Photo of Sarah Lake, RCC, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Lake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RCC, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R
This includes CBT,DBT, Satir, expressive therapies and family therapy.
I work with families youth and adults who are struggling and wanting to find ways to make improvements. It is my role to assist you in developing clear goals and implementing practical and effective strategies for positive change.
This includes CBT,DBT, Satir, expressive therapies and family therapy.
I work with families youth and adults who are struggling and wanting to find ways to make improvements. It is my role to assist you in developing clear goals and implementing practical and effective strategies for positive change.
(778) 766-4097 View (778) 766-4097
Photo of Veronica Harris, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Veronica Harris
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
In my practice I value the opportunity to work with individuals who are experiencing grief and loss, depression and anxiety, parenting and family challenges, and the impacts of trauma. As a clinical counsellor and a mother I offer support to women throughout motherhood, addressing concerns for postpartum depression and anxiety, transitioning to motherhood, intimate partner challenges, burnout, pregnancy and postpartum loss, and processing birth trauma. I work in collaboration with the client to explore the issues and to support their emotional wellbeing and personal growth.
In my practice I value the opportunity to work with individuals who are experiencing grief and loss, depression and anxiety, parenting and family challenges, and the impacts of trauma. As a clinical counsellor and a mother I offer support to women throughout motherhood, addressing concerns for postpartum depression and anxiety, transitioning to motherhood, intimate partner challenges, burnout, pregnancy and postpartum loss, and processing birth trauma. I work in collaboration with the client to explore the issues and to support their emotional wellbeing and personal growth.
(778) 800-6565 View (778) 800-6565
Photo of Christina James, MACP, MEd, CCC, Counsellor
Christina James
Counsellor, MACP, MEd, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
Waitlist for new clients
Having obtained a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of body, emotions, mind, and soul and the impact of adverse experiences and suffering on the human spirit, I provide a holistic counselling approach adapted to each individual and family.
I firmly believe that each person has the potential to overcome the effects of their difficult life experiences. I am committed to walk alongside you on your path towards healing from depression, anxiety, (complex) trauma, abuse, and other mental health challenges. Providing a safe, non-judgmental environment, I tailor my methods to your needs. I love and have experience working with individuals and families from a variety of cultural backgrounds. My expertise is in supporting those struggling with traumatic experiences as well as difficulties related to cultural and relational contexts.
Having obtained a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of body, emotions, mind, and soul and the impact of adverse experiences and suffering on the human spirit, I provide a holistic counselling approach adapted to each individual and family.
I firmly believe that each person has the potential to overcome the effects of their difficult life experiences. I am committed to walk alongside you on your path towards healing from depression, anxiety, (complex) trauma, abuse, and other mental health challenges. Providing a safe, non-judgmental environment, I tailor my methods to your needs. I love and have experience working with individuals and families from a variety of cultural backgrounds. My expertise is in supporting those struggling with traumatic experiences as well as difficulties related to cultural and relational contexts.
(782) 823-3125 View (782) 823-3125
Photo of Erin Kristine Todsen, MA, Counsellor
Erin Kristine Todsen
Counsellor, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
Life is hard to enjoy when you're not getting through to your kids, spouse or family. Maybe you miss being carefree and less snappy. The family is disconnected and everyone is doing their own thing. It's difficult to get motivated to come together and when you do, it doesn't go well. Handling typical life challenges is difficult and no one is listening. No wonder your fuse is short and the kids are quick to yell or cry. It's like there's a pattern that can't be stopped. Feeling overwhelmed is normal in this situation. This is hard and we can start to make sense of things so you can feel better!
Life is hard to enjoy when you're not getting through to your kids, spouse or family. Maybe you miss being carefree and less snappy. The family is disconnected and everyone is doing their own thing. It's difficult to get motivated to come together and when you do, it doesn't go well. Handling typical life challenges is difficult and no one is listening. No wonder your fuse is short and the kids are quick to yell or cry. It's like there's a pattern that can't be stopped. Feeling overwhelmed is normal in this situation. This is hard and we can start to make sense of things so you can feel better!
(431) 531-8348 View (431) 531-8348
Photo of Michelle Mills, BA CYC, MACP , RCC
Michelle Mills
BA CYC, MACP , RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
I maintain an attachment focused and trauma informed lens, and work from a family systems perspective.
Life can present us with many challenges and it can be difficult to figure out where to go next. These experiences can feel isolating, but you do not have to face this alone. If you are experiencing low mood, decreased motivation, difficulties within your relationships or are feeling overwhelmed, we can work together to find a path forward.
I maintain an attachment focused and trauma informed lens, and work from a family systems perspective.
