Family Therapy Counselling in Cumnock

Photo of Shirley Macmillan
Shirley Macmillan
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a qualified Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist based in Ayrshire. I work predominantly with a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach, but also draw on other therapeutic approaches to provide a more integrative and tailored therapy for you. There are times when we all experience situations that cause distress or uncertainty and it can be difficult to move past these events or to speak to those close to us.
I am a qualified Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist based in Ayrshire. I work predominantly with a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approach, but also draw on other therapeutic approaches to provide a more integrative and tailored therapy for you. There are times when we all experience situations that cause distress or uncertainty and it can be difficult to move past these events or to speak to those close to us.
01292 439650 View 01292 439650
Photo of Edmund Dalziel, Counsellor, MCOSCA
Edmund Dalziel
Counsellor, MCOSCA
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Do you find it hard to share what’s weighing on you, or feel stuck in patterns that no longer fit? Perhaps life’s changes have left you uncertain, longing for connection, or struggling to feel at ease. I can offer you a compassionate, thoughtful space where those overwhelming thoughts and feelings can be heard—without judgement. Using Transactional Analysis, I’ll work with you to explore how your past shapes your present and gently update the coping strategies that might be holding you back. It’s about building a trusting relationship where you feel safe to be yourself. My goal is to help you improve your connection with yourself.
Do you find it hard to share what’s weighing on you, or feel stuck in patterns that no longer fit? Perhaps life’s changes have left you uncertain, longing for connection, or struggling to feel at ease. I can offer you a compassionate, thoughtful space where those overwhelming thoughts and feelings can be heard—without judgement. Using Transactional Analysis, I’ll work with you to explore how your past shapes your present and gently update the coping strategies that might be holding you back. It’s about building a trusting relationship where you feel safe to be yourself. My goal is to help you improve your connection with yourself.
01292 430744 View 01292 430744

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Zoe Fridd, Counsellor, MSc, GMBPsS
Zoe Fridd
Counsellor, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Ardrossan KA22
Currently working for a service providing counselling for family conflict, attachment disorder and trauma for both adults and children.
I offer counselling from a person centred, integrative or CBT approach. I will discuss your expectations and presenting issue. If required I would be happy to signpost you to a service if available that may be more appropriate. Trauma counselling requires a full assessment. I am currently completing a Neurosequential counselling course.
Currently working for a service providing counselling for family conflict, attachment disorder and trauma for both adults and children.
I offer counselling from a person centred, integrative or CBT approach. I will discuss your expectations and presenting issue. If required I would be happy to signpost you to a service if available that may be more appropriate. Trauma counselling requires a full assessment. I am currently completing a Neurosequential counselling course.
01294 442411 View 01294 442411
Photo of Cheryl Venart Lindsey Burns - Neurodivergent Diagnostics, Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Neurodivergent Diagnostics
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Health Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
We also support the 'supporters' of our neurodivergent clients, who may be partners and family.
Are you looking for an adult ADHD assessment or Autism assessment in Glasgow or the UK? We are a team of HCPC registered and BPS Chartered Practitioner Psychologists experienced in neurodivergence. We have expertise in providing recommendations for the workplace, and in educational contexts. We provide ADHD assessments for young people and adults (16 years old+), and provide therapy and coaching for adults. We also will be providing Autism assessments in 2025. Our team have years of personal and professional experience in neurodiversity, therefore we are incredibly passionate about providing neuroaffirmative support.
We also support the 'supporters' of our neurodivergent clients, who may be partners and family.
Are you looking for an adult ADHD assessment or Autism assessment in Glasgow or the UK? We are a team of HCPC registered and BPS Chartered Practitioner Psychologists experienced in neurodivergence. We have expertise in providing recommendations for the workplace, and in educational contexts. We provide ADHD assessments for young people and adults (16 years old+), and provide therapy and coaching for adults. We also will be providing Autism assessments in 2025. Our team have years of personal and professional experience in neurodiversity, therefore we are incredibly passionate about providing neuroaffirmative support.
View
Photo of Sev Ulgu - Sev Psychotherapy
Sev Psychotherapy
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialise in supporting clients facing depression, anxiety, or trauma, often tied to family or relationship issues.
