Photo of Annette Martin - - Whole Family Psychotherapy, Registered Social Worker in N2L, ON
Annette Martin - - Whole Family Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CC-PMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L  (Online Only)
While becoming a parent can bring joy and fulfillment, the changes and stressors that accompany the perinatal period (prenatal and postpartum) can also have substantial impacts on a parent’s mental health. Nothing can easily prepare a parent for this significant new role. New parents are often overwhelmed with how how all consuming caring for a baby can be, may experience challenging shifts in their important relationships, and my not yet know how to cope or access the support they need. As a queer parent, I have a keen desire to support queer families, who deserve a space that feels affirming of their family - all are welcome!
While becoming a parent can bring joy and fulfillment, the changes and stressors that accompany the perinatal period (prenatal and postpartum) can also have substantial impacts on a parent’s mental health. Nothing can easily prepare a parent for this significant new role. New parents are often overwhelmed with how how all consuming caring for a baby can be, may experience challenging shifts in their important relationships, and my not yet know how to cope or access the support they need. As a queer parent, I have a keen desire to support queer families, who deserve a space that feels affirming of their family - all are welcome!
(226) 455-7825 View (226) 455-7825
Photo of Marinela Braunstein, Registered Psychotherapist in N2L, ON
Marinela Braunstein
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP, MFT
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L
Book directly in my schedule: marinelabraunstein.setmore.com Hello, my name is Marinela. My extensive training in individual, couple & family therapy and over 20 years of practice has helped many individuals and couples get a better understanding of the origin of the concerning issue, as well as make positive choices about their present and future. I have also been working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, boundaries, work stress, relationship/family issues, separation/divorce, and Postpartum struggles...Life transitions can be hard and painful at times, but you do not need to go through it alone.
Book directly in my schedule: marinelabraunstein.setmore.com Hello, my name is Marinela. My extensive training in individual, couple & family therapy and over 20 years of practice has helped many individuals and couples get a better understanding of the origin of the concerning issue, as well as make positive choices about their present and future. I have also been working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, boundaries, work stress, relationship/family issues, separation/divorce, and Postpartum struggles...Life transitions can be hard and painful at times, but you do not need to go through it alone.
(226) 641-6721 View (226) 641-6721
Photo of Christina Page - - Whole Family Psychotherapy, Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist in N2L, ON
Christina Page - - Whole Family Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist, MSW, RSW, CC-PMH, CC-BRT
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L
I help parents at all stages to unpack and process the unique challenges that are creating pain for them - as a parent who has experienced postpartum anxiety and depression and the ongoing challenges of raising a young family - I see you.
So many parents feel blindsided by how differently parenting feels than what they expected - we are told that we will be exhausted, but filled with joy. And while there may be joy, we also often experience feelings of grief, resentment, helplessness and rage. We are confronted by the limits of our control in so many ways, and are more consumed with worry for our child and getting everything just right than we could have ever imagined. Our relationship with our partner may feel foreign and hard, and the ways that we would normally care for ourselves feel out of reach. Perhaps we think, should it be this hard?
I help parents at all stages to unpack and process the unique challenges that are creating pain for them - as a parent who has experienced postpartum anxiety and depression and the ongoing challenges of raising a young family - I see you.
So many parents feel blindsided by how differently parenting feels than what they expected - we are told that we will be exhausted, but filled with joy. And while there may be joy, we also often experience feelings of grief, resentment, helplessness and rage. We are confronted by the limits of our control in so many ways, and are more consumed with worry for our child and getting everything just right than we could have ever imagined. Our relationship with our partner may feel foreign and hard, and the ways that we would normally care for ourselves feel out of reach. Perhaps we think, should it be this hard?
(226) 766-8434 View (226) 766-8434
Photo of Grace Driedger, Registered Social Worker in N2L, ON
Grace Driedger
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself surrounded by big personalities; perhaps within your family, friends or co-workers, that you often feel your voice is overshadowed? Are you the therapist, the mediator, or the advice giver for your friends and family? Do you often find yourself being the one that people rely on but you don’t quite feel the same support is reciprocated for yourself leaving you wondering “when will it ever be my turn?” Do you ever have moments where you’re by yourself driving and you notice how tight your jaw is, or maybe you wonder to yourself “how long have I been holding my breath for”
Do you find yourself surrounded by big personalities; perhaps within your family, friends or co-workers, that you often feel your voice is overshadowed? Are you the therapist, the mediator, or the advice giver for your friends and family? Do you often find yourself being the one that people rely on but you don’t quite feel the same support is reciprocated for yourself leaving you wondering “when will it ever be my turn?” Do you ever have moments where you’re by yourself driving and you notice how tight your jaw is, or maybe you wonder to yourself “how long have I been holding my breath for”
(226) 756-0214 View (226) 756-0214
Photo of Andrea Wiebe - - Whole Family Psychotherapy, Registered Social Worker in N2L, ON
Andrea Wiebe - - Whole Family Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L  (Online Only)
I provide individual therapy to parents in the perinatal period and beyond, couples & family therapy and parenting support sessions, specializing in grief, loss and trauma.
