Photo of Jan Gilroy, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Jan Gilroy
Psychologist, MSc, RPsyc
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2M
I work from an overall frame of Mindfulness, incorporating other orientations as needed including Sensorimotor, EMDR, Internal Family Systems Therapy, CBT and Solution Focused Therapies.
Are you looking for a safer space to be, to learn, to explore and to heal. If so, we have a connection already, I am passionate about working with people who are experiencing the impacts of attachment wounds and trauma. I have considerable experience and a unique enthusiasm to work with trauma, relationship concerns, anxiety, self-esteem, anger and depression. My primary focus for the last six years has been sexual violence, childhood sexual abuse and sexual assault. If you want to have a better understanding of yourself , have skills to cope, and generally feel better; I can support you.
I work from an overall frame of Mindfulness, incorporating other orientations as needed including Sensorimotor, EMDR, Internal Family Systems Therapy, CBT and Solution Focused Therapies.
Are you looking for a safer space to be, to learn, to explore and to heal. If so, we have a connection already, I am passionate about working with people who are experiencing the impacts of attachment wounds and trauma. I have considerable experience and a unique enthusiasm to work with trauma, relationship concerns, anxiety, self-esteem, anger and depression. My primary focus for the last six years has been sexual violence, childhood sexual abuse and sexual assault. If you want to have a better understanding of yourself , have skills to cope, and generally feel better; I can support you.
(587) 887-4047 View (587) 887-4047
Photo of Angela Normand, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Angela Normand
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2Z
I have a great passion for working within family systems, offering specialized services to parents of children with disabilities as well as those navigating sexuality or gender transitions.
You're here! This step is often the hardest part! Life can be hard... I get it! The stuff that makes life tricky shapes how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we make sense of the world. Life experiences form our core beliefs that often get in the way of living the life you desire. As an attachment-based therapist, I work hard to create a safe space where you can confront the tough stuff and begin to rewrite your story. I show up with compassion, acceptance, and humour, to dig into what is getting in the way of you living your truth.
I have a great passion for working within family systems, offering specialized services to parents of children with disabilities as well as those navigating sexuality or gender transitions.
You're here! This step is often the hardest part! Life can be hard... I get it! The stuff that makes life tricky shapes how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we make sense of the world. Life experiences form our core beliefs that often get in the way of living the life you desire. As an attachment-based therapist, I work hard to create a safe space where you can confront the tough stuff and begin to rewrite your story. I show up with compassion, acceptance, and humour, to dig into what is getting in the way of you living your truth.
(587) 400-2145 View (587) 400-2145
Photo of Paloma Scott, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Paloma Scott
Psychologist, MA, in, Psych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2H
Scott is a registered Psychologist in Alberta and a provider with Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD), Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), and Workers Compensation Board (WCB).
Mrs. Scott has twenty three years of experience in providing psychotherapy to children, teens, adults, couples and families from different backgrounds with Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Tic Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Specific Learning Disorder, giftedness. Mrs. Scott helps clients with emotional self-regulation, anger management, social skills, defiance, social anxiety, separation, grieving, and parenting skills. Her goal is to genuinely support people to develop skills, build resilience and excel their lives towards growth, healing, plenitude and success.
Scott is a registered Psychologist in Alberta and a provider with Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD), Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), and Workers Compensation Board (WCB).
Mrs. Scott has twenty three years of experience in providing psychotherapy to children, teens, adults, couples and families from different backgrounds with Depression, Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Tic Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Specific Learning Disorder, giftedness. Mrs. Scott helps clients with emotional self-regulation, anger management, social skills, defiance, social anxiety, separation, grieving, and parenting skills. Her goal is to genuinely support people to develop skills, build resilience and excel their lives towards growth, healing, plenitude and success.
(587) 844-0549 View (587) 844-0549
Photo of Lawson Collab, Counsellor in Calgary, AB
Lawson Collab
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2S
Are you on a quest to unravel personal challenges, navigate complex relationships, or elevate family bonds? Dive into sessions meticulously crafted for your distinctive journey. Book your appointment at www.lawsoncollab.com and begin your transformation today!
