John Esposti Anna Tarjan
Registered Social Worker, BA, BFA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7A
Anna specializes in couple and family therapy, trauma and grief work, mood disorders and chronic pain.
John has been a clinical social worker for over thirty years, completing my degrees at York University. I have obtained advanced training in Emotion Focused Couple Therapy, as well as being informed by the work of Daniel Wile and Terrence Real. Additionally, I have had extensive training in Family Therapy, primarily adopting a Structural/Strategic Approach. Of course, I also provide individual therapy both with adults and teens/children. I am very comfortable and well trained in treating mood disorders, trauma and loss issues, and all behavorial addictions. We have been operating our private practice successfully since 1999.
Anna specializes in couple and family therapy, trauma and grief work, mood disorders and chronic pain.
John has been a clinical social worker for over thirty years, completing my degrees at York University. I have obtained advanced training in Emotion Focused Couple Therapy, as well as being informed by the work of Daniel Wile and Terrence Real. Additionally, I have had extensive training in Family Therapy, primarily adopting a Structural/Strategic Approach. Of course, I also provide individual therapy both with adults and teens/children. I am very comfortable and well trained in treating mood disorders, trauma and loss issues, and all behavorial addictions. We have been operating our private practice successfully since 1999.
(807) 343-3622 View (807) 343-3622
Photo of Sandy He, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Thunder Bay, ON
Sandy He
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BA, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B  (Online Only)
I have worked as a Youth and Family Counsellor and Program Coordinator that served low income and newcomers.
Accepting NEW clients – Do you want to feel less anxious, stressed, or depressed, and understand why these feelings stick? Have you experienced trauma or difficult situations and are unsure how to move forward? Do you want to learn coping skills to better manage your day-to-day or relationships? Are you facing life changes, cultural stressors, or transitions that you’d like support with? I'm here to support you on your journey of healing, understanding, and clarity. I offer a non-judgmental space for you to explore past, present, and future goals. Through collaboration, we can create a plan that fits your unique needs.
I have worked as a Youth and Family Counsellor and Program Coordinator that served low income and newcomers.
Accepting NEW clients – Do you want to feel less anxious, stressed, or depressed, and understand why these feelings stick? Have you experienced trauma or difficult situations and are unsure how to move forward? Do you want to learn coping skills to better manage your day-to-day or relationships? Are you facing life changes, cultural stressors, or transitions that you’d like support with? I'm here to support you on your journey of healing, understanding, and clarity. I offer a non-judgmental space for you to explore past, present, and future goals. Through collaboration, we can create a plan that fits your unique needs.
(365) 650-3150 View (365) 650-3150
Photo of Ashley Foster, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Thunder Bay, ON
Ashley Foster
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP, BA, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach combines Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment/EFT Therapy, and EMDR.
Do you feel stuck due to mood, stress, experiences, or traumas? Are anxiety, guilt, or shame limiting your potential? Are you a first responder, current or former athlete, or someone going through significant life transitions? If so, I am here to provide you with a judgement-free supportive space tailored to your unique needs. Together, we will navigate the challenges of your past, present, and future experiences. I am here to support you every step of the way. Therapy is a courageous step, and I commend you for seeking help. I believe in working at your pace, ensuring that therapy is a comfortable and empowering experience for you.
My therapeutic approach combines Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment/EFT Therapy, and EMDR.
Do you feel stuck due to mood, stress, experiences, or traumas? Are anxiety, guilt, or shame limiting your potential? Are you a first responder, current or former athlete, or someone going through significant life transitions? If so, I am here to provide you with a judgement-free supportive space tailored to your unique needs. Together, we will navigate the challenges of your past, present, and future experiences. I am here to support you every step of the way. Therapy is a courageous step, and I commend you for seeking help. I believe in working at your pace, ensuring that therapy is a comfortable and empowering experience for you.
(289) 312-2793 View (289) 312-2793
Photo of hazenpsychotherapyservices, Registered Psychotherapist in Thunder Bay, ON
hazenpsychotherapyservices
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP, OSRP, TITC-CT, TITC-ST
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7A  (Online Only)
My areas of practice include; Depression, anxiety, parental stress, post-partum depression, family transitions, helping parents cope with child (ren) medical conditions such as gerd/reflux, caregiver burn out, working through post- traumatic stress symptoms, low self-esteem, environmental/situational stressors including workplace stress and school stress.
