Photo of Maryam Best Counselling-Psychotherapy-Supervision, Psychotherapist in Saint Ives, England
Maryam Best Counselling-Psychotherapy-Supervision
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Saint Ives TR26
With 30 years of experience, I respectfully help you to access a life that makes sense to you and is governed by you. Sessions are as dynamic or quiet as you wish them to be. No judgment, no pressure. You are free to think, feel and share as much or as little as you need. Book a single appointment and decide for yourself if this is the right way forward.
With 30 years of experience, I respectfully help you to access a life that makes sense to you and is governed by you. Sessions are as dynamic or quiet as you wish them to be. No judgment, no pressure. You are free to think, feel and share as much or as little as you need. Book a single appointment and decide for yourself if this is the right way forward.
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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Karen Dibbens Counselling Services, Psychotherapist in Saint Ives, England
Karen Dibbens Counselling Services
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Christchurch BH23
Waitlist for new clients
Experience of working with family problems.
I offer a warm, safe and confidential space for you to be listened to. I work at your pace, helping you to explore what you really want, both from the counselling therapy and then concentrating more specifically, on areas of your life that you'd like to change or improve. If you have problems that keep going around and around in your head. If you are unhappy and can't identify why. If you are really struggling to cope with life, then Counselling can offer an amazingly good emotional release. Offering you the comfort of feeling truly listened to, empathised with and not judged.
Experience of working with family problems.
I offer a warm, safe and confidential space for you to be listened to. I work at your pace, helping you to explore what you really want, both from the counselling therapy and then concentrating more specifically, on areas of your life that you'd like to change or improve. If you have problems that keep going around and around in your head. If you are unhappy and can't identify why. If you are really struggling to cope with life, then Counselling can offer an amazingly good emotional release. Offering you the comfort of feeling truly listened to, empathised with and not judged.
01354 705994 View 01354 705994
Photo of Zoe Silk, Counsellor in Saint Ives, England
Zoe Silk
Counsellor, PNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Wimborne BH21
I am very passionate about my work and what I love most is seeing my clients progress. Observing their changes and seeing how good they feel within themselves is a wonderful journey to share. I offer support with all kinds of issues. You may be suffering with an anxiety disorder, depression perhaps, an issue within a relationship, an addiction or something else. Whatever your issue is, my aim is to spend time getting to know you, finding the root cause to your problem and any other factors that may have to be taken into consideration. Then, together we can work towards a solid plan for you to more you forward as an individual.
I am very passionate about my work and what I love most is seeing my clients progress. Observing their changes and seeing how good they feel within themselves is a wonderful journey to share. I offer support with all kinds of issues. You may be suffering with an anxiety disorder, depression perhaps, an issue within a relationship, an addiction or something else. Whatever your issue is, my aim is to spend time getting to know you, finding the root cause to your problem and any other factors that may have to be taken into consideration. Then, together we can work towards a solid plan for you to more you forward as an individual.
01202 117054 View 01202 117054

Online Therapists

Photo of Diana Goldsmith, Psychologist in Saint Ives, England
Diana Goldsmith
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Tonbridge TN9
I am happy to have a free conversation with you over the phone to understand why you think therapy may be helpful for your child, relative, family, or yourself.
I am Dr Diana Goldsmith, a Chartered Clinical Psychologist registered with the Heath and Care Professions Council (HCPC). I am Clinical Director and Senior Psychologist for Foundations Child & Family Therapy – www.foundationschildtherapy.co.uk- a psychological therapies service offering UK-wide psychological therapy and clinical supervision. We offer support for children, young people and their families. We also offer ADHD and ASD assessments and follow-up post-diagnostic services. We aim to provide a supportive, understanding and compassionate service that works alongside families and their children.
I am happy to have a free conversation with you over the phone to understand why you think therapy may be helpful for your child, relative, family, or yourself.
