The family as a basic unit of socaety performs essential functions for Its lnchvldual members as well as for society at large In spite of the fact that, with the changang times, the famdy too has undergone changes in its structure and functions, it as stall recogmsed as the most stable and effective system for taking care of its member -able-bodied as well as disabled Tins paper has focussed on two mare aspects Firstly, it has inghhghted the vital role of famxhes in supporting their dasabled family members in these changing times, their successes and thetr problems m coping The roles and interactions of family members have been viewed through the framework of family functions Secondly, it has briefly reviewed the extent to which current professional practices or approaches have facilitated the family's suppomng role Though I am aware that a variety of professional dlscaphnes such as medical experts, speetal teachers, allied health professionals etc and other resources such as the pnnted media, electromc media, etc, also play an Important role in aadmg the chsabled and their famlhes, I have restncted myself basically to the lnterventaons made by counsellors in order to keep the paper wlthm hrmts Lastly, I have made a few suggestions for makang professional mterventaon with the families of the disabled more eonstructwe and effectave