As a psychotherapist I am dedicated to improving the health and well being of my clients and it is my goal to make the therapeutic process as comfortable as possible. I work from a positive psychology perspective geared towards increasing confidence, self-esteem and helping you recognize your own individual strengths. By increasing your self awareness and addressing all aspects of yourself as a whole person, together we can shape the way you view your self and the experiences around you.
My areas of practice include; Depression, anxiety, parental stress, post-partum depression, family transitions, helping parents cope with child (ren) medical conditions such as gerd/reflux, caregiver burn out, working through post- traumatic stress symptoms, low self-esteem, environmental/situational stressors including workplace stress and school stress.
As a psychotherapist I am dedicated to improving the health and well being of my clients and it is my goal to make the therapeutic process as comfortable as possible. I work from a positive psychology perspective geared towards increasing confidence, self-esteem and helping you recognize your own individual strengths. By increasing your self awareness and addressing all aspects of yourself as a whole person, together we can shape the way you view your self and the experiences around you.
(289) 799-4375 View (289) 799-4375
Photo of Chaos to Connection, Registered Psychotherapist in Thunder Bay, ON
Chaos to Connection
Registered Psychotherapist, MACP, MSc, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B  (Online Only)
Vulnerability is the first step to healing. When we are able to be vulnerable with ourselves, we are able to open up,. I want your messy self to show up and feel safe in your own space alongside me. I am a student of the Satir Family System's model and help the whole family grow alongside one another. I love the challenge of helping the client heal and being part of the process. My goal is to help clients associate self-responsibility with success. The Satir approach can help clients work through trauma and develop a greater sense of harmony and inner peace. I am a firm believer in therapy being client-driven and action orientated.
Vulnerability is the first step to healing. When we are able to be vulnerable with ourselves, we are able to open up,. I want your messy self to show up and feel safe in your own space alongside me. I am a student of the Satir Family System's model and help the whole family grow alongside one another. I love the challenge of helping the client heal and being part of the process. My goal is to help clients associate self-responsibility with success. The Satir approach can help clients work through trauma and develop a greater sense of harmony and inner peace. I am a firm believer in therapy being client-driven and action orientated.
(705) 999-8332 View (705) 999-8332
Photo of Tania Pollard, Registered Psychotherapist in Thunder Bay, ON
Tania Pollard
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7C  (Online Only)
I have years of experience working with clients facing family and parenting difficulties, stress, anxiety, and the pressures of day to day life.
Does it feel like layers of stress, pressure, anxiety, and tension are starting to pile up on you? Are the struggles becoming harder to cope with? I can help. I have 13+ years of experience supporting clients as they overcome various challenges and difficulties. I am excited, dedicated, and passionate about helping clients discover their goals, reduce their suffering, and find their way to a better life.
I have years of experience working with clients facing family and parenting difficulties, stress, anxiety, and the pressures of day to day life.
Does it feel like layers of stress, pressure, anxiety, and tension are starting to pile up on you? Are the struggles becoming harder to cope with? I can help. I have 13+ years of experience supporting clients as they overcome various challenges and difficulties. I am excited, dedicated, and passionate about helping clients discover their goals, reduce their suffering, and find their way to a better life.
(866) 574-1122 x2 View (866) 574-1122 x2
Photo of Samantha Paterson, Registered Psychotherapist in Thunder Bay, ON
Samantha Paterson
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, DTATI, CCTS-I, BA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7E  (Online Only)
My clients are often…1) Individuals struggling with anxiety, racing thoughts, and high stress, 2) Young professionals navigating the stressors of life transitions, relationship issues or family drama, the weirdness of being in their 20’s & early 30’s, all whilst trying to build their career and find success, 3) Men of all ages navigating relationship issues, anxiety, career change or other stressors, 4) individuals who struggle to set boundaries, articulating their needs or building confidence and 5) those looking for a therapist that doesn’t feel stuffy, formal or daunting - someone they can be comfortable with and
My clients are often…1) Individuals struggling with anxiety, racing thoughts, and high stress, 2) Young professionals navigating the stressors of life transitions, relationship issues or family drama, the weirdness of being in their 20’s & early 30’s, all whilst trying to build their career and find success, 3) Men of all ages navigating relationship issues, anxiety, career change or other stressors, 4) individuals who struggle to set boundaries, articulating their needs or building confidence and 5) those looking for a therapist that doesn’t feel stuffy, formal or daunting - someone they can be comfortable with and
(807) 790-9600 View (807) 790-9600
Photo of Randall Guiterrez, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Thunder Bay, ON
Randall Guiterrez
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7C
In my extensive practice, I provided therapeutic services for people addressing issues like trauma, anxiety, depression, family conflict, PTSD, traumatic brain injury(TBI), poverty, institutionalized racism, intercultural conflict, sexuality, internalized homophobia, coming out, intergenerational conflict between parents & children, grief & loss etc.
