Photo of Kris Cormier, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Kris Cormier
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2C
APRIL 2024 - Accepting both individual clients & couples! Get support for coping with anxious thoughts & regulating emotions. Explore 2SLGBTQ+ identities, queer relationships, or an interest in polyamory (CNM/ethical non-monogamy). Work on improving interpersonal relationships or dealing with family conflict. Get help with addiction to substances (alcohol or drugs) or addiction to problematic behaviour (gambling or shopping). Heal the wounds of past trauma (sexual assault, childhood abuse, domestic or intimate partner violence). Discover something very different than the “vent for an hour & nothing ever changes” experience!
APRIL 2024 - Accepting both individual clients & couples! Get support for coping with anxious thoughts & regulating emotions. Explore 2SLGBTQ+ identities, queer relationships, or an interest in polyamory (CNM/ethical non-monogamy). Work on improving interpersonal relationships or dealing with family conflict. Get help with addiction to substances (alcohol or drugs) or addiction to problematic behaviour (gambling or shopping). Heal the wounds of past trauma (sexual assault, childhood abuse, domestic or intimate partner violence). Discover something very different than the “vent for an hour & nothing ever changes” experience!
(343) 801-0641 View (343) 801-0641
Photo of Julie Lavigne in Ottawa, ON
Julie Lavigne
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1J
I am here to support you, your family and relationships, your healthy development and whatever goals you wish to set for yourself.
Currently accepting new clients up to the age 29. If you are unsatisfied with your life, struggling with your relationships, experiencing anxiety or feel hopeless, please reach out. I'm here for you. My ideal client would be open to discussing both what they enjoy in their life as well as being able to address their struggles and difficulties. They would be willing to learn how to be honest with themselves, with me, and would want to learn how to grow and change in positive ways. In short, my ideal client is anyone who is willing to try to help themselves. I will gladly help anyone.
I am here to support you, your family and relationships, your healthy development and whatever goals you wish to set for yourself.
Currently accepting new clients up to the age 29. If you are unsatisfied with your life, struggling with your relationships, experiencing anxiety or feel hopeless, please reach out. I'm here for you. My ideal client would be open to discussing both what they enjoy in their life as well as being able to address their struggles and difficulties. They would be willing to learn how to be honest with themselves, with me, and would want to learn how to grow and change in positive ways. In short, my ideal client is anyone who is willing to try to help themselves. I will gladly help anyone.
View
Photo of Sandbox Family Solutions , Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Sandbox Family Solutions
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP, MSW, RSW, QFAS
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2B
Our team of collaborative clinicians offer mental health services for the whole family, including individual, couple and family therapy . Our treatment team has a combined total of 75 years of experience working with children and youth as we specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression and relationship issues (including helping families who are needing reunification support). Our divorce clinic offers family mediation, separation planning, parenting coordination, Voice of the Child reports and collaborative divorce support to families inside and outside of court -all while keeping the kids at the centre of each conversation.
Our team of collaborative clinicians offer mental health services for the whole family, including individual, couple and family therapy . Our treatment team has a combined total of 75 years of experience working with children and youth as we specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression and relationship issues (including helping families who are needing reunification support). Our divorce clinic offers family mediation, separation planning, parenting coordination, Voice of the Child reports and collaborative divorce support to families inside and outside of court -all while keeping the kids at the centre of each conversation.
(343) 430-5359 View (343) 430-5359
Photo of Tola Ogunlana, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Tola Ogunlana
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
I also offer services to couples, family dyads, and friends, in addressing intimacy issues, healthier communication, family dynamics, boundaries, and interpersonal conflict.
I work from an approach grounded in self-compassion and the understanding that difficult times are not a sign of personal failure. I believe that healing requires unlearning the parts of ourselves and our experiences that keep us burdened in favour of kinder ways of being.
I also offer services to couples, family dyads, and friends, in addressing intimacy issues, healthier communication, family dynamics, boundaries, and interpersonal conflict.
I work from an approach grounded in self-compassion and the understanding that difficult times are not a sign of personal failure. I believe that healing requires unlearning the parts of ourselves and our experiences that keep us burdened in favour of kinder ways of being.
