Photo of Elyse Ayliffe, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Elyse Ayliffe
Registered Social Worker, HBSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
Elyse is a Registered Social Worker and Clinical Traumatologist who has completed her Masters in Social Work. She has been providing counselling since 2014, working with families, adolescents and adults alike. Her compassionate and empathetic nature has allowed her to walk with clients experiencing a wide range of ever changing life events such as relationship issues, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, self harm, family/couple conflict, grief and loss, managing emotions, flexible thinking, coping skills, life coaching, and supportive counselling.
Elyse is a Registered Social Worker and Clinical Traumatologist who has completed her Masters in Social Work. She has been providing counselling since 2014, working with families, adolescents and adults alike. Her compassionate and empathetic nature has allowed her to walk with clients experiencing a wide range of ever changing life events such as relationship issues, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, self harm, family/couple conflict, grief and loss, managing emotions, flexible thinking, coping skills, life coaching, and supportive counselling.
(705) 710-4358 View (705) 710-4358
Photo of Mind 2 Heart Connections, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Mind 2 Heart Connections
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
Catering to children, teens, adults, and families, our compassionate and warm therapists specialize in trauma, adoption, neurodiversity, mental health, and family relationship issues.
Stepping into therapy is a personal journey, Whether it's the weight of overwhelm, the grip of anxiety, or the shadows of depression, your courage is the guiding force. You're here not just to navigate challenges, but to embrace a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. This is your space, where worries about yourself, parenting, your child, or relationships find understanding and validation. Your decision is significant, and your trust in us is honoured. Every small step you take is a testament to your strength and the beginning of your unique healing journey.
Catering to children, teens, adults, and families, our compassionate and warm therapists specialize in trauma, adoption, neurodiversity, mental health, and family relationship issues.
Stepping into therapy is a personal journey, Whether it's the weight of overwhelm, the grip of anxiety, or the shadows of depression, your courage is the guiding force. You're here not just to navigate challenges, but to embrace a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. This is your space, where worries about yourself, parenting, your child, or relationships find understanding and validation. Your decision is significant, and your trust in us is honoured. Every small step you take is a testament to your strength and the beginning of your unique healing journey.
(249) 523-5201 View (249) 523-5201
Photo of Michelle Harris & Associates, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Michelle Harris & Associates
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, TITC-CT, CTP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
Providing in-person sessions in Barrie and virtually to all Ontario residents. We are a team made up of Registered Social Workers (MSW) who specialize in providing psychotherapy to children (7+), teens (13+), young adults and individuals along with offering parent coaching and consultation. Using evidenced based practices we help you find answers for change for you, for your child or for your family. Working together we can build on existing strengths and skills to make positive life changes. Each approach will be tailored to you, your child or your family's needs and designed with your goal in mind.
Providing in-person sessions in Barrie and virtually to all Ontario residents. We are a team made up of Registered Social Workers (MSW) who specialize in providing psychotherapy to children (7+), teens (13+), young adults and individuals along with offering parent coaching and consultation. Using evidenced based practices we help you find answers for change for you, for your child or for your family. Working together we can build on existing strengths and skills to make positive life changes. Each approach will be tailored to you, your child or your family's needs and designed with your goal in mind.
(705) 243-3971 View (705) 243-3971
Photo of Sweet Spot Family Counselling Services, Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
Sweet Spot Family Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Is home is feeling chaotic and less joyful these days? Are your relationships strained or have parenting challenges left you feeling like there's no end to the arguing? There is hope, Child and family work is our passion here. We can help you navigate struggles with practical steps and ease. Children like adults experience a wide range of emotions that can affect their self esteem, self confidence which can lead to symptoms of depression and anxiety. They require a special approach and we have the training and tools to engage your child in counselling and help them build the healthy habits and coping skills they need for success.
Is home is feeling chaotic and less joyful these days? Are your relationships strained or have parenting challenges left you feeling like there's no end to the arguing? There is hope, Child and family work is our passion here. We can help you navigate struggles with practical steps and ease. Children like adults experience a wide range of emotions that can affect their self esteem, self confidence which can lead to symptoms of depression and anxiety. They require a special approach and we have the training and tools to engage your child in counselling and help them build the healthy habits and coping skills they need for success.