I am Dr Diana Goldsmith, a Chartered Clinical Psychologist registered with the Heath and Care Professions Council (HCPC). I am Clinical Director and Senior Psychologist for Foundations Child & Family Therapy – www.foundationschildtherapy.co.uk- a psychological therapies service offering UK-wide psychological therapy and clinical supervision. We offer support for children, young people and their families. We also offer ADHD and ASD assessments and follow-up post-diagnostic services. We aim to provide a supportive, understanding and compassionate service that works alongside families and their children.
01732 927295 View 01732 927295
Photo of Kate Robinson, Psychologist in Saint Ives, England
Kate Robinson
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London SW11  (Online Only)
The experienced therapists at My Therapy Assistant are trained in a range of evidence-based approaches, including CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, psychodynamic psychotherapy, couples therapy & family therapy.
I'm a chartered clinical psychologist & accredited EMDR consultant specialising in helping people move on from traumatic events. I'm also the clinical director of My Therapy Assistant: we help you find the psychologist or psychotherapist who'll be the best fit for you & the issues you want to work on, whether that be enhancing performance & wellbeing, improving relationships or tackling mental health difficulties. The team are all specialists in a variety of different areas with years of experience in the NHS. We offer sessions online & in person (when coronavirus precautions allow) in a variety of locations throughout the UK.
The experienced therapists at My Therapy Assistant are trained in a range of evidence-based approaches, including CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, psychodynamic psychotherapy, couples therapy & family therapy.
I'm a chartered clinical psychologist & accredited EMDR consultant specialising in helping people move on from traumatic events. I'm also the clinical director of My Therapy Assistant: we help you find the psychologist or psychotherapist who'll be the best fit for you & the issues you want to work on, whether that be enhancing performance & wellbeing, improving relationships or tackling mental health difficulties. The team are all specialists in a variety of different areas with years of experience in the NHS. We offer sessions online & in person (when coronavirus precautions allow) in a variety of locations throughout the UK.
01260 542100 View 01260 542100
Photo of Joanna Prior, Psychotherapist in Saint Ives, England
Joanna Prior
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Windsor SL4
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional, Certified Family Trauma Professional.
My approach to therapy is friendly, respectful & totally non-judgemental. Primarily I use an Integrative Therapy based on TTM ( Transtheoretical Model of Change) based (between others) on your goals, readiness to change and the fact that ‘no one type of therapy fits all’. Psychoeducation about your symptoms, coping strategies (CBT and Mindfulness') will improve your everyday life and if you feel ready to work on the 'the roots' of the current difficulties- EMDR, Counselling and Attachment Theory would be something to explore. I adjust therapy to my clients and not the other way around.
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, Certified Child and Adolescent Trauma Professional, Certified Family Trauma Professional.
My approach to therapy is friendly, respectful & totally non-judgemental. Primarily I use an Integrative Therapy based on TTM ( Transtheoretical Model of Change) based (between others) on your goals, readiness to change and the fact that ‘no one type of therapy fits all’. Psychoeducation about your symptoms, coping strategies (CBT and Mindfulness') will improve your everyday life and if you feel ready to work on the 'the roots' of the current difficulties- EMDR, Counselling and Attachment Theory would be something to explore. I adjust therapy to my clients and not the other way around.
01753 980282 View 01753 980282
Photo of Sara Bentwood, Psychologist in Saint Ives, England
Sara Bentwood
Psychologist, PsychD, CPsychol
Verified Verified
London N20
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years NHS experience providing highly specialist psychological assessment, formulation and interventions to both children and adolescents, other family members including siblings and parents/carers, as well as adults. I have a great deal of experience working with psychological difficulties such as anxiety including OCD, panic attacks, phobias and social anxiety; depression, low self-esteem and poor body image; behaviour difficulties, anger management, school issues such as bullying and family difficulties as well as difficulties with feeding and sleep.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years NHS experience providing highly specialist psychological assessment, formulation and interventions to both children and adolescents, other family members including siblings and parents/carers, as well as adults. I have a great deal of experience working with psychological difficulties such as anxiety including OCD, panic attacks, phobias and social anxiety; depression, low self-esteem and poor body image; behaviour difficulties, anger management, school issues such as bullying and family difficulties as well as difficulties with feeding and sleep.
