Family Therapy in Calgary, AB

Photo of Dr. Dana Male, Psychologist, PhD, MA
Dr. Dana Male
Psychologist, PhD, MA
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Are you trying to create a rich and fulfilling life (e.g., meaningful career, quality family time, close and intimate relationships, active self-care and health) but finding it impossible to juggle it all and strike a sustainable balance?
Sometimes it takes a fresh perspective, a warm and validating space, and caring and honest feedback to recognize our ‘stuck points’ and patterns that may be working against us. As a PhD-trained Researcher-Clinician, I use evidence-based approaches to help people refocus, re-energize, and re-connect in the ways, and with the people, that matter most to them.
Are you trying to create a rich and fulfilling life (e.g., meaningful career, quality family time, close and intimate relationships, active self-care and health) but finding it impossible to juggle it all and strike a sustainable balance?
Sometimes it takes a fresh perspective, a warm and validating space, and caring and honest feedback to recognize our ‘stuck points’ and patterns that may be working against us. As a PhD-trained Researcher-Clinician, I use evidence-based approaches to help people refocus, re-energize, and re-connect in the ways, and with the people, that matter most to them.
(587) 209-8319 View (587) 209-8319
Photo of Rachel Rego, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Rachel Rego
Registered Provisional Psychologist
5 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2Z
- Maybe you're here to overcome self-sabotaging beliefs and put the past behind you, Or, you might be a couple or family wanting to get back on track.
My approach fits the person because we're people, not problems. I often draw from trauma-informed, CBT, DBT, person-centered, and narrative therapies for individuals, and the Gottman Method for couples. Cultural, faith, and spirituality are welcome in our work!
- Maybe you're here to overcome self-sabotaging beliefs and put the past behind you, Or, you might be a couple or family wanting to get back on track.
My approach fits the person because we're people, not problems. I often draw from trauma-informed, CBT, DBT, person-centered, and narrative therapies for individuals, and the Gottman Method for couples. Cultural, faith, and spirituality are welcome in our work!
(587) 507-4948 View (587) 507-4948
Photo of Chelsea Laschenko, Psychologist, R Psyc, MA
Chelsea Laschenko
Psychologist, R Psyc, MA
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2Y
Drawing from various theoretical orientations, including Somatic Experiencing, Emotion Focused Therapy, family of origin, and Cognitive-Behavioral, we will work collaboratively to develop and integrate a treatment approach tailored to your needs and goals.
I work weekends/evenings as well as weekdays, in person (Shawnessy Calgary) or online. I believe in the resilience of the human spirit and our ability to heal. I also know that we can get lost, and having someone support us as we navigate our path back to health can be life-changing. Therapy can be scary, and you may not be sure where to start. This is a shared experience, and together we will work to put the presenting problem into words and create a plan for our work. If you have made it this far in your search, you are looking for something. Even if you can not put it into words let's chat. I look forward to working with you.
Drawing from various theoretical orientations, including Somatic Experiencing, Emotion Focused Therapy, family of origin, and Cognitive-Behavioral, we will work collaboratively to develop and integrate a treatment approach tailored to your needs and goals.
I work weekends/evenings as well as weekdays, in person (Shawnessy Calgary) or online. I believe in the resilience of the human spirit and our ability to heal. I also know that we can get lost, and having someone support us as we navigate our path back to health can be life-changing. Therapy can be scary, and you may not be sure where to start. This is a shared experience, and together we will work to put the presenting problem into words and create a plan for our work. If you have made it this far in your search, you are looking for something. Even if you can not put it into words let's chat. I look forward to working with you.
(825) 797-0633 View (825) 797-0633
Photo of McKenzie Snyder, Psychologist, MA, RPsych
McKenzie Snyder
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3B
McKenzie has experience working nationally and internationally in residential, inpatient, outpatient, community, and private settings providing individual, couples, and family therapy.
McKenzie has extensive training in treating a broad range of psychosocial issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. During his residency, McKenzie focused on working with perpetrators and victims of domestic violence, those struggling with substance use and recovery, and those having difficulty with personality disorders
McKenzie has experience working nationally and internationally in residential, inpatient, outpatient, community, and private settings providing individual, couples, and family therapy.
McKenzie has extensive training in treating a broad range of psychosocial issues, such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. During his residency, McKenzie focused on working with perpetrators and victims of domestic violence, those struggling with substance use and recovery, and those having difficulty with personality disorders
(587) 851-5766 View (587) 851-5766
Photo of Amy Antony, Registered Provisional Psychologist, M, Ed, MC
Amy Antony
Registered Provisional Psychologist, M, Ed, MC
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2E
I specialize in working with children and family systems, children and adolescent mental health, personality disorders, narcissistic abuse and co-dependence as well as family of origin trauma.