(705) 791-9165 View (705) 791-9165
Photo of Roca Counselling, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Roca Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
Individual, couples & family counselling for anxiety, depression, relationships, & other issues. We help reduce symptoms, improve coping & resolve issues. RELATIONSHIPS: Sustaining long-term relationships take effort, dedication, & hard work. Whether it's life's stresses, arguing, infidelity, communication skills or other issues, it can take a toll on the most stable of relationships. Let's work through your relationship issues, get your relationship back into shape, and reconnect. You deserve to have a satisfying & fulfilling relationship.
Individual, couples & family counselling for anxiety, depression, relationships, & other issues. We help reduce symptoms, improve coping & resolve issues. RELATIONSHIPS: Sustaining long-term relationships take effort, dedication, & hard work. Whether it's life's stresses, arguing, infidelity, communication skills or other issues, it can take a toll on the most stable of relationships. Let's work through your relationship issues, get your relationship back into shape, and reconnect. You deserve to have a satisfying & fulfilling relationship.
(289) 210-7048 View (289) 210-7048
Photo of Rosemary Muzorewa, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Rosemary Muzorewa
Registered Social Worker, PhD, MSW, BSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M  (Online Only)
Whatever it is, I am here to help you! I have experience in individual, family, couple’s and group counseling.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed and/or depressed? Have you experienced a traumatic event that left you feeling alone, terrified and powerless? Maybe you are struggling with loss of a loved one, life changes, a break up or relationship problems that have stolen your joy and inner peace and affected your sleep and daily activities.
Whatever it is, I am here to help you! I have experience in individual, family, couple’s and group counseling.
Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed and/or depressed? Have you experienced a traumatic event that left you feeling alone, terrified and powerless? Maybe you are struggling with loss of a loved one, life changes, a break up or relationship problems that have stolen your joy and inner peace and affected your sleep and daily activities.
(249) 201-8644 View (249) 201-8644
Photo of Ashlee Lortie, Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
Ashlee Lortie
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
In addition to my specialities and general mental health concerns, I have a keen interest in supporting new/expecting moms navigate motherhood as well as supporting kids/teens of parents going through divorce, and family conflicts in general.
NO-WAIT list! ADHD/ASD, Stress/Anxiety, OCD, Perinatal Issues! Perhaps you're struggling to get things done and are getting overwhelmed and procrastinate as a result. Your ADHD, anxiety, stress or depression just seem to get in the way of how you want to be living your life. It's hard to get through the days and you're starting to get down on yourself. You want to learn to overcome your mental health challenges and start feeling like yourself again. That's where therapy can help! I will help you find your strengths to overcome your hurdles while also helping you make meaningful changes and gain new perspectives in life.
In addition to my specialities and general mental health concerns, I have a keen interest in supporting new/expecting moms navigate motherhood as well as supporting kids/teens of parents going through divorce, and family conflicts in general.
NO-WAIT list! ADHD/ASD, Stress/Anxiety, OCD, Perinatal Issues! Perhaps you're struggling to get things done and are getting overwhelmed and procrastinate as a result. Your ADHD, anxiety, stress or depression just seem to get in the way of how you want to be living your life. It's hard to get through the days and you're starting to get down on yourself. You want to learn to overcome your mental health challenges and start feeling like yourself again. That's where therapy can help! I will help you find your strengths to overcome your hurdles while also helping you make meaningful changes and gain new perspectives in life.
(249) 559-2261 View (249) 559-2261
Photo of Michaele-Sue Goldblatt, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Michaele-Sue Goldblatt
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
Are you struggling with Loss? Infertility, Pregnancy Loss, Stillbirth, Neonatal death? Are you pregnant after loss? Loss of a loved one. Anxiety combined with Grief? Helping you cope with illness, I offer a compassionate, sensitive space for you to express your sadness, despair & rage at the unfairness of it all & will provide you with support & insight as you try to rebuild your life. Are you adopted & considering Reunion? Are you in a Blended Family needing support? I am available ONLINE by Zoom in Ontario. Early morning, evening & weekend appointments available. See website for more information. Sliding scale re fees.
Are you struggling with Loss? Infertility, Pregnancy Loss, Stillbirth, Neonatal death? Are you pregnant after loss? Loss of a loved one. Anxiety combined with Grief? Helping you cope with illness, I offer a compassionate, sensitive space for you to express your sadness, despair & rage at the unfairness of it all & will provide you with support & insight as you try to rebuild your life. Are you adopted & considering Reunion? Are you in a Blended Family needing support? I am available ONLINE by Zoom in Ontario. Early morning, evening & weekend appointments available. See website for more information. Sliding scale re fees.