020 4538 0224 View 020 4538 0224
Photo of Circle Psychology Partners Ltd, Psychologist in Saint Ives, England
Circle Psychology Partners Ltd
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SE21
I am Dr Christine Langhoff, Clinical Psychologist and the director of Clinical Psychology Partners. I have worked as a psychologist since 2008. I manage a team of more than 30 therapists (clinical and counselling psychologists, psychotherapists, family therapists, CBT therapists) who offer therapy for children, adolescents, families, adults and couples in Southeast London and Sutton. We offer therapy incl. CBT, CFT, EMDR and ACT therapy for Depression (incl. Postnatal), Anxiety, Relationship Problems, Stress, Bereavement, Bereavement and More.
I am Dr Christine Langhoff, Clinical Psychologist and the director of Clinical Psychology Partners. I have worked as a psychologist since 2008. I manage a team of more than 30 therapists (clinical and counselling psychologists, psychotherapists, family therapists, CBT therapists) who offer therapy for children, adolescents, families, adults and couples in Southeast London and Sutton. We offer therapy incl. CBT, CFT, EMDR and ACT therapy for Depression (incl. Postnatal), Anxiety, Relationship Problems, Stress, Bereavement, Bereavement and More.
020 3823 6543 View 020 3823 6543
Photo of Dr Hugh Milburn, Psychologist in Saint Ives, England
Dr Hugh Milburn
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Brighton BN1
I am a highly experienced Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Child & Family Psychotherapist with over twenty years experience working with Children, Adolescence (CAMHS), Families and Adult mental well being. My clinical services are based in Hastings and Brighton. I provide psychological clinical services to help with psychological distress such as anxiety, low mood, poor self-esteem, complex trauma and eating disorders. I offer a friendly, flexible and holistic approach, providing a range of therapeutic interventions tailored to the individual's or families' needs.
I am a highly experienced Consultant Clinical Psychologist and Child & Family Psychotherapist with over twenty years experience working with Children, Adolescence (CAMHS), Families and Adult mental well being. My clinical services are based in Hastings and Brighton. I provide psychological clinical services to help with psychological distress such as anxiety, low mood, poor self-esteem, complex trauma and eating disorders. I offer a friendly, flexible and holistic approach, providing a range of therapeutic interventions tailored to the individual's or families' needs.
01424 400191 View 01424 400191
Photo of Dr Kate Woollaston, Psychologist in Saint Ives, England
Dr Kate Woollaston
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Newport Pagnell MK16
If you're reading this then you or someone you care about is probably hurting and in need of help. You may be feeling overwhelmed by worries and anxiety. It might be that you’re not the person, parent or partner you want to be, and feel like your failing. You may be struggling for a number of factors, including: past traumatic experiences, current day stressors and family issues. You need support to make meaningful changes so you can feel calm and live the life you want.
If you're reading this then you or someone you care about is probably hurting and in need of help. You may be feeling overwhelmed by worries and anxiety. It might be that you’re not the person, parent or partner you want to be, and feel like your failing. You may be struggling for a number of factors, including: past traumatic experiences, current day stressors and family issues. You need support to make meaningful changes so you can feel calm and live the life you want.
07565 537750 View 07565 537750
Photo of Sara Andargachew, Psychologist in Saint Ives, England
Sara Andargachew
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London N3
narrative therapy, family therapy), attachment informed therapies (e.