I have two Master's Degrees in Developmental Psychology and Counselling Psychology. In addition, I was a school counsellor and school teacher for 12 years. Our wellness dog, Betty, assists many clients within our clinic. I have completed many trainings EMDR (for children and adults) and attachment theory to provide healing for people with complex trauma.
I specialize in working with children and family systems, children and adolescent mental health, personality disorders, narcissistic abuse and co-dependence as well as family of origin trauma.
I have two Master's Degrees in Developmental Psychology and Counselling Psychology. In addition, I was a school counsellor and school teacher for 12 years. Our wellness dog, Betty, assists many clients within our clinic. I have completed many trainings EMDR (for children and adults) and attachment theory to provide healing for people with complex trauma.
(403) 399-5120 View (403) 399-5120
Photo of Michael Shane McKernan, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CSAT
Michael Shane McKernan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CSAT
Calgary, AB T3E
While I have studied in many therapies, referrals to me tend to: couples' work, Internal Family Systems, personal crisis and addictions work.
Forty five years of experience in a variety of settings including in and out patient psychiatry, children's psychiatry, community mental health and academia in front line, supervisory and director roles. I have certifications in sexual and multiple addictions treatment, EMDR, NLP, Aviation Crisis, IFS. I have training in psychoanalytic and Jungian psychotherapies, hypnosis, Gestalt, trauma and systems therapies. I enjoy a varied practice with couples work, individual work in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, life change. I see the connectedness of body, mind and spirit and view crisis as a powerful learning opportunity.
While I have studied in many therapies, referrals to me tend to: couples' work, Internal Family Systems, personal crisis and addictions work.
Forty five years of experience in a variety of settings including in and out patient psychiatry, children's psychiatry, community mental health and academia in front line, supervisory and director roles. I have certifications in sexual and multiple addictions treatment, EMDR, NLP, Aviation Crisis, IFS. I have training in psychoanalytic and Jungian psychotherapies, hypnosis, Gestalt, trauma and systems therapies. I enjoy a varied practice with couples work, individual work in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, life change. I see the connectedness of body, mind and spirit and view crisis as a powerful learning opportunity.
(825) 251-8499 View (825) 251-8499
Photo of Nancy Bergeron, Psychologist, MC, CSAT, CPTT
Nancy Bergeron
Psychologist, MC, CSAT, CPTT
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2H
I use an integrative, trauma informed approach, that may include: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Gottman Method to name a few.
Accepting New Clients. I help individuals and couples navigate relationship struggles, betrayal trauma, sex addiction, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, grief and loss, and the general challenges that life throws at us by providing a supportive space where you can process your emotions, rebuild trust, and regain a sense of control. I will approach you with empathy, kindness and honesty. I will educate you on what you need to do to live the life you want, it’s up to you what you choose to take with you or leave behind. I will never judge your choices.
I use an integrative, trauma informed approach, that may include: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Gottman Method to name a few.
Accepting New Clients. I help individuals and couples navigate relationship struggles, betrayal trauma, sex addiction, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, grief and loss, and the general challenges that life throws at us by providing a supportive space where you can process your emotions, rebuild trust, and regain a sense of control. I will approach you with empathy, kindness and honesty. I will educate you on what you need to do to live the life you want, it’s up to you what you choose to take with you or leave behind. I will never judge your choices.
(587) 507-8689 View (587) 507-8689
Photo of Melissa Sawers - Aspen Psychology Group, Psychologist
Aspen Psychology Group
Psychologist
Calgary, AB T2H
We offer individual, couples and family therapy sessions to support our clients in achieving personal growth, strengthening connections, and creating meaningful change.
Aspen Psychology Group provides expert psychological, therapy, and counselling services to Calgary. We serve women, men, and their families, helping them to nourish themselves, grow, and thrive amid life’s challenges.
We offer individual, couples and family therapy sessions to support our clients in achieving personal growth, strengthening connections, and creating meaningful change.
Aspen Psychology Group provides expert psychological, therapy, and counselling services to Calgary. We serve women, men, and their families, helping them to nourish themselves, grow, and thrive amid life’s challenges.
(587) 326-1875 View (587) 326-1875
Photo of Mandy Smith-Haber, Psychologist, MACP
Mandy Smith-Haber
Psychologist, MACP
Calgary, AB T2S
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches and tools, including (but not limited to) CBT, ACT, narrative therapy, hypnosis, trauma-informed therapy, solution-focused therapy, couples therapy, family systems, and brief therapies.
