Photo of Karen Fabian, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Karen Fabian
Psychologist, BSc, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3H
I offer therapy for parenting and family concerns, behavioural challenges, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and issues related to maintaining meaningful relationships.
My career has centered around my primary area of interest concerning relationship dynamics and the impact and understanding of insecurity, frustration, anxiety and loss. I am passionate about supporting parents in understanding the influence of early life experiences and how those shape emotional development and our ability to remain connected to our children. My work is influenced by attachment-based therapy, narrative therapy, humanistic and experiential play approaches.
I offer therapy for parenting and family concerns, behavioural challenges, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and issues related to maintaining meaningful relationships.
My career has centered around my primary area of interest concerning relationship dynamics and the impact and understanding of insecurity, frustration, anxiety and loss. I am passionate about supporting parents in understanding the influence of early life experiences and how those shape emotional development and our ability to remain connected to our children. My work is influenced by attachment-based therapy, narrative therapy, humanistic and experiential play approaches.
(587) 600-2409 View (587) 600-2409
Photo of Rana M Mahmood in Calgary, AB
Rana M Mahmood
MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3H
With empathy and compassion, I provide the following services to my clients, trauma, domestic violence, family conflict, family, divorce, communication and relationship issues, sexual assault and sexual abuse, grief and loss, parenting, homelessness, isolation, life transitions, immigration challenges and emotional regulation, anxiety and depression.
I am gratefully working with clients from different backgrounds and cultures helping them learn how to deal with their emotions and feelings and guide them to find the best solutions for their problems, my goal is to help you and hold your hand while navigating your path.
With empathy and compassion, I provide the following services to my clients, trauma, domestic violence, family conflict, family, divorce, communication and relationship issues, sexual assault and sexual abuse, grief and loss, parenting, homelessness, isolation, life transitions, immigration challenges and emotional regulation, anxiety and depression.
I am gratefully working with clients from different backgrounds and cultures helping them learn how to deal with their emotions and feelings and guide them to find the best solutions for their problems, my goal is to help you and hold your hand while navigating your path.
(825) 502-6072 View (825) 502-6072
Photo of Melissa Clark, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Melissa Clark
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2A
In addition to parenting, separation/divorce and family relationships.
For more information and to directly book a session with Melissa Clark, please visit www.rootandradiate.com. Melissa has ten years of experience providing excellent and research-based psychological care to children, adolescents and their families. She is specifically sought out to address behavioural, emotional and relationship-based challenges. Families seek help for a variety of reasons ranging from anxiety/depression symptoms to co-parenting issues to emotional changes in their child. Perhaps these concerns have been there a long while, perhaps COVID has exacerbated the issues or maybe you know this is the time for a change.
In addition to parenting, separation/divorce and family relationships.
For more information and to directly book a session with Melissa Clark, please visit www.rootandradiate.com. Melissa has ten years of experience providing excellent and research-based psychological care to children, adolescents and their families. She is specifically sought out to address behavioural, emotional and relationship-based challenges. Families seek help for a variety of reasons ranging from anxiety/depression symptoms to co-parenting issues to emotional changes in their child. Perhaps these concerns have been there a long while, perhaps COVID has exacerbated the issues or maybe you know this is the time for a change.
(403) 498-8001 View (403) 498-8001
Photo of Sig Taylor Couples Counselling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Sig Taylor Couples Counselling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, RMFT
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3A
I'll support your marriage and your family.
Who you choose to entrust your relationship life to could be the most important decision of your lifetime. For over 30 years I've helped thousands of couples and individuals resolve conflict and create healthy relationships. You'll get the right tools and strategies to help with your specific issues and situation. Marriage counselling is a highly complex and specialized field of practice and all MARRIAGE COUNSELLORS ARE NOT EQUAL. I start with a 2-hour initial consultation at a reduced rate. It's a game changer - you'll get immediate help - honest feedback, direction and guidance.
I'll support your marriage and your family.
Who you choose to entrust your relationship life to could be the most important decision of your lifetime. For over 30 years I've helped thousands of couples and individuals resolve conflict and create healthy relationships. You'll get the right tools and strategies to help with your specific issues and situation. Marriage counselling is a highly complex and specialized field of practice and all MARRIAGE COUNSELLORS ARE NOT EQUAL. I start with a 2-hour initial consultation at a reduced rate. It's a game changer - you'll get immediate help - honest feedback, direction and guidance.
