Photo of Sara Ludu, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Sara Ludu
Psychologist, RPsych
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3H
I want to help you tap into your innate capacity to heal - help you become open to experience, learn to trust yourself, develop an internal evaluation of yourself and have a willingness to continue growing. In private practice, I provide individual, family, marital/relationship, and group counselling. I treat people across the lifespan including children, adolescents (e.g. navigating identity), adults (e.g. working through relationships, parenting, and career issues), and the elderly (grief and life transitions).
I want to help you tap into your innate capacity to heal - help you become open to experience, learn to trust yourself, develop an internal evaluation of yourself and have a willingness to continue growing. In private practice, I provide individual, family, marital/relationship, and group counselling. I treat people across the lifespan including children, adolescents (e.g. navigating identity), adults (e.g. working through relationships, parenting, and career issues), and the elderly (grief and life transitions).
(587) 317-6482 View (587) 317-6482
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 Angela Normand, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Angela Normand
Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2Z
I have a great passion for working within family systems, offering specialized services to parents of children with disabilities as well as those navigating sexuality or gender transitions.
You're here! This step is often the hardest part! Life can be hard... I get it! The stuff that makes life tricky shapes how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we make sense of the world. Life experiences form our core beliefs that often get in the way of living the life you desire. As an attachment-based therapist, I work hard to create a safe space where you can confront the tough stuff and begin to rewrite your story. I show up with compassion, acceptance, and humour, to dig into what is getting in the way of you living your truth.
I have a great passion for working within family systems, offering specialized services to parents of children with disabilities as well as those navigating sexuality or gender transitions.
You're here! This step is often the hardest part! Life can be hard... I get it! The stuff that makes life tricky shapes how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we make sense of the world. Life experiences form our core beliefs that often get in the way of living the life you desire. As an attachment-based therapist, I work hard to create a safe space where you can confront the tough stuff and begin to rewrite your story. I show up with compassion, acceptance, and humour, to dig into what is getting in the way of you living your truth.
(587) 400-2145 View (587) 400-2145
Photo of 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 Annie Lai, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Annie Lai
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2Z
Sometimes we all need someone who can provide an objective viewpoint, outside of friends and family.
People go to therapy for many reasons, and all of them are equally valid. Whatever your reason is, I am so glad that you are here. You may be considering therapy right now because you are feeling stuck - stuck in difficult thoughts, feelings, emotions, behaviours, relationships, and/or situations. Or, you may be mostly doing fine and want to develop self-awareness and understanding to become the best version of yourself and to live your life to the fullest.
Sometimes we all need someone who can provide an objective viewpoint, outside of friends and family.
People go to therapy for many reasons, and all of them are equally valid. Whatever your reason is, I am so glad that you are here. You may be considering therapy right now because you are feeling stuck - stuck in difficult thoughts, feelings, emotions, behaviours, relationships, and/or situations. Or, you may be mostly doing fine and want to develop self-awareness and understanding to become the best version of yourself and to live your life to the fullest.
(587) 803-2743 View (587) 803-2743
Photo of Lauren Harnett, Counsellor in Calgary, AB
Lauren Harnett
Counsellor, CCC, PCC
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T3A
The theories that resonate the most with me are internal family systems (we have different parts of ourselves that may feel different ways at any given time), attachment (our past deeply impacts our present and our relationships), and narrative therapy (the story we tell ourselves about ourselves).
Hi! Thank you for taking a moment to read my bio and see if I am a good fit for you at this time. My approach is simple; I want you to achieve your goals. Maybe your goal is feeling more like yourself, processing an unanticipated event in your life, or learning what it takes to make some changes. I will support and equip you through it all. As a professional coach and counsellor, we will discuss your past, present, and future at a pace dictated by you. I try to offer structure and flexibility as we navigate our time together and try to understand all the aspects of your life to get a clear picture of what it feels like to be you.
The theories that resonate the most with me are internal family systems (we have different parts of ourselves that may feel different ways at any given time), attachment (our past deeply impacts our present and our relationships), and narrative therapy (the story we tell ourselves about ourselves).
Hi! Thank you for taking a moment to read my bio and see if I am a good fit for you at this time. My approach is simple; I want you to achieve your goals. Maybe your goal is feeling more like yourself, processing an unanticipated event in your life, or learning what it takes to make some changes. I will support and equip you through it all. As a professional coach and counsellor, we will discuss your past, present, and future at a pace dictated by you. I try to offer structure and flexibility as we navigate our time together and try to understand all the aspects of your life to get a clear picture of what it feels like to be you.
(825) 255-5575 View (825) 255-5575
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 Michelle Eves, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Michelle Eves
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2Z
With over 15 years in mental health, I have supported diverse populations of adults, teens, children and families with their concerns including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-harm, life transitions, family relationships, and significant mental health challenges.
I am passionate about meeting you where you are at along your journey and joining you as you work towards growth, healing, and change. I value working collaboratively with my clients; therapy is not something done to you – it is done with you. My authentic and empathic nature, and focus on trust, curiosity, and acceptance, ensures you feel safe, secure, and seen throughout our time together. I strongly believe that strength and resilience lives within each of us. As such, I strive to empower my clients to discover and utilize their strength and resilience as they work towards change.