Life can present us with many challenges and it can be difficult to figure out where to go next. These experiences can feel isolating, but you do not have to face this alone. If you are experiencing low mood, decreased motivation, difficulties within your relationships or are feeling overwhelmed, we can work together to find a path forward.
(548) 488-2489 View (548) 488-2489
Photo of Rachel Falconer, RCT-C, Counsellor
Rachel Falconer
Counsellor, RCT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R  (Online Only)
I am very holistic in my approach, being trauma-informed, having used CBT and DBT techniques through Moving Forward Family Services with training offered to their interns.
My focus is strongly influenced by a person-centered therapy approach to wellness through different methods such as Eco-therapy or expressive art therapy techniques and using the natural elements available to us should the sessions call for such an approach. Reducing stress and anxiety to create a more peaceful person inside who can claim their meaning and be more joyful in life is a difficult path to walk alone. I am here to help and be part of the healing journey. I have completed my diploma in April of 2023 and plan to continue my education and training to better serve the clients I take on as I evolve as a counsellor.
I am very holistic in my approach, being trauma-informed, having used CBT and DBT techniques through Moving Forward Family Services with training offered to their interns.
My focus is strongly influenced by a person-centered therapy approach to wellness through different methods such as Eco-therapy or expressive art therapy techniques and using the natural elements available to us should the sessions call for such an approach. Reducing stress and anxiety to create a more peaceful person inside who can claim their meaning and be more joyful in life is a difficult path to walk alone. I am here to help and be part of the healing journey. I have completed my diploma in April of 2023 and plan to continue my education and training to better serve the clients I take on as I evolve as a counsellor.
(548) 457-0379 View (548) 457-0379
Photo of Nicole Puckering, BA CYC, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Nicole Puckering
Counsellor, BA CYC, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
I understand that everyone has their own unique experiences, especially within their family and value and respect their differences.
Are you finding that you feel stuck in the same negative thought patterns, or are struggling in your relationships? Is your lack of motivation or anxiety and depression spilling over in your day-to-day routine. Have you experienced a recent loss and are feeling lonely and hopelessness? These difficult emotions can be challenging to deal with daily and even harder to figure out the first step to a solution. I work with co-parents, couples, adults, adolescents, and children who are feeling overwhelmed in their daily life. Together we create goals by focusing on values and connection and by moving towards flexibility and acceptance.
I understand that everyone has their own unique experiences, especially within their family and value and respect their differences.
Are you finding that you feel stuck in the same negative thought patterns, or are struggling in your relationships? Is your lack of motivation or anxiety and depression spilling over in your day-to-day routine. Have you experienced a recent loss and are feeling lonely and hopelessness? These difficult emotions can be challenging to deal with daily and even harder to figure out the first step to a solution. I work with co-parents, couples, adults, adolescents, and children who are feeling overwhelmed in their daily life. Together we create goals by focusing on values and connection and by moving towards flexibility and acceptance.
(672) 572-0171 x203 View (672) 572-0171 x203
Photo of undefined - Allius Services Inc., MA, RCC-ACS, RPT, BCRPT-S, Counsellor
Allius Services Inc.
Counsellor, MA, RCC-ACS, RPT, BCRPT-S
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
We also offer family therapy for couples, families, parents.
We are accepting new clients of all ages for counselling! Here at Allius Services, we support people to connect with themselves in order to better connect with others. The more we learn about our own internal world, the more we can extend greater compassion to ourselves and to those around us. At Allius, we know the path to emotional well-being comes from those small, meaningful steps we take everyday that moves us a bit closer to what and who is most important to us. Together, we can co-create a plan that moves you forward in the direction of living a more meaningful life and one that is more connected to those you care about most.
We also offer family therapy for couples, families, parents.
We are accepting new clients of all ages for counselling! Here at Allius Services, we support people to connect with themselves in order to better connect with others. The more we learn about our own internal world, the more we can extend greater compassion to ourselves and to those around us. At Allius, we know the path to emotional well-being comes from those small, meaningful steps we take everyday that moves us a bit closer to what and who is most important to us. Together, we can co-create a plan that moves you forward in the direction of living a more meaningful life and one that is more connected to those you care about most.
(855) 224-3037 View (855) 224-3037
Photo of Lyris Paña, RTC, Counsellor
Lyris Paña
Counsellor, RTC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
Often our family history can impact our lives without us knowing how.