I know first hand how becoming a parent changes you. For some, experiences of grief, loss and trauma shape our early parenting journey, and we might feel isolated, afraid, or even ashamed about the thoughts and feelings we are having. Parenting standards today encourage us to sacrifice everything for our children, and to do it all with a smile - so we suffer silently. My own struggles in parenting, including my lived reality of grief and traumatic loss bring me to this work - and allow me to deeply connect with other parents who are craving a place to bring all of their parenting experiences - the joyful, and the excruciating.
I provide individual therapy to parents in the perinatal period and beyond, couples & family therapy and parenting support sessions, specializing in grief, loss and trauma.
I know first hand how becoming a parent changes you. For some, experiences of grief, loss and trauma shape our early parenting journey, and we might feel isolated, afraid, or even ashamed about the thoughts and feelings we are having. Parenting standards today encourage us to sacrifice everything for our children, and to do it all with a smile - so we suffer silently. My own struggles in parenting, including my lived reality of grief and traumatic loss bring me to this work - and allow me to deeply connect with other parents who are craving a place to bring all of their parenting experiences - the joyful, and the excruciating.
(226) 907-4010 View (226) 907-4010
Photo of Whole Family Psychotherapy, Registered Social Worker in N2L, ON
Whole Family Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CC-PMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
Whole Family Psychotherapy is a collective of certified perinatal therapists who are also parents - we've been/are in the trenches, and we want you to know that the right support - changes everything.
The early years of parenting are wild - the intensity of our emotional experience catches most off guard - we desperately want to get it right with our little people; so the stakes feel high. Conflicts arise as we try to negotiate shifting roles and responsibilities while exhausted, under-supported, and lacking in time to ourselves. So many of us feel incredibly overwhelmed with decision making and day to day life with new babies, and disconnected from our partner because we don't have time, energy or the desire to connect in the ways we used to. It can feel like we are in the deep end, treading water with no end in sight.
Whole Family Psychotherapy is a collective of certified perinatal therapists who are also parents - we've been/are in the trenches, and we want you to know that the right support - changes everything.
The early years of parenting are wild - the intensity of our emotional experience catches most off guard - we desperately want to get it right with our little people; so the stakes feel high. Conflicts arise as we try to negotiate shifting roles and responsibilities while exhausted, under-supported, and lacking in time to ourselves. So many of us feel incredibly overwhelmed with decision making and day to day life with new babies, and disconnected from our partner because we don't have time, energy or the desire to connect in the ways we used to. It can feel like we are in the deep end, treading water with no end in sight.
(226) 779-7928 View (226) 779-7928
Photo of Phoebe Montgomery MSW , Registered Social Worker in N2L, ON
Phoebe Montgomery MSW
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CertFM
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L
Waitlist for new clients
I understand how stressful life can sometimes be. I am dedicated to helping individuals and families reach their full potential. I work with individuals and families that are struggling with a variety of issues such as anxiety, stress, life transitions, parent/teen conflict, separation and divorce. I am able to assist with parenting plans, separation agreements and provide Voice of the Child Reports. I am a Registered Social Worker, a certified Family Mediator, a Voice of the Child Practitioner and I have over 28 years experience working with families experiencing family separation, conflict and trauma.
I understand how stressful life can sometimes be. I am dedicated to helping individuals and families reach their full potential. I work with individuals and families that are struggling with a variety of issues such as anxiety, stress, life transitions, parent/teen conflict, separation and divorce. I am able to assist with parenting plans, separation agreements and provide Voice of the Child Reports. I am a Registered Social Worker, a certified Family Mediator, a Voice of the Child Practitioner and I have over 28 years experience working with families experiencing family separation, conflict and trauma.
(226) 796-9191 View (226) 796-9191
Photo of Bird's Nest Listening (Carmen Grant), Pre-Licensed Professional in N2L, ON
Bird's Nest Listening (Carmen Grant)
Pre-Licensed Professional, CCPCP-R, (cand)
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L
If you’re struggling with grief, family dynamics, toxic relationships, unhealthy attachments, or feeling stuck in old patterns, I'm here to listen, and offer you support - without judgement or shame.