I have had the privilege of working with people who struggle with their mental health, for over 10 years. I completed my doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Oxford University. My background is rather diverse, having grown up in 6 different countries (Ethiopia, Cyprus, Zambia, Fujairah, Germany and England). As a psychologist, I have lived and practiced in England, China and most recently in Mexico. I have worked with people across the life span, with children, families and couples. I also have extensive experience working with children and adults who struggled profoundly in their early attachment relationships.
narrative therapy, family therapy), attachment informed therapies (e.
I have had the privilege of working with people who struggle with their mental health, for over 10 years. I completed my doctorate in Clinical Psychology at Oxford University. My background is rather diverse, having grown up in 6 different countries (Ethiopia, Cyprus, Zambia, Fujairah, Germany and England). As a psychologist, I have lived and practiced in England, China and most recently in Mexico. I have worked with people across the life span, with children, families and couples. I also have extensive experience working with children and adults who struggled profoundly in their early attachment relationships.
020 3984 9646 View 020 3984 9646
Photo of Collective Psychology, Psychologist in Saint Ives, England
Collective Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Cobham KT11
We are a multi-award winning psychological therapies clinic based in Cobham offering fast and effective, evidence-based treatment to support people of all ages and with a variety of mental health difficulties. Our team consists of clinical and counselling psychologists, psychotherapists, an ADHD coach and family therapy. Our beautiful clinic rooms offer a tranquil setting for your sessions. We know the value of the therapeutic relationship and think that it is vital to find a therapist you 'click' with. Our team are personable, warm and empathetic which has helped many people overcome the difficulties holding them back in life.
We are a multi-award winning psychological therapies clinic based in Cobham offering fast and effective, evidence-based treatment to support people of all ages and with a variety of mental health difficulties. Our team consists of clinical and counselling psychologists, psychotherapists, an ADHD coach and family therapy. Our beautiful clinic rooms offer a tranquil setting for your sessions. We know the value of the therapeutic relationship and think that it is vital to find a therapist you 'click' with. Our team are personable, warm and empathetic which has helped many people overcome the difficulties holding them back in life.
01932 504224 View 01932 504224
Photo of Questa Psychological Services , Psychologist in Saint Ives, England
Questa Psychological Services
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, AFBPSsS
Verified Verified
Farnborough GU14
I'm Bandna and I'm the Clinical Director of Questa. We're a small, specialist practice offering gold standard psychological services for children, teenagers, adults and families across Hampshire and Surrey. Our clinicians and support team are here to help you through; whether you want an assessment/diagnosis for autism, ADHD, family support, psychological therapy or supportive psychological coaching (SPC) we can help - and if we can't we'll do our utmost to help you find someone who can. Call or email us today to discuss how we may be able to help you.
I'm Bandna and I'm the Clinical Director of Questa. We're a small, specialist practice offering gold standard psychological services for children, teenagers, adults and families across Hampshire and Surrey. Our clinicians and support team are here to help you through; whether you want an assessment/diagnosis for autism, ADHD, family support, psychological therapy or supportive psychological coaching (SPC) we can help - and if we can't we'll do our utmost to help you find someone who can. Call or email us today to discuss how we may be able to help you.
01252 412471 View 01252 412471
Photo of Clare-Marie Keel Do You Need To Talk And Feel Heard', Counsellor in Saint Ives, England
Clare-Marie Keel Do You Need To Talk And Feel Heard'
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Farnborough GU14
Are you anxious, sad, confused etc about the future. There may be an issue in your past that has not been dealt with and so it is ruminating around in your head. This could be for a variety of reasons such as issues in your relationship, work stress, family conflict, a bereavement, life changes etc Sometimes we cannot really work out the reason why our mood has shifted and what to do about it and that is okay as counselling can help to unravel what is going on at a deeper level. I work with individuals or couples who are experiencing such difficulties and need support with coping strategies in moving forward to improve their life.
Are you anxious, sad, confused etc about the future. There may be an issue in your past that has not been dealt with and so it is ruminating around in your head. This could be for a variety of reasons such as issues in your relationship, work stress, family conflict, a bereavement, life changes etc Sometimes we cannot really work out the reason why our mood has shifted and what to do about it and that is okay as counselling can help to unravel what is going on at a deeper level. I work with individuals or couples who are experiencing such difficulties and need support with coping strategies in moving forward to improve their life.
