Therapists in Ohio

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with Supervisor designation (LISW-S) in Ohio and a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work. I earned my Master’s degree from Case Western Reserve University and completed a Certificate in Sexual Health at the University of Michigan. With 30 years of clinical experience, I bring a depth of knowledge and compassion to my practice. My therapeutic approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Interventions, and Holistic Coaching. I also utilize Affirmative Psychotherapy, meeting clients where they are and supporting growth at their own pace. Clients often describe me as passionate, caring, and infused with a sense of humor—qualities I believe help foster a safe and collaborative space for healing and change.

Hi! I am an independently licensed therapist based in Ohio. I received my Master's degree from Case Western Reserve University in 2002 with a concentration in adult mental health. Most of my career has been working with and advocating on behalf of families and/or adolescents. I have special training in Gambling Addiction, Financial Social Work, and Trauma and Loss, but I also have worked with clients dealing with Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, and other difficulties due to life circumstances.

Hello! I AM ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR BOTH IN PERSON (IF YOU LIVE NEAR AKRON) and virtually in OH. I have been counseling for 13 years. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Ordained Minister and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety and/or psychological trauma, I want to help you. I have experience in many areas. I have worked with children, adults, those with disabilities, substance use treatment and emergency/crisis services as well as with groups in the hospital setting helping people with psychological trauma. Currently, I work with adults. I also run a Christian nonprofit for those without insurance. (Ask about this if you don't have insurance.)

Hello, I am Doug Hickey. I am passionate about providing a supportive, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment to hold space for clients so they can navigate life challenges. I incorporate mindfulness-based, holistic therapy and am passionate about functional, root-cause approaches. Some areas of interest include depression, anxiety, life transitions, self-esteem issues, life purpose, and relationship and marital issues.I believe that therapy is an investment in oneself, and I love seeing clients thrive and grow as they process existing struggles, heal past wounds, learn new skills, and develop their already existing strengths.

Are you at a point where you have a growing concern about the impact of your anxiety, critical self talk , or depression on your life? Together we can identify what you can do to get unstuck and move forward. My goal is for you to feel safe and secure in our meetings. Feeling understood and becoming empowered are the first steps to becoming healthier and tackling your problems. We will work as partners to identify what needs to be different in your life and then to find ways to make this happen. Being overwhelmed with anxiety and stress are a difficult space to be in. Making changes in how you see and think about yourself and your situation can unlock new and surprising solutions for you.

I believe that trauma is experienced in relationship and through relationship trauma is healed as well. It's my hope that I will always be the kind of clinician with whom my client can develop a relationship that enables them to experience a measure of healing during each encounter we have. It is also my hope that I will empower every client, through providing them with all of my knowledge and skills, in a manner that will work me out of a job. My agenda is to provide each client with skills that, when implemented, will carry them through every challenging situation that they might encounter so they can be successful in living life on purpose.

I am licensed in Ohio with over 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients, individuals and couples with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I do work with clients here in a form more of a talking/coaching style. I am a certified life coach as well and I will use my skills to assist you in any way, however, behind every conversation and response is a clinical therapeutic approach.

My focus is on you as a person. A person-centered approach is the perspective from which I come in order to walk with you through growth and healing. You are free to talk about anything in the safety of our therapeutic relationship. Together we will develop a plan which will guide you to the path of your desire. Your future is bright.

I have been a professional social work counselor for around 15 years, working primarily with adults that struggle with severe persistent mental illness. I have been able to utilize and hone my skills of active listening, empathy and guidance over the years to help clients gain resiliency throughout the struggles they may face with SPMI. Over the course of my career thus far, I have worked with clients from varying backgrounds and age ranges of 18 up to senior adults, helping them discover new coping skills and listening to their journey.

Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor -Supervisor (LPCC-S) in Ohio. I earned my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health from The University of Akron and my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from The University of Toledo. With a diverse background in hospital settings, community mental health, schools, and private practice, I’ve developed a wide range of skills to support individuals of all ages through various challenges. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with children, adolescents, and adults, addressing a variety of concerns, such as adjustment disorders, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, autism spectrum disorder, depression, anxiety, stress, relationship distress, life transitions, and PTSD, among others. My approach is compassionate, flexible, and client-centered, tailored to each individual’s unique needs. I focus on helping clients develop coping strategies, build resilience, and work through their specific struggles. By creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment, I empower my clients to make meaningful changes, improve their mental well-being, and achieve growth and healing in their everyday lives.

Hi, I'm a licensed independent social worker (LISW-S) serving individuals in Ohio. I received my Master's from Case Western Reserve University and my bachelor's from the University of Findlay. I've been in practice for 13 years. I help individuals that struggle with addiction, depression, gender identity, autism spectrum disorder, chronic illness, and those with anxiety. I've worked with individuals from late teens to the golden years. Let me aid you in achieving your goals.

Hello, I'm Robyn and I hold a MSW (Master of Social Work) and I am an Independently Licensed Clinical Social Worker-S in Ohio, Georgia, and Florida. I have been practicing for over 15 years and I’m here to help you navigate through the tough stuff. As a therapist, I specialize in working with people recovering from narcissistic abuse, dealing with anxiety, gender incongruence, or struggling with depression. I know how overwhelming and isolating these experiences can be, and my goal is to create a space where you feel heard, understood, and never judged.

Hello, I'm Eve. I specialize in helping individuals navigate through relationship struggles, suicidality, depression, grief, self-esteem issues, traumatic grief, trauma, complex PTSD, childhood trauma including childhood sexual abuse, and infertility issues. I am dedicated to building a caring, compassionate, trusting, and understanding relationship with you to improve the overall quality of your life. In a world that often feels divided, I believe therapy should be a place of steady hope. My approach integrates proven therapeutic tools with openness to spirituality, so you can find clarity, healing, and renewed strength- without leaving behind the parts of you that matter most.

Hello my name is Monique Brown, I am a licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor in the state of Ohio. I have been working in the counseling field since 2014. I have experience working with a variety of ages and populations. I have worked with individuals, families and groups who experience issues with anxiety, depression, family conflict, addiction, self-esteem and more. I am a certified anxiety treatment specialist, I am a certified Trauma practitioner and I am certified in Telemental health treatment. Much of my experience has been working with individuals experiencing co-occurring disorders and addiction. I have a passion for working with individuals who have been affected by trauma. I have been trained in trauma-informed practice. I have assisted individuals with making the connection between their trauma and the barriers that they currently face. I enjoy working with others to help them realize that there is a light at the end of the tunnel by providing support and clarification. I utilize evidence-based practices such as CBT, MI, Solution-focused, ACT and Mindfulness strategies. I hope that we can work together on this journey to you becoming the best version of yourself. SPECIALTIES Stress, Anxiety Addictions Depression Also experienced in: LGBTQ, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Trauma and abuse, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Anger management, Self-esteem, Bipolar disorder, Coping with life changes, ADHD, Co-morbidity and Codependency Clinical approaches: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma-Focused Therapy Years of Experience: 7 Language: English Credentials: LPCC, LCDC III

Hello! I'm a licensed professional clinical counselor with a supervisor designation in the state of Ohio and a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. I received my master's degree in community counseling from Malone University in Canton, OH. In addition to counseling, I enjoy coaching and refereeing sports at the youth level and at the high school level. I am a supporter of our military being a veteran and a father to three wonderful children

I have always been fascinated by how people work. As a child I loved learning about how the body works. As I got older my focus shifted to how minds work and how people function in this world. My education centered around mental health how to help people with their problems. I have an MS in Life Span Development and an Med in Counselor Education, both from Purdue University and am now a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Ohio. I enjoy gardening, traveling and learning new things. I am an optimist. My general way of relating to people is one of listing intently enough to be able to see things from their point of view, and to show respect, warmth, and humor. I believe that establishing a strong, supportive relationship is of utmost importance in therapy. Respect and honesty are essential for effective therapy. Together we can solve problems and improve bad situations.

