Photo of Lauren Gamble, Counsellor in Northern Ireland
Lauren Gamble
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Working with parents and the plethora of issues in family life, stemming from current issues to past traumas has shown me the lack of support, yet the support is sorely needed.
Hello, my name is Lauren and I am an Integrative counsellor, which means I draw from different psychological approaches depending on your needs and goals. This is to offer you a unique and tailored experience through collaboration to facilitate your desired change. I offer a holistic, non-judgemental safe space allowing you to explore and gain greater insight into your thoughts, feelings, and fears with the aim to promote stress management, coping strategies, self-care, and healing. I have experience with CBT, anxiety, depression, stress, pregnancy/prenatal/postpartum, bereavement, relationships, infidelity, trauma and PTSD.
Working with parents and the plethora of issues in family life, stemming from current issues to past traumas has shown me the lack of support, yet the support is sorely needed.
Hello, my name is Lauren and I am an Integrative counsellor, which means I draw from different psychological approaches depending on your needs and goals. This is to offer you a unique and tailored experience through collaboration to facilitate your desired change. I offer a holistic, non-judgemental safe space allowing you to explore and gain greater insight into your thoughts, feelings, and fears with the aim to promote stress management, coping strategies, self-care, and healing. I have experience with CBT, anxiety, depression, stress, pregnancy/prenatal/postpartum, bereavement, relationships, infidelity, trauma and PTSD.
028 9694 3441 View 028 9694 3441
Photo of MMC Counselling, Psychotherapist in Northern Ireland
MMC Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am an Integrative therapist using all aspect of psychotherapy that are relevant and applicable to each individual client, this means I work always in your best interest, using my knowledge and skills to tailor the therapy to best suit you and your current situation.I have many years experience in the field of mental health and have close personal experience in a number of areas. I offer an open, friendly, supportive and confidential service and have specialist training in anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, family issues and coping strategies.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I am an Integrative therapist using all aspect of psychotherapy that are relevant and applicable to each individual client, this means I work always in your best interest, using my knowledge and skills to tailor the therapy to best suit you and your current situation.I have many years experience in the field of mental health and have close personal experience in a number of areas. I offer an open, friendly, supportive and confidential service and have specialist training in anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, family issues and coping strategies.
028 2502 2242 View 028 2502 2242
Photo of Victoria Brown, Psychotherapist in Northern Ireland
Victoria Brown
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I specialise in the following: Trauma, Bereavement, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Family Trauma, Children’s Therapy, Eating Disorders, CBT and Psychodynamic therapy.
Hello Thank you for visiting my profile.  My name is Victoria, I am a qualified and registered Psychotherapist. My registrations are with British association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists, I’m also on the register for British Society of Psychologists.  I am an experienced therapist working with children, teenagers, adults and family’s with a range of difficulties.  I provide a safe non-judgemental space to work together through whatever issues my clients bring. My work is intergrative and adapted to the clients individual needs.
I specialise in the following: Trauma, Bereavement, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Relationship Issues, Family Trauma, Children’s Therapy, Eating Disorders, CBT and Psychodynamic therapy.
Hello Thank you for visiting my profile.  My name is Victoria, I am a qualified and registered Psychotherapist. My registrations are with British association of Counsellors and Psychotherapists, I’m also on the register for British Society of Psychologists.  I am an experienced therapist working with children, teenagers, adults and family’s with a range of difficulties.  I provide a safe non-judgemental space to work together through whatever issues my clients bring. My work is intergrative and adapted to the clients individual needs.
028 9692 8289 View 028 9692 8289
Joanne Mckenna
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dromore BT25
I have been a counsellor for 13 years. I have extensive knowledge of working with clients with depression, anxiety, suicide ideation, self-harming behaviours, Trauma and PTSD. I have worked in crisis management with clients with various presenting issues including, abuse, addiction, domestic violence, family breakdown and other mental health issues. I provide individual and couple counselling in a private and professional space. I have qualifications in EMDR,CBT, relationship therapy and solution focussed therapy. I also provide clinical supervision. I provide a bespoke counselling service as I tailor therapy to the clients needs.
