Photo of Oi-Wah Whitbourne, Counsellor in Calgary, AB
Oi-Wah Whitbourne
Counsellor, MA, CPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2E
Over 30 years, I have the privilege of talking to, listening to, walking with and praying for women & couples who struggle with their family, marital, and interpersonal relationships. In 2002, I graduated with a MA in counselling. Since then I have been counselling formally in the Calgary area. I love to help women to reconnect with God in their spiritual struggles and work on their relationships with others. I have journeyed with many women who experience domestic abuse. The vicious cycle has kept many in terrifying living situations. I also enjoy working with couples who love each other but have a hard time getting along.
Over 30 years, I have the privilege of talking to, listening to, walking with and praying for women & couples who struggle with their family, marital, and interpersonal relationships. In 2002, I graduated with a MA in counselling. Since then I have been counselling formally in the Calgary area. I love to help women to reconnect with God in their spiritual struggles and work on their relationships with others. I have journeyed with many women who experience domestic abuse. The vicious cycle has kept many in terrifying living situations. I also enjoy working with couples who love each other but have a hard time getting along.
(855) 818-0910 View (855) 818-0910
Photo of Grinman Psychology, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Grinman Psychology
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2V
I offer individual adult counselling, as well as family parenting sessions.
Has your life been turned upside down? Are you on an emotional rollercoaster? I can help... I am a Registered Psychologist with over twenty years of experience, as well as a mother of two wonderful girls. Via walking in nature within Calgary or online in Alberta or Ontario, I will guide you on a journey towards self-discovery by drawing from various proven, evidence-based therapeutic techniques. Together we will explore barriers from your past and present life that prevent you from attaining the path that you were meant to travel. I hope to have the honour of helping you overcome life's obstacles...
I offer individual adult counselling, as well as family parenting sessions.
Has your life been turned upside down? Are you on an emotional rollercoaster? I can help... I am a Registered Psychologist with over twenty years of experience, as well as a mother of two wonderful girls. Via walking in nature within Calgary or online in Alberta or Ontario, I will guide you on a journey towards self-discovery by drawing from various proven, evidence-based therapeutic techniques. Together we will explore barriers from your past and present life that prevent you from attaining the path that you were meant to travel. I hope to have the honour of helping you overcome life's obstacles...
(587) 207-5072 View (587) 207-5072
Photo of Susan Shores Psychological Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Susan Shores Psychological Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2H
We live amidst great challenges & complexity. More and more people are reaching out for the first time. A QUIET space awaits you. I'm told I have a FIERCE spirit & a GENTLE presence. I am both direct & compassionate. I believe in the inherent values & rights of ALL regardless of who you are; and where you've travelled. YOU are the EXPERT in your LIFE! I bring 25+ years of experience specializing in mental health, neuro-diversity, concussion, trauma, life transitions, professional and family stressors, relationships & more. Together we can navigate a clearer and more sustainable path to joy, meaning, purpose, and significant change.
We live amidst great challenges & complexity. More and more people are reaching out for the first time. A QUIET space awaits you. I'm told I have a FIERCE spirit & a GENTLE presence. I am both direct & compassionate. I believe in the inherent values & rights of ALL regardless of who you are; and where you've travelled. YOU are the EXPERT in your LIFE! I bring 25+ years of experience specializing in mental health, neuro-diversity, concussion, trauma, life transitions, professional and family stressors, relationships & more. Together we can navigate a clearer and more sustainable path to joy, meaning, purpose, and significant change.
(587) 802-3791 View (587) 802-3791
Photo of Brisa Ochoa, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Brisa Ochoa
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3N
I integrate various approaches to best meet individual, couples and family needs.
Have you experienced significant life stressors or traumatic events that have caused you personal harm and impacted your relationships? Are you tired of fighting to hold it together on the outside and suffering on the inside? Perhaps you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or numb from just thinking about all that is on your plate. Maybe it seems like the slightest things trigger big feelings, worries and reactions. If this sounds anything like you, please know there is hope! Don't wait any longer to reach out for help . I am ready to help you experience relief from distress, find solutions and move towards the life you want to live.
I integrate various approaches to best meet individual, couples and family needs.
Have you experienced significant life stressors or traumatic events that have caused you personal harm and impacted your relationships? Are you tired of fighting to hold it together on the outside and suffering on the inside? Perhaps you feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or numb from just thinking about all that is on your plate. Maybe it seems like the slightest things trigger big feelings, worries and reactions. If this sounds anything like you, please know there is hope! Don't wait any longer to reach out for help . I am ready to help you experience relief from distress, find solutions and move towards the life you want to live.
