 251-5197 View (202) 251-5197
Photo of Julie Derby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20910, MD
Julie Derby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I believe that therapy is a collaborative process that allows trust and authenticity to foster insight and growth. A willingness to look inward and allow space for vulnerability will bring you stronger, more authentic connections to both yourself and to the people in your life. I provide psychotherapy for adults, young adults and older adolescents in an empathetic non-judgmental environment with a focus on self-awareness, self-compassion and self-kindness. I use a variety of techniques and theories as well as warmth and a touch of humor to help move your towards healing and reaching your goals.
I believe that therapy is a collaborative process that allows trust and authenticity to foster insight and growth. A willingness to look inward and allow space for vulnerability will bring you stronger, more authentic connections to both yourself and to the people in your life. I provide psychotherapy for adults, young adults and older adolescents in an empathetic non-judgmental environment with a focus on self-awareness, self-compassion and self-kindness. I use a variety of techniques and theories as well as warmth and a touch of humor to help move your towards healing and reaching your goals.
(240) 428-2957 View (240) 428-2957
Photo of Tamara J. Galinsky, Art Therapist in 20910, MD
Tamara J. Galinsky
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LPC, LCPAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Not accepting new clients
I come to art therapy with a commitment to helping others on their personal journeys of self-exploration and understanding, particularly with regard for gender and sexual identity. I am passionate about providing a safe, supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere in which to examine issues related to relationships, intimacy, sexual function, and sexual fantasy & desire. I have extensive experience working with people of all genders and sexualities, and clients who are in polyamorous, swinger, and/or kink-based relationships are welcome. I possess a lifelong passion for art and a desire to help people access new and different parts of themselves.
I come to art therapy with a commitment to helping others on their personal journeys of self-exploration and understanding, particularly with regard for gender and sexual identity. I am passionate about providing a safe, supportive, non-judgmental atmosphere in which to examine issues related to relationships, intimacy, sexual function, and sexual fantasy & desire. I have extensive experience working with people of all genders and sexualities, and clients who are in polyamorous, swinger, and/or kink-based relationships are welcome. I possess a lifelong passion for art and a desire to help people access new and different parts of themselves.
(202) 803-8406 View (202) 803-8406
Photo of Molly Stackhouse, Licensed Professional Counselor in 20910, MD
Molly Stackhouse
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LGPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! My clients oftentimes say they struggle with symptoms such as recurring negative patterns in their life, anxiety, depression, anger, overwhelm, relationship issues, problematic family dynamics, trouble getting new habits to stick, compulsively using external things to feel better (i.e. work, people, alcohol), pain, headaches, and more. Through a mix of talk therapy and body centered approaches, we will explore your symptoms with curiosity, build on your strengths and current coping skills, and move toward more adaptive strategies, as well as processing old stored stuff that might be getting in your way today.
Accepting new clients! My clients oftentimes say they struggle with symptoms such as recurring negative patterns in their life, anxiety, depression, anger, overwhelm, relationship issues, problematic family dynamics, trouble getting new habits to stick, compulsively using external things to feel better (i.e. work, people, alcohol), pain, headaches, and more. Through a mix of talk therapy and body centered approaches, we will explore your symptoms with curiosity, build on your strengths and current coping skills, and move toward more adaptive strategies, as well as processing old stored stuff that might be getting in your way today.
(215) 770-2733 View (215) 770-2733
Photo of Claire Elaine Briscoe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20910, MD
Claire Elaine Briscoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
I have received post graduate training in cognitive behavioral and family systems therapy and have worked intensely and successfully with client's suffering from depression and bipolar issues.
I have been joyfully practicing psychotherapy for over 30 years in the greater Washington, D.C. area. I have a general practice and specialize in depression, bipolar disorder and addictions/recovery/co-dependency issues. I work with chronic illness and specialize in diabetes. My preferred modality is individual and couple's therapy. I enjoy my clients immensely and feel a great deal of satisfaction in helping people better their lives, alleviate depression and resolve painful relationship issues.
I have received post graduate training in cognitive behavioral and family systems therapy and have worked intensely and successfully with client's suffering from depression and bipolar issues.
I have been joyfully practicing psychotherapy for over 30 years in the greater Washington, D.C. area. I have a general practice and specialize in depression, bipolar disorder and addictions/recovery/co-dependency issues. I work with chronic illness and specialize in diabetes. My preferred modality is individual and couple's therapy. I enjoy my clients immensely and feel a great deal of satisfaction in helping people better their lives, alleviate depression and resolve painful relationship issues.
(301) 852-6395 View (301) 852-6395
Photo of Lakhshmi Nagireddy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20910, MD
Lakhshmi Nagireddy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Hi there! My name is Lakhshmi and am an associate for Thoughts & Emotions in Silver Spring, MD. I help support those facing challenges with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and grief. I work with kids as young as 5 and adults although I specialize working with kids ages 8-10 who have anxiety. I use a variety of approaches based on where that person is at and what strengths they have to help support them in overcoming their own challenges. I'm a big believer in working collaboratively in the space and allowing self-discovery and exploration of the self as a huge part of moving forward within the challenges of life.
Hi there! My name is Lakhshmi and am an associate for Thoughts & Emotions in Silver Spring, MD. I help support those facing challenges with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and grief. I work with kids as young as 5 and adults although I specialize working with kids ages 8-10 who have anxiety. I use a variety of approaches based on where that person is at and what strengths they have to help support them in overcoming their own challenges. I'm a big believer in working collaboratively in the space and allowing self-discovery and exploration of the self as a huge part of moving forward within the challenges of life.
(301) 900-3455 x1 View (301) 900-3455 x1
Photo of Flori Willard, Marriage & Family Therapist in 20910, MD
Flori Willard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
As a couple and family therapist, I help individuals and couples work on either fine-tuning their communications skills or major problem-solving, so they can finally move beyond issues such as pointless arguing, infidelity, emotional disconnection and lack of intimacy.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the pain of wondering whether to leave or stay in your relationship because you've tried everything but nothing really works, I'd like to help. At times, you may feel angry and disappointed that the attraction, admiration or compassion for each other has begun to fade. Or you may sometimes believe things are starting to improve only to feel the tension return once again. It can be a draining dance that leaves you confused, wounded and bitter.
As a couple and family therapist, I help individuals and couples work on either fine-tuning their communications skills or major problem-solving, so they can finally move beyond issues such as pointless arguing, infidelity, emotional disconnection and lack of intimacy.
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the pain of wondering whether to leave or stay in your relationship because you've tried everything but nothing really works, I'd like to help. At times, you may feel angry and disappointed that the attraction, admiration or compassion for each other has begun to fade. Or you may sometimes believe things are starting to improve only to feel the tension return once again. It can be a draining dance that leaves you confused, wounded and bitter.
(443) 992-7074 View (443) 992-7074
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.