I have been a counsellor for 13 years. I have extensive knowledge of working with clients with depression, anxiety, suicide ideation, self-harming behaviours, Trauma and PTSD. I have worked in crisis management with clients with various presenting issues including, abuse, addiction, domestic violence, family breakdown and other mental health issues. I provide individual and couple counselling in a private and professional space. I have qualifications in EMDR,CBT, relationship therapy and solution focussed therapy. I also provide clinical supervision. I provide a bespoke counselling service as I tailor therapy to the clients needs.
07723 496954 View 07723 496954
Photo of Valerie Best, Counsellor in Northern Ireland
Valerie Best
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Life may be difficult or stressful for you at this time and you would like to talk to someone in a confidential and relaxed environment who is not a family member or friend. We can all face obstacles and challenges at different stages in our lives which may cause us to feel depressed, anxious or overwhelmed. I provide a safe and welcoming place where you can take the time to explore your concerns and work out how these may have affected your well being. Through building a mutually trusting relationship we can help bring about a positive outcome for your future.
Life may be difficult or stressful for you at this time and you would like to talk to someone in a confidential and relaxed environment who is not a family member or friend. We can all face obstacles and challenges at different stages in our lives which may cause us to feel depressed, anxious or overwhelmed. I provide a safe and welcoming place where you can take the time to explore your concerns and work out how these may have affected your well being. Through building a mutually trusting relationship we can help bring about a positive outcome for your future.
028 9433 1962 View 028 9433 1962
Photo of Maryrose McCracken, Counsellor in Northern Ireland
Maryrose McCracken
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of expertise include eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, attachment disorders and family discord.
I am a fully qualified and accredited Counsellor working in the Mid Ulster area. I also have a Bsc (Hons) Applied Psychology and have spent many years working in the field of Behavioural Neuroscience and research, a GP medical practice and schools. My approach is warm, direct, and engaging with an emphasis on building trust and using the therapeutic relationship as a medium for change. I strive to create a space to explore patterns in relationships, emotional expression, and practising new ways of thinking, feeling and being. My private counselling service is founded on clinical excellence informed by up to date research.
My areas of expertise include eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, attachment disorders and family discord.
I am a fully qualified and accredited Counsellor working in the Mid Ulster area. I also have a Bsc (Hons) Applied Psychology and have spent many years working in the field of Behavioural Neuroscience and research, a GP medical practice and schools. My approach is warm, direct, and engaging with an emphasis on building trust and using the therapeutic relationship as a medium for change. I strive to create a space to explore patterns in relationships, emotional expression, and practising new ways of thinking, feeling and being. My private counselling service is founded on clinical excellence informed by up to date research.
07449 480607 View 07449 480607
Photo of Chapman Margaret, Counsellor in Northern Ireland
Chapman Margaret
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
As an experienced/ individual/family/couple counsellor for over 20 years, I know that relationships can decline for many reasons, I offer a safe, confidential, relaxing space to facilitate individuals, couples, families, ex partners, separation, colleagues, extended family, to support you to talk about current difficult conversations that need addressed to help find a way through current and past issues. Are you feeling lonely, frightened, rejected, frustrated in your current relationship. Do you go home with dread every day? Has intimacy declined or become a chore? Are you at the point of 'mending' or 'ending' your relationship?
As an experienced/ individual/family/couple counsellor for over 20 years, I know that relationships can decline for many reasons, I offer a safe, confidential, relaxing space to facilitate individuals, couples, families, ex partners, separation, colleagues, extended family, to support you to talk about current difficult conversations that need addressed to help find a way through current and past issues. Are you feeling lonely, frightened, rejected, frustrated in your current relationship. Do you go home with dread every day? Has intimacy declined or become a chore? Are you at the point of 'mending' or 'ending' your relationship?
