Photo of Marta Mackiw, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Marta Mackiw
Registered Psychotherapist, BSc, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
I have been fortunate enough to find my passion in working with and helping others. Connecting with a therapist is a challenging first step, but it is often the first step towards discovery, growth, and change. I aspire to create a safe and comfortable space for clients to uncover their resiliency and explore skills that help them increase their ability to cope with life difficulties. I offer individual, couple, and family therapy for a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, anger management, self-esteem, domestic violence, communication problems, stress management, and life transitions.
I have been fortunate enough to find my passion in working with and helping others. Connecting with a therapist is a challenging first step, but it is often the first step towards discovery, growth, and change. I aspire to create a safe and comfortable space for clients to uncover their resiliency and explore skills that help them increase their ability to cope with life difficulties. I offer individual, couple, and family therapy for a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, trauma, anger management, self-esteem, domestic violence, communication problems, stress management, and life transitions.
(647) 953-2034 View (647) 953-2034
Photo of Shimone DeNiese, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Shimone DeNiese
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
My approach consists of techniques from Person-centered therapy, Solution-focused therapy, Cognitive-behavioral therapy, Narrative therapy, Internal Family Systems and Mindfulness-based therapy.
Welcome! I am passionate about supporting you on your transformative journey to healing and self-discovery. I am here to assist in creating the positive change you desire, or to be there to hold space for anything you need to let go of or work through. Seeking help can be overwhelming, but I am dedicated to creating a safe and accepting environment for my clients. I value open communication and want you to feel supported throughout your therapeutic journey.
My approach consists of techniques from Person-centered therapy, Solution-focused therapy, Cognitive-behavioral therapy, Narrative therapy, Internal Family Systems and Mindfulness-based therapy.
Welcome! I am passionate about supporting you on your transformative journey to healing and self-discovery. I am here to assist in creating the positive change you desire, or to be there to hold space for anything you need to let go of or work through. Seeking help can be overwhelming, but I am dedicated to creating a safe and accepting environment for my clients. I value open communication and want you to feel supported throughout your therapeutic journey.
(289) 778-0397 View (289) 778-0397
Photo of Rise Psychotherapy, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Rise Psychotherapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4W
I offer individual therapy for a range of concerns, including stress and anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship challenges, family relationships, and self development.
There are times when life can seem overwhelming and difficult. You might be feeling stuck, struggling to deal with your emotions, or just be looking for some guidance. Being open to therapy is the first step and one of the most courageous decisions you can make. I create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to work through the challenges you are experiencing. I believe you are the expert of your life, and I want to support your recovery in any way I can.
I offer individual therapy for a range of concerns, including stress and anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship challenges, family relationships, and self development.
There are times when life can seem overwhelming and difficult. You might be feeling stuck, struggling to deal with your emotions, or just be looking for some guidance. Being open to therapy is the first step and one of the most courageous decisions you can make. I create a safe, non-judgmental space for you to work through the challenges you are experiencing. I believe you are the expert of your life, and I want to support your recovery in any way I can.
(647) 417-4799 View (647) 417-4799
Photo of Nadine Thompson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Mississauga, ON
Nadine Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, RP, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5N  (Online Only)
As a registered marriage and family therapist, my commitment revolves around being a dedicated companion on the transformative journey of my clients. Rooted in genuine care and empathy, my approach addresses a spectrum of issues such as relationship dynamics, communication hurdles, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I possess a unique ability to grasp the big picture, delving into the intricate web of emotions and relationships that shape individuals and families.
As a registered marriage and family therapist, my commitment revolves around being a dedicated companion on the transformative journey of my clients. Rooted in genuine care and empathy, my approach addresses a spectrum of issues such as relationship dynamics, communication hurdles, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I possess a unique ability to grasp the big picture, delving into the intricate web of emotions and relationships that shape individuals and families.
