Photo of Tanya Tonellato. Registered Counselling Therapist in Calgary, AB
Tanya Tonellato. Registered Counselling Therapist
RN, MN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
I enact an integrative approach, drawing from the modalities of solution focused brief therapy (SFBT), narrative therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, psychoeducation, family systems, collaborative problem solving, mindfulness.
I have over 30 years of experience working therapeutically with individuals from all walks of life and look forward to honoring your lived experience and supporting you in your journey toward living a rewarding, authentic life. I have a keen interest in the areas of depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, communication, addiction, and mental health issues, postpartum, grief, relationships, and conflict. I feel my addiction and mental health nursing experience along with my counselling experience bridges the medical model and the psychosocial/behavioral models to empower you to become your best self.
I enact an integrative approach, drawing from the modalities of solution focused brief therapy (SFBT), narrative therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, psychoeducation, family systems, collaborative problem solving, mindfulness.
I have over 30 years of experience working therapeutically with individuals from all walks of life and look forward to honoring your lived experience and supporting you in your journey toward living a rewarding, authentic life. I have a keen interest in the areas of depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, communication, addiction, and mental health issues, postpartum, grief, relationships, and conflict. I feel my addiction and mental health nursing experience along with my counselling experience bridges the medical model and the psychosocial/behavioral models to empower you to become your best self.
(587) 419-6774 View (587) 419-6774
Photo of Jennifer Estrela, Registered Psychotherapist in Calgary, AB
Jennifer Estrela
Registered Psychotherapist, Hon, BA, MACP
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2N
I offer virtual therapy across Canada and in my practice, I utilizes methods such as Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Emotional Focus Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Mindfullness to support and aid clients in their therapeutic journey.
I have worked with individuals, couples and families in a variety of settings. I am experienced in working with individuals of all ages who are battling with childhood traumas (sexual/physical abuse), and who struggle with a variety of mental health issues such as Tourettes, ADHD/ADD, Fetal Alcohol Effect, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Anxiety Disorder and OCD. I have over a decade of experience working with families in crisis, parent/teen conflict, relationship/marriage difficulties, custody/access conflict, addictions, survivors of sexual/physical abuse, depression, and anger management issues.
I offer virtual therapy across Canada and in my practice, I utilizes methods such as Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Emotional Focus Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Internal Family Systems and Mindfullness to support and aid clients in their therapeutic journey.
I have worked with individuals, couples and families in a variety of settings. I am experienced in working with individuals of all ages who are battling with childhood traumas (sexual/physical abuse), and who struggle with a variety of mental health issues such as Tourettes, ADHD/ADD, Fetal Alcohol Effect, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Anxiety Disorder and OCD. I have over a decade of experience working with families in crisis, parent/teen conflict, relationship/marriage difficulties, custody/access conflict, addictions, survivors of sexual/physical abuse, depression, and anger management issues.
(289) 206-8537 View (289) 206-8537
Photo of Steven Ngu, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Steven Ngu
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2Z
I may also integrate other approaches such as Mindfulness, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I believe that people achieve the best results when they are in an environment where they feel genuinely heard, welcomed, and understood. I offer my clients a comfortable space to voice their personal concerns without any judgement. I enjoy working with youth, adolescents, adults, couples, and families that present with a variety of different concerns. I have acquired valuable experience from my time with Calgary Counselling Centre, Distress Centre Calgary and within a school system in Calgary.
I may also integrate other approaches such as Mindfulness, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I believe that people achieve the best results when they are in an environment where they feel genuinely heard, welcomed, and understood. I offer my clients a comfortable space to voice their personal concerns without any judgement. I enjoy working with youth, adolescents, adults, couples, and families that present with a variety of different concerns. I have acquired valuable experience from my time with Calgary Counselling Centre, Distress Centre Calgary and within a school system in Calgary.
(587) 844-2159 View (587) 844-2159
Photo of Sara Ludu, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Sara Ludu
Psychologist, RPsych
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3H
I want to help you tap into your innate capacity to heal - help you become open to experience, learn to trust yourself, develop an internal evaluation of yourself and have a willingness to continue growing. In private practice, I provide individual, family, marital/relationship, and group counselling. I treat people across the lifespan including children, adolescents (e.g. navigating identity), adults (e.g. working through relationships, parenting, and career issues), and the elderly (grief and life transitions).
