Photo of Alina Mikolaitis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92647, CA
Alina Mikolaitis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hello! My name is Alina Mikolaitis and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing in the field of mental health and psychology since 2000. My approach in therapy is to focus on building organic relationships, process and resolve identified issues, and ultimately support you in reaching your goals to live a more positive and fulfilling life. I mainly work with adult individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, postpartum, addiction, an array of mental health issues, familial and relationship issues.
Hello! My name is Alina Mikolaitis and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing in the field of mental health and psychology since 2000. My approach in therapy is to focus on building organic relationships, process and resolve identified issues, and ultimately support you in reaching your goals to live a more positive and fulfilling life. I mainly work with adult individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, postpartum, addiction, an array of mental health issues, familial and relationship issues.
(424) 372-8193 View (424) 372-8193
Photo of Lotus Circle Counseling Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92647, CA
Lotus Circle Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Not accepting new clients
Life is difficult. We all make our own path through life; using our wits, smarts, failed attempts, guidance and triumphs. There are no SOPs, no formula to follow, and definitely no easy answers. The right choice for one may be the wrong decision for another. Managing our emotional life is even more complex and if not tougher. Whether it's relationships with family, friends, co-workers; or facing anxiety, depression, addiction, grief & loss, self-doubt etc, here at Lotus Circle Counseling Services, we would like to invite you to a space where you could feel safe to talk things out.
Life is difficult. We all make our own path through life; using our wits, smarts, failed attempts, guidance and triumphs. There are no SOPs, no formula to follow, and definitely no easy answers. The right choice for one may be the wrong decision for another. Managing our emotional life is even more complex and if not tougher. Whether it's relationships with family, friends, co-workers; or facing anxiety, depression, addiction, grief & loss, self-doubt etc, here at Lotus Circle Counseling Services, we would like to invite you to a space where you could feel safe to talk things out.
(714) 203-6605 View (714) 203-6605
Photo of Emily Belford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92647, CA
Emily Belford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
My name is Emily (she/her), and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that provides therapy in California. As your therapist, my goal is to walk alongside you with the understanding that you are the expert in your own life. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can express your full self, and where I'll bring my full self with all of our messy imperfections. Research shows that the quality of the relationship between client and therapist is the strongest predictor for positive therapeutic outcomes, so I always want to make sure folks are comfortable and happy with me as their therapist.
My name is Emily (she/her), and I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that provides therapy in California. As your therapist, my goal is to walk alongside you with the understanding that you are the expert in your own life. I offer a warm, non-judgmental space where you can express your full self, and where I'll bring my full self with all of our messy imperfections. Research shows that the quality of the relationship between client and therapist is the strongest predictor for positive therapeutic outcomes, so I always want to make sure folks are comfortable and happy with me as their therapist.
(714) 793-0756 View (714) 793-0756
Photo of Dr. Sylva D. Frock, Psychologist in 92647, CA
Dr. Sylva D. Frock
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92647  (Online Only)
Telehealth only - openings available. I’m a Licensed Psychologist with 25+ years providing therapy, consultation and life skills training. Services include individual psychotherapy focused on your whole self: mind-body-spirit and on integrating all aspects of oneself at a more balanced level. I work to create a therapeutic relationship where clients feel both safe and challenged. Our work will increase your ability to live more self-attuned and to integrate the many aspects of self, your relationships and your life, so you can create a more intentional, healthier and joyful life. Licensed in California (PSY26465) and Texas (31736).
Telehealth only - openings available. I’m a Licensed Psychologist with 25+ years providing therapy, consultation and life skills training. Services include individual psychotherapy focused on your whole self: mind-body-spirit and on integrating all aspects of oneself at a more balanced level. I work to create a therapeutic relationship where clients feel both safe and challenged. Our work will increase your ability to live more self-attuned and to integrate the many aspects of self, your relationships and your life, so you can create a more intentional, healthier and joyful life. Licensed in California (PSY26465) and Texas (31736).
(562) 632-4002 View (562) 632-4002
Photo of Kimmy Hunkle, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92647, CA
Kimmy Hunkle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC, APSATS, CCPS, CADC II
Verified Verified
Kimmy Hunkle, MA., LMFT (120934), APCC, CCPS, CADC II (A043920317) earned her M.A. degree in Counseling Psychology; Specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy, Professional Clinical Counseling & Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara. She is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC), Certified Clinical Partner Specialist (CCPS) with the Association of Partners of Sex Addicts Trauma Specialist (APSATS), a Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CADCII) and EMDR trained. If you are in pain seeking hope or heart healing, I looking forward to your call.
Kimmy Hunkle, MA., LMFT (120934), APCC, CCPS, CADC II (A043920317) earned her M.A. degree in Counseling Psychology; Specialization in Marriage and Family Therapy, Professional Clinical Counseling & Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara. She is a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT), Associate Professional Clinical Counselor (APCC), Certified Clinical Partner Specialist (CCPS) with the Association of Partners of Sex Addicts Trauma Specialist (APSATS), a Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CADCII) and EMDR trained. If you are in pain seeking hope or heart healing, I looking forward to your call.