(289) 206-8367 View (289) 206-8367
Photo of Shema Hassan, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Shema Hassan
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5B
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, postpartum, lack of motivation, grief, feeling stuck or relationship issues? Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationship/dating, family role, school, job, health, or some other area of your life? Do you sometimes think to yourself "my child's behaviour is out of control?" My practice services individuals, children, youth, and families. Taking the first step can be difficult, we understand. If you or a loved is struggling with emotional, psychological, mental health and/or behavioural challenges, the team at Support & Growth can help. There's immediate support available.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, postpartum, lack of motivation, grief, feeling stuck or relationship issues? Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationship/dating, family role, school, job, health, or some other area of your life? Do you sometimes think to yourself "my child's behaviour is out of control?" My practice services individuals, children, youth, and families. Taking the first step can be difficult, we understand. If you or a loved is struggling with emotional, psychological, mental health and/or behavioural challenges, the team at Support & Growth can help. There's immediate support available.
(289) 301-8722 View (289) 301-8722
Photo of Zahra Halfal, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Zahra Halfal
Registered Psychotherapist, MA MFT, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the CRPO. I obtained a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the United States. My integrated psychotherapy approach for individual adults/teenagers, couples, and families combines relational, emotion-focused, attachment informed, trauma informed, and somatic elements. This comprehensive approach emphasizes the importance of your relationship with yourself and others, encourages emotional exploration, considers attachment histories, acknowledges trauma's impact, and fosters trust and positive self-esteem. It aims to promote individual/relational healing, inside and out.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the CRPO. I obtained a Masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the United States. My integrated psychotherapy approach for individual adults/teenagers, couples, and families combines relational, emotion-focused, attachment informed, trauma informed, and somatic elements. This comprehensive approach emphasizes the importance of your relationship with yourself and others, encourages emotional exploration, considers attachment histories, acknowledges trauma's impact, and fosters trust and positive self-esteem. It aims to promote individual/relational healing, inside and out.
(289) 276-7867 View (289) 276-7867
Photo of Lighthouse Psychotherapy - Couples Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Lighthouse Psychotherapy - Couples Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MBA, RP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5V
If you're a South Asian couple (ages 22 to 35) attempting to navigate challenges in your relationship, I see and hear where you're coming from. Although you may have similar relationship desires to other couples, you are probably also navigating complexities around family & cultural expectations along with the different ways you or your partner's upbringing may be impacting how you show up in your relationship. This in turn could be bringing up a mix of emotions for you and your partner such as resentment, loneliness or guilt. You might also feel stuck on where or who to turn to with your challenges due to the fear of being judged.
If you're a South Asian couple (ages 22 to 35) attempting to navigate challenges in your relationship, I see and hear where you're coming from. Although you may have similar relationship desires to other couples, you are probably also navigating complexities around family & cultural expectations along with the different ways you or your partner's upbringing may be impacting how you show up in your relationship. This in turn could be bringing up a mix of emotions for you and your partner such as resentment, loneliness or guilt. You might also feel stuck on where or who to turn to with your challenges due to the fear of being judged.
(289) 797-3217 View (289) 797-3217
Photo of Gulzar Firashta, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Gulzar Firashta
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, RSSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5V
I work with individuals 15+ couples & family.
With over 10 years of experience providing mental health services in community-based organizations and school systems, I bring a strong mix of approaches to help you explore your strength and move ahead in life. My objective is to help individuals and couples to thrive and achieve success in their personal lives and intimate relationships. I respect the uniqueness of every individual through active listening skills, empathy, and open-mindedness towards a variety of lifestyles and situations. I take a holistic approach with care and affection that allows for a safe, and comfortable space for clients to work in collaboration with me.
I work with individuals 15+ couples & family.
With over 10 years of experience providing mental health services in community-based organizations and school systems, I bring a strong mix of approaches to help you explore your strength and move ahead in life. My objective is to help individuals and couples to thrive and achieve success in their personal lives and intimate relationships. I respect the uniqueness of every individual through active listening skills, empathy, and open-mindedness towards a variety of lifestyles and situations. I take a holistic approach with care and affection that allows for a safe, and comfortable space for clients to work in collaboration with me.
(289) 277-6788 View (289) 277-6788
Photo of Eirini Ververi, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Eirini Ververi
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4X  (Online Only)
I offer services to individual adults who have experienced childhood trauma, fractured attachment, difficult family relationship and grief and loss. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with parents and caregivers raising children with diverse abilities, social and behavioural difficulties providing support as they navigate the different social systems.
I offer services to individual adults who have experienced childhood trauma, fractured attachment, difficult family relationship and grief and loss. Additionally, I have extensive experience working with parents and caregivers raising children with diverse abilities, social and behavioural difficulties providing support as they navigate the different social systems.