I am accepting NEW patients! I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which has been proven to be very effective in a wide variety of situations, particularly with traumatic memories. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations (refugees, newcomers, trauma victims & LGBTQ+ communities) and front-line staff (police officers, paramedics, firefighters, doctors, nurses, veterans etc). I have helped many people reclaim their lives and move forward after the unimaginable happens-I look forward to helping you do the same.
In my extensive practice, I provided therapeutic services for people addressing issues like trauma, anxiety, depression, family conflict, PTSD, traumatic brain injury(TBI), poverty, institutionalized racism, intercultural conflict, sexuality, internalized homophobia, coming out, intergenerational conflict between parents & children, grief & loss etc.
I am accepting NEW patients! I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which has been proven to be very effective in a wide variety of situations, particularly with traumatic memories. I have extensive experience working with diverse populations (refugees, newcomers, trauma victims & LGBTQ+ communities) and front-line staff (police officers, paramedics, firefighters, doctors, nurses, veterans etc). I have helped many people reclaim their lives and move forward after the unimaginable happens-I look forward to helping you do the same.
(289) 273-7987 View (289) 273-7987
Photo of Samantha Paterson, Registered Psychotherapist in Thunder Bay, ON
Samantha Paterson
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, DTATI, CCTS-I, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B  (Online Only)
My clients are often…1) Individuals struggling with anxiety, racing thoughts, & high stress, 2) Young professionals navigating the stressors of life transitions, relationship issues or family drama, the weirdness of being in their 20’s & 30’s, all whilst trying to build their career, family and find success, 3) Men of all ages navigating relationship issues, anxiety, career change, men’s issues or other stressors, 4) individuals who struggle to set boundaries, articulating their needs or building confidence and 5) Those looking for a therapist that doesn’t feel stuffy, formal or daunting - someone they can be comfortable with.
My clients are often…1) Individuals struggling with anxiety, racing thoughts, & high stress, 2) Young professionals navigating the stressors of life transitions, relationship issues or family drama, the weirdness of being in their 20’s & 30’s, all whilst trying to build their career, family and find success, 3) Men of all ages navigating relationship issues, anxiety, career change, men’s issues or other stressors, 4) individuals who struggle to set boundaries, articulating their needs or building confidence and 5) Those looking for a therapist that doesn’t feel stuffy, formal or daunting - someone they can be comfortable with.
(807) 790-6516 View (807) 790-6516
Photo of Northern Roots Counselling Services, Registered Social Worker in Thunder Bay, ON
Northern Roots Counselling Services
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B
I'm the right fit for you if therapy seems daunting and you need a gentle approach. Maybe this is your first time in counselling, you've had a bad experience with a counsellor, or you haven't been to counselling since childhood. I can help if you're curious about counselling but struggle to find the words to describe what's going on.
I'm the right fit for you if therapy seems daunting and you need a gentle approach. Maybe this is your first time in counselling, you've had a bad experience with a counsellor, or you haven't been to counselling since childhood. I can help if you're curious about counselling but struggle to find the words to describe what's going on.
(807) 790-9630 View (807) 790-9630
Photo of Brooke Willis, Registered Social Worker in Thunder Bay, ON
Brooke Willis
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B  (Online Only)
The world can be a dark and heavy place, and that's why I believe kindness, compassion, and hope are so important. I try to bring all of these values to my practice as a therapist, where I will strive to connect with you by cheering on your personal growth, sitting with you in the dark, and listening to your story. We will work together to help you achieve your goals and gain confidence. I offer a listening ear, tools and advice, and a safe-place where you can lay it all out and trust that you will be treated with honour and respect.
The world can be a dark and heavy place, and that's why I believe kindness, compassion, and hope are so important. I try to bring all of these values to my practice as a therapist, where I will strive to connect with you by cheering on your personal growth, sitting with you in the dark, and listening to your story. We will work together to help you achieve your goals and gain confidence. I offer a listening ear, tools and advice, and a safe-place where you can lay it all out and trust that you will be treated with honour and respect.