I want to help you tap into your innate capacity to heal - help you become open to experience, learn to trust yourself, develop an internal evaluation of yourself and have a willingness to continue growing. In private practice, I provide individual, family, marital/relationship, and group counselling. I treat people across the lifespan including children, adolescents (e.g. navigating identity), adults (e.g. working through relationships, parenting, and career issues), and the elderly (grief and life transitions).
(587) 317-6482 View (587) 317-6482
Photo of Jordan Burness, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Jordan Burness
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2R
Jordan known on social media as "the body image therapist YYC", is a Registered Clinical Social Worker in Alberta and Ontario who works with those aged 5 and up! Jordan 's enjoys working with those who are struggling with self-esteem, body image, relationship/ sex therapy concerns and eating disorders. She has been in the field of mental health since 2012 and is an experienced trauma therapist, family therapist and has expertise in working with children and young adults.
Jordan known on social media as "the body image therapist YYC", is a Registered Clinical Social Worker in Alberta and Ontario who works with those aged 5 and up! Jordan 's enjoys working with those who are struggling with self-esteem, body image, relationship/ sex therapy concerns and eating disorders. She has been in the field of mental health since 2012 and is an experienced trauma therapist, family therapist and has expertise in working with children and young adults.
(587) 847-3410 View (587) 847-3410
Photo of Jocelyn Pei-Chieh Hsu, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Jocelyn Pei-Chieh Hsu
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW, BSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You feel life is hard and you are a bit stuck. You feel overwhelmed by current challenges, perhaps exhausted from past trauma, and being anxious about the future. You are looking for some clarity and tools to feel less stressed. If this is the time that you are looking for growth and mental health wellbeing, I am here for you, offering sessions tailored towards your unique needs. Over 17 years, I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds, and assisted many of them in tough situations, including trauma in different life stages. I provide individual, couple, and family sessions to support you through challenging times.
You feel life is hard and you are a bit stuck. You feel overwhelmed by current challenges, perhaps exhausted from past trauma, and being anxious about the future. You are looking for some clarity and tools to feel less stressed. If this is the time that you are looking for growth and mental health wellbeing, I am here for you, offering sessions tailored towards your unique needs. Over 17 years, I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds, and assisted many of them in tough situations, including trauma in different life stages. I provide individual, couple, and family sessions to support you through challenging times.
(825) 254-7936 View (825) 254-7936
Photo of Ingenuity Psychological Resources, Inc., Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Ingenuity Psychological Resources, Inc.
Psychologist, MS, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2T
I am a clinical psychologist in Calgary, and provide individual, family, as well as group therapy. I also provide comprehensive psychological assessment services, as well as consultation to parents, schools, health care providers, and other professionals. My experience includes previous and current employment in the health care and educational sectors, including hospital and community settings. I typically practice from a cognitive-behavioural therapy model, and use a brief, solution focused approach to therapy. My work with couples and families tends to be more emotionally focused, attachment based, and I use a family systems approach.
I am a clinical psychologist in Calgary, and provide individual, family, as well as group therapy. I also provide comprehensive psychological assessment services, as well as consultation to parents, schools, health care providers, and other professionals. My experience includes previous and current employment in the health care and educational sectors, including hospital and community settings. I typically practice from a cognitive-behavioural therapy model, and use a brief, solution focused approach to therapy. My work with couples and families tends to be more emotionally focused, attachment based, and I use a family systems approach.
(866) 942-9394 View (866) 942-9394
Photo of Emily Gauthier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Emily Gauthier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2M
Starting therapy is often the hardest part, my priority will be to make it a valuable experience for you and/or your family.
I am Emily. I am a mental health therapist specializing in trauma, attachment, grief & loss, and child development. I provide individual and relationship focused psychological services with children, youth & adults. My clinical work with kiddos includes a fun and inviting space to promote creative expression, emotional awareness, self regulation/co-regulation, mindfulness, healing and growth. I enjoy working with caregivers in parent counselling to help strengthen responsive parenting approaches, along with integrating somatic psychotherapy practices focused on stress management and strengthening parent capacity and confidence.