(647) 955-5665 View (647) 955-5665
Photo of Justin the Therapist, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Justin the Therapist
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, MSc, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
For more information on how I do individual, couple, or family therapy, feel free to view my website.
***STILL OPEN FOR IN-PERSON GUELPH/MISSISSAUGA*** I believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. I have helped hundreds of individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As a relational therapist, I appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. I do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, I see my clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. I see strengths and I see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
For more information on how I do individual, couple, or family therapy, feel free to view my website.
***STILL OPEN FOR IN-PERSON GUELPH/MISSISSAUGA*** I believe that there is good in every person, and hope in every situation. I have helped hundreds of individuals, couples, and families heal, grow, and connect. As a relational therapist, I appreciate the impact that our relationships have on our well-being. I do not see clients as having something wrong with their minds that necessarily needs to be fixed. Rather, I see my clients as unique individuals, each with their own stories and perspectives, embedded in important relationships and contexts that impact them. I see strengths and I see hope, even when it feels like there is none.
(289) 274-8209 View (289) 274-8209
Photo of Ayman Al Taher, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Ayman Al Taher
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5B
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and a Certified Clinical Chaplain and Spiritual Counsellor from the College of Pastoral Education and Psychotherapy (CPSP) Canada - USA and Canadian Association for Spiritual Care (CASC). ​ I have more than 25 years of experience providing individual, couples and family counselling through a holistic approach of mind, body soul and spirit. I have been working as a Spiritual Counsellor and Caregiver at the Sick Kids Hospital Toronto since 1997. I am also an imam, a public speaker and an activist in several social advocacy groups.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and a Certified Clinical Chaplain and Spiritual Counsellor from the College of Pastoral Education and Psychotherapy (CPSP) Canada - USA and Canadian Association for Spiritual Care (CASC). ​ I have more than 25 years of experience providing individual, couples and family counselling through a holistic approach of mind, body soul and spirit. I have been working as a Spiritual Counsellor and Caregiver at the Sick Kids Hospital Toronto since 1997. I am also an imam, a public speaker and an activist in several social advocacy groups.
(289) 312-1828 View (289) 312-1828
Photo of Malika Jmila, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Malika Jmila
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5B
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, lack of motivation, grief, feeling overwhelmed, feeling stuck or relationship issues? Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationship/dating, family role, school, job, health or some other area of your life? Do you sometimes think to yourself "my child's behaviour is out of control?" My practice services individuals, children, youth and families. Taking the first step can be difficult, we understand. If you or a loved is struggling with emotional, psychological, mental health and/or behavioural challenges, the team at Support & Growth can help. There's immediate support available.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, lack of motivation, grief, feeling overwhelmed, feeling stuck or relationship issues? Are you experiencing difficulties in your relationship/dating, family role, school, job, health or some other area of your life? Do you sometimes think to yourself "my child's behaviour is out of control?" My practice services individuals, children, youth and families. Taking the first step can be difficult, we understand. If you or a loved is struggling with emotional, psychological, mental health and/or behavioural challenges, the team at Support & Growth can help. There's immediate support available.
(289) 216-4364 View (289) 216-4364
Photo of Joan Manning, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Joan Manning
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L4Z
I have worked with a variety of individuals experiencing a number of different challenges, ranging from depression to anxiety, to family concerns, to couple and relationship issues, to workplace challenges as well as other concerns.
There are times in one's life when you may need the support of a highly qualified compassionate professional to support you in your journey toward health and healing; as such, it may be helpful and needful to address concerns relating to mental health, relationships, parent-child concerns, workplace issues and a number of other concerns.
I have worked with a variety of individuals experiencing a number of different challenges, ranging from depression to anxiety, to family concerns, to couple and relationship issues, to workplace challenges as well as other concerns.
There are times in one's life when you may need the support of a highly qualified compassionate professional to support you in your journey toward health and healing; as such, it may be helpful and needful to address concerns relating to mental health, relationships, parent-child concerns, workplace issues and a number of other concerns.
(647) 699-5098 View (647) 699-5098
Photo of Saunia Palmer Nelson, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Saunia Palmer Nelson
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5L  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I can support you and or your family and loved ones work through challenging relationships, family conflict, interpersonal conflict, personal growth, mental health challenges, trauma, understanding a new diagnosis, expanding your support network, managing stress, preparing for a new stage in your life, crisis, and/or working through grief.