(657) 236-3482 View (657) 236-3482
Photo of Wesley Grant Walters, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 92647, CA
Wesley Grant Walters
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS
Verified Verified
My integrative, strength-based approach aims to foster self-awareness, promote insight, and enhance coping skills by incorporating modalities from the lenes of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness, narrative therapy, internal family systems, existential, and solution-focused brief therapy.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we all need a little support to navigate through its ups and downs. As a therapist, my goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whether you're facing difficulties in your relationships, struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, or simply seeking personal growth and self-discovery, I'm here to help. I believe in empowering individuals with a deeper sense of agency by helping them to tap into their inner-strengths and resources, enabling them to overcome challenges and build resilience.
My integrative, strength-based approach aims to foster self-awareness, promote insight, and enhance coping skills by incorporating modalities from the lenes of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness, narrative therapy, internal family systems, existential, and solution-focused brief therapy.
Life can be challenging, and sometimes we all need a little support to navigate through its ups and downs. As a therapist, my goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whether you're facing difficulties in your relationships, struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, or simply seeking personal growth and self-discovery, I'm here to help. I believe in empowering individuals with a deeper sense of agency by helping them to tap into their inner-strengths and resources, enabling them to overcome challenges and build resilience.
(562) 568-5559 View (562) 568-5559
Photo of Christi Gallon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92647, CA
Christi Gallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing relationship/family issues, divorce, and LGBTQ challenges.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing relationship/family issues, divorce, and LGBTQ challenges.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
(657) 571-6400 View (657) 571-6400
Photo of Diana Nguyen Borsack, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92647, CA
Diana Nguyen Borsack
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and supervisor with a decade of experience in private and social service settings, I work closely with children and adolescent youth who've had physical or emotional trauma.
We all want the best for our children: to help them grow and teach them the necessary skills to succeed in life. When we communicate with open ears and conscious hearts, this allows for healthy relationships to build. Effective therapy utilized this approach of open communication in order to foster the growth and development of youth. I strive to help every child feel that they have control over their lives, and offer the necessary skills to be happy, healthy, and to make their own positive decisions.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and supervisor with a decade of experience in private and social service settings, I work closely with children and adolescent youth who've had physical or emotional trauma.
We all want the best for our children: to help them grow and teach them the necessary skills to succeed in life. When we communicate with open ears and conscious hearts, this allows for healthy relationships to build. Effective therapy utilized this approach of open communication in order to foster the growth and development of youth. I strive to help every child feel that they have control over their lives, and offer the necessary skills to be happy, healthy, and to make their own positive decisions.
(714) 701-6370 View (714) 701-6370
Photo of Jennifer Kuchler, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92647, CA
Jennifer Kuchler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
My areas of focus are trauma, anxiety, grief, behavioral issues, anger management, social skills, self-esteem, family dynamics, personal growth, high-stress environments, adoption, and medical patient/caregiver support.
My goal in sessions is for clients to feel self-aware, empowered, and grounded in who they are to better connect with the person they want to become. This therapeutic approach can help address anxiety symptoms, lack of identity, pressured performance, depression, and lack of communication skills. I, Jennifer Kuchler LMFT 138153, am committed to creating an environment for clients to feel safe and comfortable to open up about difficult topics.
My areas of focus are trauma, anxiety, grief, behavioral issues, anger management, social skills, self-esteem, family dynamics, personal growth, high-stress environments, adoption, and medical patient/caregiver support.
My goal in sessions is for clients to feel self-aware, empowered, and grounded in who they are to better connect with the person they want to become. This therapeutic approach can help address anxiety symptoms, lack of identity, pressured performance, depression, and lack of communication skills. I, Jennifer Kuchler LMFT 138153, am committed to creating an environment for clients to feel safe and comfortable to open up about difficult topics.
(714) 463-1894 View (714) 463-1894
Photo of Elizabeth Huck, Associate Clinical Social Worker in 92647, CA
Elizabeth Huck
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, DBT
Verified Verified
I also specialize in family/relationship issues, sexual abuse, religious trauma, dissociation, psychosis, and the physical symptoms of chronic nervous system dysregulation from trauma/ anxiety.
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
I also specialize in family/relationship issues, sexual abuse, religious trauma, dissociation, psychosis, and the physical symptoms of chronic nervous system dysregulation from trauma/ anxiety.
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(714) 598-0953 View (714) 598-0953
Photo of Carolyn Mendoza, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92647, CA
Carolyn Mendoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
If you find yourself feeling lost, isolated, depressed and unable to make positive changes in your life, then I can help. I can work with you to gain more fulfillment in your own life with your partner, family, children or friends. My clients state that my caring heart and non-judgmental style are key factors which help them navigate through difficult times. I will walk with you and together we will move towards a brighter future.