(807) 500-0676 View (807) 500-0676
Photo of Carlyn Hopkins, Registered Psychotherapist in Thunder Bay, ON
Carlyn Hopkins
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B  (Online Only)
Hey there, I'm Carlyn! You may be seeking support for any number of reasons - perhaps you are feeling disconnected from others or are looking to strengthen your relationship with yourself. You may feel as though you are stuck in a loop and unsure as to how to move forward or break free. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, it is my privilege to provide space for my client's stories and experiences. My aim is to help you to understand how the challenges you are facing today are impacted by the experiences and traumas of your past and help you to move towards your most resilient and authentic self.
Hey there, I'm Carlyn! You may be seeking support for any number of reasons - perhaps you are feeling disconnected from others or are looking to strengthen your relationship with yourself. You may feel as though you are stuck in a loop and unsure as to how to move forward or break free. Regardless of what brings you to therapy, it is my privilege to provide space for my client's stories and experiences. My aim is to help you to understand how the challenges you are facing today are impacted by the experiences and traumas of your past and help you to move towards your most resilient and authentic self.
(807) 698-7380 View (807) 698-7380
Photo of Erin Pomanti - Registered Nurse Psychotherapist, Psychiatric Nurse in Thunder Bay, ON
Erin Pomanti - Registered Nurse Psychotherapist
Psychiatric Nurse, BScN, RN
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7B
You are worth the time it takes to heal, in whatever way feels right for you. Do you ever wonder if there's more to life? Maybe you feel an ache inside, like you have so much potential... but something is getting in the way. You might long for more clarity, fulfillment, and inner peace. But what is the path to get there? Sometimes this requires support (which can be hard to ask for or prioritize). The first step is the most important - and the path may be closer than you think.
You are worth the time it takes to heal, in whatever way feels right for you. Do you ever wonder if there's more to life? Maybe you feel an ache inside, like you have so much potential... but something is getting in the way. You might long for more clarity, fulfillment, and inner peace. But what is the path to get there? Sometimes this requires support (which can be hard to ask for or prioritize). The first step is the most important - and the path may be closer than you think.
(807) 345-4400 View (807) 345-4400
Photo of Ramaljeet Kaur, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Thunder Bay, ON
Ramaljeet Kaur
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RK, MACP, BSC (N)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B  (Online Only)
What are you trying to accomplish? Do you think that this never-ending rat race that we call life is meaningless? What even constitutes a meaningful life? In my role as your therapist, I'm here to help you overcome any obstacles that are preventing you from leading the best possible life, whether they be personal or professional. Whether you're having problems with relationships, depression, or anxiety. My goal is to assist you in achieving growth and positive transformation in your life. In order to provide you the ability to make decisions that result in a more purposeful and happy life my approach is customized to your needs.
What are you trying to accomplish? Do you think that this never-ending rat race that we call life is meaningless? What even constitutes a meaningful life? In my role as your therapist, I'm here to help you overcome any obstacles that are preventing you from leading the best possible life, whether they be personal or professional. Whether you're having problems with relationships, depression, or anxiety. My goal is to assist you in achieving growth and positive transformation in your life. In order to provide you the ability to make decisions that result in a more purposeful and happy life my approach is customized to your needs.
(289) 277-7086 View (289) 277-7086
Photo of Kaitlyn Kotala, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Thunder Bay, ON
Kaitlyn Kotala
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B
The most important relationship we have is with ourselves - and sometimes that relationship can be the most challenging to heal. Maybe you’re struggling to adjust to unfamiliar situations and feel uncertain about the future. Maybe you’re feeling ‘stuck’. Or maybe you’re curious and open to self-exploration! I have experience supporting individuals with life transitions (i.e., job loss/new employment, divorce/separation, pregnancy/prepartum/postpartum, return to education, relocation), anxiety, stress and burnout, ADHD, trauma, interpersonal challenges, and relationship and intimacy challenges.
The most important relationship we have is with ourselves - and sometimes that relationship can be the most challenging to heal. Maybe you’re struggling to adjust to unfamiliar situations and feel uncertain about the future. Maybe you’re feeling ‘stuck’. Or maybe you’re curious and open to self-exploration! I have experience supporting individuals with life transitions (i.e., job loss/new employment, divorce/separation, pregnancy/prepartum/postpartum, return to education, relocation), anxiety, stress and burnout, ADHD, trauma, interpersonal challenges, and relationship and intimacy challenges.
(807) 808-3354 View (807) 808-3354
Photo of Sherrie-Lee Rose Petrie, Registered Social Worker in Thunder Bay, ON
Sherrie-Lee Rose Petrie
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Thunder Bay, ON P7E
I don’t know what experiences you have had in your life that brought you to the decision to seek support - but I’m glad you are here. Thank you for being courageous. Thank you for choosing hope. Thank you for considering me as someone that you might trust enough to share the parts of your life that maybe you would rather not share.
