Counselling in Ballarat Central, VIC

Photo of Portia Kambasha in Ballarat Central, VIC
Portia Kambasha
MSc
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
Comprehensive family therapy assessments.
I have 20 years experience with complex mental health issues across the age spectrum. I offer a kind, empathetic service to families and individuals using my skills as a family therapist and mental health clinician. I welcome individuals and families who represent marginalised communities, (neurodiverse, LGBTQIA, culturally diverse, and anyone who has ever been “othered”) and provide a service that is inclusive and affirming whilst utilising an anti racist and decolonized lens.
Comprehensive family therapy assessments.
I have 20 years experience with complex mental health issues across the age spectrum. I offer a kind, empathetic service to families and individuals using my skills as a family therapist and mental health clinician. I welcome individuals and families who represent marginalised communities, (neurodiverse, LGBTQIA, culturally diverse, and anyone who has ever been “othered”) and provide a service that is inclusive and affirming whilst utilising an anti racist and decolonized lens.
(03) 4327 9085 View (03) 4327 9085
Photo of Zubia Jawed, Counsellor in Ballarat Central, VIC
Zubia Jawed
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
I am a registered Mental Health Counsellor. I have helped many clients feel validated and normalised in what they experience in life. I specialise in providing culturally sensitive therapy, addressing variety of topics including identity, belonging, gender roles, women’s issues, managing societal, community and family expectations, discrimination, racism, and issues around migrants and refugees. I feel utmost contentment when I know I have made an individual feel worthy, validated, understood, and hopeful. Through incorporating our cultural roots in sessions, we can truly feel empowered and seen.
I am a registered Mental Health Counsellor. I have helped many clients feel validated and normalised in what they experience in life. I specialise in providing culturally sensitive therapy, addressing variety of topics including identity, belonging, gender roles, women’s issues, managing societal, community and family expectations, discrimination, racism, and issues around migrants and refugees. I feel utmost contentment when I know I have made an individual feel worthy, validated, understood, and hopeful. Through incorporating our cultural roots in sessions, we can truly feel empowered and seen.
(03) 4328 3495 View (03) 4328 3495
Photo of Patti Dainton, Counsellor in Ballarat Central, VIC
Patti Dainton
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
I am passionate about journeying with people at all ages and stages of their lives, to increase their capacity and create change in themselves and to find joy and growth in their lives. I work from a trauma informed viewpoint, that incorporates family, to ensure person-centred, relationship-focussed therapy. I have also undergone additional training in Havening. I am comfortable working with personal spirituality and understand the significance and role of spirituality within lives.
I am passionate about journeying with people at all ages and stages of their lives, to increase their capacity and create change in themselves and to find joy and growth in their lives. I work from a trauma informed viewpoint, that incorporates family, to ensure person-centred, relationship-focussed therapy. I have also undergone additional training in Havening. I am comfortable working with personal spirituality and understand the significance and role of spirituality within lives.
(03) 4328 0288 View (03) 4328 0288
Photo of Freya's Farm: Animal Assisted Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Freya's Farm: Animal Assisted Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
My specialities are trauma recovery (including from sexual assault & family violence), neurodiversity and couples counselling.
Hi, I'm Freya. I've been counselling for over 25 years, and 2 years ago started incorporating my animals (horses, dogs, cats) into my therapeutic practice. I work with all ages, and the people I work with are as unique as the issues they want to address. My clients are individuals, couples, and children. I have lived experience of neurodiversity (ASD, ADHD, Dyslexia, HSP) and consequently work with a lot of people who are neurodiverse themselves. My work focusses on understanding why we are the way we are, combined with techniques that foster change and growth, with the end goal of increased well being and resilience.
My specialities are trauma recovery (including from sexual assault & family violence), neurodiversity and couples counselling.
Hi, I'm Freya. I've been counselling for over 25 years, and 2 years ago started incorporating my animals (horses, dogs, cats) into my therapeutic practice. I work with all ages, and the people I work with are as unique as the issues they want to address. My clients are individuals, couples, and children. I have lived experience of neurodiversity (ASD, ADHD, Dyslexia, HSP) and consequently work with a lot of people who are neurodiverse themselves. My work focusses on understanding why we are the way we are, combined with techniques that foster change and growth, with the end goal of increased well being and resilience.
