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 Faaria Meghji, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Faaria Meghji
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2P
I primarily draw on my training and experience in Internal Family Systems Therapy (parts work) and Hakomi Therapy (mindfulness-based and body-centered).
Do you feel like your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are often misaligned with who you want to be, who you really are deep inside? Are you ready to begin transforming the beliefs, emotions, and patterns you hold inside of yourself that keep you from fully living the life that you want? Together we can explore the roots of whatever you are currently wanting help with - be it emotional regulation, self-compassion, relationships, depression, anxiety, addictions, life transitions, sexuality, spirituality, and racial identity. These roots can span across multiple generations, often inviting us to tune in to our ancestral history.
I primarily draw on my training and experience in Internal Family Systems Therapy (parts work) and Hakomi Therapy (mindfulness-based and body-centered).
Do you feel like your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours are often misaligned with who you want to be, who you really are deep inside? Are you ready to begin transforming the beliefs, emotions, and patterns you hold inside of yourself that keep you from fully living the life that you want? Together we can explore the roots of whatever you are currently wanting help with - be it emotional regulation, self-compassion, relationships, depression, anxiety, addictions, life transitions, sexuality, spirituality, and racial identity. These roots can span across multiple generations, often inviting us to tune in to our ancestral history.
(587) 905-0835 View (587) 905-0835
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 Velma M. Noble, Counsellor in Calgary, AB
Velma M. Noble
Counsellor, MA, RP, CCC, CPCSRet, PAg-Ret
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3E
I have been in private practice since 2004, bringing a warm, comprehensive, practical, & holistic approach to mental health and wellness. Primary areas of clinical focus that include: depression and anxiety, grief and loss, major life transitions, stress management, marital enrichment, divorce care, family communication, spiritual care, empowerment and assertiveness training. I offer individual, couple, family therapy, as well as a number of unique group programs.
I have been in private practice since 2004, bringing a warm, comprehensive, practical, & holistic approach to mental health and wellness. Primary areas of clinical focus that include: depression and anxiety, grief and loss, major life transitions, stress management, marital enrichment, divorce care, family communication, spiritual care, empowerment and assertiveness training. I offer individual, couple, family therapy, as well as a number of unique group programs.
(403) 800-3443 View (403) 800-3443
Photo of Lisa Boag-Guidi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Lisa Boag-Guidi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RCSW, RMFT-SQ
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3E
Waitlist for new clients
Deeper emotional shifts and new meanings are created by integrating various trauma and body centered practices, including EMDR, Expressive Arts, and Internal Family Systems.
Are you tired of dealing with life's challenges and feeling stuck or overwhelmed, unsure how to move forward? Do you want to explore new understanding about your experiences, and the experiences you share with others to create changes you desire? Are you looking for supervision of your relational practice? Our collaborative relationship will allow you to achieve these goals at a pace you feel comfortable with. Through examining your inner world, your life experiences, and your relationships with others, we can uncover inherent strengths, understanding, and connections, allowing for new and enriched ways of being to take shape.
Deeper emotional shifts and new meanings are created by integrating various trauma and body centered practices, including EMDR, Expressive Arts, and Internal Family Systems.
Are you tired of dealing with life's challenges and feeling stuck or overwhelmed, unsure how to move forward? Do you want to explore new understanding about your experiences, and the experiences you share with others to create changes you desire? Are you looking for supervision of your relational practice? Our collaborative relationship will allow you to achieve these goals at a pace you feel comfortable with. Through examining your inner world, your life experiences, and your relationships with others, we can uncover inherent strengths, understanding, and connections, allowing for new and enriched ways of being to take shape.
(587) 803-8052 View (587) 803-8052
Photo of Laurie Siembida, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Laurie Siembida
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2W
Accepting New Clients! You want to live a meaningful life where you have strong and healthy relationships with yourself and others but something has gotten in the way of that. It may have been experiencing trauma as a child or adult, experiencing dysfunctional family dynamics, suffering a loss, or other difficult life experiences. Whether you struggle with anxiety or depression, have difficulty recognizing your own self-worth, struggle to feel a sense of connection with self or others, or feel overwhelmed and stuck in your life, my aim is to help you take steps toward living a more authentic and fulfilling life.