With over 15 years in mental health, I have supported diverse populations of adults, teens, children and families with their concerns including anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-harm, life transitions, family relationships, and significant mental health challenges.
I am passionate about meeting you where you are at along your journey and joining you as you work towards growth, healing, and change. I value working collaboratively with my clients; therapy is not something done to you – it is done with you. My authentic and empathic nature, and focus on trust, curiosity, and acceptance, ensures you feel safe, secure, and seen throughout our time together. I strongly believe that strength and resilience lives within each of us. As such, I strive to empower my clients to discover and utilize their strength and resilience as they work towards change.
(587) 741-0785 View (587) 741-0785
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 Adrienne Krause, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Adrienne Krause
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MACP, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2R
Hello! It’s so great to see you. I’m Adrienne (she/her). I have a keen interest in working with individuals and couples, from teens to adults, and from all walks of life, who may be struggling with identity, trauma, life transitions, family/relationship issues, neurodivergence, and general issues related to mental health and well-being. My goal is to help empower you to live a full and meaningful life, and to find out what that means for you.
Hello! It’s so great to see you. I’m Adrienne (she/her). I have a keen interest in working with individuals and couples, from teens to adults, and from all walks of life, who may be struggling with identity, trauma, life transitions, family/relationship issues, neurodivergence, and general issues related to mental health and well-being. My goal is to help empower you to live a full and meaningful life, and to find out what that means for you.
(587) 806-4461 View (587) 806-4461
Photo of Jennifer Hack, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Calgary, AB
Jennifer Hack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2V
My therapeutic focus is on anxiety, stress, depression, addiction, loss and grief, couples counselling, family conflict, parenting skills, life transitions, coping skills, mindfulness, self-care, boundaries/assertiveness, self-esteem, spirituality and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
When it comes to living, life can be full of stressors, disappointments, changes, challenges and losses that can cause a range of emotional, mental and physical responses. In therapy, I take the approach that all experiences, both internal and external, can create opportunity for growth, fulfillment and greater meaning. Counselling services can range from short-term solution focus treatment to longer-term therapy/analysis. The treatment plan will depend on your individual needs, the preferred outcome, your ability/willingness to access services and ultimately, the best course of treatment for your unique situation.
My therapeutic focus is on anxiety, stress, depression, addiction, loss and grief, couples counselling, family conflict, parenting skills, life transitions, coping skills, mindfulness, self-care, boundaries/assertiveness, self-esteem, spirituality and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
When it comes to living, life can be full of stressors, disappointments, changes, challenges and losses that can cause a range of emotional, mental and physical responses. In therapy, I take the approach that all experiences, both internal and external, can create opportunity for growth, fulfillment and greater meaning. Counselling services can range from short-term solution focus treatment to longer-term therapy/analysis. The treatment plan will depend on your individual needs, the preferred outcome, your ability/willingness to access services and ultimately, the best course of treatment for your unique situation.
(587) 329-8576 View (587) 329-8576
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 Dr. Kendra Massie, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Dr. Kendra Massie
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2X
I am a Clinical Psychologist with a family-focused practice and over 15 years of experience. Children, youth, families, and parents/caregivers often see me when there are concerns about behavior, sleep, anxiety, emotion regulation, family and peer relationships, adjustment (e.g., parental separation, medical diagnosis), and disrupted attachment (e.g., foster care, adoption). Adults seek my services when they have concerns and goals related to relationships, coping, and adjustment. I have worked in diverse settings including children’s hospitals, school districts, a not-for-profit organization, and my private practice.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with a family-focused practice and over 15 years of experience. Children, youth, families, and parents/caregivers often see me when there are concerns about behavior, sleep, anxiety, emotion regulation, family and peer relationships, adjustment (e.g., parental separation, medical diagnosis), and disrupted attachment (e.g., foster care, adoption). Adults seek my services when they have concerns and goals related to relationships, coping, and adjustment. I have worked in diverse settings including children’s hospitals, school districts, a not-for-profit organization, and my private practice.
(825) 508-7016 View (825) 508-7016
Photo of Suzanne Fong, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Suzanne Fong
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2E
I am a licensed psychologist with experience in providing expert psychological assessments and therapy services in the context of family law cases in Alberta. I am dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate the emotional challenges often associated with divorce, parenting disputes, and other family law matters. At this time I conduct Practice Note 7 interventions and as well Mediation and Parenting Coordination. In addition, I have extensive training in Trauma Therapy (EMDR, ART, PE) and have many years of experience working with a wide variety of first responders.
I am a licensed psychologist with experience in providing expert psychological assessments and therapy services in the context of family law cases in Alberta. I am dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate the emotional challenges often associated with divorce, parenting disputes, and other family law matters. At this time I conduct Practice Note 7 interventions and as well Mediation and Parenting Coordination. In addition, I have extensive training in Trauma Therapy (EMDR, ART, PE) and have many years of experience working with a wide variety of first responders.