In life, we can find ourselves challenged in ways we did not expect or anticipate. Life can become difficult and overwhelming to manage at times. In such moments, it can be helpful to seek support from someone who might help unearth possibilities and support you in finding healthier and adaptive ways to manage and cope. It is my belief that developing a strong, trusting, and collaborative therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone to therapeutic success. Through mutual respect, genuine empathy, and trust, individuals can be seen and heard, and encouraged to create the changes they want in their lives.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches and tools, including (but not limited to) CBT, ACT, narrative therapy, hypnosis, trauma-informed therapy, solution-focused therapy, couples therapy, family systems, and brief therapies.
In life, we can find ourselves challenged in ways we did not expect or anticipate. Life can become difficult and overwhelming to manage at times. In such moments, it can be helpful to seek support from someone who might help unearth possibilities and support you in finding healthier and adaptive ways to manage and cope. It is my belief that developing a strong, trusting, and collaborative therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone to therapeutic success. Through mutual respect, genuine empathy, and trust, individuals can be seen and heard, and encouraged to create the changes they want in their lives.
(587) 207-5102 View (587) 207-5102
Photo of Davita Ponak (Mann), Psychologist, MC, R Psych
Davita Ponak (Mann)
Psychologist, MC, R Psych
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2E
I integrate trauma-informed approaches like Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and insight-based work.
Healing from trauma begins in a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported. If you find yourself stuck in patterns like people-pleasing, self-doubt, emotional reactivity, or difficulty trusting others, you’re not alone. These often reflect deeper relational wounds. I work with adults and couples who want to better understand how past experiences shape the present—and begin to change the story. Together, we’ll explore what’s been weighing you down and support meaningful, lasting change.
I integrate trauma-informed approaches like Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and insight-based work.
Healing from trauma begins in a space where you feel safe, seen, and supported. If you find yourself stuck in patterns like people-pleasing, self-doubt, emotional reactivity, or difficulty trusting others, you’re not alone. These often reflect deeper relational wounds. I work with adults and couples who want to better understand how past experiences shape the present—and begin to change the story. Together, we’ll explore what’s been weighing you down and support meaningful, lasting change.
(587) 600-0593 View (587) 600-0593
Photo of Melanie Fox-Smith, Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MC, CNHC
Melanie Fox-Smith
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MC, CNHC
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2X
I also regularly draw from emotion focused, DBT, mindfulness, narrative and somatic parts work/ internal family systems therapies.
Hey, I'm Melanie, and I am so honoured to hold space for each of my clients. I approach counselling by addressing your concerns holistically, considering the context of your personal, relational, social and professional life. We will work collaboratively to create a safe, confidential, and supportive dynamic that fosters confidence and greater clarity, enabling you to effect the changes you wish to see. I offer a calm, welcoming, empathic counselling presence and maintain a structured, evidence-based and goal-oriented counselling process.
I also regularly draw from emotion focused, DBT, mindfulness, narrative and somatic parts work/ internal family systems therapies.
Hey, I'm Melanie, and I am so honoured to hold space for each of my clients. I approach counselling by addressing your concerns holistically, considering the context of your personal, relational, social and professional life. We will work collaboratively to create a safe, confidential, and supportive dynamic that fosters confidence and greater clarity, enabling you to effect the changes you wish to see. I offer a calm, welcoming, empathic counselling presence and maintain a structured, evidence-based and goal-oriented counselling process.
(587) 853-5410 View (587) 853-5410
Photo of Melanie Fox-Smith, Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MC, CHNC, CCC
Melanie Fox-Smith
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MC, CHNC, CCC
Calgary, AB T2C
I also regularly draw from emotion focused, DBT, mindfulness, narrative and internal family systems therapies.
Are you looking to thrive and not just get by? Do you want to feel better? I approach counselling by addressing your concerns holistically, considering the context of your personal, relational, social and professional life. We will work collaboratively to create a safe, confidential, and supportive dynamic that fosters confidence and greater clarity, enabling you to effect the changes you wish to see. I offer a calm, welcoming, empathic counselling presence and maintain a structured, evidence-based and goal-oriented counselling process.
I also regularly draw from emotion focused, DBT, mindfulness, narrative and internal family systems therapies.