Hello and welcome! I’m so glad you’ve taken this step to seek support. You might feel like no one truly understands you, or perhaps you’ve tried talking to someone but still feel unheard. Reaching out for help is a courageous choice, and I’m here to walk alongside you on this journey. With experience supporting individuals facing a range of mental health challenges, I aim to create a safe and compassionate space where you can openly explore your thoughts and emotions. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other difficulty, we’ll work together to help you find clarity, healing, and resilience.
I specialise in supporting clients facing depression, anxiety, or trauma, often tied to family or relationship issues.
Hello and welcome! I’m so glad you’ve taken this step to seek support. You might feel like no one truly understands you, or perhaps you’ve tried talking to someone but still feel unheard. Reaching out for help is a courageous choice, and I’m here to walk alongside you on this journey. With experience supporting individuals facing a range of mental health challenges, I aim to create a safe and compassionate space where you can openly explore your thoughts and emotions. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or any other difficulty, we’ll work together to help you find clarity, healing, and resilience.
01934 316722 View 01934 316722
Photo of Cheryl Smithson
Cheryl Smithson
Verified Verified
I can offer your child a warm and empathic approach, I work with the family as a whole and my aim is to help children make sense of their work helping build self esteem and confidence whilst also supporting parents to provide tailored supports at home.
Hello, I’m Cheryl, a dedicated Play Therapist with a strong commitment to helping children navigate their worlds and process trauma through play and art. Growing up with a deep love for animals and a connection to nature, I’ve always appreciated the powerful role that creativity, care, and the natural world can play in emotional healing. My therapeutic work allows me to bring these interests together, offering children a safe and nurturing space to explore their emotions and build resilience.
I can offer your child a warm and empathic approach, I work with the family as a whole and my aim is to help children make sense of their work helping build self esteem and confidence whilst also supporting parents to provide tailored supports at home.
Hello, I’m Cheryl, a dedicated Play Therapist with a strong commitment to helping children navigate their worlds and process trauma through play and art. Growing up with a deep love for animals and a connection to nature, I’ve always appreciated the powerful role that creativity, care, and the natural world can play in emotional healing. My therapeutic work allows me to bring these interests together, offering children a safe and nurturing space to explore their emotions and build resilience.
View
Photo of Paul Mcilvenny, Counsellor, MBACP
Paul Mcilvenny
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
My recovery programme involves a mix of different counselling styles namely Gestalt, Internal Family Systems, Attachment focus as well as a little CBT.
My typical clients are those affected with different forms of compulsive / addictive behaviours - these might include Porn, Sex and Love Addictions; Gambling Alcohol & Narcotics abuse; or those who are Workaholics. I work with both individuals and their partners. Clients usually first see me when they have reached a major crisis point in their lives and are seeking a person who has an understanding of their issues and how to help changes. Further details on my background and approach can be found online - just look up Trusted Therapeutics online.
My recovery programme involves a mix of different counselling styles namely Gestalt, Internal Family Systems, Attachment focus as well as a little CBT.
My typical clients are those affected with different forms of compulsive / addictive behaviours - these might include Porn, Sex and Love Addictions; Gambling Alcohol & Narcotics abuse; or those who are Workaholics. I work with both individuals and their partners. Clients usually first see me when they have reached a major crisis point in their lives and are seeking a person who has an understanding of their issues and how to help changes. Further details on my background and approach can be found online - just look up Trusted Therapeutics online.
0141 280 5966 View 0141 280 5966
Photo of Dr Nadia Kheirabi, Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Dr Nadia Kheirabi
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
I support people with anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship problems and separations, low self-esteem and low confidence, bereavement and grief, stress and burnout, trauma, family and couple relationship difficulties, health anxiety, isolation and loneliness, anger and aggression, OCD, problems at work, bullying, abuse, and many other issues.
I am a Counselling Psychologist, and I provide individual therapy to adults, both online and in Newton Mearns, near Glasgow. I also provide therapy to children, adolescents, and couples, as well as clinical supervision to other mental health professionals. My approach is all about providing a warm, accepting and empowering space to help you explore your difficulties, and together, to find a way forward. Please get in touch for a no-obligation chat to discuss how I might help you
I support people with anxiety, depression, addictions, relationship problems and separations, low self-esteem and low confidence, bereavement and grief, stress and burnout, trauma, family and couple relationship difficulties, health anxiety, isolation and loneliness, anger and aggression, OCD, problems at work, bullying, abuse, and many other issues.