(647) 370-4012 View (647) 370-4012
Photo of Psychotherapy Relationships Anne Marie Shewfelt, Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
Psychotherapy Relationships Anne Marie Shewfelt
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
As a Registered Psychotherapist, and Marriage & Family Therapist, I work with individuals, couples and families. I offer an emotionally safe, non-judgmental and relational approach for my clients to share the content of their stories, circumstances, and life experiences. I have worked with a wide range of clients within the realms of cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and relational issues, however at the root of nearly all presenting problems is the emotional impact of a relationship. My specialty in relationships enables me to work confidently, and effectively with my clients regardless of their identified issue.
As a Registered Psychotherapist, and Marriage & Family Therapist, I work with individuals, couples and families. I offer an emotionally safe, non-judgmental and relational approach for my clients to share the content of their stories, circumstances, and life experiences. I have worked with a wide range of clients within the realms of cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and relational issues, however at the root of nearly all presenting problems is the emotional impact of a relationship. My specialty in relationships enables me to work confidently, and effectively with my clients regardless of their identified issue.
(249) 488-1261 View (249) 488-1261
Photo of Deborah Alton, Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
Deborah Alton
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, NLP, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4N
I am passionate about my work with families and individuals. I am on the board of the Simcoe Collaborative Law Association and provide Couples Therapy as well as Divorce/Family Coaching. I am committed to assisting couples and co-parents towards a decision making process that is 'win-win' and provides a safe environment to explore change. I focus on guiding clients towards removing the barriers to love's presence, and empowering them to live their lives at their full potential. I specialize in high conflict separation/divorce, mediation, assessments, co-parenting, parenting plans, and family reintegration therapy.
I am passionate about my work with families and individuals. I am on the board of the Simcoe Collaborative Law Association and provide Couples Therapy as well as Divorce/Family Coaching. I am committed to assisting couples and co-parents towards a decision making process that is 'win-win' and provides a safe environment to explore change. I focus on guiding clients towards removing the barriers to love's presence, and empowering them to live their lives at their full potential. I specialize in high conflict separation/divorce, mediation, assessments, co-parenting, parenting plans, and family reintegration therapy.
(855) 574-3079 View (855) 574-3079
Photo of Jeanny Salmon, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Jeanny Salmon
Registered Social Worker, BSW, RSW, RFMT
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
"Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life." I know it is a hard to make the first phone call, but when you do be proud of yourself, you have started on your healing journey. You are the "expert" of your story! I am qualified to work with depression, anxiety, PTSD and Certified Family and Marriage Therapist and provide Psychotherapy services. I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker and have qualifications to also serve Indigenous People. Therapy and people and building healthy relationships is my passion!
"Courage doesn't happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life." I know it is a hard to make the first phone call, but when you do be proud of yourself, you have started on your healing journey. You are the "expert" of your story! I am qualified to work with depression, anxiety, PTSD and Certified Family and Marriage Therapist and provide Psychotherapy services. I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker and have qualifications to also serve Indigenous People. Therapy and people and building healthy relationships is my passion!
(289) 799-4025 View (289) 799-4025
Photo of Robin Forsyth (Formerly Pucci), Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
Robin Forsyth (Formerly Pucci)
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4N
When I am not working, I find balance and satisfaction in my life through my faith & spirituality, close relationships with friends & family, riding my horses, walking my dogs, gardening, cooking, reading good books, and my love for travel and experiencing new cultures.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist who has worked with individuals in different capacities since 2011. Using my calm and gentle nature, I have built a practice based on professionalism, trust, openness and authenticity, where clients can feel safe and accepted without judgement. My approach to psychotherapy is tailored to the needs of my clients. I am dedicated to helping those in need of mental health care, and I always enjoy meeting new people. I have earned an honours Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Laurentian University, as well as a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology with Yorkville University.
When I am not working, I find balance and satisfaction in my life through my faith & spirituality, close relationships with friends & family, riding my horses, walking my dogs, gardening, cooking, reading good books, and my love for travel and experiencing new cultures.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist who has worked with individuals in different capacities since 2011. Using my calm and gentle nature, I have built a practice based on professionalism, trust, openness and authenticity, where clients can feel safe and accepted without judgement. My approach to psychotherapy is tailored to the needs of my clients. I am dedicated to helping those in need of mental health care, and I always enjoy meeting new people. I have earned an honours Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Laurentian University, as well as a Master's degree in Counselling Psychology with Yorkville University.
