Family Therapy in Kingston, ON

Photo of Lousanne Rodé, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, PhD St
Lousanne Rodé
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, PhD St
Kingston, ON K7L
I have offered services to couples, individuals and family groups for over 20+ years.
I am certified to provide various therapeutic modalities to best suit the specific needs of the people I work with. I am certified in Emotionally Focussed Couple Therapy, Trauma, Narrative Therapy and use Attachment-based counselling. I incorporate other practices in my private sessions including mindfulness and CBT strategies.
I have offered services to couples, individuals and family groups for over 20+ years.
I am certified to provide various therapeutic modalities to best suit the specific needs of the people I work with. I am certified in Emotionally Focussed Couple Therapy, Trauma, Narrative Therapy and use Attachment-based counselling. I incorporate other practices in my private sessions including mindfulness and CBT strategies.
(343) 304-5599 View (343) 304-5599
Photo of Julie M Sweeney, Registered Social Service Worker, RSSW
Julie M Sweeney
Registered Social Service Worker, RSSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
2013: Diploma in Applied Psychology and Counselling; 2021 Bachelor of Applied Science ( Family and Community Social Services)
I am a white, cis-gender woman with lived experience of mental health and body shame struggles. I work from a client-centred, anti-oppressive and social justice-oriented perspective specializing in supporting clients in finding freedom for themselves. I offer openness, honesty, and a willingness to be part of your journey in a way best suited to your needs. I enjoy helping people become aware, gain insight, and move into action to create lasting change! If your goal is to create your best life, and you are feeling held back - it is time to reach out! If your goal is to have accountability, I do that too. I help you help yourself!
2013: Diploma in Applied Psychology and Counselling; 2021 Bachelor of Applied Science ( Family and Community Social Services)
I am a white, cis-gender woman with lived experience of mental health and body shame struggles. I work from a client-centred, anti-oppressive and social justice-oriented perspective specializing in supporting clients in finding freedom for themselves. I offer openness, honesty, and a willingness to be part of your journey in a way best suited to your needs. I enjoy helping people become aware, gain insight, and move into action to create lasting change! If your goal is to create your best life, and you are feeling held back - it is time to reach out! If your goal is to have accountability, I do that too. I help you help yourself!
(343) 308-1843 View (343) 308-1843
Photo of Lola Sholagbade, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, GDip, RP, CCC
Lola Sholagbade
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, GDip, RP, CCC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have experience working with adult individuals, couples and family dealing with issues such as, but not limited to depression, anxiety, grief/loss, anger, stress and relationship issues.
Welcome and thank you for stopping by! It is never easy to take the step towards change, yet, here you are taking that very step. Perhaps you've been worn down by life or you are stuck because of an inner conflict. Do you have trouble identifying and accepting your emotions or are mired in self-defeating beliefs and irrational thoughts? I can help. I embrace a compassion-focused approach which helps to ease your burdens, alleviate your hurt and lessen your struggles. I provide a warm, confidential and non-judgmental space which fosters a quieting of the mind that enable and empower you to actualize your hopes, dreams, and ideas.
I have experience working with adult individuals, couples and family dealing with issues such as, but not limited to depression, anxiety, grief/loss, anger, stress and relationship issues.
Welcome and thank you for stopping by! It is never easy to take the step towards change, yet, here you are taking that very step. Perhaps you've been worn down by life or you are stuck because of an inner conflict. Do you have trouble identifying and accepting your emotions or are mired in self-defeating beliefs and irrational thoughts? I can help. I embrace a compassion-focused approach which helps to ease your burdens, alleviate your hurt and lessen your struggles. I provide a warm, confidential and non-judgmental space which fosters a quieting of the mind that enable and empower you to actualize your hopes, dreams, and ideas.
(343) 308-8408 View (343) 308-8408
Photo of Kim Lawrence, Registered Social Worker, BScH, MSW, RSW
Kim Lawrence
Registered Social Worker, BScH, MSW, RSW
Kingston, ON K7M
I work from a family systems perspective and use a variety of therapeutic modalities including EFT, CBT, narrative therapy and mindfulness.
I offer person-centered, attachment-based counselling services in order to assist with relationship enhancement, personal growth, healing, awareness and emotional understanding. I offer compassionate, confidential counselling sessions and have experience working with individuals and couples in the following areas: Stress, anxiety and depression; Relationship concerns; Grief and loss; Physical and sexual abuse; Self-esteem concerns; Anger management; Parenting/co-parenting concerns; Separation and divorce; Pre-marital education. I work within a collective with fellow RSWs and RPs. Please see website for further details.