07411 218512 View 07411 218512
Photo of Mark Henderson-Begg, Counsellor in Northern Ireland
Mark Henderson-Begg
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Antrim BT41
I offer a safe space to talk about anything which may be of concern in your life, which we can then explore at your own pace, to make sense of things, resolve difficult feelings and make positive change. It can sometimes be difficult to talk to family and friends, and having someone to listen without judgement can make all the difference. Counselling can also help us to understand how the past has affected our present life and relationships, helping us to connect to who we really are and to be happier as our true self, which is our human birthright. Counselling can also enable a secure attachment which can help to heal past wounds.
I offer a safe space to talk about anything which may be of concern in your life, which we can then explore at your own pace, to make sense of things, resolve difficult feelings and make positive change. It can sometimes be difficult to talk to family and friends, and having someone to listen without judgement can make all the difference. Counselling can also help us to understand how the past has affected our present life and relationships, helping us to connect to who we really are and to be happier as our true self, which is our human birthright. Counselling can also enable a secure attachment which can help to heal past wounds.
07588 743002 View 07588 743002
Photo of Castle Counselling Services, Counsellor in Northern Ireland
Castle Counselling Services
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
I therapeutically work with clients from the ages of 12 upwards and we can offer counselling for a number of issues such as: anxiety/depression/stress/suicidal ideation/self-harm/family issues/relationship difficulties/abuse - adult and childhood/domestic abuse/bereavement and loss/low self-esteem/panic attacks/loneliness etc.
I am Louise and thank you for taking the time to view our profile. I am a fully qualified integrative counsellors offering a counselling service in the North Antrim Coast area.  I are registered with BACP and NCS, and work within the BACP Code of Ethics.  I can offer you a safe, ethical, confidential, respectful and non-judgemental space in which you can focus on yourself and begin to understand in more depth the challenges you may be facing.  In this space I will listen, support and help you to understand your feelings and behaviours, and enable you to become more self-aware, and implement change.
I therapeutically work with clients from the ages of 12 upwards and we can offer counselling for a number of issues such as: anxiety/depression/stress/suicidal ideation/self-harm/family issues/relationship difficulties/abuse - adult and childhood/domestic abuse/bereavement and loss/low self-esteem/panic attacks/loneliness etc.
I am Louise and thank you for taking the time to view our profile. I am a fully qualified integrative counsellors offering a counselling service in the North Antrim Coast area.  I are registered with BACP and NCS, and work within the BACP Code of Ethics.  I can offer you a safe, ethical, confidential, respectful and non-judgemental space in which you can focus on yourself and begin to understand in more depth the challenges you may be facing.  In this space I will listen, support and help you to understand your feelings and behaviours, and enable you to become more self-aware, and implement change.
028 9694 3211 View 028 9694 3211
Photo of Sheree Irwin, Counsellor in Northern Ireland
Sheree Irwin
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Belfast BT13
I am a qualified, experienced Supervisor & Therapist. Anxiety, relationship issues, depression, family issues, addictions, abuse, bereavement etc can have a huge negative impact on your overall health and well being, relationships and daily life. Have you been feeling angry, frustrated, worthless, sad, fearful, alone or stuck? Although you may not think it, but these feelings are normal. However, living with constant negative feelings can hold you back from developing healthy relationships and reaching your full potential. I can help you explore all of this and help you develop healthier coping skills.
I am a qualified, experienced Supervisor & Therapist. Anxiety, relationship issues, depression, family issues, addictions, abuse, bereavement etc can have a huge negative impact on your overall health and well being, relationships and daily life. Have you been feeling angry, frustrated, worthless, sad, fearful, alone or stuck? Although you may not think it, but these feelings are normal. However, living with constant negative feelings can hold you back from developing healthy relationships and reaching your full potential. I can help you explore all of this and help you develop healthier coping skills.