(249) 209-7377 View (249) 209-7377
Photo of Naomi Hoffenberg, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Naomi Hoffenberg
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
I am a registered social worker with over 15 years of work experience. I have helped people who experience issues such as: depression, anxiety, addiction, abuse, trauma, anger, LGBTQ-related issues, relationship issues, grief, and family conflict. My journey into social work began at age 14, when I lost my father to cancer. Because there were few supports available at the time, I felt alone and stuck. This prompted me to dedicate my life to assisting others during difficult times, and help them realize they are not alone.
I am a registered social worker with over 15 years of work experience. I have helped people who experience issues such as: depression, anxiety, addiction, abuse, trauma, anger, LGBTQ-related issues, relationship issues, grief, and family conflict. My journey into social work began at age 14, when I lost my father to cancer. Because there were few supports available at the time, I felt alone and stuck. This prompted me to dedicate my life to assisting others during difficult times, and help them realize they are not alone.
(844) 331-0434 View (844) 331-0434
Photo of Wendy Hunter, Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
Wendy Hunter
Registered Psychotherapist, ECE, BA, (Psych), RP
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Parenting Coach. I have educated and supported families for almost 30 years throughout Simcoe County. I am the owner of In Support Of Children Counselling where I provide individual and family counselling to children, teens, parents and families. I believe that knowledge is power and therefore my focus is to educate my clients by teaching them strategies and coping tools that will help them cope more effectively. I am also a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. My website is - insupportofchildren.com
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and Parenting Coach. I have educated and supported families for almost 30 years throughout Simcoe County. I am the owner of In Support Of Children Counselling where I provide individual and family counselling to children, teens, parents and families. I believe that knowledge is power and therefore my focus is to educate my clients by teaching them strategies and coping tools that will help them cope more effectively. I am also a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. My website is - insupportofchildren.com
(705) 243-3249 View (705) 243-3249
Photo of Brittany Hill, Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
Brittany Hill
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MDiv
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Need an experienced caring professional to support you through life's challenges? My name is Brittany and I want to work with you in achieving your goal to make life better. I work with diverse clients including children, teens and adults specializing in mental health, family and relationship challenges and coping through life transitions. Therapy sessions are collaborative, focused on working together to create helpful and practical coping strategies.
Need an experienced caring professional to support you through life's challenges? My name is Brittany and I want to work with you in achieving your goal to make life better. I work with diverse clients including children, teens and adults specializing in mental health, family and relationship challenges and coping through life transitions. Therapy sessions are collaborative, focused on working together to create helpful and practical coping strategies.
(289) 274-9838 View (289) 274-9838
Photo of Reflect and Renew Wellness, Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
Reflect and Renew Wellness
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
The clinical team at R&R Wellness provides psychotherapy to adolescents, adults, and families! The team is trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Family Therapy, and other evidence-based psychotherapy modalities to best address your clinical needs.
You’re making the brave decision to show up for you and your wellness - and that is worth celebration! I look forward, and am honoured to meet with you, and walk this journey alongside you.
The clinical team at R&R Wellness provides psychotherapy to adolescents, adults, and families! The team is trained in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, Family Therapy, and other evidence-based psychotherapy modalities to best address your clinical needs.
You’re making the brave decision to show up for you and your wellness - and that is worth celebration! I look forward, and am honoured to meet with you, and walk this journey alongside you.
(249) 487-0708 View (249) 487-0708
Photo of Ariel Gersman, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Ariel Gersman
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
I use a non-judgmental, collaborative, and integrative therapeutic approach rooted in a variety of theories and interventions including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Family Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Attachment, Neurobiology, Mindfulness and play-based intervententions.
For almost 10 years I have been providing counselling and therapy services to individuals and families. During my career I have supported adults, children, youth and families to manage experiences of anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, relationship issues, stress, trauma, grief and loss, parenting challenges and more. I am known for my empathetic approach, my ability to build strong relationships with my clients, and my commitment to ensuring that everyone I work with feels heard, valued, and supported. I do not believe in a “one size fits all” approach and tailor my practice to fit each client’s needs and best interests.