Are you struggling in your relationship? Do you get frustrated at your partner, your mother, your co-workers or your boss? Have you thought that if you moved jobs, or countries, or changed your relationship that life would change; only to realize that you are having the same experience all over again? Sometimes we wish that people would just do what we want them to or be a certain way so that we can feel better. Often we think our relationships need to change when change must really begin within ourselves. If you are ready to look at who you are in your relationships, I'm here to help you discover who that is and why!
Often our family history can impact our lives without us knowing how.
Are you struggling in your relationship? Do you get frustrated at your partner, your mother, your co-workers or your boss? Have you thought that if you moved jobs, or countries, or changed your relationship that life would change; only to realize that you are having the same experience all over again? Sometimes we wish that people would just do what we want them to or be a certain way so that we can feel better. Often we think our relationships need to change when change must really begin within ourselves. If you are ready to look at who you are in your relationships, I'm here to help you discover who that is and why!
(778) 400-7149 View (778) 400-7149
Photo of Jamie Whitehead, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Jamie Whitehead
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
Jamie loves to see clients feel empowered to make change in their lives, and to realize the benefits of their efforts in both the immediate and long term. Her extensive experience supporting children and families makes her an ideal counsellor for kids, teens, young adults, parents, co-parents, and family units of all varieties. Jamie's focus is on listening to her client’s needs and working with them to create a plan for therapy. She aims to balance a warm and supportive approach with clear and straightforward reflections. Her goal is for her clients to feel both cared for and cheered on.
Jamie loves to see clients feel empowered to make change in their lives, and to realize the benefits of their efforts in both the immediate and long term. Her extensive experience supporting children and families makes her an ideal counsellor for kids, teens, young adults, parents, co-parents, and family units of all varieties. Jamie's focus is on listening to her client’s needs and working with them to create a plan for therapy. She aims to balance a warm and supportive approach with clear and straightforward reflections. Her goal is for her clients to feel both cared for and cheered on.
(249) 202-5216 View (249) 202-5216
Photo of Jenny Harris, Counsellor
Jenny Harris
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R  (Online Only)
I have experience in the mental health and addiction field, and supporting women and children escaping family violence.
My passion lies in partnering with clients to navigate life's challenges and foster personal growth, and I believe in the power of collaboration. With curiosity and respect for how your experiences and identities have shaped your values, beliefs, and goals, I can help you set goals, make decisions, and explore solutions. I offer support for those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, parenting, boundary setting, navigating life transitions, healthy relationship building, and self-empowerment work. Each session will focus on what you feel is most important for you, using a strengths-based approach.
I have experience in the mental health and addiction field, and supporting women and children escaping family violence.
My passion lies in partnering with clients to navigate life's challenges and foster personal growth, and I believe in the power of collaboration. With curiosity and respect for how your experiences and identities have shaped your values, beliefs, and goals, I can help you set goals, make decisions, and explore solutions. I offer support for those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief and loss, parenting, boundary setting, navigating life transitions, healthy relationship building, and self-empowerment work. Each session will focus on what you feel is most important for you, using a strengths-based approach.
(778) 763-1954 View (778) 763-1954
Photo of undefined - Healthy Relationships BC, MEd, RCC
Healthy Relationships BC
MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
Being in relationship is work and there are many factors that add stress to family life.
Relationships troubles affect us all and I am here to help guide you through the tough issues and get you back on track. Whether you have a past trauma re surfacing, sexual desire problems or intimacy issues, I am here to talk with you and give you some exercises to get you back to satisfying sex. I am an accredited sex therapist and I have 10 years of experience working with people in relationships. I also work with individuals on a host of other issues such as social anxiety or sexual preference, and gender variance. I enjoy working with an inclusive range of clients.
Being in relationship is work and there are many factors that add stress to family life.
Relationships troubles affect us all and I am here to help guide you through the tough issues and get you back on track. Whether you have a past trauma re surfacing, sexual desire problems or intimacy issues, I am here to talk with you and give you some exercises to get you back to satisfying sex. I am an accredited sex therapist and I have 10 years of experience working with people in relationships. I also work with individuals on a host of other issues such as social anxiety or sexual preference, and gender variance. I enjoy working with an inclusive range of clients.
(855) 971-1813 View (855) 971-1813
Photo of Marie José Dhaese, PhD, RCC, ATR, RPT-S, CPT-S, Counsellor
Marie José Dhaese
Counsellor, PhD, RCC, ATR, RPT-S, CPT-S
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R  (Online Only)
I am an adult/child/youth and family therapist and clinical consultant in private practice. As well as being a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), I am a Registered Art Therapist (ATR and BCATR), a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S), and a certified Play Therapist Supervisor (CPT-S). I celebrate 45+ years experience as a counsellor psychotherapist and 35 years teaching internationally the therapeutic methods I have developed called Holistic Expressive Therapy. For 34 years, I have taught courses at the Justice Institute of British Columbia where a certificate on my approach to therapy is offered.