Are you on a quest to unravel personal challenges, navigate complex relationships, or elevate family bonds? Dive into sessions meticulously crafted for your distinctive journey. Book your appointment at www.lawsoncollab.com and begin your transformation today!
(587) 806-3921 View (587) 806-3921
Photo of Patricia Franklin Burns, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Patricia Franklin Burns
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2S
Waitlist for new clients
I work with families navigating transitions and life's challenges using a family systemes approach.
We all have our stories. Our past experiences shape the way we see ourselves and the world. Our conversations can help you understand these stories and offer the opportunity to rewrite old stories and craft new ones. You might wonder what makes these conversations with me different than ones you’ve had with friends and family. First off, the space and time is specifically designed for you. I can offer you a safe space where you will be encouraged to explore, with courage, how you see yourself, how you function in the world, and how you connect to others. Although this is hard work, we might even laugh along the way.
I work with families navigating transitions and life's challenges using a family systemes approach.
We all have our stories. Our past experiences shape the way we see ourselves and the world. Our conversations can help you understand these stories and offer the opportunity to rewrite old stories and craft new ones. You might wonder what makes these conversations with me different than ones you’ve had with friends and family. First off, the space and time is specifically designed for you. I can offer you a safe space where you will be encouraged to explore, with courage, how you see yourself, how you function in the world, and how you connect to others. Although this is hard work, we might even laugh along the way.
(587) 414-6081 View (587) 414-6081
Photo of Georginia Nwoke, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Georginia Nwoke
Psychologist, MSc, PGCE, GCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2L
I walk side by side with you in your healing journey. I am a registered Psychologist in Alberta, specializing in Addictions and Trauma, Family Issues, Clinical Assessments, Immigration / Refugee, FASD, ADHD, Relationships, Abandonment, Borderline, Adult children from Addictions backgrounds, Anxiety, Anger, Depression, and Parenting. I have over 12 years experience in addictions and mental health ;and a global 12years experience working in education with children, teenagers and adults. I am also passionate about raising a healthy family. I am a published author [110 Nuggets for Excellent Parenting] and a motivational speaker.
I walk side by side with you in your healing journey. I am a registered Psychologist in Alberta, specializing in Addictions and Trauma, Family Issues, Clinical Assessments, Immigration / Refugee, FASD, ADHD, Relationships, Abandonment, Borderline, Adult children from Addictions backgrounds, Anxiety, Anger, Depression, and Parenting. I have over 12 years experience in addictions and mental health ;and a global 12years experience working in education with children, teenagers and adults. I am also passionate about raising a healthy family. I am a published author [110 Nuggets for Excellent Parenting] and a motivational speaker.
(587) 804-2626 View (587) 804-2626
Photo of Brianna Matchett, Counsellor in Calgary, AB
Brianna Matchett
Counsellor, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2T
I have been a counselling therapist for over half a decade, grew up in a rural community with a large family and now live in Calgary with my husband of seven years and two children.
My goal in therapy is to cultivate a space where you will feel genuinely heard and understood. I offer a comfortable space marked by empathy and acceptance, in which anyone is welcomed to voice issues and concerns. I enjoy working with youth, adolescents, couples, and families and bring a gentle and empathetic presence to each client session. I understand that you may desire to integrate spirituality into your therapy, and am willing to use my Christian faith, and other spiritual resources to guide you through difficulty and challenge.
I have been a counselling therapist for over half a decade, grew up in a rural community with a large family and now live in Calgary with my husband of seven years and two children.
My goal in therapy is to cultivate a space where you will feel genuinely heard and understood. I offer a comfortable space marked by empathy and acceptance, in which anyone is welcomed to voice issues and concerns. I enjoy working with youth, adolescents, couples, and families and bring a gentle and empathetic presence to each client session. I understand that you may desire to integrate spirituality into your therapy, and am willing to use my Christian faith, and other spiritual resources to guide you through difficulty and challenge.
(587) 804-3645 View (587) 804-3645
Photo of DC Therapy / Dunia Clemente, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calgary, AB
DC Therapy / Dunia Clemente
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, RSW, RMFT-Sq
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3G
I am a trauma-focused, non-judgmental, systemic/relational, collaborative, and culturally sensitive couple and family therapist.