I don’t know what experiences you have had in your life that brought you to the decision to seek support - but I’m glad you are here. Thank you for being courageous. Thank you for choosing hope. Thank you for considering me as someone that you might trust enough to share the parts of your life that maybe you would rather not share.
(807) 790-9588 View (807) 790-9588
Photo of Sierra Spicer, Registered Psychotherapist in Thunder Bay, ON
Sierra Spicer
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B
At its core, therapy is all about you. After all you are the expert about your life. So if you are looking for a therapist that will crack a joke in therapy, instill hope, celebrate your success, and hold space for the dark and heavy stuff you have yet to ever say out loud... you are in the right place. I'm here to help you process it all so you can let go, restore, and grow. If you are ready to surprise yourself with your capacity for growth and want to unblock yourself from living a life that is meaningful to you, please connect!
At its core, therapy is all about you. After all you are the expert about your life. So if you are looking for a therapist that will crack a joke in therapy, instill hope, celebrate your success, and hold space for the dark and heavy stuff you have yet to ever say out loud... you are in the right place. I'm here to help you process it all so you can let go, restore, and grow. If you are ready to surprise yourself with your capacity for growth and want to unblock yourself from living a life that is meaningful to you, please connect!
(807) 789-9892 View (807) 789-9892
Photo of Jennifer Tiviluk On-line Distance Therapy , Registered Psychotherapist in Thunder Bay, ON
Jennifer Tiviluk On-line Distance Therapy
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7E
My therapeutic approach is to get to the root of your presenting challenge. I believe in distinguishing symptom management from root causes of symptoms to support permanent change in your life. I bring a sense of humour, empathy, directness, a variety of personal and professional experiences and a strong commitment to work collaboratively with you in a client centred environment. I believe in the importance of understanding your early experiences and how they affect your anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges. I use outcome measurements and assessments to monitor your progress.
My therapeutic approach is to get to the root of your presenting challenge. I believe in distinguishing symptom management from root causes of symptoms to support permanent change in your life. I bring a sense of humour, empathy, directness, a variety of personal and professional experiences and a strong commitment to work collaboratively with you in a client centred environment. I believe in the importance of understanding your early experiences and how they affect your anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges. I use outcome measurements and assessments to monitor your progress.
(647) 503-4991 View (647) 503-4991
Photo of Lindsay Renaud, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Thunder Bay, ON
Lindsay Renaud
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), HBA, BEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7B  (Online Only)
Accepting NEW clients! - Do you wish you “felt better?” or wish to feel more like yourself again? Does stress, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma have you feeling stuck? Do you want to better understand how your past effects your present? Are you wanting to reconnect in your relationship? I'll support you in reaching therapy goals by helping create more self-awareness and confidence, teaching coping methods, and paving the path to long-term change. My aim is to create a space to explore your thoughts and experiences without the outside judgment and bias in your day-to-day.
Accepting NEW clients! - Do you wish you “felt better?” or wish to feel more like yourself again? Does stress, anxiety, ADHD, or trauma have you feeling stuck? Do you want to better understand how your past effects your present? Are you wanting to reconnect in your relationship? I'll support you in reaching therapy goals by helping create more self-awareness and confidence, teaching coping methods, and paving the path to long-term change. My aim is to create a space to explore your thoughts and experiences without the outside judgment and bias in your day-to-day.
(289) 210-5320 View (289) 210-5320
Photo of Katherine Hall, Registered Social Worker in Thunder Bay, ON
Katherine Hall
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Thunder Bay, ON P7J
Waitlist for new clients
Life has endless challenges for children, youth and young adults these days. Issues that previous generations didn't even need to think about are now part of every day life for younger generations - cyberbullying, worries about school safety, increased rates of mental health struggles, societal conversations about gender and sexuality... On top of that are the issues that have plagued youth for generations - stress, school, dating, friends, and numerous other issues to wade through day by day. Sometimes it's hard to cope with these things on our own though, and that's where I come in.
Life has endless challenges for children, youth and young adults these days. Issues that previous generations didn't even need to think about are now part of every day life for younger generations - cyberbullying, worries about school safety, increased rates of mental health struggles, societal conversations about gender and sexuality... On top of that are the issues that have plagued youth for generations - stress, school, dating, friends, and numerous other issues to wade through day by day. Sometimes it's hard to cope with these things on our own though, and that's where I come in.
(647) 559-9089 View (647) 559-9089

See more therapy options for Thunder Bay

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.