View
Photo of Natalie Kerr, Counsellor in Northern Ireland
Natalie Kerr
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Ballymena BT42  (Online Only)
Foundation Degree in Counselling has been enhanced with further training including a BSc Hons degree in Counselling and Forensic Psychology, Counselling Children and Adolescents Cert, Couples and Family Therapy DIP, Level 5 CBT Cert, DBT diploma and PgCert Psychology.
What I offer is a non-judgemental, relaxing, safe place where you can discuss everything. I am here to listen, whatever you need to say will be heard. I can help you unburden and gain relief from what distresses you. I can help you challenge and change how you think about things. I can help you put words to what you are feeling. I can offer information on new strategies to help you cope with life's stresses and create the life you want. I have experience working with many issues, such as depression, anxiety, domestic abuse, the impact of early years, relationship issues, anger, sexual abuse and so on.
Foundation Degree in Counselling has been enhanced with further training including a BSc Hons degree in Counselling and Forensic Psychology, Counselling Children and Adolescents Cert, Couples and Family Therapy DIP, Level 5 CBT Cert, DBT diploma and PgCert Psychology.
What I offer is a non-judgemental, relaxing, safe place where you can discuss everything. I am here to listen, whatever you need to say will be heard. I can help you unburden and gain relief from what distresses you. I can help you challenge and change how you think about things. I can help you put words to what you are feeling. I can offer information on new strategies to help you cope with life's stresses and create the life you want. I have experience working with many issues, such as depression, anxiety, domestic abuse, the impact of early years, relationship issues, anger, sexual abuse and so on.
028 9694 3599 View 028 9694 3599
Photo of Victoria Gregg, Counsellor in Northern Ireland
Victoria Gregg
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bangor BT20
I have experience working with self-esteem issues, family dynamics, along with the general struggles we can face.
Hello my name is Victoria, thank you for connecting with me. I am a BACP registered integrative counsellor based in North Down. My priority is to help you explore and understand whatever is on your mind, within a safe space. I work collaboratively with you, in a client led way. Together, we will explore the past, understand how it impacts the present, in order to achieve your goals for the future.
I have experience working with self-esteem issues, family dynamics, along with the general struggles we can face.
Hello my name is Victoria, thank you for connecting with me. I am a BACP registered integrative counsellor based in North Down. My priority is to help you explore and understand whatever is on your mind, within a safe space. I work collaboratively with you, in a client led way. Together, we will explore the past, understand how it impacts the present, in order to achieve your goals for the future.
028 9694 3083 View 028 9694 3083
Photo of Empowering Change Counselling, Counsellor in Northern Ireland
Empowering Change Counselling
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
I have over 10 years of experience in working with children and young people with a range of difficulties, including family separation, grief, lack of confidence, low self-worth, anger, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm and eating disorders.
Welcome to Empowering Change Counselling Private Practice. My name is Shauna and I work with children, adults and couples. As an integrated counsellor I tailor my approach to each client’s individual need and situation. I offer a range of support in a safe, non-judgemental and confidential space. I focus on building a therapeutic relationship through respect and compassion to maximise the effectiveness of our work together. Working at the client’s pace is essential. My belief is that every individual has the capability of changing their situation/ thoughts and with a warm, supportive environment this is possible.
I have over 10 years of experience in working with children and young people with a range of difficulties, including family separation, grief, lack of confidence, low self-worth, anger, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm and eating disorders.
Welcome to Empowering Change Counselling Private Practice. My name is Shauna and I work with children, adults and couples. As an integrated counsellor I tailor my approach to each client’s individual need and situation. I offer a range of support in a safe, non-judgemental and confidential space. I focus on building a therapeutic relationship through respect and compassion to maximise the effectiveness of our work together. Working at the client’s pace is essential. My belief is that every individual has the capability of changing their situation/ thoughts and with a warm, supportive environment this is possible.
028 9694 3755 View 028 9694 3755
Photo of Elaine McIntyre, Psychotherapist in Northern Ireland
Elaine McIntyre
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Relationship & family issues, school and university stress, work stress, burnout, Trauma: childhood sexual abuse and PTSD, loss and bereavement, low mood and depression, low self esteem and feelings of shame.