Heather is an experienced Master's level Clinical Mental Health Therapist (LPCC) providing individual therapy and has a passion for working in integrated health. It is her special interest to work with marginalized populations, including individuals within the LGBTQIA+ population. She has experience co-facilitating a LGBTQIA+ support group and DBT skills group. She has years of experience working in community mental health prior to private practice.

Hi I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker. I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals and families seeking help with one or more of the following: addiction, parenting, couple, foster care, school issues, and the military family's unique challenges. I have had the privilege to witness families grow in their ability to communicate their feelings and needs positively which enhances their relationships with each other

Hi, I'm Sarah and I’ve worked as an Ohio licensed counselor since 2014. I want to help you understand the challenges that brought you here and find solutions that really work for you. Everyone deserves a counselor who truly cares, treats them with kindness, and meets them where they are. I'm here to support you as you make positive choices that boost your confidence and help you create change. I’m dedicated to offering caring support and always looking for ways to help my clients better. I enjoy working with people who are curious about themselves and want to learn how to handle life’s ups and downs. Together, we'll discover your unique strengths and how they’ve helped you overcome challenges in the past—and how they can help you in the future. Let’s take this journey together, one step at a time.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in New Jersey and Ohio. I received my Doctor of Social Work degree from Rutgers University, and I have been practicing therapy for eight years. My clinical experience has been working with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, self-esteem issues, acculturation, bicultural issues, and relationship challenges. I look forward to creating a collaborative relationship with my clients.

Hello! I'm a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) based in Ohio. I received my Master's in Social Work from Ohio University and have been practicing for 6 years. I've helped individuals 5 to 65 years of age struggling with things such as various mood disorders, anxiety, and addiction become the best versions of themselves. Being trained as a Social Worker, I strongly believe that people should be treated with respect and care, regardless of their life circumstances. I am intentional when working with clients to partner with them in setting goals, changing behaviors, and addressing symptoms to help empower and encourage them to be the version of themselves they want to be.

Hi, I'm Nikki. Life may come with loads of challenges that can be difficult to navigate, especially when you're feeling anxious, depressed, or fearful of what it may throw at you. It can be very hard to express yourself, not only to your loved ones but also to be your authentic self. I understand just how hard it is to connect with people in the world or find meaning in your life when you're struggling just to get by. Together, we can try to make what seems impossible...possible. I hold an MSW and am a Licensed Independent Social Worker. My approach to therapy is grounded in empathy and understanding. I believe in creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your feelings and experiences without judgment. Whether you're dealing with a specific issue or just need someone to talk to, I'm here to help. In our sessions, you can expect a collaborative and personalized approach. We'll work together to identify your goals and develop strategies to achieve them. I believe in the power of therapy to transform lives, and I'm committed to supporting you on your journey to healing and growth. If you're ready to take the first step towards a better future, I'm here to support you. Let's work together to make what seems impossible...possible.

I'm an Independent Licensed Social Worker (LISW-S) with over a decade of clinical experience. I hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Morehead State University and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Kentucky. I'm passionate about creating a supportive, relaxed environment where everyone can feel comfortable exploring their concerns. I work with individuals, couples, and families to address a wide range of challenges. I integrate a person-centered approach into my therapy style, allowing clients to feel understood and empowered as they navigate personal growth.

What’s up , my name is Mia Ferrell I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who has been providing therapy over 12 years. I am licensed Ohio and Missouri. In my free time I enjoy music, watching crime shows and spending time with my family. I am committed to helping others overcome life’s challenges and begin a journey towards mental harmony. I provide compassionate, empathetic and direct therapy. I am willing to laugh, cheer and cry with you. I specialize in working with those experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship issues, women’s issues, low self-esteem, symptoms of depression, and symptoms of trauma.