If you find yourself feeling lost, isolated, depressed and unable to make positive changes in your life, then I can help. I can work with you to gain more fulfillment in your own life with your partner, family, children or friends. My clients state that my caring heart and non-judgmental style are key factors which help them navigate through difficult times. I will walk with you and together we will move towards a brighter future.
(714) 252-7364 View (714) 252-7364
Photo of Joseph Christensen, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92647, CA
Joseph Christensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
My theoretical approach pulls from Cognitive Behavioral Theory and many successful techniques (humanistic, strategic, psychodynamic, and solution focused), which allows me to personally tailor your therapy session based upon your unique needs in an eclectic and integrated approach to therapy. Therapist flexibility is a valuable tool in helping my clients gain a balanced perspective on the life issues they are facing. I view therapy as a collaborative, sharing experience and seek to help my clients feel safe, comfortable, and truly understood.
My theoretical approach pulls from Cognitive Behavioral Theory and many successful techniques (humanistic, strategic, psychodynamic, and solution focused), which allows me to personally tailor your therapy session based upon your unique needs in an eclectic and integrated approach to therapy. Therapist flexibility is a valuable tool in helping my clients gain a balanced perspective on the life issues they are facing. I view therapy as a collaborative, sharing experience and seek to help my clients feel safe, comfortable, and truly understood.
(657) 216-6745 View (657) 216-6745
Photo of Elmer Ivan Rapalo, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92647, CA
Elmer Ivan Rapalo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Beginning therapy can be scary and is a courageous step toward making proactive changes in your life. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, and other sources of emotional pain such as life transitions, stress, trauma, and emotional abuse. I also have extensive experience working with adults, adolescents, couples, and LGBTQ. I am dedicated to working with individuals from diverse ethnic, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds. I work from an evidence-based psychotherapy orientation that has been proven to be effective for people with mood disorders.
Beginning therapy can be scary and is a courageous step toward making proactive changes in your life. I have worked with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, and other sources of emotional pain such as life transitions, stress, trauma, and emotional abuse. I also have extensive experience working with adults, adolescents, couples, and LGBTQ. I am dedicated to working with individuals from diverse ethnic, cultural, and socio-economic backgrounds. I work from an evidence-based psychotherapy orientation that has been proven to be effective for people with mood disorders.
(714) 278-3847 View (714) 278-3847
Photo of Erick Santos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92647, CA
Erick Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences that often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences that often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
(562) 517-7961 View (562) 517-7961
Photo of Nailya Kutzhanova, Marriage & Family Therapist in 92647, CA
Nailya Kutzhanova
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647  (Online Only)
My goal as a therapist is to help you to resolve your current problems and limitations, find your authentic self, and live life to its fullest. I have twelve years of experience with diverse groups of clients facing different challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, family and professional relationships, loss and grief, and transitions through different stages of life. I believe successful therapy starts with collaboratively identifying present issues and goals for our work together. My commitment to clients is to establish and maintain trust while addressing difficult phases of one’s personal development.
My goal as a therapist is to help you to resolve your current problems and limitations, find your authentic self, and live life to its fullest. I have twelve years of experience with diverse groups of clients facing different challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, family and professional relationships, loss and grief, and transitions through different stages of life. I believe successful therapy starts with collaboratively identifying present issues and goals for our work together. My commitment to clients is to establish and maintain trust while addressing difficult phases of one’s personal development.
(714) 415-2164 View (714) 415-2164
Photo of Sterling Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 92647, CA
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(562) 553-6658 View (562) 553-6658
Photo of Erick Santos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 92647, CA
Erick Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences that often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences that often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
(714) 947-1263 View (714) 947-1263
Photo of Heidi Xue, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 92647, CA
Heidi Xue
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
I also specialize in couples/family therapy.
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
I also specialize in couples/family therapy.
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
(562) 573-7937 View (562) 573-7937
Photo of Earth Haven Therapy Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist in 92647, CA
Earth Haven Therapy Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CAAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92647  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a supportive therapist that offers you fresh perspective? Do you feel down and more sensitive than usual? Does your mind buzz with worried thoughts? Our practice therapists want to help you find balance and joy again or for the first time ever. We all experience maladies such as anxiety and depression, stress and fatigue which are signs that a problem can no longer be ignored. Let's take a look at the deeper causes and learn the tools that will help you navigate this time.
Are you looking for a supportive therapist that offers you fresh perspective? Do you feel down and more sensitive than usual? Does your mind buzz with worried thoughts? Our practice therapists want to help you find balance and joy again or for the first time ever. We all experience maladies such as anxiety and depression, stress and fatigue which are signs that a problem can no longer be ignored. Let's take a look at the deeper causes and learn the tools that will help you navigate this time.
(561) 903-2746 View (561) 903-2746
Photo of Melanie Maddox, Associate Clinical Social Worker in 92647, CA
Melanie Maddox
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
I also specialize in multicultural issues and relationship/family dynamics.
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
I also specialize in multicultural issues and relationship/family dynamics.
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
(714) 831-5573 View (714) 831-5573
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.