I’m an experienced integrative therapist, trained in EMDR with both adults, young people and children (a trauma focused therapy). I'm fully accredited with BACP. I've worked in the private sector, education and community settings covering a wide age range. I also work with private agencies, Employment Assistance Providers and insurance providers. I have a special interest working with teens and have a separate qualification in Counselling Children and Young People. I work with age 8+ years and have over 10 years experience working with under 18s. Registered therapist with Aviva, AXA and WPA & H3 insurance companies.
Relationship & family issues, school and university stress, work stress, burnout, Trauma: childhood sexual abuse and PTSD, loss and bereavement, low mood and depression, low self esteem and feelings of shame.
I’m an experienced integrative therapist, trained in EMDR with both adults, young people and children (a trauma focused therapy). I'm fully accredited with BACP. I've worked in the private sector, education and community settings covering a wide age range. I also work with private agencies, Employment Assistance Providers and insurance providers. I have a special interest working with teens and have a separate qualification in Counselling Children and Young People. I work with age 8+ years and have over 10 years experience working with under 18s. Registered therapist with Aviva, AXA and WPA & H3 insurance companies.
028 9694 3497 View 028 9694 3497
Photo of KOR~CBT, Psychotherapist in Northern Ireland
KOR~CBT
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Life events can impact us in many ways, such as childhood bullying, social & family dynamics (divorce, bereavement, abuse) and being the survivor of a crime or indeed being accused of a crime or criminal activity.
Beginning therapy can be a daunting experience; seeking an accredited therapist is your first step on your journey. At KOR CBT, you will be provided with a safe, welcoming space with a BABCP & IABCP accredited CBT Therapist for you to not only better learn and understand your thoughts and feelings but the impact of these on your behaviours and how they affect your day-to-day life. At KOR CBT, we work collaboratively to reduce the severity of your symptoms and develop your skill set in managing your mental health.
Life events can impact us in many ways, such as childhood bullying, social & family dynamics (divorce, bereavement, abuse) and being the survivor of a crime or indeed being accused of a crime or criminal activity.
Beginning therapy can be a daunting experience; seeking an accredited therapist is your first step on your journey. At KOR CBT, you will be provided with a safe, welcoming space with a BABCP & IABCP accredited CBT Therapist for you to not only better learn and understand your thoughts and feelings but the impact of these on your behaviours and how they affect your day-to-day life. At KOR CBT, we work collaboratively to reduce the severity of your symptoms and develop your skill set in managing your mental health.
028 9590 8922 View 028 9590 8922
Photo of Lilly Sutton-Parsons, Counsellor in Northern Ireland
Lilly Sutton-Parsons
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
I can support you through a whole range of issues you may be dealing with, these include but are not limited to: anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationships, self-esteem, confidence, childhood trauma, domestic & sexual abuse, family issues, identity, and more.
Welcome. I know life can feel challenging at times, it can feel stressful, overwhelming and full of uncertainty. I can support you on this journey of self-discovery by offering a warm, collaborative and compassionate environment free from judgment. Are you feeling low? Anxious? Are you feeling stressed or overwhelmed? I can support you in untangling and processing difficult thoughts and painful feelings. I am an integrative psychotherapist and counsellor, here to support you through whatever life may be presenting you with. I recognise that your reasons for seeking therapy will be as individual as you.
I can support you through a whole range of issues you may be dealing with, these include but are not limited to: anxiety, depression, stress, grief, relationships, self-esteem, confidence, childhood trauma, domestic & sexual abuse, family issues, identity, and more.
Welcome. I know life can feel challenging at times, it can feel stressful, overwhelming and full of uncertainty. I can support you on this journey of self-discovery by offering a warm, collaborative and compassionate environment free from judgment. Are you feeling low? Anxious? Are you feeling stressed or overwhelmed? I can support you in untangling and processing difficult thoughts and painful feelings. I am an integrative psychotherapist and counsellor, here to support you through whatever life may be presenting you with. I recognise that your reasons for seeking therapy will be as individual as you.