Accepting New Clients! You want to live a meaningful life where you have strong and healthy relationships with yourself and others but something has gotten in the way of that. It may have been experiencing trauma as a child or adult, experiencing dysfunctional family dynamics, suffering a loss, or other difficult life experiences. Whether you struggle with anxiety or depression, have difficulty recognizing your own self-worth, struggle to feel a sense of connection with self or others, or feel overwhelmed and stuck in your life, my aim is to help you take steps toward living a more authentic and fulfilling life.
(587) 854-9383 View (587) 854-9383
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 Sommer McLauchlin, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Sommer McLauchlin
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
My areas of focus include Anxiety, Depression, Life Stressors, ADHD, Relationship Issues, Parenting, Children with Disabilities, Impact of Separation/Divorce on Children, Trauma/PTSD, Self-Esteem, Addictions Issues, Self-Harm, Child Developmental Concerns, Attachment, Identity Development, School Performance Issues, and Family Conflict.
It is my privilege to bear witness to your healing journey. I believe that people are the catalyst for the change they desire, and my role is to support that change in a way that feels meaningful to you. My counselling approach is flexible and creative, with an emphasis on the importance of therapeutic connection. I am truly passionate about working with adolescents, teens, and families. I bring to you an open, accepting, safe space to support your healing journey. I have over 18 years of experience working in the mental health field with children, adolescents/teens, adults, and families in a variety of settings.
My areas of focus include Anxiety, Depression, Life Stressors, ADHD, Relationship Issues, Parenting, Children with Disabilities, Impact of Separation/Divorce on Children, Trauma/PTSD, Self-Esteem, Addictions Issues, Self-Harm, Child Developmental Concerns, Attachment, Identity Development, School Performance Issues, and Family Conflict.
It is my privilege to bear witness to your healing journey. I believe that people are the catalyst for the change they desire, and my role is to support that change in a way that feels meaningful to you. My counselling approach is flexible and creative, with an emphasis on the importance of therapeutic connection. I am truly passionate about working with adolescents, teens, and families. I bring to you an open, accepting, safe space to support your healing journey. I have over 18 years of experience working in the mental health field with children, adolescents/teens, adults, and families in a variety of settings.
(587) 419-0846 View (587) 419-0846
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 Courtney Edwards, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Courtney Edwards
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
I work with adults dealing with work stress, burnout, anxiety, and people who are breaking old cycles, whether that's family, relationships or in the community. You may be feeling stuck, questioning your options, or want to feel more confident in your choices. I can help you navigate the times of stress and uncertainty, process painful experiences, build boundaries you feel good about, and live in line with your goals and values.
I work with adults dealing with work stress, burnout, anxiety, and people who are breaking old cycles, whether that's family, relationships or in the community. You may be feeling stuck, questioning your options, or want to feel more confident in your choices. I can help you navigate the times of stress and uncertainty, process painful experiences, build boundaries you feel good about, and live in line with your goals and values.
(587) 805-0319 View (587) 805-0319
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 Mandy Smith-Haber, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Mandy Smith-Haber
Psychologist, MACP
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2N
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches and tools, including (but not limited to) CBT, ACT, narrative therapy, hypnosis, trauma-informed therapy, solution-focused therapy, couples therapy, family systems, and brief therapies.
In life, we can find ourselves challenged in ways we did not expect or anticipate. Life can become difficult and overwhelming to manage at times. In such moments, it can be helpful to seek support from someone who might help unearth possibilities and support you in finding healthier and adaptive ways to manage and cope. It is my belief that developing a strong, trusting, and collaborative therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone to therapeutic success. Through mutual respect, genuine empathy, and trust, individuals can be seen and heard, and encouraged to create the changes they want in their lives.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches and tools, including (but not limited to) CBT, ACT, narrative therapy, hypnosis, trauma-informed therapy, solution-focused therapy, couples therapy, family systems, and brief therapies.