If you’re struggling with grief, family dynamics, toxic relationships, unhealthy attachments, or feeling stuck in old patterns, I'm here to listen, and offer you support - without judgement or shame.
(548) 457-0621 View (548) 457-0621
Photo of Leah Krisak, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in N2L, ON
Leah Krisak
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
Areas of focus: trauma, couples, perinatal challenges, self-exploration, mood disorders (anxiety/depression), grief, family conflict, relationship issues, identity confusion and more.
In person/online ->You may be unsure of what you're looking for but feel there are parts of yourself that seem out of touch with the world and yearn to feel, see, and experience more in your life. It can feel overwhelming to sit with a stranger and explore new and vulnerable parts of yourself but I promise to make you feel safe and heard. Often times our areas of needed growth are exposed through this vulnerability which allows us to explore parts of ourselves that weren't accessible before. I help individuals find connection with the things they care about most in their lives.
Areas of focus: trauma, couples, perinatal challenges, self-exploration, mood disorders (anxiety/depression), grief, family conflict, relationship issues, identity confusion and more.
In person/online ->You may be unsure of what you're looking for but feel there are parts of yourself that seem out of touch with the world and yearn to feel, see, and experience more in your life. It can feel overwhelming to sit with a stranger and explore new and vulnerable parts of yourself but I promise to make you feel safe and heard. Often times our areas of needed growth are exposed through this vulnerability which allows us to explore parts of ourselves that weren't accessible before. I help individuals find connection with the things they care about most in their lives.
(226) 779-4861 View (226) 779-4861
Photo of Nicholas McGrath, Registered Social Worker in N2L, ON
Nicholas McGrath
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, MScA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
I am an Internal Family Systems (IFS) - informed therapist, and I use attachment and mentalization-based therapies in my work.
ACCEPTING NEW INDIVIDUAL THERAPY CLIENTS. I believe in honouring the person in front of me, making room for you to tell your story, and working collaboratively towards your goals. I work with individuals, couples, and families to manage and transform: conflict in relationships, strong emotions, life changes, cultural pressures, identity stressors, depression, anxiety, and more. Much of my work is relational (i.e. with couples, families or groups). I value and reflect on the unique perspectives and needs of every person who is courageously reaching out for therapy. You can find my website at https://www.nmcgraththerapy.com
I am an Internal Family Systems (IFS) - informed therapist, and I use attachment and mentalization-based therapies in my work.
ACCEPTING NEW INDIVIDUAL THERAPY CLIENTS. I believe in honouring the person in front of me, making room for you to tell your story, and working collaboratively towards your goals. I work with individuals, couples, and families to manage and transform: conflict in relationships, strong emotions, life changes, cultural pressures, identity stressors, depression, anxiety, and more. Much of my work is relational (i.e. with couples, families or groups). I value and reflect on the unique perspectives and needs of every person who is courageously reaching out for therapy. You can find my website at https://www.nmcgraththerapy.com
(226) 541-1860 View (226) 541-1860
Photo of Maheema Dua, Registered Psychotherapist in N2L, ON
Maheema Dua
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L  (Online Only)
I provide psychotherapy for anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, ASD, emotional dysregulation, low self-esteem, perfectionism, burnout, life transitions, family conflicts, relationship issues, break-ups, self-criticism, PMDD, complex PTSD, chronic illnesses, fibromyalgia, binge eating, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and childhood emotional neglect. Each of these carries its weight and I commend you for choosing to work through it.
I provide psychotherapy for anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, ASD, emotional dysregulation, low self-esteem, perfectionism, burnout, life transitions, family conflicts, relationship issues, break-ups, self-criticism, PMDD, complex PTSD, chronic illnesses, fibromyalgia, binge eating, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, and childhood emotional neglect. Each of these carries its weight and I commend you for choosing to work through it.
(437) 291-8368 View (437) 291-8368
Photo of Gabrielle Lamm, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in N2L, ON
Gabrielle Lamm
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP (Q), BHsc
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
If you are struggling with anxiety or depression, feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, or need help navigating your relationships, I am here to help. I offer compassionate support to individuals from diverse backgrounds, helping them address their current struggles, find relief, and build resilience toward navigating life’s ups and downs. Together, we will cultivate trust and openness as we explore your identity within the context of your relationships and cultural background. We will work together to amplify your strengths and develop tools to manage stress and maintain mental wellness.