Are you looking to thrive and not just get by? Do you want to feel better? I approach counselling by addressing your concerns holistically, considering the context of your personal, relational, social and professional life. We will work collaboratively to create a safe, confidential, and supportive dynamic that fosters confidence and greater clarity, enabling you to effect the changes you wish to see. I offer a calm, welcoming, empathic counselling presence and maintain a structured, evidence-based and goal-oriented counselling process.
(587) 210-1067 View (587) 210-1067
Photo of Graham Nelson-Zutter - Aestra Counselling & Wellness, Counsellor, RPC, RTC
Aestra Counselling & Wellness
Counsellor, RPC, RTC
Calgary, AB T2A
We have formal training in Existential Analysis (EA), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, Somatic Release, Reiki, Sound Bath, Motivational Coaching.
Aestra Counselling & Wellness offers sliding scale sessions at a rate between $50 to $100 with our candidate counsellors completing their practicum work. Are you looking to live with more ease and authentically? Would you like to connect to your values in deeper ways that help you be more authentic in you relationship with yourself and with others? All of our practitioners practice person centred therapies that are designed to help you connect to yourself in a deeper way that engages your own internal wisdom and balance.
We have formal training in Existential Analysis (EA), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Narrative Therapy, Somatic Release, Reiki, Sound Bath, Motivational Coaching.
Aestra Counselling & Wellness offers sliding scale sessions at a rate between $50 to $100 with our candidate counsellors completing their practicum work. Are you looking to live with more ease and authentically? Would you like to connect to your values in deeper ways that help you be more authentic in you relationship with yourself and with others? All of our practitioners practice person centred therapies that are designed to help you connect to yourself in a deeper way that engages your own internal wisdom and balance.
(778) 743-3589 View (778) 743-3589
Photo of Keirsten Provost - Keirsten Provost Counselling, Counsellor, MPCC, RPC
Keirsten Provost Counselling
Counsellor, MPCC, RPC
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3H
Difficulties in relationships - family, friends or work - can cause, sadness, distance, trauma and even loss of self.
Online booking available through my website. Accepting NEW Patients. Life can be overwhelming and confusing. We need a compassionate witness to see us and hear us. We need to be validated and understood, challenged, and encouraged. Begin. It's time.
Difficulties in relationships - family, friends or work - can cause, sadness, distance, trauma and even loss of self.
Online booking available through my website. Accepting NEW Patients. Life can be overwhelming and confusing. We need a compassionate witness to see us and hear us. We need to be validated and understood, challenged, and encouraged. Begin. It's time.
(855) 980-0859 View (855) 980-0859
Photo of Dianne Kuglin, Counsellor, MALM, MC, CPC, CCAC, CT
Dianne Kuglin
Counsellor, MALM, MC, CPC, CCAC, CT
Serves Area
Specialty areas of counselling are sex or pornography addiction, co-dependency, drug and alcohol addiction, dysfunctional families, family of origin issues, grief and loss, trauma, infidelity, partners of sexual betrayal, and spiritual care
I have both professional training and personal experience with hard and painful situations. Whether you feel hopeless, unsettled, conflicted or downright angry at your circumstances or maybe you just sense there is way more to this life than you are currently experiencing, I believe I can help. With my direct approach, it won’t take long to get to the heart of the issues, the core problems, so we can work together to find the best possible solutions. I come alongside individuals or couples, adults and teens, to help understand or change perspective so you can rewrite the narrative of your life.
Specialty areas of counselling are sex or pornography addiction, co-dependency, drug and alcohol addiction, dysfunctional families, family of origin issues, grief and loss, trauma, infidelity, partners of sexual betrayal, and spiritual care
I have both professional training and personal experience with hard and painful situations. Whether you feel hopeless, unsettled, conflicted or downright angry at your circumstances or maybe you just sense there is way more to this life than you are currently experiencing, I believe I can help. With my direct approach, it won’t take long to get to the heart of the issues, the core problems, so we can work together to find the best possible solutions. I come alongside individuals or couples, adults and teens, to help understand or change perspective so you can rewrite the narrative of your life.
(587) 842-5120 View (587) 842-5120
Photo of Rob Wolf, Counsellor, CCC, MEd, MA, BEd
Rob Wolf
Counsellor, CCC, MEd, MA, BEd
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have experience working with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief, adjustment to a family member’s illness and many other life stressors.
I will sit with you, listen to you, work with you to determine where you are and where you want to go. Then we will make a plan to help you move forward to a place that allows you to realize more of who you are and what you need.
I have experience working with people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief, adjustment to a family member’s illness and many other life stressors.