In life, we can find ourselves challenged in ways we did not expect or anticipate. Life can become difficult and overwhelming to manage at times. In such moments, it can be helpful to seek support from someone who might help unearth possibilities and support you in finding healthier and adaptive ways to manage and cope. It is my belief that developing a strong, trusting, and collaborative therapeutic relationship is the cornerstone to therapeutic success. Through mutual respect, genuine empathy, and trust, individuals can be seen and heard, and encouraged to create the changes they want in their lives.
(587) 207-5102 View (587) 207-5102
Photo of Building Bridges Counselling Services, Counsellor in Calgary, AB
Building Bridges Counselling Services
Counsellor, BA, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3B
At Building Bridges Counselling Services we support clients in managing issues that impact personal and relational well-being. Our counsellors have a vast range of experiences which inform their therapeutic approaches. Building Bridges offers Family, Couples, Individual, and Youth counselling. In addition to counselling services, psycho-educational assessments are also available. Please call 587-318-0018 or check out our website www.buildingbridgescounselling.ca for more information about our assessments and counselling services. Due to current circumstances, we are offering multiple ways to meet for Coffee and Chats(see website)
At Building Bridges Counselling Services we support clients in managing issues that impact personal and relational well-being. Our counsellors have a vast range of experiences which inform their therapeutic approaches. Building Bridges offers Family, Couples, Individual, and Youth counselling. In addition to counselling services, psycho-educational assessments are also available. Please call 587-318-0018 or check out our website www.buildingbridgescounselling.ca for more information about our assessments and counselling services. Due to current circumstances, we are offering multiple ways to meet for Coffee and Chats(see website)
(587) 850-3124 View (587) 850-3124
Photo of Paula Butler, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Paula Butler
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3H
Waitlist for new clients
I am a certified Master trained Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) Practitioner, which is an evidence-based treatment for psychological trauma and other mental health concerns such as (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, family issues, relationship issues, phobias, obsessive compulsive behaviours, post-traumatic stress disorder and complex trauma.
Our lived experiences as humans can vary greatly, but the 'human condition' is something we all share. Common themes exist between all of us… albeit race, gender, socioeconomic status, etc. Themes such as loneliness, fear, joy, and most evidently (i.e. research reinforced) our innate need for "connection"…true connection to ourselves and to the ones we love most dearly. My goal is to provide individuals (i.e. pre-adolescents, adolescents, adults) and/or families alike the chance to feel unconditionally supported as they seek the aid they require for psychological well-being…to walk beside you on your therapeutic journey.
I am a certified Master trained Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) Practitioner, which is an evidence-based treatment for psychological trauma and other mental health concerns such as (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, family issues, relationship issues, phobias, obsessive compulsive behaviours, post-traumatic stress disorder and complex trauma.
Our lived experiences as humans can vary greatly, but the 'human condition' is something we all share. Common themes exist between all of us… albeit race, gender, socioeconomic status, etc. Themes such as loneliness, fear, joy, and most evidently (i.e. research reinforced) our innate need for "connection"…true connection to ourselves and to the ones we love most dearly. My goal is to provide individuals (i.e. pre-adolescents, adolescents, adults) and/or families alike the chance to feel unconditionally supported as they seek the aid they require for psychological well-being…to walk beside you on your therapeutic journey.
(587) 813-5507 View (587) 813-5507
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 About: Anxiety Lgbtq+ Transgender - Avery Rodger, Counsellor in Calgary, AB
About: Anxiety Lgbtq+ Transgender - Avery Rodger
Counsellor, RP(Q), BSc
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3B
I understand what you’re carrying is heavy. Therapists in the past were cold and removed, dismissed and diminished you, not understanding the complexity of gender and identity. You’ve researched, journaled, listened to the podcasts, tried CBT, DBT, breathing exercises; anything to release the fear of having to navigate a dangerous world of violence, hate, oppression, and misinformation. A world that wants you erased. I know this because I see so much of my own story in yours; the black sheep (cycle breaker, dreamer) in a family or workplace that doesn’t know you and makes no effort to do so. You want to feel seen, heard, respected.