I work from a family systems perspective and use a variety of therapeutic modalities including EFT, CBT, narrative therapy and mindfulness.
I offer person-centered, attachment-based counselling services in order to assist with relationship enhancement, personal growth, healing, awareness and emotional understanding. I offer compassionate, confidential counselling sessions and have experience working with individuals and couples in the following areas: Stress, anxiety and depression; Relationship concerns; Grief and loss; Physical and sexual abuse; Self-esteem concerns; Anger management; Parenting/co-parenting concerns; Separation and divorce; Pre-marital education. I work within a collective with fellow RSWs and RPs. Please see website for further details.
(343) 655-4100 View (343) 655-4100
Photo of Dawn Miller, Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Dawn Miller
Registered Psychotherapist, RP
Kingston, ON K7L
While children and youth often express struggles through behavior, adults may show signs of distress through anger, anxiety, depression, addictions, or family conflict.
I specialize in helping young adults and older adults navigate life's challenges, whether it's significant transitions such as career pathway, separation, or loss, or addressing mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD. Additionally, I am trained in trauma-informed care and have experience working with Veterans and First Responders
While children and youth often express struggles through behavior, adults may show signs of distress through anger, anxiety, depression, addictions, or family conflict.
I specialize in helping young adults and older adults navigate life's challenges, whether it's significant transitions such as career pathway, separation, or loss, or addressing mental health concerns like anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD. Additionally, I am trained in trauma-informed care and have experience working with Veterans and First Responders
(343) 353-1236 View (343) 353-1236
Photo of Lesley Spada, Occupational Therapist, MScOT, OTReg, (Ont)
Lesley Spada
Occupational Therapist, MScOT, OTReg, (Ont)
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
Waitlist for new clients
Occupational Therapy will enable you to improve the way you care of yourself or others, participate in work or school, complete home responsibilities, engage in leisure activities, or interact with your family and friends.
My goal is to make a difference in my client's quality of life. My 19 years of training, experience, and passion lies in providing treatment to clients suffering from persistent pain or illness as well as concussions, depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, and those adjusting to a significant life change.
Occupational Therapy will enable you to improve the way you care of yourself or others, participate in work or school, complete home responsibilities, engage in leisure activities, or interact with your family and friends.
My goal is to make a difference in my client's quality of life. My 19 years of training, experience, and passion lies in providing treatment to clients suffering from persistent pain or illness as well as concussions, depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, and those adjusting to a significant life change.
(613) 706-2401 View (613) 706-2401
Photo of Grant James O'Rourke, MSW, RSW
Grant James O'Rourke
Verified Verified
Kingston, ON K7P
I use a person centred, trauma informed approach with experience providing CBT, DBT, solution focused brief, narrative, Eco-Systemic Family Therapy, and motivational interviewing modalities.
Feeling stuck? Are you having difficulty with relationships, parenting, or other life challenges? Do you have a child who could use one on one support? If these describe you, I can help! Through a variety of therapeutic tools and exercises that we can explore together I can support you in overcoming those challenges. In your first session I will take the time hear your concerns and work with you in identifying a goal that will move you in the direction you want to go in your life.
I use a person centred, trauma informed approach with experience providing CBT, DBT, solution focused brief, narrative, Eco-Systemic Family Therapy, and motivational interviewing modalities.
Feeling stuck? Are you having difficulty with relationships, parenting, or other life challenges? Do you have a child who could use one on one support? If these describe you, I can help! Through a variety of therapeutic tools and exercises that we can explore together I can support you in overcoming those challenges. In your first session I will take the time hear your concerns and work with you in identifying a goal that will move you in the direction you want to go in your life.
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Photo of Christine Brook, Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW, BA
Christine Brook
Registered Social Worker, MSW, BSW, RSW, BA
Online Only
I specialize in family dynamics, parent child conflict, parenting support, child development and the mental health needs of children.
I believe that relationship and connection is the context for raising children. I am a facilitator of the Dr. Gordon Neufeld paradigm where I assist parents and professionals to make sense of children from the inside out. I practice from a developmental attachment framework that uses insight to inform interventions and practices. The realization of human potential is my focus.
I specialize in family dynamics, parent child conflict, parenting support, child development and the mental health needs of children.
I believe that relationship and connection is the context for raising children. I am a facilitator of the Dr. Gordon Neufeld paradigm where I assist parents and professionals to make sense of children from the inside out. I practice from a developmental attachment framework that uses insight to inform interventions and practices. The realization of human potential is my focus.