Hello! I'm Josh Fowler. I hold a license as an Independent Marriage/Family Therapist (IMFT) serving clients in Ohio. I received my Masters from East Carolina University in the Master of Science in Marriage/Family Therapy program, and I have been practicing as a family therapist since 2013 (so about 12 years now). I primarily work with adults around challenges including behavioral concerns or problems, mood disorders, self-image difficulties, depression/anxiety symptoms, and relationship conflict (a primary focus of mine), among others.I hope you'll find my conversational style relaxed, professional, welcoming, direct, and accepting.

Change can feel scary and stressful. Standing at a crossroads can feel uncertain and overwhelming. Sometimes our life circumstances change, other times we decide that what we are doing now, is no longer working for us. My focus is working with people who are experiencing anxiety, depressed mood, grief, loss, addictions, trauma, PTSD, and other adjustments and life transitions. This could involve changes in relationships, family, spirituality, health, career, education, or living situation. It could include death, healing wounds and inner children, identifying and enforcing boundaries, and identifying and changing limiting beliefs.

I’m a licensed professional clinical counselor with nearly 20 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges. My approach is relational, practical, and rooted in both insight and action. I draw from a variety of evidence-based methods—tailored to each client’s needs—to address issues like anxiety, relationship conflict, family dynamics, and faith-related concerns. Whether you’re feeling stuck or simply ready for growth, I aim to create a space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered to make meaningful, lasting change.

As a board-certified clinical counselor, I believe that prioritizing your mental wellness is crucial. Seeking help can often be the hardest step, so I'm glad you've embarked on this journey. You are the expert on your own life, and I am honored to walk alongside you as we explore ways to enhance your well-being. Whether you are seeking individual therapy support for anxiety, depression, trauma, adoption concerns, PTSD, family estrangement, grief, or boundary setting, I am here to help. With over 20 years of experience in therapy, I am committed to providing the support you need and guiding you on the path to success. I understand the demands of life and the courage it takes to share your personal struggles. I am honored to earn your trust and will come alongside you to help you on your journey to mental wellness. Together, we can work towards a healthier, more fulfilling life. Thank you for trusting me to walk this journey with you! I have experience working with adults, children, teens and older adults.

I’m a Registered Art Therapist (ATR) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), offering telehealth-based art therapy and counseling for teens (13+) and adults across Ohio. My approach is rooted in a humanistic philosophy, with a strong focus on creativity, mindfulness, and values-based living. I work collaboratively with clients to explore their inner world, reconnect with what matters most, and develop more compassionate, flexible ways of moving through life’s challenges. In our sessions, we’ll use art-making and visual reflection to slow down, tune in, and explore what’s showing up with curiosity and care. My work is trauma-informed and grounded in clinical mental health training, incorporating evidence-based practices to support insight and emotional resilience — while honoring the deeply human and healing power of creative expression. I also hold an inclusive, socially aware perspective, recognizing how identity, environment, and lived experience shape our inner landscapes, and how creative work can help us navigate and reclaim those stories. Art has always been a meaningful outlet for me, and it’s a privilege to help others discover that same sense of clarity and self-connection. You don’t need to be an artist to benefit from this process; just a willingness to show up, get a little curious, and trust that insight can come in many forms.

Hello, Welcome to my practice... Blessed Journey, LLC. I have been a counselor for over 20 years. I work with all ages of people. I especially enjoy working with children, ages 5-12. Cognitive-Behavior Therapy is my primary modality. I also like to add methods that allow for self-expression through the arts, focusing on solutions and play. I have training in trauma recovery as well. I want clients to leave each session with a new coping skills, motivation to make a small change and feeling they have been heard.