(03) 4320 5775 View (03) 4320 5775
Photo of Traci Tucker Counselling, Counsellor in Ballarat Central, VIC
Traci Tucker Counselling
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
General Counselling, Individual, Couples, Families, Group Work, Intimate Partner Violence, Family Violence, Abusive Behaviours, Anger Management, VOCAT, Grief Loss and Trauma, Mandated and Voluntary Clients, Suicidality, Mental Health - Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, AOD and Other Addictions, Sexual Health, Sexual Pleasure and Sexual Concerns, Gender identity.
Clients often want to change their behaviour and improve their lives as well as their relationships. However, fear, trauma and past hurt can cause ambivalence. Counselling can help clients work through the why, how and what of making this change. By using a number of modalities such as Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Person Centred, Strengths Based and Gestalt therapies, clients can find their way out of the dark. 'Beyond the Silence, there is always Hope'.
General Counselling, Individual, Couples, Families, Group Work, Intimate Partner Violence, Family Violence, Abusive Behaviours, Anger Management, VOCAT, Grief Loss and Trauma, Mandated and Voluntary Clients, Suicidality, Mental Health - Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, AOD and Other Addictions, Sexual Health, Sexual Pleasure and Sexual Concerns, Gender identity.
Clients often want to change their behaviour and improve their lives as well as their relationships. However, fear, trauma and past hurt can cause ambivalence. Counselling can help clients work through the why, how and what of making this change. By using a number of modalities such as Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Person Centred, Strengths Based and Gestalt therapies, clients can find their way out of the dark. 'Beyond the Silence, there is always Hope'.
(03) 4328 3009 View (03) 4328 3009
Photo of Vanessa Katherine Bowen, Counsellor in Ballarat Central, VIC
Vanessa Katherine Bowen
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
I am passionate about using my skills and knowledge to assist clients to explore their strengths and resources and empower them to make positive changes in their lives. I have a special interest in working with clients experiencing grief and loss to validate their experience and work at their own pace to move through their grief. I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and my practice is a safe space for people of all sexualities and genders. I am supportive of non-traditional relationships. I value empathy, autonomy, non-judgement, compassion and respect and aim to embody these values through my practice.
I am passionate about using my skills and knowledge to assist clients to explore their strengths and resources and empower them to make positive changes in their lives. I have a special interest in working with clients experiencing grief and loss to validate their experience and work at their own pace to move through their grief. I am a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and my practice is a safe space for people of all sexualities and genders. I am supportive of non-traditional relationships. I value empathy, autonomy, non-judgement, compassion and respect and aim to embody these values through my practice.
(03) 4328 2766 View (03) 4328 2766
Photo of KIT Psychology, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
KIT Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
Hello, my name is Kelly. I am a registered psychologist practicing as a clinical psychology registrar. Within my practice at KIT Psychology, I offer therapeutic, evidence-based interventions to young people and adults struggling with their mental health and wellbeing. I have a special interest in using creative therapies as an adjunct to traditional talk-therapies.
Hello, my name is Kelly. I am a registered psychologist practicing as a clinical psychology registrar. Within my practice at KIT Psychology, I offer therapeutic, evidence-based interventions to young people and adults struggling with their mental health and wellbeing. I have a special interest in using creative therapies as an adjunct to traditional talk-therapies.
(03) 4320 5444 View (03) 4320 5444
Photo of Heart and Hope Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Heart and Hope Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Newport and Footscray areas. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over twenty years of general counselling experience and have particular expertise in grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mental health issues and working with many other concerns. I am passionate about holding the hope and working from the heart as well as utilising diverse knowledge and skills. It is important to me that counselling is accessible and affordable to people who need it.
I provide counselling, therapy and social work services in both the Newport and Footscray areas. I provide supportive, empathic and flexible responses to individual needs, taking the body, mind and soul into consideration. I have over twenty years of general counselling experience and have particular expertise in grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, mental health issues and working with many other concerns. I am passionate about holding the hope and working from the heart as well as utilising diverse knowledge and skills. It is important to me that counselling is accessible and affordable to people who need it.
(03) 8658 2101 View (03) 8658 2101
Photo of The Wellspring Within, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
The Wellspring Within
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Ballarat Central, VIC 3350
I use a wholistic frame, inclusive of body, mind and spirit in my work as a therapist. I have found that working somatically can be tremendously revealing of inner gems that lay beneath the level of consciousness. They can provide answers, understandings, and can lead to living a fuller life. The use of your spiritual frames of reference in therapy can also bring meaning and can provide leverage for the changes you are wanting to make. You may feel supported to become more whole, self-actualised, self-understanding and accepting of the person you are.