01252 942793 View 01252 942793
Photo of Jayne Ritchie Counselling, Psychotherapist in Saint Ives, England
Jayne Ritchie Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP Snr. Accred
Verified Verified
Kingston upon Thames KT2
My first training in therapy was ‘Person Centred’. This therapy places emphasis on providing a safe, empathic, non-judgemental space to discuss whatever is troubling you. I have come to specialise in Trauma and Complex PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). EMDR is clinically proven to heal all kinds of traumatic experiences. More recently, I have begun to incorporate Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory into my practice as it helps to identify different parts of ourselves that can sometimes be in conflict.
My first training in therapy was ‘Person Centred’. This therapy places emphasis on providing a safe, empathic, non-judgemental space to discuss whatever is troubling you. I have come to specialise in Trauma and Complex PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). EMDR is clinically proven to heal all kinds of traumatic experiences. More recently, I have begun to incorporate Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory into my practice as it helps to identify different parts of ourselves that can sometimes be in conflict.
01372 235348 View 01372 235348
Photo of Dr Jenika Patel, Psychologist in Saint Ives, England
Dr Jenika Patel
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warwick CV34
I am mindful of family, social, cultural and environmental factors that can impact on us and these influence who we are and how we experience ourselves.
I provide therapeutic space for you to reflect, think about and explore difficulties without judgement. Sometimes we can have an idea about what we are struggling with, sometimes we are less sure. Accessing therapy can help us to understand ourselves and give meaning to that which leaves us feeling stuck. Sometimes things that are happening in the here and now can bring up feelings that we have experienced in the past that we may or may not be aware of. This may create discomfort, pain, distress, anxiety, depression and overwhelm. People often describe feeling empty, in darkness, alone, lacking energy and feeling frightened.
I am mindful of family, social, cultural and environmental factors that can impact on us and these influence who we are and how we experience ourselves.
I provide therapeutic space for you to reflect, think about and explore difficulties without judgement. Sometimes we can have an idea about what we are struggling with, sometimes we are less sure. Accessing therapy can help us to understand ourselves and give meaning to that which leaves us feeling stuck. Sometimes things that are happening in the here and now can bring up feelings that we have experienced in the past that we may or may not be aware of. This may create discomfort, pain, distress, anxiety, depression and overwhelm. People often describe feeling empty, in darkness, alone, lacking energy and feeling frightened.
01926 800579 View 01926 800579
Photo of Dr Tej ., Psychologist in Saint Ives, England
Dr Tej .
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London WC1B
Dr Tej is Consultant Clinical Psychologist with 25 years clinical experience across Infant, Child and Adult mental health services. In her clinical practice with adults, her expertise is in helping identify and work through intergenerational cycles of trauma – or trauma with a small ‘t’, such as complex developmental trauma/family trauma/narcissistic abuse, scapegoating, chronic shame, feeling stuck not knowing how to break relational patterns. Clients she has worked with report these difficulties in the context of bullying at work, couple /marital/relationship difficulties and attachment/parenting and birth trauma/difficulties.
Dr Tej is Consultant Clinical Psychologist with 25 years clinical experience across Infant, Child and Adult mental health services. In her clinical practice with adults, her expertise is in helping identify and work through intergenerational cycles of trauma – or trauma with a small ‘t’, such as complex developmental trauma/family trauma/narcissistic abuse, scapegoating, chronic shame, feeling stuck not knowing how to break relational patterns. Clients she has worked with report these difficulties in the context of bullying at work, couple /marital/relationship difficulties and attachment/parenting and birth trauma/difficulties.