(403) 800-0776 View (403) 800-0776
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 Innovative Counselling Solutions, Inc., Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Innovative Counselling Solutions, Inc.
Psychologist, PhD, RMFT-S, Prov, Psych, CSAT
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2E
I have advanced training in marriage and family therapy (AAMFT approved supervisor).
Are you in a long-term relationship marked with stress, anger and frustration, high conflict, difficult and disrespectful communication, sexual and intimacy problems, and ongoing emotional hurts? Are memory and attention difficulties affecting your current functioning? Perhaps you could benefit from having an expert who understand your needs and assist you in the process of changing old patterns and develop more helpful interpersonal relating skills and better cognitive health. For more than 25 years, I worked overseas and locally helping individuals and couples from different cultures solve their problems.
I have advanced training in marriage and family therapy (AAMFT approved supervisor).
Are you in a long-term relationship marked with stress, anger and frustration, high conflict, difficult and disrespectful communication, sexual and intimacy problems, and ongoing emotional hurts? Are memory and attention difficulties affecting your current functioning? Perhaps you could benefit from having an expert who understand your needs and assist you in the process of changing old patterns and develop more helpful interpersonal relating skills and better cognitive health. For more than 25 years, I worked overseas and locally helping individuals and couples from different cultures solve their problems.
(866) 375-1305 View (866) 375-1305
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 Mark A Kolodziej, Counsellor in Calgary, AB
Mark A Kolodziej
Counsellor, CCC, PhD, Trauma
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2G
Stress both workplace and life, sexual addicitons, relationships including couple, marital, family, co-worker, Christian. The goal of MARTHA7 counselling is to help people be the best version of themselves.
Stress both workplace and life, sexual addicitons, relationships including couple, marital, family, co-worker, Christian. The goal of MARTHA7 counselling is to help people be the best version of themselves.
(587) 323-4272 x403701 View (587) 323-4272 x403701
Photo of Journey Counselling Inc, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Journey Counselling Inc
Psychologist, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2Z
We understand the importance of finding the right therapist for you and are committed to matching you with a member of our team who is the best fit for you! Ask us about our Blended Family, Young Adults, and Marriage Preparation Workshops.
We enjoy helping clients of diverse backgrounds address both relationship and individual challenges. We provide empathic listening and a warm and safe environment to talk about issues. We can help you to gain perspective, understand and take responsibility for your feelings, and make clear requests for getting your needs met. We have experience working with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, mood swings, low self esteem, out of control anger and addictions. (Visit our website for more information.)
We understand the importance of finding the right therapist for you and are committed to matching you with a member of our team who is the best fit for you! Ask us about our Blended Family, Young Adults, and Marriage Preparation Workshops.
We enjoy helping clients of diverse backgrounds address both relationship and individual challenges. We provide empathic listening and a warm and safe environment to talk about issues. We can help you to gain perspective, understand and take responsibility for your feelings, and make clear requests for getting your needs met. We have experience working with a wide variety of issues including depression, anxiety, mood swings, low self esteem, out of control anger and addictions. (Visit our website for more information.)
(403) 800-0755 View (403) 800-0755
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 Sandra L. Dame, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Sandra L. Dame
Psychologist, PhD, R Psyc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2E
We are confronted with change every day of our lives. Some occur due to circumstance, while other changes occur because of maturation. We may appreciate some of the ways we have changed and not others. Fortunately, humans can reflect upon their lives and circumstances to make intentional change thereby improving their life satisfaction. Every person, family, or couple comes with their own story. In therapy, we come to understand the underlying meaning of the story for each person and work together to create the necessary goals for change.
We are confronted with change every day of our lives. Some occur due to circumstance, while other changes occur because of maturation. We may appreciate some of the ways we have changed and not others. Fortunately, humans can reflect upon their lives and circumstances to make intentional change thereby improving their life satisfaction. Every person, family, or couple comes with their own story. In therapy, we come to understand the underlying meaning of the story for each person and work together to create the necessary goals for change.
(587) 912-0015 View (587) 912-0015
Photo of Whitehouse Counselling Services, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Whitehouse Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2T  (Online Only)
As a busy professional with a family, I deeply understand the pressures and challenges involved in doing this self work.