Katrina Noble Johnson is a licensed independent clinical social worker and chemical dependency counselor with over 25 years of experience. She holds a Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Cincinnati. Katrina provides specialized mental health and addiction treatment to individuals, children, families, and diverse populations, including the homeless, those managing addictions, and the aging. Katrina has volunteered for various community and religious organizations in the area. She holds a Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Cincinnati. Katrina provides specialized mental health and addiction treatment to individuals, children, families, and diverse populations, including the homeless, those managing addictions, and the aging. Katrina has volunteered for various community and religious organizations in the area.

My name is Katrina Herweh, and I’m a social worker from Cincinnati, Ohio. I earned my Bachelor’s of Social Work in 2017 from Xavier University. In 2018, I graduated with my Master’s of Arts in Social Work from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. I began my PhD in Social Work at Loyola University of Chicago in 2021, where I am currently a PhD Candidate. My research area of interest incorporates pediatric medical trauma, hospital discharge, mental health in healthcare settings, trauma-informed care, and interprofessional healthcare. I have over 7 years of clinical experience as a child and family therapist and have been facilitating virtual therapy since 2020. I currently reside in Buffalo, New York, with my husband, two cats (Louie and Gretta), and our one-eyed Golden Retriever (Walter). Outside of social work, I love hiking, coffee, traveling, and trying new vegan food.

Hi, I’m Aaron Saez, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges. I specialize in evidence-based therapy, crisis intervention, and grief counseling, and have worked in a range of settings including private practice, hospitals, and community organizations. I’m committed to providing compassionate, culturally responsive care that centers your safety, growth, and well-being.

Hi, I'm Rachel—a licensed therapist available to meet with clients in both Arizona and Ohio, here to support you through whatever life is throwing your way. I work with adults facing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, ADHD, and more.My approach is warm, non-judgmental, and grounded in the belief that therapy should be a space where you feel safe, seen, and empowered.

I offer virtual, holistic, individual mental health counseling for adults. Please read further for additional information. I welcome everyone to my practice. My dream client is one that comes undaunted and is willing to "hunker down" and change. Change is difficult and sometimes painful, but it is so rewarding. You will feel stronger and braver than your wildest dreams, if only you will try. Take that step. Put your toe in the water. Dazzle yourself.

I am dedicated to helping people realize their personal and relational potential. My expertise is in intrapersonal growth, relationship therapy, and LGBTQ issues. I specialize in issues surrounding anxiety, depression and interpersonal relationships. I assist people in understanding their unhelpful thinking patterns, navigating healthy relationship dynamics, and difficulties in communication. My work ranges from problem solving and solution-focused, to deeper dynamic work that seeks understanding of self and relationship patterns and boundaries. In my couple's work, I focus on dismantling barriers to communication and addressing the needs of the individuals in the relationship as well as the relationship itself. Pronouns: She/Her/Hers My focus is to work with clients toward regaining balance, identifying strengths and providing interventions specific to the client’s needs. I work to provide an atmosphere that is inviting and non-biased. I am here to listen and ask reflective questions to guide you toward your best self.

I’m a Licensed Independent Social Worker who truly believes in the power of connection and understanding. I’m here to walk alongside you as you navigate life’s challenges—whether it's managing anxiety, healing from trauma, or overcoming struggles with addiction or relationships. My approach is grounded in compassion, and I’m passionate about helping you tap into your inner strength to make meaningful, lasting changes. Together, we’ll create a space where you feel supported, heard, and empowered to move forward at your own pace.

Hello, my name is Jerome P Stevenson Sr. and I have a Masters and Doctorate in counseling. I have been counseling for more than 39 years and practicing as a LPC 20 years. My specialty is marriage counseling and individual counseling. I am licensed as a LPC in Ohio and pending in Michigan. I am committed to walk with clients on a successful journey in a common goal of health living and lifestyle.