0113 519 1226 View 0113 519 1226
Photo of Krystyna Kutyepova in Northern Ireland
Krystyna Kutyepova
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Are you feeling depression, have low self-esteem, self-doubt, panic attacks, or phobias? Do you feel you have lost the meaning of life, or are you feeling alone? Often, we are limited by our own thoughts. One sure way to change something and enjoy life – is to observe, understand and accept yourself.
Are you feeling depression, have low self-esteem, self-doubt, panic attacks, or phobias? Do you feel you have lost the meaning of life, or are you feeling alone? Often, we are limited by our own thoughts. One sure way to change something and enjoy life – is to observe, understand and accept yourself.
028 9694 3648 View 028 9694 3648
Photo of Joanne Welsh Counselling Services Ballyclare, Counsellor in Northern Ireland
Joanne Welsh Counselling Services Ballyclare
Counsellor, MA, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
I offer warm, non-judgmental therapy, helping you understand yourself, face difficulties, make decisions or begin to make changes. This involves talking about life experiences in a safe space, providing you with support and helping you make future plans. I offer therapy for individuals, couples and young people (12+). I can help with a range of difficulties including anxiety, work related stress, depression, relationship difficulties including sex therapy (low desire, vaginismus, DE, ED & PE), self esteem, bereavement, trauma & addictions including sex addiction. I'll focus on what you want to achieve.
I offer warm, non-judgmental therapy, helping you understand yourself, face difficulties, make decisions or begin to make changes. This involves talking about life experiences in a safe space, providing you with support and helping you make future plans. I offer therapy for individuals, couples and young people (12+). I can help with a range of difficulties including anxiety, work related stress, depression, relationship difficulties including sex therapy (low desire, vaginismus, DE, ED & PE), self esteem, bereavement, trauma & addictions including sex addiction. I'll focus on what you want to achieve.
07792 813171 View 07792 813171
Photo of SPACE, Counsellor in Northern Ireland
SPACE
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Belfast BT14
I am an accredited member of BACP and NCS. I have substantial experience working with both children and adults. I work in primary schools and also in the local community to provide quality counselling to help people be the best they can be. I am also CEO of a mental health charity and offer consultancy work as well as supervision. My approach is integrative so that I can tailor the service specifically for individual clients and longer term work. I also offer personal therapy for students training to be counsellors.
I am an accredited member of BACP and NCS. I have substantial experience working with both children and adults. I work in primary schools and also in the local community to provide quality counselling to help people be the best they can be. I am also CEO of a mental health charity and offer consultancy work as well as supervision. My approach is integrative so that I can tailor the service specifically for individual clients and longer term work. I also offer personal therapy for students training to be counsellors.
028 9433 1973 View 028 9433 1973
Photo of Dr Kristine Abercrombie, Psychologist in Northern Ireland
Dr Kristine Abercrombie
Psychologist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fivemiletown BT75  (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years experience, training and working, in the field of psychology and mental health. I specialise in providing psychological therapy online through video chat, telephone, email and instant messaging. As human beings we experience a wide array of emotions and often many struggles. None of us are meant to go through this alone and sometimes we need extra help in the form of therapy. As a fellow human being, I understand this journey. As a therapist, I feel honoured to be able to guide others during difficult parts of their life, whilst providing a space for them to be heard and understood.
I am a Clinical Psychologist with over 20 years experience, training and working, in the field of psychology and mental health. I specialise in providing psychological therapy online through video chat, telephone, email and instant messaging. As human beings we experience a wide array of emotions and often many struggles. None of us are meant to go through this alone and sometimes we need extra help in the form of therapy. As a fellow human being, I understand this journey. As a therapist, I feel honoured to be able to guide others during difficult parts of their life, whilst providing a space for them to be heard and understood.
028 9694 3152 View 028 9694 3152

See more therapy options for Northern Ireland

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.