(587) 400-9058 View (587) 400-9058
Photo of Sadiya Shah, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Sadiya Shah
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2X
I am a Registered Psychologist with over 9 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in working with anxiety, trauma, and neurodevelopmental disorders and my areas of interest include grief and loss, stress, relationship/family dynamic challenges, parenting and child development, neurodivergence, and decolonizing practices. I excel at working with individuals who are looking to develop insight, good health behaviours, and challenge and explore their life experiences as well as identities.
I am a Registered Psychologist with over 9 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in working with anxiety, trauma, and neurodevelopmental disorders and my areas of interest include grief and loss, stress, relationship/family dynamic challenges, parenting and child development, neurodivergence, and decolonizing practices. I excel at working with individuals who are looking to develop insight, good health behaviours, and challenge and explore their life experiences as well as identities.
(587) 208-6910 View (587) 208-6910
Photo of Navneet Gill, Counsellor in Calgary, AB
Navneet Gill
Counsellor, CCC, OT, MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3L
Are you living in 2 worlds as a South Asian Canadian, hiding parts of your identity? This conflict leaves you experiencing guilt, shame, anxiety, a loss of autonomy and self, as you walk the tightrope of everybody's expectations of you. Growing up in a home environment that is completely different from your outside world can drastically impact your well-being and leave you asking “Who am I”? This can be exacerbated by enmeshed family dynamics. Culturally using your voice and setting boundaries feels selfish at first - but we can get you there together. You will learn and unlearn things as you proudly grow into your authentic self.
Are you living in 2 worlds as a South Asian Canadian, hiding parts of your identity? This conflict leaves you experiencing guilt, shame, anxiety, a loss of autonomy and self, as you walk the tightrope of everybody's expectations of you. Growing up in a home environment that is completely different from your outside world can drastically impact your well-being and leave you asking “Who am I”? This can be exacerbated by enmeshed family dynamics. Culturally using your voice and setting boundaries feels selfish at first - but we can get you there together. You will learn and unlearn things as you proudly grow into your authentic self.
(587) 412-5184 View (587) 412-5184
Photo of Fazilah Shariff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Fazilah Shariff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, MHA
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2L
I specialize in family therapy, prioritizing the mental health of children and adolescents.
Amidst the dynamic journey of parenthood, where each day unfolds with fresh trials and victories, I stand as your unwavering companion. Recognizing your aspiration for a harmonious and thriving family life, I am dedicated to providing you with the resources and assistance essential for enduring positive change. Engaging in family therapy can serve as a cornerstone for fostering a resilient and connected family unit. There exist countless measures parents can embrace to elevate their child's overall well-being. Perhaps you are also in pursuit of empowering your child with strategies to navigate the challenges that life presents.
I specialize in family therapy, prioritizing the mental health of children and adolescents.
Amidst the dynamic journey of parenthood, where each day unfolds with fresh trials and victories, I stand as your unwavering companion. Recognizing your aspiration for a harmonious and thriving family life, I am dedicated to providing you with the resources and assistance essential for enduring positive change. Engaging in family therapy can serve as a cornerstone for fostering a resilient and connected family unit. There exist countless measures parents can embrace to elevate their child's overall well-being. Perhaps you are also in pursuit of empowering your child with strategies to navigate the challenges that life presents.
(825) 250-4878 View (825) 250-4878
Photo of Aiofe Freeman-Cruz, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Aiofe Freeman-Cruz
Psychologist, MSc, PhD
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2V
Specifically, who you were, who you are, and who you hope to be as an individual, couple, and family.
We all have experiences that turn our world upside down. These experiences can be anything, but when it happens, we can feel confused, lost, or stuck while struggling to adjust to our new reality. I aim to support clients so that they gain self-knowledge, build resilience, and feel capable in their "new normal." As a Registered Psychologist, I work with individuals (adult and teens), couples, and families to help them achieve and maintain mental wellness while going through experiences that challenge them. I believe all challenges occur within a context, so I include social and cultural factors into my work with all clients.
Specifically, who you were, who you are, and who you hope to be as an individual, couple, and family.
We all have experiences that turn our world upside down. These experiences can be anything, but when it happens, we can feel confused, lost, or stuck while struggling to adjust to our new reality. I aim to support clients so that they gain self-knowledge, build resilience, and feel capable in their "new normal." As a Registered Psychologist, I work with individuals (adult and teens), couples, and families to help them achieve and maintain mental wellness while going through experiences that challenge them. I believe all challenges occur within a context, so I include social and cultural factors into my work with all clients.
(825) 502-5500 View (825) 502-5500
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 Zinah Al-Saffar, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Zinah Al-Saffar
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2X
I integrate many modalities into my practice, which include EMDR, Ego States, Internal Family System IFS, Gottman Method Couples Therapy (level 1 training), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Attachment based practice, and Cognitive-behavioral Therapy (CBT) and others.