Hi,...Are you looking to reconnect and find love in your relationships as a couple or in your family? What is your story? Are you experiencing a lack of communication, connection, or are you struggling to navigate conflict? These concerns could be led to developing negative interacting patterns, feeling lost, depressed, angry, frustrated, overwhelmed and being unsure of how to move forward. If you need help, I am here to support you. I will help you to reflect, generate hope, feel safe, reconnect and heal through understanding and breaking negative patterns of interactions that could be impacting your life and relationships.
I am a trauma-focused, non-judgmental, systemic/relational, collaborative, and culturally sensitive couple and family therapist.
Hi,...Are you looking to reconnect and find love in your relationships as a couple or in your family? What is your story? Are you experiencing a lack of communication, connection, or are you struggling to navigate conflict? These concerns could be led to developing negative interacting patterns, feeling lost, depressed, angry, frustrated, overwhelmed and being unsure of how to move forward. If you need help, I am here to support you. I will help you to reflect, generate hope, feel safe, reconnect and heal through understanding and breaking negative patterns of interactions that could be impacting your life and relationships.
(825) 250-3491 View (825) 250-3491
Photo of Kathleen Kelava, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Kathleen Kelava
Psychologist, BComm, MC
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2R
I have worked extensively with children, youth, parents, adults, and families, and the challenges associated with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, peer/family relations, and related diagnoses/experiences.
I am constantly amazed at the resilience we all show, as we navigate our lives amidst the challenges that invariably arise! Sometimes the demands on us outweigh the resources we have available in that moment. It takes a courageous person to recognize the need for, and to request and accept, support. I am honoured every time clients invite me to join them along their journeys toward improved insight, skill, interaction, and overall living.
I have worked extensively with children, youth, parents, adults, and families, and the challenges associated with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Learning Disabilities, peer/family relations, and related diagnoses/experiences.
I am constantly amazed at the resilience we all show, as we navigate our lives amidst the challenges that invariably arise! Sometimes the demands on us outweigh the resources we have available in that moment. It takes a courageous person to recognize the need for, and to request and accept, support. I am honoured every time clients invite me to join them along their journeys toward improved insight, skill, interaction, and overall living.
(587) 207-8856 View (587) 207-8856
Photo of Jenn Labrecque, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Jenn Labrecque
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
My therapeutic philosophy incorporates an eclectic approach that includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), and other techniques tailored to meet the needs of the individual or family.
Therapy offers us the opportunity to have the support we need to examine those areas of our lives we find painful, confusing, and challenging. My goal is to help you through any difficulties you are experiencing so that you can have better relationships and feel better about yourself. Topics of interest include depression and anxiety, relationship problems, addiction, self-harming behaviour, trauma and PTSD, life transitions, as well as pet loss.
My therapeutic philosophy incorporates an eclectic approach that includes Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), and other techniques tailored to meet the needs of the individual or family.
Therapy offers us the opportunity to have the support we need to examine those areas of our lives we find painful, confusing, and challenging. My goal is to help you through any difficulties you are experiencing so that you can have better relationships and feel better about yourself. Topics of interest include depression and anxiety, relationship problems, addiction, self-harming behaviour, trauma and PTSD, life transitions, as well as pet loss.
(587) 600-7941 View (587) 600-7941
Photo of Samantha Kerr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Samantha Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2M
Hello and welcome. Are you looking to make lasting changes in your life? Are you seeking more balance and deeper connections with others? If so, therapy can be a great way to help you identify what is both causing and maintaining various problems in your life and ways of overcoming them. If you are navigating issues of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, attachment difficulties, or other life challenges, you have come to the right place. I specialize in life transitions including birth and death, family and relationship conflict, including alternative relationships (i.e. non-monogamy), and attachment issues.
Hello and welcome. Are you looking to make lasting changes in your life? Are you seeking more balance and deeper connections with others? If so, therapy can be a great way to help you identify what is both causing and maintaining various problems in your life and ways of overcoming them. If you are navigating issues of anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, attachment difficulties, or other life challenges, you have come to the right place. I specialize in life transitions including birth and death, family and relationship conflict, including alternative relationships (i.e. non-monogamy), and attachment issues.