Available for Online Sessions. Specialized in working with Men and Professionals. Are you overwhelmed with work and struggling like yourself? Is there always something coming up with work, and this interferes with you being present with your family, relationship and friends? Do you want to learn how you can prioritize your own needs and live a richer more connected life? Has this life caused you to feel drained and have less energy left to fix your issues? Are you feeling really confused and burnt out? I can collaborate with you and offer action oriented strategies to reduce your overwhelm and get in touch with how you really feel.
As a busy professional with a family, I deeply understand the pressures and challenges involved in doing this self work.
Available for Online Sessions. Specialized in working with Men and Professionals. Are you overwhelmed with work and struggling like yourself? Is there always something coming up with work, and this interferes with you being present with your family, relationship and friends? Do you want to learn how you can prioritize your own needs and live a richer more connected life? Has this life caused you to feel drained and have less energy left to fix your issues? Are you feeling really confused and burnt out? I can collaborate with you and offer action oriented strategies to reduce your overwhelm and get in touch with how you really feel.
(587) 847-2786 View (587) 847-2786
Photo of Michelle McCallum, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Michelle McCallum
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2N
I am a registered child psychologist specializing in helping toddlers, young children (up to age 12), and their families with common emotional, cognitive, and behavioural difficulties. I provide assessment and treatment tailored to meet the specific needs of each child and family. Because young children depend so heavily on those around them to address their developmental needs and challenges, I collaborate closely with parents. The parent-child relationship often provides the best opportunity for effective intervention. I provide a respectful and caring environment for parents to understand what their child's behaviour is communicating, what their child needs, and how they can meet those needs.
I am a registered child psychologist specializing in helping toddlers, young children (up to age 12), and their families with common emotional, cognitive, and behavioural difficulties. I provide assessment and treatment tailored to meet the specific needs of each child and family. Because young children depend so heavily on those around them to address their developmental needs and challenges, I collaborate closely with parents. The parent-child relationship often provides the best opportunity for effective intervention. I provide a respectful and caring environment for parents to understand what their child's behaviour is communicating, what their child needs, and how they can meet those needs.
(587) 801-4661 View (587) 801-4661
Photo of Miranda Desrochers, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Miranda Desrochers
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2R
Waitlist for new clients
Reaching out for help as a parent, child, or family takes a tremendous amount of courage.
Are you looking for a warm, compassionate, and playful psychologist to work with your child or yourself? I’m Miranda, a Registered Psychologist who specializes in assessment and counselling with children, teens, and families. I provide an integrative and holistic approach and am committed to offering clients an effective and meaningful therapeutic experience. I believe that all children and families have the desire and ability to move toward healthy functioning. Using evidence-based practice and a warm and supportive therapeutic relationship, I am honoured to guide this process for the families I see.
Reaching out for help as a parent, child, or family takes a tremendous amount of courage.
Are you looking for a warm, compassionate, and playful psychologist to work with your child or yourself? I’m Miranda, a Registered Psychologist who specializes in assessment and counselling with children, teens, and families. I provide an integrative and holistic approach and am committed to offering clients an effective and meaningful therapeutic experience. I believe that all children and families have the desire and ability to move toward healthy functioning. Using evidence-based practice and a warm and supportive therapeutic relationship, I am honoured to guide this process for the families I see.
(587) 801-8062 View (587) 801-8062
Photo of Kharis Counselling Services, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Kharis Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2K
I am a dedicated and passionate professional and my favorite thing is to work with clients who are struggling in their relationships be it romantic relationships, family relationships, friendship, and acquaintances. I provide a service that not only helps you get the relationship that you want but also transforms your relationship from running – off – the – mill to one where you will not only feel fulfilled, supported, and loved but able to thrive. If you want to get that kind of relationship, call me.
I am a dedicated and passionate professional and my favorite thing is to work with clients who are struggling in their relationships be it romantic relationships, family relationships, friendship, and acquaintances. I provide a service that not only helps you get the relationship that you want but also transforms your relationship from running – off – the – mill to one where you will not only feel fulfilled, supported, and loved but able to thrive. If you want to get that kind of relationship, call me.