I use a wholistic frame, inclusive of body, mind and spirit in my work as a therapist. I have found that working somatically can be tremendously revealing of inner gems that lay beneath the level of consciousness. They can provide answers, understandings, and can lead to living a fuller life. The use of your spiritual frames of reference in therapy can also bring meaning and can provide leverage for the changes you are wanting to make. You may feel supported to become more whole, self-actualised, self-understanding and accepting of the person you are.
(03) 4420 3861 View (03) 4420 3861

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Louise Jansz - Fourfold Therapy, Psychotherapist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Louise Jansz - Fourfold Therapy
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Verified Verified
Redan, VIC 3350
Louise is a PACFA registered psychotherapist and holistic counsellor. Using targeted interventions, including somatic experiencing and brainspotting, I guide you through life's transitions, fostering self-discovery and growth. I support both lifelong questing and short term crisis. You may be facing uncertainty, anxiety, depression, addiction or an identity crisis. We will work on strategies to manage emotions and adapt to changing circumstances. I create a safe haven to foster self-compassion, self-understanding as you learn to self-regulate, build resilience and communicate your needs as you gain momentum back in your life.
Louise is a PACFA registered psychotherapist and holistic counsellor. Using targeted interventions, including somatic experiencing and brainspotting, I guide you through life's transitions, fostering self-discovery and growth. I support both lifelong questing and short term crisis. You may be facing uncertainty, anxiety, depression, addiction or an identity crisis. We will work on strategies to manage emotions and adapt to changing circumstances. I create a safe haven to foster self-compassion, self-understanding as you learn to self-regulate, build resilience and communicate your needs as you gain momentum back in your life.
(03) 4240 3277 View (03) 4240 3277

Online Therapists

Photo of Viviane Golan, Psychotherapist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Viviane Golan
Psychotherapist, PhD, AASW
Verified Verified
Mooroolbark, VIC 3138
Areas of expertise include grief and trauma, relationships and family dynamics, mental health, life transitions, therapist supervision, spirituality and meditative practices.
Viviane has over twenty five years experience working with individuals, couples and families in ways that support growth, clarity, transformation and wholeness. Using a wide range of therapeutic modalities, Viviane provides a safe and compassionate environment where clients have the opportunity to explore themselves and their lives in ever deepening and enriching ways.
Areas of expertise include grief and trauma, relationships and family dynamics, mental health, life transitions, therapist supervision, spirituality and meditative practices.
Viviane has over twenty five years experience working with individuals, couples and families in ways that support growth, clarity, transformation and wholeness. Using a wide range of therapeutic modalities, Viviane provides a safe and compassionate environment where clients have the opportunity to explore themselves and their lives in ever deepening and enriching ways.
(08) 9126 9057 View (08) 9126 9057
Photo of Valerene Chin, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Valerene Chin
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Greensborough, VIC 3088
I have worked as a psychologist in a variety of settings, including AOD rehab, refuges, women’s organisations (focused on family violence), NDIS realm, and private practice. I work with a broad range of presentations across the lifespan, including personality disorders, complex trauma, bipolar affective disorder, anxiety, depression, chronic illnesses, addictions, autism spectrum disorder, and schizophrenia. I mainly practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, so the way clients relate to themselves, others and the world is often central in the therapy room. Having said this, I also tailor my approach to suit an individual's needs.
I have worked as a psychologist in a variety of settings, including AOD rehab, refuges, women’s organisations (focused on family violence), NDIS realm, and private practice. I work with a broad range of presentations across the lifespan, including personality disorders, complex trauma, bipolar affective disorder, anxiety, depression, chronic illnesses, addictions, autism spectrum disorder, and schizophrenia. I mainly practice psychodynamic psychotherapy, so the way clients relate to themselves, others and the world is often central in the therapy room. Having said this, I also tailor my approach to suit an individual's needs.
(03) 8400 0503 View (03) 8400 0503
Photo of BlueSkies Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Ballarat Central, VIC
BlueSkies Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
Footscray, VIC 3011
We’re here to help you and your family overcome difficult experiences through children’s counselling and dyadic (parent and child) counselling in Melbourne. We offer Child-Centred Play Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Interplay Family Therapy, Filial Therapy and Kids Groups to help address children’s anxious behaviours, acting out behaviours, social difficulties, past traumas and more. We also offer Parent Counselling to support the important people in children’s lives - you!
We’re here to help you and your family overcome difficult experiences through children’s counselling and dyadic (parent and child) counselling in Melbourne. We offer Child-Centred Play Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Interplay Family Therapy, Filial Therapy and Kids Groups to help address children’s anxious behaviours, acting out behaviours, social difficulties, past traumas and more. We also offer Parent Counselling to support the important people in children’s lives - you!