I understand what you’re carrying is heavy. Therapists in the past were cold and removed, dismissed and diminished you, not understanding the complexity of gender and identity. You’ve researched, journaled, listened to the podcasts, tried CBT, DBT, breathing exercises; anything to release the fear of having to navigate a dangerous world of violence, hate, oppression, and misinformation. A world that wants you erased. I know this because I see so much of my own story in yours; the black sheep (cycle breaker, dreamer) in a family or workplace that doesn’t know you and makes no effort to do so. You want to feel seen, heard, respected.
(825) 255-5407 View (825) 255-5407
Photo of Kristin Munro, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Kristin Munro
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC, RCC, CCC, PMP, CPHR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2T
Compassion, non-judgement, empathy, and clarity are what you can look forward to when working with Kristin. Specializing in trauma-informed approaches like EMDR (S.A.F.E.) and Internal Family Systems (IFS), Kristin will work to support you on your journey as you become the best version of your Self—as defined by you.
Compassion, non-judgement, empathy, and clarity are what you can look forward to when working with Kristin. Specializing in trauma-informed approaches like EMDR (S.A.F.E.) and Internal Family Systems (IFS), Kristin will work to support you on your journey as you become the best version of your Self—as defined by you.
(403) 407-5903 View (403) 407-5903
Photo of Jacqueline Van Starkenburg, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Jacqueline Van Starkenburg
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MACP, BCHST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
I enjoy helping others and have over 15 years experience in the helping professions. I work with adults, children and families and specialize in trauma, neurodiversity, family conflict, parenting, anger and self regulation. I am also skilled in helping those who choose to use violence in their relationships. I work from both a trauma informed and attachment based lens.
I enjoy helping others and have over 15 years experience in the helping professions. I work with adults, children and families and specialize in trauma, neurodiversity, family conflict, parenting, anger and self regulation. I am also skilled in helping those who choose to use violence in their relationships. I work from both a trauma informed and attachment based lens.
(825) 254-7901 View (825) 254-7901
Photo of Judith Heidbuurt, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Judith Heidbuurt
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RMFT-SQ
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3E
I use Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Trauma Therapy including Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and Emotion Focused Therapy, and Gottman Method (couples therapy) interwoven in practice.
There’s a phrase that resonates so well in our northern hemisphere: feeling snowed under. It brings a rather-Canadian image to mind along with a feeling of overwhelm. Sometimes, life feels like we’ve been left snowed under and we find ourselves spinning our wheels. It can be exhausting. I’m here to help. I’ve worked in child, adolescent, family and young adult mental health for over 20 years. I’m a parent, a partner, a professional in the field, and the learning never ends. Whether it’s raising our families or learning about the relationships we hold within ourselves, there are ways to decrease the distress and find an easier path.
I use Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, and Trauma Therapy including Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and Emotion Focused Therapy, and Gottman Method (couples therapy) interwoven in practice.
There’s a phrase that resonates so well in our northern hemisphere: feeling snowed under. It brings a rather-Canadian image to mind along with a feeling of overwhelm. Sometimes, life feels like we’ve been left snowed under and we find ourselves spinning our wheels. It can be exhausting. I’m here to help. I’ve worked in child, adolescent, family and young adult mental health for over 20 years. I’m a parent, a partner, a professional in the field, and the learning never ends. Whether it’s raising our families or learning about the relationships we hold within ourselves, there are ways to decrease the distress and find an easier path.
(825) 254-7828 View (825) 254-7828
Photo of Michelle Yvonne Buk, Marriage & Family Therapist in Calgary, AB
Michelle Yvonne Buk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2T
My practice specializes in relationship therapy and is based in attachment theory. I have over 30 years experience in family and couple/marital therapy and advanced skills in pediatric mental health, child development and best practices in parenting theory. I have worked in hospital based in patient and out patient programs, community mental health and social services as well as university teaching and administration. Currently I am employed with Alberta Children’s Hospital as well as my own private practice.
My practice specializes in relationship therapy and is based in attachment theory. I have over 30 years experience in family and couple/marital therapy and advanced skills in pediatric mental health, child development and best practices in parenting theory. I have worked in hospital based in patient and out patient programs, community mental health and social services as well as university teaching and administration. Currently I am employed with Alberta Children’s Hospital as well as my own private practice.
(587) 606-0311 View (587) 606-0311

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.