(587) 355-1870 View (587) 355-1870
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 Tanya Tonellato. Registered Counselling Therapist in Calgary, AB
Tanya Tonellato. Registered Counselling Therapist
RN, MN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2N
I enact an integrative approach, drawing from the modalities of solution focused brief therapy (SFBT), narrative therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, psychoeducation, family systems, collaborative problem solving, mindfulness.
I have over 30 years of experience working therapeutically with individuals from all walks of life and look forward to honoring your lived experience and supporting you in your journey toward living a rewarding, authentic life. I have a keen interest in the areas of depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, communication, addiction, and mental health issues, postpartum, grief, relationships, and conflict. I feel my addiction and mental health nursing experience along with my counselling experience bridges the medical model and the psychosocial/behavioral models to empower you to become your best self.
I enact an integrative approach, drawing from the modalities of solution focused brief therapy (SFBT), narrative therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, psychoeducation, family systems, collaborative problem solving, mindfulness.
I have over 30 years of experience working therapeutically with individuals from all walks of life and look forward to honoring your lived experience and supporting you in your journey toward living a rewarding, authentic life. I have a keen interest in the areas of depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, communication, addiction, and mental health issues, postpartum, grief, relationships, and conflict. I feel my addiction and mental health nursing experience along with my counselling experience bridges the medical model and the psychosocial/behavioral models to empower you to become your best self.
(587) 419-6774 View (587) 419-6774
Photo of Michael Shane McKernan, Registered Social Worker in Calgary, AB
Michael Shane McKernan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, CSAT
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3E
While I have studied in many therapies, referrals to me tend to: couples' work, Internal Family Systems, personal crisis and addictions work.
Forty five years of experience in a variety of settings including in and out patient psychiatry, children's psychiatry, community mental health and academia in front line, supervisory and director roles. I have certifications in sexual and multiple addictions treatment, EMDR, NLP, Aviation Crisis, IFS. I have training in psychoanalytic and Jungian psychotherapies, hypnosis, Gestalt, trauma and systems therapies. I enjoy a varied practice with couples work, individual work in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, life change. I see the connectedness of body, mind and spirit and view crisis as a powerful learning opportunity.
While I have studied in many therapies, referrals to me tend to: couples' work, Internal Family Systems, personal crisis and addictions work.
Forty five years of experience in a variety of settings including in and out patient psychiatry, children's psychiatry, community mental health and academia in front line, supervisory and director roles. I have certifications in sexual and multiple addictions treatment, EMDR, NLP, Aviation Crisis, IFS. I have training in psychoanalytic and Jungian psychotherapies, hypnosis, Gestalt, trauma and systems therapies. I enjoy a varied practice with couples work, individual work in the areas of trauma, depression, anxiety, life change. I see the connectedness of body, mind and spirit and view crisis as a powerful learning opportunity.
(825) 251-8499 View (825) 251-8499
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 Carolyn Cone Counselling & Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Carolyn Cone Counselling & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3M  (Online Only)
The clients I have worked with have experienced: the spectrum of mental health issues; active & recovery from addictions; trauma; grief & loss; work place stressors ; life transitions ; development of self awareness and self esteem ; family, couple & other relationship challenges; work life balance management; communication development; emotional regulation.
As a social worker of 32 years, I have spent my career supporting individuals, couples and families navigate through many life experiences from a holistic and strengths-based perspective. I believe that we all have the ability and capacity to face many of the challenges and hardships that arise in life but there are also times when we all need that extra support from a professional – someone to provide a different perspective, new insights, and helpful practical strategies to address and alleviate the distress being experienced and answers to questions that these times can illuminate.
The clients I have worked with have experienced: the spectrum of mental health issues; active & recovery from addictions; trauma; grief & loss; work place stressors ; life transitions ; development of self awareness and self esteem ; family, couple & other relationship challenges; work life balance management; communication development; emotional regulation.
As a social worker of 32 years, I have spent my career supporting individuals, couples and families navigate through many life experiences from a holistic and strengths-based perspective. I believe that we all have the ability and capacity to face many of the challenges and hardships that arise in life but there are also times when we all need that extra support from a professional – someone to provide a different perspective, new insights, and helpful practical strategies to address and alleviate the distress being experienced and answers to questions that these times can illuminate.
(587) 401-2849 View (587) 401-2849

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.