(03) 9118 9024 View (03) 9118 9024
Photo of Alana Greco - Inspiring Growth Psychology, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Alana Greco - Inspiring Growth Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Doncaster East, VIC 3109
Alana specializes in providing expert assistance for a wide range of concerns to patients 16 years + including: Depression, Perinatal and postnatal challenges, parenting difficulties, anxiety disorders and phobias, adjustment difficulties, stress and anxiety management, workplace stress and burnout, PTSD, relationships and family stress and academic stress.
Alana Greco is a Clinical Psychologist specializing in anxiety disorders, perinatal concerns, relationships, and mental well-being. With 14 years of experience, a compassionate approach and extensive therapeutic knowledge, she helps individuals overcome their mental health concerns. Alana's curiosity about the human mind grew from a young age, guiding her decision to pursue psychology. Her academic journey includes undergraduate studies, a Post Graduate Diploma, and a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology. Drawing primarily from cognitive-behavioural, humanistic, and psychodynamic therapies.
Alana specializes in providing expert assistance for a wide range of concerns to patients 16 years + including: Depression, Perinatal and postnatal challenges, parenting difficulties, anxiety disorders and phobias, adjustment difficulties, stress and anxiety management, workplace stress and burnout, PTSD, relationships and family stress and academic stress.
Alana Greco is a Clinical Psychologist specializing in anxiety disorders, perinatal concerns, relationships, and mental well-being. With 14 years of experience, a compassionate approach and extensive therapeutic knowledge, she helps individuals overcome their mental health concerns. Alana's curiosity about the human mind grew from a young age, guiding her decision to pursue psychology. Her academic journey includes undergraduate studies, a Post Graduate Diploma, and a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology. Drawing primarily from cognitive-behavioural, humanistic, and psychodynamic therapies.
(03) 8771 4081 View (03) 8771 4081
Photo of Sarah Ives Psychologist , Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Sarah Ives Psychologist
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Balnarring, VIC 3926
Sarah is a compassionate Psychologist and Family Therapist who supports you to find practical ways to achieve positive change.
Sarah provides psychology for children, adolescents, young adults, adults and families. Sarah is passionate about enabling growth in the direction clients choose, that resonates for them, increases their flexibility and reduces the impact of difficult thoughts, emotions or experiences in one’s life. Sarah is experienced in working with depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, school refusal/ anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD and Autism, adjustment disorders, parenting and relationships. She is also a registered Medicare Provider.
Sarah is a compassionate Psychologist and Family Therapist who supports you to find practical ways to achieve positive change.
Sarah provides psychology for children, adolescents, young adults, adults and families. Sarah is passionate about enabling growth in the direction clients choose, that resonates for them, increases their flexibility and reduces the impact of difficult thoughts, emotions or experiences in one’s life. Sarah is experienced in working with depression, anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress, school refusal/ anxiety, grief and loss, ADHD and Autism, adjustment disorders, parenting and relationships. She is also a registered Medicare Provider.
(03) 5906 9828 View (03) 5906 9828
Photo of Metocha Play Therapy in Ballarat Central, VIC
Metocha Play Therapy
MA
Verified Verified
Glen Waverley, VIC 3150
Metocha Play Therapy is led by May Yeung, Associate Lecturer in Play Therapy and Clinical Supervisor, who has 9 years of experience providing one-to-one play therapy interventions for children, adolescents and adults with a range of emotional and behavioral problems such as attention deficit disorder, language disorders, autism, learning disabilities, family dysfunction, loss of a family member, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, self-harm or suicidal behavior, with an 18- 60 play therapy interventions with a 90% success rate. She is fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin and English.
Metocha Play Therapy is led by May Yeung, Associate Lecturer in Play Therapy and Clinical Supervisor, who has 9 years of experience providing one-to-one play therapy interventions for children, adolescents and adults with a range of emotional and behavioral problems such as attention deficit disorder, language disorders, autism, learning disabilities, family dysfunction, loss of a family member, sexual abuse, anxiety, depression, self-harm or suicidal behavior, with an 18- 60 play therapy interventions with a 90% success rate. She is fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin and English.
(03) 7500 5930 View (03) 7500 5930
Photo of Tracey Alder Therapy in Ballarat Central, VIC
Tracey Alder Therapy
MSc
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3004
As an EMDR-trained family therapist, I can help manage the symptoms of trauma, and provide counsel with relationships according to your needs and goals.