(587) 856-0549 View (587) 856-0549
Photo of Katie Domries, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Katie Domries
Psychologist, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2R
Please reach out if you’d like to know more, or to explore whether I would be a good fit for you or your family member.
Life is hard! We may be faced with challenges from the time we are young, and sometimes the struggles come later in life. Sometimes we lose ourselves along the way. The good news is that things can change and you are already stronger and wiser than you realize! I believe in the power of human resiliency and people’s capacity for personal growth. You are the expert on your own life, and whether you are working to heal from a past trauma, trying to improve your relationship skills, overcome struggles with anxiety or depression, increase your sense of self-worth, dealing with a loss, or just working to find yourself again. I can help!
Please reach out if you’d like to know more, or to explore whether I would be a good fit for you or your family member.
Life is hard! We may be faced with challenges from the time we are young, and sometimes the struggles come later in life. Sometimes we lose ourselves along the way. The good news is that things can change and you are already stronger and wiser than you realize! I believe in the power of human resiliency and people’s capacity for personal growth. You are the expert on your own life, and whether you are working to heal from a past trauma, trying to improve your relationship skills, overcome struggles with anxiety or depression, increase your sense of self-worth, dealing with a loss, or just working to find yourself again. I can help!
(587) 210-2297 View (587) 210-2297
Photo of C. Alecia White, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
C. Alecia White
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2P  (Online Only)
Using an intersectional lens, I support with various challenges including life transitions, codependency, racialized trauma, gender/sexuality concerns, family/relationship conflict and communication difficulties.
For the last 16 years, I have worked as a Social Worker with countless communities, including racialized communities, sexual violence survivors, homeless folx, women, youth and families, addictions, and MVA survivors. I currently work for the University of Toronto as a Student Mental Health and Wellness Program Manager, a role focused on supporting and developing student mental health initiatives. Armed with both experience and understanding, I work to build trust and carefully tailored care for the communities I support; primarily specializing in trauma, mood, anxiety, and adjustment concerns.
Using an intersectional lens, I support with various challenges including life transitions, codependency, racialized trauma, gender/sexuality concerns, family/relationship conflict and communication difficulties.
For the last 16 years, I have worked as a Social Worker with countless communities, including racialized communities, sexual violence survivors, homeless folx, women, youth and families, addictions, and MVA survivors. I currently work for the University of Toronto as a Student Mental Health and Wellness Program Manager, a role focused on supporting and developing student mental health initiatives. Armed with both experience and understanding, I work to build trust and carefully tailored care for the communities I support; primarily specializing in trauma, mood, anxiety, and adjustment concerns.
(647) 370-8145 View (647) 370-8145
Photo of Sheryl Field, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Sheryl Field
Psychologist, MACP, BN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2C
Following an extensive and rewarding career as a registered nurse, with experience in critical care, cardiology, and family medicine, I have thoroughly enjoyed learning how I can better help others who are in need of support. I have worked alongside adult individuals who have endured developmental and acute trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, addiction, and life transitions including relationship and parenting support. It is a privilege to walk alongside my clients as they grow and expand in self-awareness, self-determination, compassion for themselves, and overall confidence to live their best life.
Following an extensive and rewarding career as a registered nurse, with experience in critical care, cardiology, and family medicine, I have thoroughly enjoyed learning how I can better help others who are in need of support. I have worked alongside adult individuals who have endured developmental and acute trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, addiction, and life transitions including relationship and parenting support. It is a privilege to walk alongside my clients as they grow and expand in self-awareness, self-determination, compassion for themselves, and overall confidence to live their best life.
(587) 412-5144 View (587) 412-5144
Photo of Healthy Minds Psychology, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Healthy Minds Psychology
Psychologist, MSc, BSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2P  (Online Only)
Including self-regulation of moods (anxiety & depression), trauma (physical & emotional), family dynamics, emotional regulation, relationships, workplace conflict, anger management, motor vehicle accident (trauma & pain), and grief & loss.
Are you feeling stuck and what you are used to doing isn’t working anymore? Are you ready to take the next step towards creating a happier life for yourself and in your relationships? Using a positive, strength and thought-based psychological approach; I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to help them achieve their goals and move in a healthier direction. I can help you work on building and adapting your current life skills and abilities to generate healthy skill-sets to reach your personal goals and increase success in your daily life, relationships and career.