Starting therapy is often the hardest part, my priority will be to make it a valuable experience for you and/or your family.
I am Emily. I am a mental health therapist specializing in trauma, attachment, grief & loss, and child development. I provide individual and relationship focused psychological services with children, youth & adults. My clinical work with kiddos includes a fun and inviting space to promote creative expression, emotional awareness, self regulation/co-regulation, mindfulness, healing and growth. I enjoy working with caregivers in parent counselling to help strengthen responsive parenting approaches, along with integrating somatic psychotherapy practices focused on stress management and strengthening parent capacity and confidence.
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Photo of Shelley D Hanna, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Shelley D Hanna
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2X
I specialize in trauma related symptoms and concerns. As an EMDR certified therapist I can help with complex trauma, relational trauma, phobias, mood and relationship concerns. I offer treatment intensives and day retreats. Depression, anxiety relationship concerns are often symptoms of trauma and we can explore healing further with EMDR and somatic therapies. I also support individuals and their family members struggling with stress, behaviour problems, communication difficulties, marital concerns, and co-parenting issues after separation and divorce. often a little help can change the direction to a more positive one.
I specialize in trauma related symptoms and concerns. As an EMDR certified therapist I can help with complex trauma, relational trauma, phobias, mood and relationship concerns. I offer treatment intensives and day retreats. Depression, anxiety relationship concerns are often symptoms of trauma and we can explore healing further with EMDR and somatic therapies. I also support individuals and their family members struggling with stress, behaviour problems, communication difficulties, marital concerns, and co-parenting issues after separation and divorce. often a little help can change the direction to a more positive one.
(587) 333-0283 View (587) 333-0283
Photo of Cochrane Counselling Center - Adults/Couples, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Cochrane Counselling Center - Adults/Couples
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
Our team is highly trained and skilled in a variety of modalities such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Internal Family Systems to name a few.
We are 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. We 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.
Our team is highly trained and skilled in a variety of modalities such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy and Internal Family Systems to name a few.
We are 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. We 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.
(866) 874-7613 View (866) 874-7613
Photo of Jennifer Rioux, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Jennifer Rioux
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3M
My professional experience in community centres, addiction treatment centres & medical facilities addressing various addictions, mental health, personal, and family relational concerns has been a valuable part of my professional journey and I bring this expertise to my private practice.
I work with individuals & couples with a variety of issues including addictions, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship wellness, anger management, life stress, self-harm, infertility, unresolved trauma, grief, and sexual identity. I value a collaborative approach whether offering support or working to look at the thoughts, feelings, and behaviour that are keeping you stuck in unhealthy or unsatisfying patterns. My goal is to help you recognize your strengths and potential, increase positive life experiences, and build capacity to cope with life's struggles. LGBTQIA+ affirming.
My professional experience in community centres, addiction treatment centres & medical facilities addressing various addictions, mental health, personal, and family relational concerns has been a valuable part of my professional journey and I bring this expertise to my private practice.
I work with individuals & couples with a variety of issues including addictions, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship wellness, anger management, life stress, self-harm, infertility, unresolved trauma, grief, and sexual identity. I value a collaborative approach whether offering support or working to look at the thoughts, feelings, and behaviour that are keeping you stuck in unhealthy or unsatisfying patterns. My goal is to help you recognize your strengths and potential, increase positive life experiences, and build capacity to cope with life's struggles. LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(587) 850-2937 View (587) 850-2937
Photo of Sharon Obiye, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Sharon Obiye
Registered Social Worker, Bsc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3P  (Online Only)
Life is filed with some ups and downs, we pride ourselves in navigating different challenges we face but there are moment when we need a shoulder to lean on. Yiléa therapy services can be that shoulder not only to lean on but to offer assistance in navigating day to day challenges. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you struggling with combative or fearful thoughts? Are you anxious about day to day life decisions? Are you struggling with balancing societal expectations, personal needs and family expectations? Are you feeling unmotivated to do things you used to love? Are you struggling with your relationship with your partner?