I am an adult/child/youth and family therapist and clinical consultant in private practice. As well as being a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), I am a Registered Art Therapist (ATR and BCATR), a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S), and a certified Play Therapist Supervisor (CPT-S). I celebrate 45+ years experience as a counsellor psychotherapist and 35 years teaching internationally the therapeutic methods I have developed called Holistic Expressive Therapy. For 34 years, I have taught courses at the Justice Institute of British Columbia where a certificate on my approach to therapy is offered.
(855) 668-6003 View (855) 668-6003
Photo of undefined - Joelene Heathcote Registered Counsellor, BA, MFA, RTC, Counsellor
Joelene Heathcote Registered Counsellor
Counsellor, BA, MFA, RTC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R
I support clients managing emotional challenges, BPD traits, depression, OCD, perfectionism, negative internal dialogue, addiction, grief, trauma, and difficult family dynamics. Together we explore a client's history, experience, emotions, and develop better skills for managing challenges. Often old coping strategies are no longer serving the client. Developing relational intimacy with others, and more compassionate communication with self is integral to my work with individuals and families. Together we find solutions for healing and moving forward in healthy ways so clients can align more authenticly with themselves.
I support clients managing emotional challenges, BPD traits, depression, OCD, perfectionism, negative internal dialogue, addiction, grief, trauma, and difficult family dynamics. Together we explore a client's history, experience, emotions, and develop better skills for managing challenges. Often old coping strategies are no longer serving the client. Developing relational intimacy with others, and more compassionate communication with self is integral to my work with individuals and families. Together we find solutions for healing and moving forward in healthy ways so clients can align more authenticly with themselves.
(672) 202-3647 View (672) 202-3647
Photo of Megan Gasparotto, BSW, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Megan Gasparotto
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R
I have provided individual, group and family therapy using an eclectic mix of therapeutic modalities such as such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Emotion Focused Therapy and Narrative.
Over the past fourteen years I have worked with adolescents, youth, adults and families in several different settings including community mental health, hospital, crisis services, school and live in treatment homes. I have worked with people experiencing a wide range of complex needs and challenges such as developmental, cognitive, physical and mental.
I have provided individual, group and family therapy using an eclectic mix of therapeutic modalities such as such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Emotion Focused Therapy and Narrative.
Over the past fourteen years I have worked with adolescents, youth, adults and families in several different settings including community mental health, hospital, crisis services, school and live in treatment homes. I have worked with people experiencing a wide range of complex needs and challenges such as developmental, cognitive, physical and mental.
(289) 236-1215 View (289) 236-1215
Photo of undefined - Surrender To Hope Counselling, MA, RCC, ADACR, Counsellor
Surrender To Hope Counselling
Counsellor, MA, RCC, ADACR
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in British Columbia and a certified Drug and Alcohol Counsellor with over 15 years of counselling experience. I was born and raised on Vancouver Island and have a Bachelor in Child and Youth Care with extensive experience in children, youth and family counselling. Personal and professional experiences led me to complete a Master of Arts in Addiction Counselling at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation School of Addiction Studies. I have been mentored by, and worked alongside, the experts in addiction and mental health recovery. If you, or a loved one, is struggling, I can help.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor in British Columbia and a certified Drug and Alcohol Counsellor with over 15 years of counselling experience. I was born and raised on Vancouver Island and have a Bachelor in Child and Youth Care with extensive experience in children, youth and family counselling. Personal and professional experiences led me to complete a Master of Arts in Addiction Counselling at the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation School of Addiction Studies. I have been mentored by, and worked alongside, the experts in addiction and mental health recovery. If you, or a loved one, is struggling, I can help.
(587) 848-3279 View (587) 848-3279
Photo of Chloe McKinley, RCC, Counsellor
Chloe McKinley
Counsellor, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
Specialized training include: • Autism Spectrum Disorder • Clinical hypnotherapy • Couples counselling • Eating disorders clinical practices • EMDR • Indian residential school generational impact • Indigenous cultural competency • Family systems therapy • Mindfulness based • Social thinking curriculums • Clinical Supervision Trauma and Ego States.
Chloe McKinley, a registered clinical counsellor (RCC) and behavioural consultant, offers a unique therapeutic approach for individuals and families seeking counselling support. Chloe specializes in addressing the psychological needs of children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, embracing cultural and gender diverse LGBTQ2 communities. She is one of the few counsellors on Vancouver Island to offer both clinical counselling and behavioural consultation. Chloe also serves the neuro-diverse community as part of the multidisciplinary team known as Cowichan Autism Team Services (CATS). CATS is accepting new referrals.