(403) 266-2017 View (403) 266-2017
Photo of Hali Fehr, Registered Provisional Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Hali Fehr
Registered Provisional Psychologist, MA, COUNS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2H
I offer a safe, compassionate, and loving space for you to dig deep into the lost or abandoned parts of yourself that have been rejected by you, your family, or society/culture.
Many of us have lost touch, abandoned, forgotten, or detached from the things that make us unique, bring us joy, and motivate us to build the life that we want to live. This sense of loss can produce many side effects such as anxiety, addiction, and depression. It can also cause us to attract relationships or people in our lives that are out of alignment with our soul's essence causing conflict, confusion, and chaos. If you are feeling lost, alone, confused, anxious, or rejected by others and or yourself - these can be clues that you have lost connection with important parts of yourself.
I offer a safe, compassionate, and loving space for you to dig deep into the lost or abandoned parts of yourself that have been rejected by you, your family, or society/culture.
Many of us have lost touch, abandoned, forgotten, or detached from the things that make us unique, bring us joy, and motivate us to build the life that we want to live. This sense of loss can produce many side effects such as anxiety, addiction, and depression. It can also cause us to attract relationships or people in our lives that are out of alignment with our soul's essence causing conflict, confusion, and chaos. If you are feeling lost, alone, confused, anxious, or rejected by others and or yourself - these can be clues that you have lost connection with important parts of yourself.
(587) 857-5650 View (587) 857-5650
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 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 Melodie Sanford, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Melodie Sanford
Psychologist, MA, MSc, CST
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2M
NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS - My passion for psychology comes from my genuine belief that we have the ability to not only overcome significant challenges, but to transform our lives. As a Registered Psychologist, I work with a wide range of topics including relationship challenges (i.e. intimacy, communication, infidelity, separation/divorce, blended family, etc.), trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief and loss, and wellness. As an AASECT certified Sex Therapist, I am highly trained in working with sexual(ity) concerns, alternative relationship structures (i.e. open relationship, Poly, Kink), and LGBTQ2S+ challenges.
NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS - My passion for psychology comes from my genuine belief that we have the ability to not only overcome significant challenges, but to transform our lives. As a Registered Psychologist, I work with a wide range of topics including relationship challenges (i.e. intimacy, communication, infidelity, separation/divorce, blended family, etc.), trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, grief and loss, and wellness. As an AASECT certified Sex Therapist, I am highly trained in working with sexual(ity) concerns, alternative relationship structures (i.e. open relationship, Poly, Kink), and LGBTQ2S+ challenges.
(587) 853-6390 View (587) 853-6390
Photo of Maria R Schmid, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Maria R Schmid
Psychologist, BA, MEd, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2E
Maria is currently accepting new clients for individual, couple and family therapy.
It takes courage to seek help when life isn't going smoothly and our regular methods of coping are not solving the issues we encounter. Drawing upon a depth of life experience, a broad breadth of knowledge and a reverence for all faiths and cultures, Maria is well qualified to assist you through life's challenges and transitions. Maria engages clients in objective, safe and supportive conversations about the isolating issues we face. She is passionate and committed to the health and wholeness of individuals, couples and families and can integrate a Christian perspective to counselling.
Maria is currently accepting new clients for individual, couple and family therapy.
It takes courage to seek help when life isn't going smoothly and our regular methods of coping are not solving the issues we encounter. Drawing upon a depth of life experience, a broad breadth of knowledge and a reverence for all faiths and cultures, Maria is well qualified to assist you through life's challenges and transitions. Maria engages clients in objective, safe and supportive conversations about the isolating issues we face. She is passionate and committed to the health and wholeness of individuals, couples and families and can integrate a Christian perspective to counselling.
(403) 800-0718 View (403) 800-0718
Photo of Kari Buenfeld, Psychologist in Calgary, AB
Kari Buenfeld
Psychologist, BA, CPT, MSP, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2C
I concentrate on goals to promote positive changes with the individual, couple, or family.
Barriers can appear at any time during the journey of life. These barriers may become ongoing or exhausting, and limiting. Our team of specialists offers services that support growth, healing, and fosters your best self without limiting you and further. As a Registered Psychologist, Registered Play Therapist, and expert in assessments and counselling, I, Kari Buenfeld, am dedicated to supporting clients in accessing specialized and effective treatment approaches with myself or an expert therapist in our team. Call today to discuss specifics of our therapist's experiences, qualifications, and services in assessments and counselling!
I concentrate on goals to promote positive changes with the individual, couple, or family.
Barriers can appear at any time during the journey of life. These barriers may become ongoing or exhausting, and limiting. Our team of specialists offers services that support growth, healing, and fosters your best self without limiting you and further. As a Registered Psychologist, Registered Play Therapist, and expert in assessments and counselling, I, Kari Buenfeld, am dedicated to supporting clients in accessing specialized and effective treatment approaches with myself or an expert therapist in our team. Call today to discuss specifics of our therapist's experiences, qualifications, and services in assessments and counselling!
(587) 407-3166 View (587) 407-3166

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.