(343) 945-7651 View (343) 945-7651
Photo of Intersections Therapy Collective, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Intersections Therapy Collective
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Intersections Therapy Collective (ITC) is nestled in the heart of Ottawa's Centretown, easily accessible from East, West, and South of the city. ITC has been proudly serving Ottawa and its surrounding communities since 2020. We offer free on-site parking, a unique advantage compared to other private mental health clinics. Our team is dedicated to providing evidence-based, competent, and compassionate psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. With a dedicated child & family therapist, we also focus on treating children and youth, collaborating with parents and schools.
Intersections Therapy Collective (ITC) is nestled in the heart of Ottawa's Centretown, easily accessible from East, West, and South of the city. ITC has been proudly serving Ottawa and its surrounding communities since 2020. We offer free on-site parking, a unique advantage compared to other private mental health clinics. Our team is dedicated to providing evidence-based, competent, and compassionate psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. With a dedicated child & family therapist, we also focus on treating children and youth, collaborating with parents and schools.
(343) 342-2410 View (343) 342-2410
Photo of Andrea Kalentzis, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Andrea Kalentzis
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, RPQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Sometimes life can be really hard. Every person, no matter how big or small their issues appear to be, needs to be heard and understood. I am here to guide you through life’s toughest moments, to embark on your journey together, and to support you every step of the way by listening, understanding, and appreciating your courage. Together, we can overcome emotional hurdles, achieve personal goals higher than ever imagined, and work towards a greater, deeper understanding of you. I am a wife, a mother, a sister, and a stepmother who acknowledges the beauty but also the challenges of creating a blended family.
Sometimes life can be really hard. Every person, no matter how big or small their issues appear to be, needs to be heard and understood. I am here to guide you through life’s toughest moments, to embark on your journey together, and to support you every step of the way by listening, understanding, and appreciating your courage. Together, we can overcome emotional hurdles, achieve personal goals higher than ever imagined, and work towards a greater, deeper understanding of you. I am a wife, a mother, a sister, and a stepmother who acknowledges the beauty but also the challenges of creating a blended family.
(343) 321-1993 View (343) 321-1993
Photo of Bernadette Ingungu, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Bernadette Ingungu
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
In therapy, I want to help you become aware of your potential and use it for you and your family's wellbeing.
When you are going through a difficult time, you may experience a roller coaster of many different emotions. You may feel overwhelmed, hopeless, lost, judged, discouraged, unhappy, stressed out and anxious. Moments like this, you may need to reach out for someone to talk to. Someone who can work with you in a safe environment while providing empathetic and non-judgmental service.
In therapy, I want to help you become aware of your potential and use it for you and your family's wellbeing.
When you are going through a difficult time, you may experience a roller coaster of many different emotions. You may feel overwhelmed, hopeless, lost, judged, discouraged, unhappy, stressed out and anxious. Moments like this, you may need to reach out for someone to talk to. Someone who can work with you in a safe environment while providing empathetic and non-judgmental service.
(343) 308-2264 View (343) 308-2264
Photo of Jennifer de Wet Turner, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Jennifer de Wet Turner
Registered Psychotherapist, MA , CRPO, OAMHP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1V  (Online Only)
I am an experienced Registered Psychotherapist with an M.A. in Counselling Psychology. I specialize in individual and family issues, couples counselling, grief work and supporting the challenges of living with cancer and dealing with dying. As a therapist, cancer patient, and the mother of six children, my life experience and training has taught me the value of working with each person as a unique, dynamic individual. I have personal experience raising children to adulthood, navigating the challenges and rewards of being in long-term relationships, and dealing with loss, illness and death.
I am an experienced Registered Psychotherapist with an M.A. in Counselling Psychology. I specialize in individual and family issues, couples counselling, grief work and supporting the challenges of living with cancer and dealing with dying. As a therapist, cancer patient, and the mother of six children, my life experience and training has taught me the value of working with each person as a unique, dynamic individual. I have personal experience raising children to adulthood, navigating the challenges and rewards of being in long-term relationships, and dealing with loss, illness and death.
(343) 307-0602 View (343) 307-0602
Photo of Catherine Bucosky Tighe, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Catherine Bucosky Tighe
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Z
I offer counselling and therapy to individuals struggling with a wide range of issues, including anxiety and depression, relationship difficulties, family conflict, parenting, burnout, and work/life balance. I use an integrative approach and provide the following evidence-based therapies: emotion-focused, cognitive-behavioural, insight-oriented, and psycho-educational with a particular interest in mindfulness-based approaches including mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and compassion-focused therapies.