This is not the life you wanted. You are not the person you hoped to become. Your choices and decisions prevent any relief from the constant, nagging anxiety that disrupts your sleep and impacts your health. It may be that the damage of a difficult upbringing is still causing sustained harm to your present relationships, and your all-important sense of self. But whatever the root cause of your suffering, it's always so much harder to overcome alone. I'm here to support you in that struggle as we work to understand and address your unhappiness in a safe, constructive, trauma-informed space.
As an EMDR-trained family therapist, I can help manage the symptoms of trauma, and provide counsel with relationships according to your needs and goals.
This is not the life you wanted. You are not the person you hoped to become. Your choices and decisions prevent any relief from the constant, nagging anxiety that disrupts your sleep and impacts your health. It may be that the damage of a difficult upbringing is still causing sustained harm to your present relationships, and your all-important sense of self. But whatever the root cause of your suffering, it's always so much harder to overcome alone. I'm here to support you in that struggle as we work to understand and address your unhappiness in a safe, constructive, trauma-informed space.
(03) 7003 2789 View (03) 7003 2789
Photo of Renee Kharsas, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Renee Kharsas
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Malvern, VIC 3144
To me psychological symptoms are always a part of a broader dynamic, including relationships with partners, family, friends and schools.
It is my hope that when someone spends time in the therapy room with me that our relationship feels honest, authentic and safe. During a therapy session you’ll encounter a mix and variety of therapeutic approaches including couples and family therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy and emotion-focused therapy, to name a few. I have a special interest in relationships, life transitions, grief and parenting. I genuinely love my work and I’ve always, for as long as I can remember, been interested in people’s stories and how they think, feel, behave and relate.
To me psychological symptoms are always a part of a broader dynamic, including relationships with partners, family, friends and schools.
It is my hope that when someone spends time in the therapy room with me that our relationship feels honest, authentic and safe. During a therapy session you’ll encounter a mix and variety of therapeutic approaches including couples and family therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy and emotion-focused therapy, to name a few. I have a special interest in relationships, life transitions, grief and parenting. I genuinely love my work and I’ve always, for as long as I can remember, been interested in people’s stories and how they think, feel, behave and relate.
(02) 4504 0162 View (02) 4504 0162
Photo of Maria Pavlou, Psychologist in Ballarat Central, VIC
Maria Pavlou
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Northcote, VIC 3070  (Online Only)
Maria has gained knowledge and skills over time with trauma, depression, anxiety, stress related in the context of relationships, work and family.
Maria (she/her) is a warm and experienced Counselling Psychologist with 20 years working with people to improve mental health. She has worked in public settings including child & family services, community health services and university counselling and private practice. Maria likes to cultivate a safe and non-judgemental environment and develop a therapeutic alliance with clients by being authentic, transparent and accepting. She aims to provide emotional support, understanding, new ideas, strategies and hope for the future.
Maria has gained knowledge and skills over time with trauma, depression, anxiety, stress related in the context of relationships, work and family.
Maria (she/her) is a warm and experienced Counselling Psychologist with 20 years working with people to improve mental health. She has worked in public settings including child & family services, community health services and university counselling and private practice. Maria likes to cultivate a safe and non-judgemental environment and develop a therapeutic alliance with clients by being authentic, transparent and accepting. She aims to provide emotional support, understanding, new ideas, strategies and hope for the future.
(03) 7003 2897 View (03) 7003 2897
Photo of The Path to Balance Pty Ltd, Counsellor in Ballarat Central, VIC
The Path to Balance Pty Ltd
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Narre Warren South, VIC 3805
It’s my greatest passion to help people overcome anxiety, depression and life challenges through a combination of counselling and yoga. I have been practicing yoga for over 35 years, became a certified yoga teacher 7 years ago.I am currently working as a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner and Counsellor. I am a Certified Counsellor with PACFA, a RYT Certified Yoga Teacher and VADR Certified Family Practitioner. I have extensive experience working with people struggling with depression and anxiety, addictions, people experiencing family violence within a trauma informed approach.
It’s my greatest passion to help people overcome anxiety, depression and life challenges through a combination of counselling and yoga. I have been practicing yoga for over 35 years, became a certified yoga teacher 7 years ago.I am currently working as a Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner and Counsellor. I am a Certified Counsellor with PACFA, a RYT Certified Yoga Teacher and VADR Certified Family Practitioner. I have extensive experience working with people struggling with depression and anxiety, addictions, people experiencing family violence within a trauma informed approach.
(03) 8771 4963 View (03) 8771 4963

See more therapy options for Ballarat Central

Family Therapy Counsellors

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.