My name is Saunia Palmer-Nelson and I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). Through my private practice, Refining Therapy Services, I provide services through a trauma-informed client-centered, strength-based approach. In other words, I never assume I know you more than you know yourself, and I see it as a privilege to support you through any stage of your life that we meet. My goal to enhance the social development and emotional growth of clients in a culturally sensitive, non-judgmental, and respectful manner.
I can support you and or your family and loved ones work through challenging relationships, family conflict, interpersonal conflict, personal growth, mental health challenges, trauma, understanding a new diagnosis, expanding your support network, managing stress, preparing for a new stage in your life, crisis, and/or working through grief.
My name is Saunia Palmer-Nelson and I am a Registered Psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario (CRPO). Through my private practice, Refining Therapy Services, I provide services through a trauma-informed client-centered, strength-based approach. In other words, I never assume I know you more than you know yourself, and I see it as a privilege to support you through any stage of your life that we meet. My goal to enhance the social development and emotional growth of clients in a culturally sensitive, non-judgmental, and respectful manner.
(289) 210-7041 View (289) 210-7041
Photo of Carissa Ng, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
Carissa Ng
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RP (Q)
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Z
My drive and motivation comes from my family and friends, I enjoy rock climbing, playing board games, and reading fiction novels, and am happiest when I'm sharing a meal with a loved one.
I believe that every human deserves to have their story seen, heard, and understood. This can be especially important in our busy world where it can be difficult to take the time to slow down and truly listen. Life can be complex and unpredictable, so I care about providing an inclusive, safe, empathetic, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel comfortable sharing your journey with me. I believe that you are the expert of your own life, and it would be my deepest privilege to walk alongside you while we work together to overcome obstacles and navigate where you would like to go next.
My drive and motivation comes from my family and friends, I enjoy rock climbing, playing board games, and reading fiction novels, and am happiest when I'm sharing a meal with a loved one.
I believe that every human deserves to have their story seen, heard, and understood. This can be especially important in our busy world where it can be difficult to take the time to slow down and truly listen. Life can be complex and unpredictable, so I care about providing an inclusive, safe, empathetic, and nonjudgmental space where you can feel comfortable sharing your journey with me. I believe that you are the expert of your own life, and it would be my deepest privilege to walk alongside you while we work together to overcome obstacles and navigate where you would like to go next.
(289) 207-4801 x719 View (289) 207-4801 x719
Photo of BeWell Mississauga Health Centre, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Mississauga, ON
BeWell Mississauga Health Centre
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5J
Brooklyn has worked with people with behavioural issues, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life-limiting illnesses, anger, stress, women's issues, academic issues, end of life, and family conflict.
Brooklyn is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) as well as a Certified Music Therapist. Brooklyn creates a safe and expressive space to tap into whatever creativity a person may hold, whether they know it or not. Creative arts therapy (music, play, visual art, writing) is a meaningful way to open up the therapeutic space and reduce stress. Brooklyn is happy to offer her musical training and skills to help a client express and connect deeper to the self. Music and therapy in all its forms have been a gift for Brooklyn throughout her life, and she is passionate about sharing that gift with others.
Brooklyn has worked with people with behavioural issues, ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life-limiting illnesses, anger, stress, women's issues, academic issues, end of life, and family conflict.
Brooklyn is a Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) as well as a Certified Music Therapist. Brooklyn creates a safe and expressive space to tap into whatever creativity a person may hold, whether they know it or not. Creative arts therapy (music, play, visual art, writing) is a meaningful way to open up the therapeutic space and reduce stress. Brooklyn is happy to offer her musical training and skills to help a client express and connect deeper to the self. Music and therapy in all its forms have been a gift for Brooklyn throughout her life, and she is passionate about sharing that gift with others.
(289) 275-1159 View (289) 275-1159
Photo of Rabia Ikram, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Rabia Ikram
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4Y  (Online Only)
I am culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and client-centered Clinician. De-stigmatizing and normalizing support for mental health is important to me. We all share the need to feel ‘understood’ and ‘validated’ by our family, circle of care. Our voices in not being heard, silenced can often lead us to feel resentful, sad, lonely, frustrated, and even angry. This void makes us act distant, judge ourselves, and suffer emotionally. Also, cause us to have conflict in our relationship with ourselves, others, and society. They say; “Stories have to be told or they die, and when they die, we can’t remember who we are or why we are here.”