Including self-regulation of moods (anxiety & depression), trauma (physical & emotional), family dynamics, emotional regulation, relationships, workplace conflict, anger management, motor vehicle accident (trauma & pain), and grief & loss.
Are you feeling stuck and what you are used to doing isn’t working anymore? Are you ready to take the next step towards creating a happier life for yourself and in your relationships? Using a positive, strength and thought-based psychological approach; I enjoy working collaboratively with clients to help them achieve their goals and move in a healthier direction. I can help you work on building and adapting your current life skills and abilities to generate healthy skill-sets to reach your personal goals and increase success in your daily life, relationships and career.
(587) 804-5547 View (587) 804-5547
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 Pragya Sharma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Pragya Sharma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T1X
Waitlist for new clients
, working with the body), parts work (informed by internal family systems), and EMDR.
I work predominantly with folks who are racialized, 2SLGBTIQ, neurodivergent, and/or disabled. Often, those I work with have been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder; experience identity-based trauma; struggle with relationships, emotional regulation, or impulsivity; want greater self-awareness or understanding; want to feel a sense of belonging, connection, and safety; or generally, want more joy in their lives.
, working with the body), parts work (informed by internal family systems), and EMDR.
I work predominantly with folks who are racialized, 2SLGBTIQ, neurodivergent, and/or disabled. Often, those I work with have been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder; experience identity-based trauma; struggle with relationships, emotional regulation, or impulsivity; want greater self-awareness or understanding; want to feel a sense of belonging, connection, and safety; or generally, want more joy in their lives.
(825) 250-3749 View (825) 250-3749
Photo of Lesley Lacny, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Lesley Lacny
Psychologist, MA, CPsych, RPsych, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2A  (Online Only)
We can make change in our lives by understanding why we feel the way we do and by being in tune with who we are. Once we get to know ourselves better, we have the power to grow and overcome barriers. Whether you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression or anger, or if you are encountering family challenges, relationship problems, or addictions, I can help you make the change you are looking for in a safe, open and nurturing environment.
We can make change in our lives by understanding why we feel the way we do and by being in tune with who we are. Once we get to know ourselves better, we have the power to grow and overcome barriers. Whether you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression or anger, or if you are encountering family challenges, relationship problems, or addictions, I can help you make the change you are looking for in a safe, open and nurturing environment.
(647) 695-3577 View (647) 695-3577
Photo of Renee Edison, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Renee Edison
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3L  (Online Only)
To the outside world, you may appear to function well. But on the inside, you might be in a constant state of anxiety and discomfort. It can be frustrating and confusing when life looks good on the outside but doesn’t feel as good on the inside. You might find that you spiral into overwhelming worry and fear of losing control. You might have anxiety about having anxiety. You might feel stuck, and held back in life. I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and burnout.
To the outside world, you may appear to function well. But on the inside, you might be in a constant state of anxiety and discomfort. It can be frustrating and confusing when life looks good on the outside but doesn’t feel as good on the inside. You might find that you spiral into overwhelming worry and fear of losing control. You might have anxiety about having anxiety. You might feel stuck, and held back in life. I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and burnout.
(587) 812-8386 View (587) 812-8386
Photo of Sally Merrick, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Sally Merrick
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3K
Hi there! I believe in approaching mental health holistically and experientially. I work from a neurobiological and trauma-informed perspective. I utilize body-centred approaches, emotion-focused approaches, and mindfulness in my work with clients. I believe in helping clients develop self-awareness and a deeper understanding of the more unconscious feelings and beliefs that influence thoughts and behaviours. In doing this, we are able to address the root of the issue to create lasting change.
Hi there! I believe in approaching mental health holistically and experientially. I work from a neurobiological and trauma-informed perspective. I utilize body-centred approaches, emotion-focused approaches, and mindfulness in my work with clients. I believe in helping clients develop self-awareness and a deeper understanding of the more unconscious feelings and beliefs that influence thoughts and behaviours. In doing this, we are able to address the root of the issue to create lasting change.
(587) 803-8226 View (587) 803-8226

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.