My areas of clinical expertise include anxiety, trauma and C-PTSD, dissociation, panic attacks, obsessive- compulsive disorder, parenting, relationship difficulties, couple and family issues, anger management, disordered eating, postpartum depression, managing emotions, addictions, sleeping issues, self-esteem, body image, nightmares, and others. I work with youth, adults, couples and families. I provide services in English and Arabic languages.
I integrate many modalities into my practice, which include EMDR, Ego States, Internal Family System IFS, Gottman Method Couples Therapy (level 1 training), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Solution-focused Therapy, Attachment based practice, and Cognitive-behavioral Therapy (CBT) and others.
My areas of clinical expertise include anxiety, trauma and C-PTSD, dissociation, panic attacks, obsessive- compulsive disorder, parenting, relationship difficulties, couple and family issues, anger management, disordered eating, postpartum depression, managing emotions, addictions, sleeping issues, self-esteem, body image, nightmares, and others. I work with youth, adults, couples and families. I provide services in English and Arabic languages.
(825) 602-5049 View (825) 602-5049
Photo of Kimberly Neuman, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Kimberly Neuman
Registered Provisional Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2H
I work with clients of all ages, in individual, couples, and family settings, and in the following areas: Work-life balance, financial stress, pregnancy and postpartum struggles, parenting and transition to parenthood, caregiver stress, infidelity and loss of trust, trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger management, communication difficulties, health challenges, aging and seniors support, familial concerns, pet loss, student stress, youth behaviours, Indigenous issues, and newcomer (refugee / immigrant) adjustment.
I work with clients of all ages, in individual, couples, and family settings, and in the following areas: Work-life balance, financial stress, pregnancy and postpartum struggles, parenting and transition to parenthood, caregiver stress, infidelity and loss of trust, trauma, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger management, communication difficulties, health challenges, aging and seniors support, familial concerns, pet loss, student stress, youth behaviours, Indigenous issues, and newcomer (refugee / immigrant) adjustment.
(587) 844-0571 View (587) 844-0571
Photo of Cordazzo Psychology, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Cordazzo Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, CAP5147
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3G
Cordazzo is seeing her clients at Synergea Family Health Centre located in NW Calgary.
Dr. Sheila T. D. Cordazzo, Ph.D. is the founder of Cordazzo Psychology and a registered Psychologist with more than 20 years of experience working with children, teenagers, families and adults regarding different issues to improve their mental and emotional wellbeing.
Cordazzo is seeing her clients at Synergea Family Health Centre located in NW Calgary.
Dr. Sheila T. D. Cordazzo, Ph.D. is the founder of Cordazzo Psychology and a registered Psychologist with more than 20 years of experience working with children, teenagers, families and adults regarding different issues to improve their mental and emotional wellbeing.
(403) 247-2947 View (403) 247-2947
Photo of Grit Psychology & Counselling , Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Grit Psychology & Counselling
Psychologist, MACP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2E
It can be extremely frustrating to find the therapist who is effective, experienced and genuine in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship/family problems, PTSD, OCD and many other mental health challenges.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, worry, stress or relationship problems? Do you feel discouraged, stuck, unsatisfied with yourself or life in general? Would you like to feel happier, content, satisfied, and less stressed all the time?
It can be extremely frustrating to find the therapist who is effective, experienced and genuine in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship/family problems, PTSD, OCD and many other mental health challenges.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, worry, stress or relationship problems? Do you feel discouraged, stuck, unsatisfied with yourself or life in general? Would you like to feel happier, content, satisfied, and less stressed all the time?
(587) 602-0975 View (587) 602-0975
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 Phuong An, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Phuong An
Psychologist, BSN, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3B
I have over 23 years of experience providing assessments and psychotherapy; first as a psychiatric nurse, then as a family counsellor and in 2012 as a psychologist in private practice.
According to the American Psychological Association, “Psychologists help people of all ages live happier, healthier and more productive lives.” Through the use of various psychotherapy methods and collaborative treatment measures, my patients develop life-changing habits to help them cope with any of life’s various obstacles. My therapy sessions are designed to dissect personal issues and provide patients with effective tools to help them see the glass half full instead of half empty.
I have over 23 years of experience providing assessments and psychotherapy; first as a psychiatric nurse, then as a family counsellor and in 2012 as a psychologist in private practice.
According to the American Psychological Association, “Psychologists help people of all ages live happier, healthier and more productive lives.” Through the use of various psychotherapy methods and collaborative treatment measures, my patients develop life-changing habits to help them cope with any of life’s various obstacles. My therapy sessions are designed to dissect personal issues and provide patients with effective tools to help them see the glass half full instead of half empty.