I offer counselling and therapy to individuals struggling with a wide range of issues, including anxiety and depression, relationship difficulties, family conflict, parenting, burnout, and work/life balance. I use an integrative approach and provide the following evidence-based therapies: emotion-focused, cognitive-behavioural, insight-oriented, and psycho-educational with a particular interest in mindfulness-based approaches including mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) and compassion-focused therapies.
(343) 303-4247 View (343) 303-4247
Photo of Anfa Counseling and Psychotherapy , Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Anfa Counseling and Psychotherapy
Registered Social Worker, RECE, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1V
I am a Psychotherapist with 15 years of experience working with various non-profit organizations in Ontario, providing support to diverse communities struggling with various issues, including mental health or psychiatric problems. I provide therapy services that offer treatment for individuals, couples, and family crises (including youth and children). This includes life coaching, dealing with lack of motivation, crisis interventions, relationship problems, divorce, anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, anger management, addiction, substance abuse, ADHD, school issues, etcetera.
I am a Psychotherapist with 15 years of experience working with various non-profit organizations in Ontario, providing support to diverse communities struggling with various issues, including mental health or psychiatric problems. I provide therapy services that offer treatment for individuals, couples, and family crises (including youth and children). This includes life coaching, dealing with lack of motivation, crisis interventions, relationship problems, divorce, anxiety, stress, burnout, depression, anger management, addiction, substance abuse, ADHD, school issues, etcetera.
(343) 453-0134 View (343) 453-0134
4U Psychology Clinic
Registered Psychotherapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2J
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (CRPO) and a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist - Supervisor Qualifying (CAMFT).
As a therapist and supervisor, I build connections that are genuine, accepting and encouraging, holding space that gently fosters sharing, reflection and growth. I work from a systemic approach that is strengths-based and collaborative, bringing appreciation to the impact of external factors on experiences, while building awareness and offering challenges around personal potential, capabilities and influence. Along our journey together, I hope to share how living and working mindfully, intentionally and compassionately can evolve our beliefs about ourselves and others, transforming our relationships and our experiences of the world.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist (CRPO) and a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist - Supervisor Qualifying (CAMFT).
As a therapist and supervisor, I build connections that are genuine, accepting and encouraging, holding space that gently fosters sharing, reflection and growth. I work from a systemic approach that is strengths-based and collaborative, bringing appreciation to the impact of external factors on experiences, while building awareness and offering challenges around personal potential, capabilities and influence. Along our journey together, I hope to share how living and working mindfully, intentionally and compassionately can evolve our beliefs about ourselves and others, transforming our relationships and our experiences of the world.
(343) 339-9269 View (343) 339-9269
Photo of Christina Callingham, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Christina Callingham
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, and offer both couple and Family Therapy.
Life is challenging and sometimes all of the ups and downs can feel really overwhelming. I offer a supportive, non-judgemental, client centred approach to therapy. Stress, anxiety and depression can creep up in all types of life circumstances. I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families. My practice also specializes in parenting, pre-natal & postpartum support and helping navigate difficult life challenges and transitions.
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, and offer both couple and Family Therapy.
Life is challenging and sometimes all of the ups and downs can feel really overwhelming. I offer a supportive, non-judgemental, client centred approach to therapy. Stress, anxiety and depression can creep up in all types of life circumstances. I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families. My practice also specializes in parenting, pre-natal & postpartum support and helping navigate difficult life challenges and transitions.
View
Photo of Massimo Roberto Di Domenico, Pre-Licensed Professional in Ottawa, ON
Massimo Roberto Di Domenico
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
Life can be full of stress, with some days being more overwhelming than others. It can be difficult to look inwards and realize that the skills and behaviours we have been using to cope with stress are not as effective as they used to be. Through this inward reflection, you have recognized that something needs to change and I congratulate you on doing so. This recognition can come with uncertainty about how to develop different ways to overcome the challenges that life presents us. Together we will navigate difficulties with negative emotions, disruptive behaviours, or family conflict and work towards making a positive change!
Life can be full of stress, with some days being more overwhelming than others. It can be difficult to look inwards and realize that the skills and behaviours we have been using to cope with stress are not as effective as they used to be. Through this inward reflection, you have recognized that something needs to change and I congratulate you on doing so. This recognition can come with uncertainty about how to develop different ways to overcome the challenges that life presents us. Together we will navigate difficulties with negative emotions, disruptive behaviours, or family conflict and work towards making a positive change!