(343) 309-9003 View (343) 309-9003
Photo of Yan Deng, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, MSc, MBBS
Yan Deng
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MACP, MSc, MBBS
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
Are you experiencing life challenges and facing a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, attention deficit and hyperactivity (ADHD), as well as difficulties with interpersonal relationships, family/couple relationships, raising children with neurodiversity (ADHD/ASD), emotional distress, stress management and life transitions?
My therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Mindfulness techniques. I can provide services to individuals/families/couples to address their issues.
Are you experiencing life challenges and facing a variety of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, attention deficit and hyperactivity (ADHD), as well as difficulties with interpersonal relationships, family/couple relationships, raising children with neurodiversity (ADHD/ASD), emotional distress, stress management and life transitions?
My therapeutic approach is grounded in evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Mindfulness techniques. I can provide services to individuals/families/couples to address their issues.
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Photo of Carol Chafe, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CPGC, CYC
Carol Chafe
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CPGC, CYC
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7L
I work with children, youth, adults and family members.
Are you struggling to make changes in your life? I have the privilege of meeting people at a pivotal point in their lives where they are seeking support to face their challenges and make beneficial changes. I can support you making the changes necessary to improve your life. Anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, are issues that may interfere with your ability to live your most satisfying life. Working together we can explore, and validate your thoughts and feelings in a safe supportive environment. I have over 25 years experience working with children, youth and adults in mental health and addiction.
I work with children, youth, adults and family members.
Are you struggling to make changes in your life? I have the privilege of meeting people at a pivotal point in their lives where they are seeking support to face their challenges and make beneficial changes. I can support you making the changes necessary to improve your life. Anxiety, depression, stress, relationships, are issues that may interfere with your ability to live your most satisfying life. Working together we can explore, and validate your thoughts and feelings in a safe supportive environment. I have over 25 years experience working with children, youth and adults in mental health and addiction.
(613) 777-2307 View (613) 777-2307
Photo of Marc J Whitehouse, Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Marc J Whitehouse
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Online Only
As a business owner and family man, I deeply understand your challenges.
Accepting new Online Clients. I help professional men, entrepreneurs and executives manage their stress, prevent burn out, learn new skills and restore professional and personal balance to live richer lives. You’re carrying the weight of success, but stress is draining your energy and straining your relationships. At work, you lead. At home, you want to be present, but you're exhausted, less patient, and disconnected. Through a blend of executive coaching and therapy, we build emotional regulation, better communication, and real work-life balance. You don’t have to choose between success and well-being.
As a business owner and family man, I deeply understand your challenges.
Accepting new Online Clients. I help professional men, entrepreneurs and executives manage their stress, prevent burn out, learn new skills and restore professional and personal balance to live richer lives. You’re carrying the weight of success, but stress is draining your energy and straining your relationships. At work, you lead. At home, you want to be present, but you're exhausted, less patient, and disconnected. Through a blend of executive coaching and therapy, we build emotional regulation, better communication, and real work-life balance. You don’t have to choose between success and well-being.
(343) 306-5527 View (343) 306-5527
Photo of Andrea Grieves, Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
Andrea Grieves
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7P
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in providing psychotherapy to children of all ages, adolescents, and their caregivers, supporting individuals through emotional, behavioural, developmental, and family-related challenges.
I provide support for a wide range of concerns including separation/divorce, anxiety, depression, self-injury, behavioral issues, sibling conflict, school challenges, peer issues, parent-child conflict, and trauma. I focus on supporting caregivers in building healthier relationships with their child and finding ways to manage challenges in the family.
I specialize in providing psychotherapy to children of all ages, adolescents, and their caregivers, supporting individuals through emotional, behavioural, developmental, and family-related challenges.
I provide support for a wide range of concerns including separation/divorce, anxiety, depression, self-injury, behavioral issues, sibling conflict, school challenges, peer issues, parent-child conflict, and trauma. I focus on supporting caregivers in building healthier relationships with their child and finding ways to manage challenges in the family.
(613) 561-6363 View (613) 561-6363
Photo of Patricia Marchand, Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Patricia Marchand
Registered Social Worker, BA, BSW, MSW, RSW
Kingston, ON K7L
If you and or your family are searching for healing and having better relationships, give me a call I’d be happy to help.
I have over 20 years of clinical experience. I provide the following evidence based type therapies; Dialectical Behavioural Therapy - family and individual sessions (and upcoming group sessions), Ecosystemic structural family therapy, Treatment for Eating Disorders, and EMDR trauma therapy for children, teens and adults as welll as Brainspotting.
If you and or your family are searching for healing and having better relationships, give me a call I’d be happy to help.