Life is filed with some ups and downs, we pride ourselves in navigating different challenges we face but there are moment when we need a shoulder to lean on. Yiléa therapy services can be that shoulder not only to lean on but to offer assistance in navigating day to day challenges. Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are you struggling with combative or fearful thoughts? Are you anxious about day to day life decisions? Are you struggling with balancing societal expectations, personal needs and family expectations? Are you feeling unmotivated to do things you used to love? Are you struggling with your relationship with your partner?
(289) 513-3653 View (289) 513-3653
Photo of Arcadian Counselling & Therapy, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Arcadian Counselling & Therapy
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2T  (Online Only)
We specialize in treating trauma & abuse, behaviour issues, personality & mood disorders, addiction, anger, developmental disorders, stress, family & relationships, self-esteem, grief, child bearing issues, acculturation, domestic violence & psychosis management.
We understand how messy, intimidating, and overwhelming therapy can be. We strive to provide a supportive, non-judgemental space in our virtual sessions where you can enjoy the comforts of your own home. We have therapists who are able to address those pesky negative thoughts and who are able to pick a therapeutic approach based on your needs and goals. We want to encourage continued learning outside the counselling space by giving you the tools you need to do so. Client care and advocacy are important; if we don’t have the right tools you need, we won’t stop searching until we do!
We specialize in treating trauma & abuse, behaviour issues, personality & mood disorders, addiction, anger, developmental disorders, stress, family & relationships, self-esteem, grief, child bearing issues, acculturation, domestic violence & psychosis management.
We understand how messy, intimidating, and overwhelming therapy can be. We strive to provide a supportive, non-judgemental space in our virtual sessions where you can enjoy the comforts of your own home. We have therapists who are able to address those pesky negative thoughts and who are able to pick a therapeutic approach based on your needs and goals. We want to encourage continued learning outside the counselling space by giving you the tools you need to do so. Client care and advocacy are important; if we don’t have the right tools you need, we won’t stop searching until we do!
(306) 801-1119 View (306) 801-1119
Photo of Whitney Glaseman, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Whitney Glaseman
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2E
I create a supportive and collaborative space for individuals, couples and families to grow, and work toward their desired outcomes. I work with people with goals to reduce difficult emotions, improve relationships or careers, navigate life changes, and/or move through the grief process. This sometimes involves navigating symptoms of depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, manic depression, or personality disorder related challenges.
I create a supportive and collaborative space for individuals, couples and families to grow, and work toward their desired outcomes. I work with people with goals to reduce difficult emotions, improve relationships or careers, navigate life changes, and/or move through the grief process. This sometimes involves navigating symptoms of depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress, manic depression, or personality disorder related challenges.
(587) 841-0565 View (587) 841-0565
Photo of Shannon Loewen, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Shannon Loewen
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MSc, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2V
For me, well-being comes from the knowledge that no matter what life throws at you, you have the tools you need to courageously and compassionately face it. It comes from knowing that you have the strength and ability to cope with any uncertainty. And, we can face and get through anything when we know how to support ourselves. Many of us were not taught the skills or given the tools we need to get through life’s challenges. Nor were we taught how to treat ourselves in a loving, supportive way. We can change this.
For me, well-being comes from the knowledge that no matter what life throws at you, you have the tools you need to courageously and compassionately face it. It comes from knowing that you have the strength and ability to cope with any uncertainty. And, we can face and get through anything when we know how to support ourselves. Many of us were not taught the skills or given the tools we need to get through life’s challenges. Nor were we taught how to treat ourselves in a loving, supportive way. We can change this.
(587) 295-0444 View (587) 295-0444
Photo of Kirsten Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Kirsten Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3H
Hi! I'm Kirsten. I hold a Masters in Social Work with a clinical focus and I am Registered Clinical Social Worker. Additionally, I am just starting the journey of my Doctorate of Social Work, clinical Trauma specialization through Barry University. I take pride and care in my work as I always want to ensure each client's voice is heard in therapy. I have heavily focused my career in trauma-informed practice and believe this is the way to be true and open-hearted with all clients.
Hi! I'm Kirsten. I hold a Masters in Social Work with a clinical focus and I am Registered Clinical Social Worker. Additionally, I am just starting the journey of my Doctorate of Social Work, clinical Trauma specialization through Barry University. I take pride and care in my work as I always want to ensure each client's voice is heard in therapy. I have heavily focused my career in trauma-informed practice and believe this is the way to be true and open-hearted with all clients.