If you are struggling with anxiety or depression, feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, or need help navigating your relationships, I am here to help. I offer compassionate support to individuals from diverse backgrounds, helping them address their current struggles, find relief, and build resilience toward navigating life’s ups and downs. Together, we will cultivate trust and openness as we explore your identity within the context of your relationships and cultural background. We will work together to amplify your strengths and develop tools to manage stress and maintain mental wellness.
(226) 270-5983 View (226) 270-5983
Photo of Dana Lauder, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in N2L, ON
Dana Lauder
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
Hello! I'm glad you've found your way here. I'm Dana, and I want you to know that you're not alone in whatever you're facing. I deeply understand the journey of navigating anxiety, childhood trauma, and the complexities of relationships, especially as a young professional. My own story as the child of Italian immigrants and the experience of losing my father at a young age, fuels my empathy and understanding. It's from this place of shared experience that I offer support to those walking similar paths. As a single parent, I understand the unique challenges that can come with balancing career, personal healing, and parenting.
Hello! I'm glad you've found your way here. I'm Dana, and I want you to know that you're not alone in whatever you're facing. I deeply understand the journey of navigating anxiety, childhood trauma, and the complexities of relationships, especially as a young professional. My own story as the child of Italian immigrants and the experience of losing my father at a young age, fuels my empathy and understanding. It's from this place of shared experience that I offer support to those walking similar paths. As a single parent, I understand the unique challenges that can come with balancing career, personal healing, and parenting.
(226) 705-1098 View (226) 705-1098
Photo of Rebekah Churchyard, Registered Social Worker in N2L, ON
Rebekah Churchyard
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
I have supported hundreds of individuals with some of the most difficult times of their lives. 100% of my clients see and feel resuIts. I know how hard it can be to navigate anxiety, depression and low feelings of self-worth. Relationships of all kinds, with ourselves, our loves, and our families can be our most treasured possessions. My practice approach of compassionate curiosity leads others towards growth. Together we work on developing the mindset and perspective needed to find joy and overcome barriers to becoming your best self. The majority of clients I support as a Mental Health Clinician are adults ranging in ages 18-80+.
I have supported hundreds of individuals with some of the most difficult times of their lives. 100% of my clients see and feel resuIts. I know how hard it can be to navigate anxiety, depression and low feelings of self-worth. Relationships of all kinds, with ourselves, our loves, and our families can be our most treasured possessions. My practice approach of compassionate curiosity leads others towards growth. Together we work on developing the mindset and perspective needed to find joy and overcome barriers to becoming your best self. The majority of clients I support as a Mental Health Clinician are adults ranging in ages 18-80+.
(548) 483-5905 View (548) 483-5905
Photo of Ann Dyduch, Registered Psychotherapist in N2L, ON
Ann Dyduch
Registered Psychotherapist, BRE, MA, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
Sometimes the ups and downs of life can get the best of us. Complicated relationships and unexpected changes can take away our sense of control. Misunderstandings can lead us to questioning our competency. Are you stuck in repeated patterns of doing the same thing and expecting a different outcome, only to feel disappointed? Psychotherapy can be anchoring. With guidance and support you can begin a journey of self-discovery to explore the connection between your inner world and day-to-day life and move toward a more balanced and hopeful future. While finding a therapist can be difficult, you have taken the first step.
Sometimes the ups and downs of life can get the best of us. Complicated relationships and unexpected changes can take away our sense of control. Misunderstandings can lead us to questioning our competency. Are you stuck in repeated patterns of doing the same thing and expecting a different outcome, only to feel disappointed? Psychotherapy can be anchoring. With guidance and support you can begin a journey of self-discovery to explore the connection between your inner world and day-to-day life and move toward a more balanced and hopeful future. While finding a therapist can be difficult, you have taken the first step.
(226) 455-5093 View (226) 455-5093
Photo of Stephanie Feeney | Ontario Canada, Registered Psychotherapist in N2L, ON
Stephanie Feeney | Ontario Canada
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L  (Online Only)
Have you ever been told that you are too sensitive? Too shy? That you are overreacting? Have you ever wondered why you think too much and too deep? Why you are so affected by the moods of others? Why you feel frazzled when there is too much going on? Do you have difficulty saying no? Have you ever been diagnosed with or wonder if you have Social Anxiety Disorder? Generalized Anxiety Disorder? Low self esteem? Depression? Perfectionism?
Have you ever been told that you are too sensitive? Too shy? That you are overreacting? Have you ever wondered why you think too much and too deep? Why you are so affected by the moods of others? Why you feel frazzled when there is too much going on? Do you have difficulty saying no? Have you ever been diagnosed with or wonder if you have Social Anxiety Disorder? Generalized Anxiety Disorder? Low self esteem? Depression? Perfectionism?