(819) 412-6618 View (819) 412-6618
Photo of Rohama Kabeer-Blissful Balance Counselling, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) in Ottawa, ON
Rohama Kabeer-Blissful Balance Counselling
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P  (Online Only)
I work in various areas, encompassing interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, stress management, family and relationship challenges, self-esteem, life transitions, emotional regulation, academic stressors, burnout, coping skills, and loneliness.
Currently Accepting Clients! Feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? I'm here to support you. As someone deeply passionate about mental health, I work in assisting teens and adults in tackling issues like anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem, life transitions and more. With my cultural sensitivity skills and lived experiences as a South Asian woman, I'm well-equipped to help individuals from similar and diverse communities. My background includes volunteering at Kids Help Phone and providing therapy to university students. Book your free phone consultation now: blissfulbalancecounsellinggroup.janeapp.com
I work in various areas, encompassing interpersonal issues, anxiety, depression, stress management, family and relationship challenges, self-esteem, life transitions, emotional regulation, academic stressors, burnout, coping skills, and loneliness.
Currently Accepting Clients! Feeling stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed? I'm here to support you. As someone deeply passionate about mental health, I work in assisting teens and adults in tackling issues like anxiety, depression, relationships, self-esteem, life transitions and more. With my cultural sensitivity skills and lived experiences as a South Asian woman, I'm well-equipped to help individuals from similar and diverse communities. My background includes volunteering at Kids Help Phone and providing therapy to university students. Book your free phone consultation now: blissfulbalancecounsellinggroup.janeapp.com
(343) 338-3761 View (343) 338-3761
Photo of Bruno Jung-Millen, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Bruno Jung-Millen
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
My work at its core is all about building a relational connection and co-creating a safe therapeutic holding space which is informed by the relational psychotherapy and narrative therapy, and my own lived experiences as a racialized gay/queer person and also adoptive parent. Whether your struggles are small or big, what matters in this space is our joint commitment, an emotionally engaged and interactive process, and a shared journey. Our therapeutic relationship is going to be the principal vehicle to bring the changes that you are longing for in your personal and family life, as well as within your larger community.
My work at its core is all about building a relational connection and co-creating a safe therapeutic holding space which is informed by the relational psychotherapy and narrative therapy, and my own lived experiences as a racialized gay/queer person and also adoptive parent. Whether your struggles are small or big, what matters in this space is our joint commitment, an emotionally engaged and interactive process, and a shared journey. Our therapeutic relationship is going to be the principal vehicle to bring the changes that you are longing for in your personal and family life, as well as within your larger community.
(343) 342-2248 View (343) 342-2248
Photo of Serenity Seekers Counselling and Consulting, Registered Social Worker in Ottawa, ON
Serenity Seekers Counselling and Consulting
Registered Social Worker, PhD
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2J  (Online Only)
I provide counselling to adults experiencing anxiety, marginalization in the workplace, family violence, depression, grief and bereavement, significant life transitions, including the mental health effects of violent displacement caused by wars and armed conflicts.
I am a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW), Registration No: 845753. My approach to counselling is client-cantered, strength-based, trauma informed with sensitivity to diverse human experiences and cultural differences.
I provide counselling to adults experiencing anxiety, marginalization in the workplace, family violence, depression, grief and bereavement, significant life transitions, including the mental health effects of violent displacement caused by wars and armed conflicts.
I am a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW), Registration No: 845753. My approach to counselling is client-cantered, strength-based, trauma informed with sensitivity to diverse human experiences and cultural differences.
(343) 644-5162 View (343) 644-5162
Photo of Jessica Courville, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Jessica Courville
Registered Psychotherapist, M Ed, CCC, RP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1K  (Online Only)
My theoretical approach includes; Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotion-Freedom Technique (Level 2 Practitioner), Mindful Self-Compassion Therapy (MSCT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Hello and welcome! Pause for a second, take a deep breath, and let's see if my approach to therapy speaks to you. To start, I work primarily with youth, young adults, and adults who are struggling with anxiety/worry, depression, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, low motivation, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, grief/loss, as well as addiction & problematic substance use. Together, we will explore the barriers/obstacles that are getting in the way of you living your "best life" and we will work toward a place in which you feel more balanced, confident, healthier, and happier.