I have over 20 years of clinical experience. I provide the following evidence based type therapies; Dialectical Behavioural Therapy - family and individual sessions (and upcoming group sessions), Ecosystemic structural family therapy, Treatment for Eating Disorders, and EMDR trauma therapy for children, teens and adults as welll as Brainspotting.
(613) 704-2748 View (613) 704-2748
Photo of Brianna Rooks-Collinson, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA
Brianna Rooks-Collinson
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), BA
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7P
Or perhaps you’re struggling with navigating the complexities of school, work, family, or intimate relationships?
I have an interest in helping individuals address a wide range of relationship challenges—whether they are with intimate partners, family, peers, or in the workplace. I also offer support to clients managing anxiety, depression, and the emotional ups and downs that often come with life transitions. I am attachment-focused and trained in EFT Couples Therapy.
Or perhaps you’re struggling with navigating the complexities of school, work, family, or intimate relationships?
I have an interest in helping individuals address a wide range of relationship challenges—whether they are with intimate partners, family, peers, or in the workplace. I also offer support to clients managing anxiety, depression, and the emotional ups and downs that often come with life transitions. I am attachment-focused and trained in EFT Couples Therapy.
(343) 304-6587 View (343) 304-6587
Photo of Annabelle Williams, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCAC
Annabelle Williams
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, CCAC
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
Working in this field for over 30 years, my life/ family experiences and education has been an asset in counselling.
Clients that are seeking a partnership and collaborative care. Together we can explore new avenues to support your journey when encountering difficult times or choices in life. We will develop a realistic individual treatment plan that is all about your goals, needs and future. Together we will reinforce positive feelings and behaviours to lead to a healthier life. I will provide client education, implementation of therapeutic techniques including up to date best practice modalities. It is important that you as the client are the Captain of the vessel, I am the Compass and it is all about the safe journey.
Working in this field for over 30 years, my life/ family experiences and education has been an asset in counselling.
Clients that are seeking a partnership and collaborative care. Together we can explore new avenues to support your journey when encountering difficult times or choices in life. We will develop a realistic individual treatment plan that is all about your goals, needs and future. Together we will reinforce positive feelings and behaviours to lead to a healthier life. I will provide client education, implementation of therapeutic techniques including up to date best practice modalities. It is important that you as the client are the Captain of the vessel, I am the Compass and it is all about the safe journey.
(343) 341-8873 View (343) 341-8873
Photo of Brittnee Stewart - Spear Wellness Centre, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RSW
Spear Wellness Centre
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RSW
3 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
Our clinicians offer cutting edge and best-practice treatment interventions including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), IFS-Informed EMDR, Brainspotting, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
We are a collective group of psychotherapists working together to help you facilitate meaningful change in your life. At Spear Wellness Centre, holistic and client-centred care is our top priority and we strive to provide a safe and supportive container for your healing journey. Our licenced psychotherapists will hold space for your healing in a compassionate way to create a genuine environment that encourages self-exploration, growth, and transformation. No matter what you are dealing with right now, we believe you are capable of reaching your potential and finding balance, happiness, and meaning in your life.
Our clinicians offer cutting edge and best-practice treatment interventions including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), IFS-Informed EMDR, Brainspotting, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Psychedelic Assisted Therapy.
We are a collective group of psychotherapists working together to help you facilitate meaningful change in your life. At Spear Wellness Centre, holistic and client-centred care is our top priority and we strive to provide a safe and supportive container for your healing journey. Our licenced psychotherapists will hold space for your healing in a compassionate way to create a genuine environment that encourages self-exploration, growth, and transformation. No matter what you are dealing with right now, we believe you are capable of reaching your potential and finding balance, happiness, and meaning in your life.
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Photo of Brittnee Stewart - Brittnee Stewart - Spear Wellness Centre, Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BA
Brittnee Stewart - Spear Wellness Centre
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, BA
2 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
At this time, our clinic has openings for individuals, couples, and family therapy.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and co-creator of Spear Wellness Centre and Spear Counselling & Psychotherapy. I am a self-led Certified EMDR Therapist, EMDR Consultant in Training, IFS Level 1 trained Therapist and trained Psychedelic Assisted Therapist. My practice embodies a holistic approach to wellness, using the alchemy of science + spirituality to facilitate meaningful and long lasting positive changes. I am passionate about helping others achieve balance and harmony within their internal system and I create a safe container to support personal transformation so you can find your way back home - to yourself.
At this time, our clinic has openings for individuals, couples, and family therapy.