I use a non-judgmental, collaborative, and integrative therapeutic approach rooted in a variety of theories and interventions including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy, Family Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Trauma Informed Therapy, Attachment, Neurobiology, Mindfulness and play-based intervententions.
For almost 10 years I have been providing counselling and therapy services to individuals and families. During my career I have supported adults, children, youth and families to manage experiences of anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, relationship issues, stress, trauma, grief and loss, parenting challenges and more. I am known for my empathetic approach, my ability to build strong relationships with my clients, and my commitment to ensuring that everyone I work with feels heard, valued, and supported. I do not believe in a “one size fits all” approach and tailor my practice to fit each client’s needs and best interests.
(888) 340-4325 View (888) 340-4325
Photo of Family TLC, Registered Social Worker in Barrie, ON
Family TLC
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RP, MEd, BAFN
Verified Verified
Barrie, ON L4M
As a Family TLC client you will gather immediate strategies and long lasting solutions.
Are life struggles causing you unhappiness? Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed or stuck? It can get better. We are a group of highly trained counsellors, with over 30+ years of experience. Hundreds of individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents have benefited from our services. At Family TLC we truly believe in you and that you are bigger than the concern.
As a Family TLC client you will gather immediate strategies and long lasting solutions.
Are life struggles causing you unhappiness? Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed or stuck? It can get better. We are a group of highly trained counsellors, with over 30+ years of experience. Hundreds of individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents have benefited from our services. At Family TLC we truly believe in you and that you are bigger than the concern.
(249) 700-4490 View (249) 700-4490
Photo of Sarah Joy Covey, Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
Sarah Joy Covey
Registered Psychotherapist, BAH, BEd, OCT, MACP, RP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
My team and I offer client-centered modalities including (but not limited to) CBT and Family Systems approaches to treatment.
As the Clinical Director at Covey Wellness Centre, I collaborate with my amazing team of therapists who provide support for a wide variety of issues including stress, depression, anxiety, grief, caregiver fatigue, burnout, existential questions, parenting, career and work challenges, life transitions, and interpersonal/relationship concerns, among others. I have an ongoing passion to work with adults of all ages and couples who are seeking guidance to restore intimacy and learn healthy conflict resolution. We offer electronic counselling services to provide convenience and access to support for those seeking help across the miles.
My team and I offer client-centered modalities including (but not limited to) CBT and Family Systems approaches to treatment.
As the Clinical Director at Covey Wellness Centre, I collaborate with my amazing team of therapists who provide support for a wide variety of issues including stress, depression, anxiety, grief, caregiver fatigue, burnout, existential questions, parenting, career and work challenges, life transitions, and interpersonal/relationship concerns, among others. I have an ongoing passion to work with adults of all ages and couples who are seeking guidance to restore intimacy and learn healthy conflict resolution. We offer electronic counselling services to provide convenience and access to support for those seeking help across the miles.
(705) 996-1108 View (705) 996-1108
Photo of Shauna Crawford Boone, Registered Psychotherapist in Barrie, ON
Shauna Crawford Boone
Registered Psychotherapist, MDiv, RP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrie, ON L4M
Whether a child is dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, family separation or divorce, or difficulty regulating emotions, Play Therapy helps children learn new tools and develop resilience they can easily transfer into their day to day lives.
Childhood is often thought of as a magical time. The reality is that many kids face problems that leave them feeling worried, scared, angry, sad or confused. This can be difficult and heart breaking for parents trying their best to connect with and support their child. Very often, despite a caregiver’s best effort to learn more and help solve the problem, a child’s response is “I don’t know”. Play therapy can help provide children with the tools they need to express their thoughts and explore their inner world.
Whether a child is dealing with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, family separation or divorce, or difficulty regulating emotions, Play Therapy helps children learn new tools and develop resilience they can easily transfer into their day to day lives.
Childhood is often thought of as a magical time. The reality is that many kids face problems that leave them feeling worried, scared, angry, sad or confused. This can be difficult and heart breaking for parents trying their best to connect with and support their child. Very often, despite a caregiver’s best effort to learn more and help solve the problem, a child’s response is “I don’t know”. Play therapy can help provide children with the tools they need to express their thoughts and explore their inner world.
(705) 242-5071 View (705) 242-5071

See more therapy options for Barrie

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.