Specialized training include: • Autism Spectrum Disorder • Clinical hypnotherapy • Couples counselling • Eating disorders clinical practices • EMDR • Indian residential school generational impact • Indigenous cultural competency • Family systems therapy • Mindfulness based • Social thinking curriculums • Clinical Supervision Trauma and Ego States.
Chloe McKinley, a registered clinical counsellor (RCC) and behavioural consultant, offers a unique therapeutic approach for individuals and families seeking counselling support. Chloe specializes in addressing the psychological needs of children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families, embracing cultural and gender diverse LGBTQ2 communities. She is one of the few counsellors on Vancouver Island to offer both clinical counselling and behavioural consultation. Chloe also serves the neuro-diverse community as part of the multidisciplinary team known as Cowichan Autism Team Services (CATS). CATS is accepting new referrals.
(778) 488-5349 View (778) 488-5349
Photo of Robin Jacobs, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Robin Jacobs
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R
Somatic techniques, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Hypnotherapy offer tools to invite deep, lasting shifts.
Ever feel stuck in a loop of frustrating patterns? Long for meaningful connection, but get lost in estrangement or conflict? Wonder why that joyful ease you occasionally glimpse feels buried under a sludge of anxiety, numbness, or anger? No matter how many "new leaves" we turn over — we find ourselves sinking back into the familiar muck. Here we go again! It's not just in your head. Pain and anxiety get encoded and frozen in the physical body, along with all the feelings it's not okay to feel. By adulthood, our nervous systems are hardwired to survive the situation we grew up in – and can get stuck there, replaying the same script.
Somatic techniques, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Hypnotherapy offer tools to invite deep, lasting shifts.
Ever feel stuck in a loop of frustrating patterns? Long for meaningful connection, but get lost in estrangement or conflict? Wonder why that joyful ease you occasionally glimpse feels buried under a sludge of anxiety, numbness, or anger? No matter how many "new leaves" we turn over — we find ourselves sinking back into the familiar muck. Here we go again! It's not just in your head. Pain and anxiety get encoded and frozen in the physical body, along with all the feelings it's not okay to feel. By adulthood, our nervous systems are hardwired to survive the situation we grew up in – and can get stuck there, replaying the same script.
(506) 308-0970 View (506) 308-0970
Photo of Bronwen Smith, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Bronwen Smith
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Nanaimo, BC V9R
I offer holistic, trauma informed, person-centered counselling services to children, youth, young adults, adults, parents and expectant parents (pregnancy, postpartum). My approach considers the essential role of the nervous system and is grounded in attachment theory, neuroscience, mindfulness, narrative therapy, emotion focused therapy, CBT, DBT, expressive arts and play therapy. I have over 20 years experience working with individuals and families in community based child and family services programs and 12 years as a counsellor, where I have worked for Child and Youth Mental Health and in private practice.
I offer holistic, trauma informed, person-centered counselling services to children, youth, young adults, adults, parents and expectant parents (pregnancy, postpartum). My approach considers the essential role of the nervous system and is grounded in attachment theory, neuroscience, mindfulness, narrative therapy, emotion focused therapy, CBT, DBT, expressive arts and play therapy. I have over 20 years experience working with individuals and families in community based child and family services programs and 12 years as a counsellor, where I have worked for Child and Youth Mental Health and in private practice.
(778) 743-1209 View (778) 743-1209
Photo of undefined - Katreena Lowry at Katreena Therapy, MACP, BEd, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Katreena Lowry at Katreena Therapy
Counsellor, MACP, BEd, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nanaimo, BC V9R  (Online Only)
Accepting online clients. Katreena Therapy counselling sessions are trauma-informed, collaborative, and centres around your individual experience, needs and goals. Creating a safe, non-judgmental place for your healing journey is valued. Katreena Therapy draws from evidence-based modalities, some of which include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness and Internal Family Systems (IFS). All of Katreena's work is client centred, trauma informed, strength-based and LGBTQI2SA+ affirming.
Accepting online clients. Katreena Therapy counselling sessions are trauma-informed, collaborative, and centres around your individual experience, needs and goals. Creating a safe, non-judgmental place for your healing journey is valued. Katreena Therapy draws from evidence-based modalities, some of which include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness and Internal Family Systems (IFS). All of Katreena's work is client centred, trauma informed, strength-based and LGBTQI2SA+ affirming.
(431) 441-1584 View (431) 441-1584

See more therapy options for V9R

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.