(548) 490-0410 View (548) 490-0410
Photo of Christian Couple And Individual Therapy Alerica Carr, Pre-Licensed Professional in N2L, ON
Christian Couple And Individual Therapy Alerica Carr
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MACP(C), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
Are you searching for a compassionate therapist who understands the unique intersection of faith and mental health? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by depression, or haunted by past traumas? Do you long for a therapist who not only understands your struggles but also offers a path to healing rooted in faith? My heartfelt mission is to walk alongside you as you discover hope, healing, and purpose through your Christian faith. I firmly believe that God's boundless love and grace are at the heart of our journey toward healing and transformation. Together, we'll embark on a deeply personal exploration of
Are you searching for a compassionate therapist who understands the unique intersection of faith and mental health? Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, weighed down by depression, or haunted by past traumas? Do you long for a therapist who not only understands your struggles but also offers a path to healing rooted in faith? My heartfelt mission is to walk alongside you as you discover hope, healing, and purpose through your Christian faith. I firmly believe that God's boundless love and grace are at the heart of our journey toward healing and transformation. Together, we'll embark on a deeply personal exploration of
(226) 741-4568 View (226) 741-4568
Photo of Madison Klie, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in N2L, ON
Madison Klie
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP(Q)
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Waterloo, ON N2L
Are you feeling trapped by your anxious or obsessive thoughts? Do you feel like your life has been consumed by your negative self-talk? As if these thoughts are intruding on your relationships? The resulting cycle of shame and emotional pain is exhausting and it is one that I know. Through the lens of attachment theory, exploring attachment wounds and patterns becomes a powerful tool for developing secure and supportive relationships, both within ourselves and with others.
Are you feeling trapped by your anxious or obsessive thoughts? Do you feel like your life has been consumed by your negative self-talk? As if these thoughts are intruding on your relationships? The resulting cycle of shame and emotional pain is exhausting and it is one that I know. Through the lens of attachment theory, exploring attachment wounds and patterns becomes a powerful tool for developing secure and supportive relationships, both within ourselves and with others.
(226) 458-8382 View (226) 458-8382
Photo of Carrie A Lee, Registered Psychotherapist in N2L, ON
Carrie A Lee
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CLSSBB, CMQ/OE
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L
Waitlist for new clients
I am a holistic psycho-spiritual Registered Psychotherapist with a focus of supporting clients to personally discover and embrace a fully empowered life of their choosing. In all avenues of practice, my approach is to help clients discover emotional healing and spiritual transformation, personal empowerment and stepping into one's sovereign self - it's all a matter of 'soul-fullness.' I work with teenagers and adults from all walks of life, who are facing a variety of life challenges, from mundane to traumatic. My style is open, informal and inclusive.
I am a holistic psycho-spiritual Registered Psychotherapist with a focus of supporting clients to personally discover and embrace a fully empowered life of their choosing. In all avenues of practice, my approach is to help clients discover emotional healing and spiritual transformation, personal empowerment and stepping into one's sovereign self - it's all a matter of 'soul-fullness.' I work with teenagers and adults from all walks of life, who are facing a variety of life challenges, from mundane to traumatic. My style is open, informal and inclusive.
(226) 887-1074 View (226) 887-1074
Photo of VivelaVitaTherapies, Registered Social Worker in N2L, ON
VivelaVitaTherapies
Registered Social Worker, BHSc, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Waterloo, ON N2L
Do you want to develop strategies to better manage the thoughts, feelings and relationships that are holding you back from a healthy and productive life? Are you struggling to find enjoyment in life, experiencing mental or physical illness, grief, and loss, stress in your job, relationships or as a caregiver or parent? There are steps you can take to improve your psychological well-being, strengthen your relationships and attachments and move towards personal healing and growth. I am here to help you break the cycle or negative thoughts, emotions and relationships and take steps to experience a more positive and fulfilling life.
Do you want to develop strategies to better manage the thoughts, feelings and relationships that are holding you back from a healthy and productive life? Are you struggling to find enjoyment in life, experiencing mental or physical illness, grief, and loss, stress in your job, relationships or as a caregiver or parent? There are steps you can take to improve your psychological well-being, strengthen your relationships and attachments and move towards personal healing and growth. I am here to help you break the cycle or negative thoughts, emotions and relationships and take steps to experience a more positive and fulfilling life.
(226) 400-1912 View (226) 400-1912

See more therapy options for N2L

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.