(825) 250-3772 x104 View (825) 250-3772 x104
Photo of Labiba Majeed, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Labiba Majeed
Psychologist, MACP, RPsych
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3G
I started my practice to create a space that is healing, safe, and accepting to help you become more resilient, empowered, and content. Life is often difficult, confusing, and disappointing, but you are much more than your bad days, bad months or bad years. I believe that healing comes from recognizing your true self, living authentically, and balancing acceptance and change. With consistency and commitment, it is possible to break out of patterns that no longer serve a purpose. I offer a judgment-free space where I aim to support you in living the life you want, with peace and conviction. Your goals for yourself are within reach.
I started my practice to create a space that is healing, safe, and accepting to help you become more resilient, empowered, and content. Life is often difficult, confusing, and disappointing, but you are much more than your bad days, bad months or bad years. I believe that healing comes from recognizing your true self, living authentically, and balancing acceptance and change. With consistency and commitment, it is possible to break out of patterns that no longer serve a purpose. I offer a judgment-free space where I aim to support you in living the life you want, with peace and conviction. Your goals for yourself are within reach.
(587) 907-5246 View (587) 907-5246
Photo of Gio Dolcecore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Gio Dolcecore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW, RMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3H
Hi, I’m Gio (they/them), and if you're reading this I'm assuming you're looking for a therapist. I hate to break it to you, but the "perfect" therapist doesn't exist. However, we could build a therapeutic relationship together that is the perfect solution to the reasons you're looking for a therapist. You might be feeling anxious, depressed, or scared - but you're also feeling ready for change. Try a free consultation with me and let's see if we'd make a good team to tackle some of those worries together.
Hi, I’m Gio (they/them), and if you're reading this I'm assuming you're looking for a therapist. I hate to break it to you, but the "perfect" therapist doesn't exist. However, we could build a therapeutic relationship together that is the perfect solution to the reasons you're looking for a therapist. You might be feeling anxious, depressed, or scared - but you're also feeling ready for change. Try a free consultation with me and let's see if we'd make a good team to tackle some of those worries together.
(587) 600-2924 View (587) 600-2924
Photo of Serena Shokar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Serena Shokar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2A
Hi & Welcome. My name is Serena Shokar (she/her), I am a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with a Masters Degree in Social Work (MSW). I am the founder of Five Rivers Counselling and Wellness Services. My practice is rooted in developing meaningful connections with my clients and co-creating a safe therapeutic space. Furthermore, I enter our time together with humility, care, and compassion. I believe that everyone deserves a personalized approach to therapy. My role is to understand who you are and your story.
Hi & Welcome. My name is Serena Shokar (she/her), I am a Registered Social Worker (RSW) with a Masters Degree in Social Work (MSW). I am the founder of Five Rivers Counselling and Wellness Services. My practice is rooted in developing meaningful connections with my clients and co-creating a safe therapeutic space. Furthermore, I enter our time together with humility, care, and compassion. I believe that everyone deserves a personalized approach to therapy. My role is to understand who you are and your story.
(587) 206-7089 View (587) 206-7089
Photo of Lucy Amadala, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Lucy Amadala
Psychologist, MSc, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2L
Are you currently in a situation where you need to re-route some aspects of your life? Changing habits without a skilled, compassionate guide can be tough. Or maybe you have struggled with a mental health illness such as Trauma, Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, etc. until you feel as though the problem is part of you. You want to change but are unsure how. I seek to support you as you name the problem, identify and own your strengths, plan for and implement the changes you desire for yourself. I am guided by the belief that people can and do want to change and my role as your therapist is to be your guide on the path to a better you.
Are you currently in a situation where you need to re-route some aspects of your life? Changing habits without a skilled, compassionate guide can be tough. Or maybe you have struggled with a mental health illness such as Trauma, Addiction, Anxiety, Depression, etc. until you feel as though the problem is part of you. You want to change but are unsure how. I seek to support you as you name the problem, identify and own your strengths, plan for and implement the changes you desire for yourself. I am guided by the belief that people can and do want to change and my role as your therapist is to be your guide on the path to a better you.
(587) 805-0707 View (587) 805-0707

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.