Hi! I’m a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) based in Ohio. I received my Masters from Youngstown State University and have been practicing for over 9 years. I help people of all ages who are struggling with anxiety, life stressors and relationship problems. My goal is to help get you through these difficult moments and get your life where you want it to be!

I am Walter williams a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I received my Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling degree from Illinois Institute of Technology. I have over 20 years experience in rehabilitation psychology in a variety of settings. I have done crisis intervention in both inpatient and penal institutions. I have worked as a team leader for Assertive Community Treatment teams servicing chronically mentally ill people in the community. I have performed intake assessment, crisis intervention, suicide assessments, and brief grief counseling in multiple settings. I help adults struggling with major mental illness and or substance abuse to manage their thoughts and understand the dynamics of feelings thoughts and behaviors through evidence based practices likE CBT and Motivational Interviewing.

Welcome! I'm Alexis McDonald, LISW-S Please take a moment to acknowledge you have taken the first step towards bettering your mental health because, you have taken the first step by simply looking into how you can begin to address what you are experiencing. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows clients to explore obstacles with concerns related to anxiety, depression, trauma and/or self-care. I focus on helping clients develop assertive communication & boundaries with themselves and those around them that can help improve their quality of life. Counseling can foster personal development in whatever way you may be seeking and help build the life you so deeply deserve. If that's what you're looking for, I'm here when you're ready to share.

Hello, I'm Lisa, and I have over 20 years of experience as a Licensed Therapist. I hold a Master's in Social Work from The Ohio State University and an Ed.S. in School Psychology from National Louis University in Chicago. I'm board-certified in both Ohio and Illinois, and I've also been certified as a School Psychologist. My diverse background includes working in inpatient, outpatient, and residential settings, as well as schools, hospitals, treatment centers, cancer wellness facilities, as a consultant and a private practice practitioner. These varied experiences allow me to draw from a rich tapestry of knowledge to best support my clients.

Hello there. I’m grateful you came across my page. I have a wide range of experience, working in residential treatment centers, private practices, schools, inpatient psychiatric hospitals, prisons, and have significant experience working with veterans in both an inpatient and outpatient setting. I work with clients across the lifespan, as a great deal of my graduate training was with children, adolescents, and families. I have been trained in several approaches to treat a variety of concerns, but I most enjoy working with trauma and PTSD. Additionally, I have specialized training in working with those who struggle with emotion regulation, distress tolerance, as well as those who engage in self-harm behaviors.

At different points in our lives, we may encounter challenges that feel overwhelming. Often, the hardest step is simply reaching out for help. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio, credentialed by the Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. I earned my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Malone University (2022) and my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University (2020). I currently serve as Secretary on the Board for the Society for Sexual, Affectional, Intersex, and Gender Expansive Identities of Ohio and was honored to be the 2022–2023 Emerging Leader for the Ohio Association for Specialists in Group Work.

Emma Franke is a mental health professional with her licensure as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. My goal as a counselor is to provide a safe space for clients to process difficult emotions, identify strengths, and develop resilience. I believe that building rapport and trust is essential to building any therapeutic alliance. I hope to have the opportunity to work with you on your journey.

Hi there! I'm Tammy, a clinical counselor licensed in Ohio with over 25 years of experience in the helping profession. Three years ago, I realized my dream by founding Hearts To Minds, LLC, my private practice. I'm driven by a deep passion to inspire and provide a safe space for others. My mission is to empower individuals who are committed to helping themselves. Ms. Harmon-Rodriguez obtained Trauma-Focused CBT and Motivational training through the State of Ohio. She started her career as an MH Social Worker in 2002, working with dually diagnosed adults and children, which inspired and sparked her interest in the specialization of the dually diagnosed and family systems with evidence-based and cognitive-based treatments. She has dedicated herself to providing comprehensive care for individuals with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. This early experience ignited her passion for delving into the complexities of dual diagnosis, leading her to specialize in evidence-based and cognitive treatments tailored to individuals and their families.