020 3870 3028 View 020 3870 3028
Photo of Blue River Psychology, Psychologist in Saint Ives, England
Blue River Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London EC1V
Myself and the Associates I work with draw on different therapeutic modalities to help you develop insight into your experiences, these may include: Psychodynamic, attachment theory, black feminist concepts, compassion-focussed therapy (CFT), sensorimotor psychotherapy, EMDR, CBT, family, systemic and narrative approaches.
Hello, I am Dr Rima Lamba. I'm a feminist counselling psychologist with an interest in the unique experiences of women from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I work closely with women who have struggled with self esteem & identity, relationship issues, difficulties in motherhood, life transitions, attachment and early trauma, and transgenerational trauma. I am particularly interested in the structural power differences that impact people, so I work closely on issues to do with patriarchy, race, culture and more. I also work with a team of therapists who can support clients, including adult families.
Myself and the Associates I work with draw on different therapeutic modalities to help you develop insight into your experiences, these may include: Psychodynamic, attachment theory, black feminist concepts, compassion-focussed therapy (CFT), sensorimotor psychotherapy, EMDR, CBT, family, systemic and narrative approaches.
Hello, I am Dr Rima Lamba. I'm a feminist counselling psychologist with an interest in the unique experiences of women from a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds. I work closely with women who have struggled with self esteem & identity, relationship issues, difficulties in motherhood, life transitions, attachment and early trauma, and transgenerational trauma. I am particularly interested in the structural power differences that impact people, so I work closely on issues to do with patriarchy, race, culture and more. I also work with a team of therapists who can support clients, including adult families.
0161 696 1620 View 0161 696 1620
Photo of Amber Johnston, Psychologist in Saint Ives, England
Amber Johnston
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Reading RG2
Hi there! I am Amber, the Director of Healthy Mind Psychology. We aim to be a different type of practice. Our focus includes work with those people trying to cope with all the stresses and strains of unprecedented times upon us. But many struggle with issues outside of the normal narrative of mental health, or physical health too. Our practice aims to explain the stress response (whether that be from overdue bills, a critical family system, a harsh workplace, current or previous traumas, or a host of other things!) and the science behind how the mind/body interact to create physical symptoms, emotional distress, or bad habits!
Hi there! I am Amber, the Director of Healthy Mind Psychology. We aim to be a different type of practice. Our focus includes work with those people trying to cope with all the stresses and strains of unprecedented times upon us. But many struggle with issues outside of the normal narrative of mental health, or physical health too. Our practice aims to explain the stress response (whether that be from overdue bills, a critical family system, a harsh workplace, current or previous traumas, or a host of other things!) and the science behind how the mind/body interact to create physical symptoms, emotional distress, or bad habits!
0118 207 2661 View 0118 207 2661
Photo of Nuria Bara-Carril, Psychologist in Saint Ives, England
Nuria Bara-Carril
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London W4
I have extensive experience in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and other approaches based on CBT, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy & Behavioural Family Therapy.
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist working with adults to address mild to severe psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD and Bipolar Affective Disorder. I can also help with concerns around stress, relationships, challenging life events, loss, adjustment to illness, low self-esteem, and unresolved childhood issues. Since becoming a mother, I have developed a specific interest in working with maternal mental health and wellbeing. I frequently support parents as they navigate the new demands, change in role and stresses that come with pregnancy and parenthood.
I have extensive experience in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) and other approaches based on CBT, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Compassion Focused Therapy, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy & Behavioural Family Therapy.
I am a Chartered Clinical Psychologist working with adults to address mild to severe psychological difficulties including anxiety, depression, OCD and Bipolar Affective Disorder. I can also help with concerns around stress, relationships, challenging life events, loss, adjustment to illness, low self-esteem, and unresolved childhood issues. Since becoming a mother, I have developed a specific interest in working with maternal mental health and wellbeing. I frequently support parents as they navigate the new demands, change in role and stresses that come with pregnancy and parenthood.
020 4538 8943 View 020 4538 8943

See more therapy options for Saint Ives

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.