(825) 250-3626 View (825) 250-3626
Photo of Patricia Pedraza Cruz, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Patricia Pedraza Cruz
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC, BPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2P
Patricia is accepting referrals for counseling issues and has special interest in Domestic violence, multicultural parenting and family adaptation, career counseling for youth and adults, trauma, anxiety, depression, stress management and spiritual concerns.
Patricia has 18 years experience in the area of counselling, wellbeing and trauma. Clients consult her on issues related to management of stress, depression and anxiety. She is also recognized for her work in the area of integration to a new culture and managing life transitions. Patricia is passionate about helping clients find their inner voice. Her practice is an integrative approach working with CBT, humanist perspective and narrative models. She passionated working with women, cross cultural parenting and couples.
Patricia is accepting referrals for counseling issues and has special interest in Domestic violence, multicultural parenting and family adaptation, career counseling for youth and adults, trauma, anxiety, depression, stress management and spiritual concerns.
Patricia has 18 years experience in the area of counselling, wellbeing and trauma. Clients consult her on issues related to management of stress, depression and anxiety. She is also recognized for her work in the area of integration to a new culture and managing life transitions. Patricia is passionate about helping clients find their inner voice. Her practice is an integrative approach working with CBT, humanist perspective and narrative models. She passionated working with women, cross cultural parenting and couples.
(844) 547-8633 View (844) 547-8633
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 Joanne Ginter, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Joanne Ginter
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2P
I believe each individaul, couple and family has the wisdom to create one's own unique life story.
I have been a registered psychologist for nearly 40 years. I have been part of the healing journeys for individuals of all ages (child to seniors), couples and families. I don't know if I have an ideal client other than someone who is open to sharing the story of their life and developing resiliency in some way. With children and youth, they have a special place given their vulnerability and yet wonderful creativity.
I believe each individaul, couple and family has the wisdom to create one's own unique life story.
I have been a registered psychologist for nearly 40 years. I have been part of the healing journeys for individuals of all ages (child to seniors), couples and families. I don't know if I have an ideal client other than someone who is open to sharing the story of their life and developing resiliency in some way. With children and youth, they have a special place given their vulnerability and yet wonderful creativity.
(587) 847-3091 View (587) 847-3091
Photo of Raman Kalher, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Raman Kalher
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2M
Drawing from my own experiences in a large, interconnected Indian family, I understand the complexities of relationships and the influence of cultural heritage on personal identity.
Having a foot in two different worlds can be challenging and as a South-Asian Canadian therapist, I am aware of how cultural differences can affect our mental health. I create a safe, non-judgmental space for children, teens, and adults to embark on this journey of healing by using tools from various therapies (i.e. cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapies, and trauma-informed approaches). This journey is about you, and our sessions will be tailored to fit your unique strengths and needs.
Drawing from my own experiences in a large, interconnected Indian family, I understand the complexities of relationships and the influence of cultural heritage on personal identity.
Having a foot in two different worlds can be challenging and as a South-Asian Canadian therapist, I am aware of how cultural differences can affect our mental health. I create a safe, non-judgmental space for children, teens, and adults to embark on this journey of healing by using tools from various therapies (i.e. cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based therapies, and trauma-informed approaches). This journey is about you, and our sessions will be tailored to fit your unique strengths and needs.
(587) 412-5240 View (587) 412-5240
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth N. Matendechere, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Dr. Elizabeth N. Matendechere
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2L
When it comes to Psychological Services, We Care! I am a registered Clinical/Counseling Psychologist in the Province of Alberta with over 16 years of experience in the counseling field; and an Instructor of Psychology Courses. I specialize in Maternal Health (Pre-Term Loses, Pre and Postpartum Depression, Anxiety, Gynecological Diagnoses) Chronic Pain, Headache, Migraines, Adjustment, Grief and Loss, Panic Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Personality Disorders, Addictions, Gambling, Eating Disorders, Domestic Violence, Self Esteem, Trauma, Family Issues, Clinical Assessments, Relationships, Inner Child, Abandonment, Anger etc.
When it comes to Psychological Services, We Care! I am a registered Clinical/Counseling Psychologist in the Province of Alberta with over 16 years of experience in the counseling field; and an Instructor of Psychology Courses. I specialize in Maternal Health (Pre-Term Loses, Pre and Postpartum Depression, Anxiety, Gynecological Diagnoses) Chronic Pain, Headache, Migraines, Adjustment, Grief and Loss, Panic Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Personality Disorders, Addictions, Gambling, Eating Disorders, Domestic Violence, Self Esteem, Trauma, Family Issues, Clinical Assessments, Relationships, Inner Child, Abandonment, Anger etc.
(587) 855-5745 View (587) 855-5745

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.