I will sit with you, listen to you, work with you to determine where you are and where you want to go. Then we will make a plan to help you move forward to a place that allows you to realize more of who you are and what you need.
(782) 823-3314 View (782) 823-3314
Photo of Samu Ndhlovu, Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, RTC, CCAC, CCTAP
Samu Ndhlovu
Drug & Alcohol Counsellor, RTC, CCAC, CCTAP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I structure my counselling style by incorporating elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Family Systems and Trauma Informed Care.
I have been a counsellor for 13 years, helping people with struggles such as, depression and amotivation. I specialize in addictions and I work with adult individuals or couples who are dealing with substance use and other addictive behaviours. I also work with families that have been impacted by their loved one's addiction and provide group support.
I structure my counselling style by incorporating elements of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Family Systems and Trauma Informed Care.
I have been a counsellor for 13 years, helping people with struggles such as, depression and amotivation. I specialize in addictions and I work with adult individuals or couples who are dealing with substance use and other addictive behaviours. I also work with families that have been impacted by their loved one's addiction and provide group support.
(249) 802-8122 View (249) 802-8122
Photo of Tracy Dean, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RCSW, MSW
Tracy Dean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RCSW, MSW
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am highly trained and skilled in a variety of modalities such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to name a few.
I am proud to provide a high level of skill and expertise to adults and couples. If you are struggling managing life stressors, mental health challenges or behaviours that are preventing you from living the life you desire, we can help. I have experience working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, addictions, grief/loss, life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationships, relationship issues, anger and trauma, to name a few. In terms of couples, many come to couples therapy dealing with challenges such as communication issues, difficulties around sex, affairs, or considering a breakup.
I am highly trained and skilled in a variety of modalities such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to name a few.
I am proud to provide a high level of skill and expertise to adults and couples. If you are struggling managing life stressors, mental health challenges or behaviours that are preventing you from living the life you desire, we can help. I have experience working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, addictions, grief/loss, life transitions, anxiety, depression, relationships, relationship issues, anger and trauma, to name a few. In terms of couples, many come to couples therapy dealing with challenges such as communication issues, difficulties around sex, affairs, or considering a breakup.
(587) 209-5919 View (587) 209-5919
Photo of Alice Wilmes, Licensed Professional Counsellor, MA, RPC, CT, CCTP
Alice Wilmes
Licensed Professional Counsellor, MA, RPC, CT, CCTP
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a registered counselor with extended experience and specialized training in various modalities including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Attachment-Focused Therapy, and Somatic and Mindfulness-Based Approaches.
Are you ready to feel connected again, to let go of trauma, dysfunctional habits, and fears that have prevented you from moving forward and reaching your goals? I can help. I work in the areas of self-esteem, emotional regulation, eating disorders, addictions, relationships, work, and overall fulfillment in life. Whether you are caught in destructive patterns, experiencing anxiety, depression, panic, unexplainable sadness, or disconnection from yourself, together we can work to help you gain a sense of grounding, safety, healing, and freedom.
I am a registered counselor with extended experience and specialized training in various modalities including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Attachment-Focused Therapy, and Somatic and Mindfulness-Based Approaches.
Are you ready to feel connected again, to let go of trauma, dysfunctional habits, and fears that have prevented you from moving forward and reaching your goals? I can help. I work in the areas of self-esteem, emotional regulation, eating disorders, addictions, relationships, work, and overall fulfillment in life. Whether you are caught in destructive patterns, experiencing anxiety, depression, panic, unexplainable sadness, or disconnection from yourself, together we can work to help you gain a sense of grounding, safety, healing, and freedom.
(825) 250-3497 View (825) 250-3497
Photo of Colin Auschrat, Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Colin Auschrat
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
3 Endorsed
Online Only
You and family members can be in different places.
Available evenings and weekends. I take a person centred approach, believing that every client is different and therefore match my approach to where they are on their journey towards health and wellness. I believe in working from the client's point of reference and building strengths and capacities. As a Registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists I have worked with a variety of different clients: individuals, couples, and families, I particularly enjoy working with the dynamics of a couple, I also enjoy working with men's mental health issues and depression.
You and family members can be in different places.
Available evenings and weekends. I take a person centred approach, believing that every client is different and therefore match my approach to where they are on their journey towards health and wellness. I believe in working from the client's point of reference and building strengths and capacities. As a Registered Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists I have worked with a variety of different clients: individuals, couples, and families, I particularly enjoy working with the dynamics of a couple, I also enjoy working with men's mental health issues and depression.
(825) 906-5649 View (825) 906-5649

See more therapy options for Calgary

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.