I am a Registered Psychotherapist and co-creator of Spear Wellness Centre and Spear Counselling & Psychotherapy. I am a self-led Certified EMDR Therapist, EMDR Consultant in Training, IFS Level 1 trained Therapist and trained Psychedelic Assisted Therapist. My practice embodies a holistic approach to wellness, using the alchemy of science + spirituality to facilitate meaningful and long lasting positive changes. I am passionate about helping others achieve balance and harmony within their internal system and I create a safe container to support personal transformation so you can find your way back home - to yourself.
(343) 500-6291 View (343) 500-6291
Photo of Mike Melles, Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, BSc, RP
Mike Melles
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd, BSc, RP
1 Endorsed
Kingston, ON K7K
When not with clients, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing guitar or cycling.
Sometimes people get stuck. Individuals and couples come to me for counselling to talk about a variety of problems - things like conflict in relationships, anxiety, depression, overwhelming stress, abuse, grief, vocational crisis, or anger. A counselling relationship helps people to move from understanding issues to co-creating solutions - solutions that shrink and manage problems. I use an integrative approach, drawing on different counselling methods depending on what works best for the client, including practices from cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, and solution-based therapy. I can help you to move through difficult times with courage, accountability, and positive resolve.
When not with clients, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing guitar or cycling.
Sometimes people get stuck. Individuals and couples come to me for counselling to talk about a variety of problems - things like conflict in relationships, anxiety, depression, overwhelming stress, abuse, grief, vocational crisis, or anger. A counselling relationship helps people to move from understanding issues to co-creating solutions - solutions that shrink and manage problems. I use an integrative approach, drawing on different counselling methods depending on what works best for the client, including practices from cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, and solution-based therapy. I can help you to move through difficult times with courage, accountability, and positive resolve.
(613) 801-6657 View (613) 801-6657
Photo of Anna Kizeweter - DeepTalk Therapy (Anna Brelyk) Kizeweter, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, CAND, RPQ
DeepTalk Therapy (Anna Brelyk) Kizeweter
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA, CAND, RPQ
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Specializing in family issues and job stress, I work collaboratively to build healthy relationships, regulate emotions, and empower you to adapt to changes.
In your 30s or 40s and finding yourself stuck in cycles of procrastination or self-sabotage? As a solution-focused therapist, supporting you in exploring your strengths and working toward meaningful change with greater clarity and confidence. In our initial 20-minute video or phone consultation, we will start building a therapeutic relationship based on openness, understanding, and a non-judgmental approach to help you achieve your goals. Additionally, I offer psychoeducation to empower you with resources and knowledge that can support you on your journey.
Specializing in family issues and job stress, I work collaboratively to build healthy relationships, regulate emotions, and empower you to adapt to changes.
In your 30s or 40s and finding yourself stuck in cycles of procrastination or self-sabotage? As a solution-focused therapist, supporting you in exploring your strengths and working toward meaningful change with greater clarity and confidence. In our initial 20-minute video or phone consultation, we will start building a therapeutic relationship based on openness, understanding, and a non-judgmental approach to help you achieve your goals. Additionally, I offer psychoeducation to empower you with resources and knowledge that can support you on your journey.
(289) 274-6339 View (289) 274-6339
Photo of Melissa Lerner, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), Intern
Melissa Lerner
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), RP(Q), Intern
1 Endorsed
Online Only
There will be times when we spend more time processing past events and family history, and times when it makes more sense to focus on creating the life you dream of.
Are you an overachieving, people-pleasing human who has a hard time saying no, tends to overwork, is secretly riddled with anxiety, has a challenging relationship with your parents, has difficulty setting and maintaining boundaries, and feel like you're riding a roller coaster of big emotions? Like the Type-A person that you are, you've tried all the things to feel better: self-help, exercise, yoga, meditation, healthy eating, new planners, podcasts...but you're still stuck. You thought it was a phase, but now it's starting to affect your relationships, and you're finally feeling ready - and willing - to make a real change
There will be times when we spend more time processing past events and family history, and times when it makes more sense to focus on creating the life you dream of.
Are you an overachieving, people-pleasing human who has a hard time saying no, tends to overwork, is secretly riddled with anxiety, has a challenging relationship with your parents, has difficulty setting and maintaining boundaries, and feel like you're riding a roller coaster of big emotions? Like the Type-A person that you are, you've tried all the things to feel better: self-help, exercise, yoga, meditation, healthy eating, new planners, podcasts...but you're still stuck. You thought it was a phase, but now it's starting to affect your relationships, and you're finally feeling ready - and willing - to make a real change
(365) 799-8522 View (365) 799-8522

See more therapy options for Kingston

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.