My theoretical approach includes; Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotion-Freedom Technique (Level 2 Practitioner), Mindful Self-Compassion Therapy (MSCT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Hello and welcome! Pause for a second, take a deep breath, and let's see if my approach to therapy speaks to you. To start, I work primarily with youth, young adults, and adults who are struggling with anxiety/worry, depression, low self-esteem, low self-confidence, low motivation, stress, life transitions, relationship issues, grief/loss, as well as addiction & problematic substance use. Together, we will explore the barriers/obstacles that are getting in the way of you living your "best life" and we will work toward a place in which you feel more balanced, confident, healthier, and happier.
(343) 321-0884 View (343) 321-0884
Photo of Maaike de Graaf, Registered Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Maaike de Graaf
Registered Psychotherapist, MSc, BSc
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2A
I value building strong therapeutic relationships through a lens that is 2SLGBTQ+ affirming, trauma-informed, non-pathologizing, anti-oppressive, and welcoming of varied family and relationship configurations.
As a Psychotherapist, I strive to provide a safe, judgement-free, compassionate and growth-focused space for my clients, where their voices can be heard and encouragement is given to explore new ways of relating to difficult thoughts, feelings, memories and experiences. I have 14 years of extensive experience working with children, teenagers and adults facing diverse challenges including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal ideation. As a Queer therapist, I am passionate about working with fellow Queer/2SLGBTQ+ folks and allies, and love supporting clients throughout their identity journey.
I value building strong therapeutic relationships through a lens that is 2SLGBTQ+ affirming, trauma-informed, non-pathologizing, anti-oppressive, and welcoming of varied family and relationship configurations.
As a Psychotherapist, I strive to provide a safe, judgement-free, compassionate and growth-focused space for my clients, where their voices can be heard and encouragement is given to explore new ways of relating to difficult thoughts, feelings, memories and experiences. I have 14 years of extensive experience working with children, teenagers and adults facing diverse challenges including, but not limited to: depression, anxiety, substance use, and suicidal ideation. As a Queer therapist, I am passionate about working with fellow Queer/2SLGBTQ+ folks and allies, and love supporting clients throughout their identity journey.
(613) 704-4176 View (613) 704-4176
Photo of Brandianne Kelso, RN, Psychotherapist in Ottawa, ON
Brandianne Kelso
RN, Psychotherapist, BA, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1R
Understanding that each client brings their own unique story, struggles, and aspirations, I aim to meet you where you are. Your journey may involve navigating the complexities of family dynamics, coping with the physical and emotional changes brought on by perimenopause and menopause, grappling with the impacts of trauma, facing the challenges of addiction, or untangling the intricacies of relationship issues. These situations can often lead to feelings of isolation, overwhelm, and a yearning for a path towards healing and understanding.
Understanding that each client brings their own unique story, struggles, and aspirations, I aim to meet you where you are. Your journey may involve navigating the complexities of family dynamics, coping with the physical and emotional changes brought on by perimenopause and menopause, grappling with the impacts of trauma, facing the challenges of addiction, or untangling the intricacies of relationship issues. These situations can often lead to feelings of isolation, overwhelm, and a yearning for a path towards healing and understanding.
(343) 338-5793 View (343) 338-5793
Photo of Martin Rovers, Psychologist in Ottawa, ON
Martin Rovers
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1V
Dr. Martin Rovers, Ph.D., Psychologist, and his Capital Choice Counselling Associates work with individuals, couples, and families from a family systems approach. Martin's therapy approach includes family of origin, attachment in family therapy (AFT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy, with emphasis on creating secure attachments within the relationship. Martin works within Capital Choice Counselling Group. CCCG is a well established counselling company consisting of over 40 experienced, professional psychologists, psychotherapists, social workers and counsellors who can often see you within 1-2 weeks.
Dr. Martin Rovers, Ph.D., Psychologist, and his Capital Choice Counselling Associates work with individuals, couples, and families from a family systems approach. Martin's therapy approach includes family of origin, attachment in family therapy (AFT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy, with emphasis on creating secure attachments within the relationship. Martin works within Capital Choice Counselling Group. CCCG is a well established counselling company consisting of over 40 experienced, professional psychologists, psychotherapists, social workers and counsellors who can often see you within 1-2 weeks.
(844) 402-2025 View (844) 402-2025

See more therapy options for Ottawa

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.