I am culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and client-centered Clinician. De-stigmatizing and normalizing support for mental health is important to me. We all share the need to feel ‘understood’ and ‘validated’ by our family, circle of care. Our voices in not being heard, silenced can often lead us to feel resentful, sad, lonely, frustrated, and even angry. This void makes us act distant, judge ourselves, and suffer emotionally. Also, cause us to have conflict in our relationship with ourselves, others, and society. They say; “Stories have to be told or they die, and when they die, we can’t remember who we are or why we are here.”
(289) 207-7662 View (289) 207-7662
Photo of Chantal Williams, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Chantal Williams
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Mississauga, ON L5A  (Online Only)
I provide individual, couples & family therapy to children (4+), youth and adults via phone/video throughout Ontario. Services are provided in english or french with no waitlist. Life is full of challenging moments, but you don’t have to overcome them alone. I am here to support you. I am passionate about helping children, youth and adults navigate life stressors by discovering their strengths and learning practical strategies to build their capacity to cope and make meaningful change.
I provide individual, couples & family therapy to children (4+), youth and adults via phone/video throughout Ontario. Services are provided in english or french with no waitlist. Life is full of challenging moments, but you don’t have to overcome them alone. I am here to support you. I am passionate about helping children, youth and adults navigate life stressors by discovering their strengths and learning practical strategies to build their capacity to cope and make meaningful change.
(289) 805-6289 View (289) 805-6289
Photo of Mariam Zaveri, Registered Psychotherapist in Mississauga, ON
Mariam Zaveri
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M
I have over 15 years of experience working for the school community. I offer counselling services for children, youth, adults, elderly, as well as couples and family therapy for a wide range of issues including Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, parenting issues and family conflicts. I provide a non-judgmental safe environment where you can feel comfortable to discuss your personal issues and concerns including any life challenges that you like to discuss. Through my therapy, you will become aware of your experiences, learn techniques to make choices, set reasonable boundaries, and learn to let go of negative thoughts.
I have over 15 years of experience working for the school community. I offer counselling services for children, youth, adults, elderly, as well as couples and family therapy for a wide range of issues including Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, parenting issues and family conflicts. I provide a non-judgmental safe environment where you can feel comfortable to discuss your personal issues and concerns including any life challenges that you like to discuss. Through my therapy, you will become aware of your experiences, learn techniques to make choices, set reasonable boundaries, and learn to let go of negative thoughts.
(289) 207-6235 View (289) 207-6235
Photo of Luminare Counselling, Registered Social Worker in Mississauga, ON
Luminare Counselling
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5M  (Online Only)
I have OVER 16 years of clinical experience in both hospital and community settings and ample experience treating children/adolescent/adult inpatients presenting with complex mental health issues by formulating and implementing sensitively customized family therapy.
Do you lie awake at night because you are feeling overwhelmed and anxious about the obstacles life has thrown at you? Feel detached and confused about a relationship that you feel “stuck” in? Depressed and having difficulty adjusting to a new illness involving you or your loved one? Unresolved anger creating trouble in your relationships and workplace? Or are you at the end of your rope because you are deeply concerned about your child’s behavior? To best suit your individual needs, I offer a variety of evidenced based approaches in a safe space where you can feel free to be 100% of yourself without worrying about being judged.
I have OVER 16 years of clinical experience in both hospital and community settings and ample experience treating children/adolescent/adult inpatients presenting with complex mental health issues by formulating and implementing sensitively customized family therapy.
Do you lie awake at night because you are feeling overwhelmed and anxious about the obstacles life has thrown at you? Feel detached and confused about a relationship that you feel “stuck” in? Depressed and having difficulty adjusting to a new illness involving you or your loved one? Unresolved anger creating trouble in your relationships and workplace? Or are you at the end of your rope because you are deeply concerned about your child’s behavior? To best suit your individual needs, I offer a variety of evidenced based approaches in a safe space where you can feel free to be 100% of yourself without worrying about being judged.
(647) 371-1300 View (647) 371-1300

See more therapy options for Mississauga

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.