I am a Counselling Psychologist, and I provide individual therapy to adults, both online and in Newton Mearns, near Glasgow. I also provide therapy to children, adolescents, and couples, as well as clinical supervision to other mental health professionals. My approach is all about providing a warm, accepting and empowering space to help you explore your difficulties, and together, to find a way forward. Please get in touch for a no-obligation chat to discuss how I might help you
0141 673 8012 View 0141 673 8012
Photo of Dr Marie-Claire Whyte - Dr. Marie-Claire Whyte Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Dr. Marie-Claire Whyte Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Glasgow G76
I work across the lifespan and adapt accordingly with creative and family based approaches for children and teens.
As a doctoral trained Clinical Psychologist, with 20 years NHS experience, I have worked therapeutically with adults, children, and young people presenting with emotional and psychological difficulties which significantly impact functioning and relationships. I sometimes use compassion focused and attachment models to create understanding of issues and offer a choice of evidence based interventions to address these. I provide a safe, nurturing and reflective space to explore difficult experiences past and present, and draw on existing values and strengths to support coping, sense making and change.
I work across the lifespan and adapt accordingly with creative and family based approaches for children and teens.
As a doctoral trained Clinical Psychologist, with 20 years NHS experience, I have worked therapeutically with adults, children, and young people presenting with emotional and psychological difficulties which significantly impact functioning and relationships. I sometimes use compassion focused and attachment models to create understanding of issues and offer a choice of evidence based interventions to address these. I provide a safe, nurturing and reflective space to explore difficult experiences past and present, and draw on existing values and strengths to support coping, sense making and change.
View
Photo of Miranda Lo - Miranda Lo (MCouns) Counselling, CBT & Coaching, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Miranda Lo (MCouns) Counselling, CBT & Coaching
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I have worked with adults & young persons, with concerns on social anxiety & stress, panic attack, perfectionist & imposter syndrome, trauma, relationship & family-of-origin issues, cross-cultural stress, self-esteem & identity, existential crisis: meaning, purpose & motivation, bereavement, depression, impulsivity, anger, OCD, ADHD, BPD and spirituality.
You are just feeling fed up with self-doubt & rumination; and you are worrying about your continual procrastination & your escape from opportunities. You feel like you are finally ready to move forward. I understand what it feels like when encountering emotional issues and stress. I embarked on a journey of self-exploration, which has allowed me to find what I am passionate about. I work with an Integrative Therapeutic Approach to draw benefits from various modalities to suit You. I am dedicated in collaboratively assisting YOU in overcoming self doubts & unleashing YOUR potential FULLY, be it in your life, career and relationships.
I have worked with adults & young persons, with concerns on social anxiety & stress, panic attack, perfectionist & imposter syndrome, trauma, relationship & family-of-origin issues, cross-cultural stress, self-esteem & identity, existential crisis: meaning, purpose & motivation, bereavement, depression, impulsivity, anger, OCD, ADHD, BPD and spirituality.
You are just feeling fed up with self-doubt & rumination; and you are worrying about your continual procrastination & your escape from opportunities. You feel like you are finally ready to move forward. I understand what it feels like when encountering emotional issues and stress. I embarked on a journey of self-exploration, which has allowed me to find what I am passionate about. I work with an Integrative Therapeutic Approach to draw benefits from various modalities to suit You. I am dedicated in collaboratively assisting YOU in overcoming self doubts & unleashing YOUR potential FULLY, be it in your life, career and relationships.
View
Photo of Daniel Manastireanu, Counsellor, MBACP
Daniel Manastireanu
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Glasgow G40
I'm trained in Couples and Family Therapy from a Person Centred perspective, while integrating EFT principles and theory in this side of my practice.
If you're looking for therapy, it's likely that you're experiencing hurt and confusion around what's happening in your life. My first role as a therapist is to create a safe space through deep empathic listening, helping you to gain more and more clarity about what's going on for you. This clarity will then help you to define your goals and begin working towards achieving them, by becoming aware of your emotions, learning to work with them to figure out what you most deeply need, and then take actions to meet your needs.
I'm trained in Couples and Family Therapy from a Person Centred perspective, while integrating EFT principles and theory in this side of my practice.
If you're looking for therapy, it's likely that you're experiencing hurt and confusion around what's happening in your life. My first role as a therapist is to create a safe space through deep empathic listening, helping you to gain more and more clarity about what's going on for you. This clarity will then help you to define your goals and begin working towards achieving them, by becoming aware of your emotions, learning to work with them to figure out what you most deeply need, and then take actions to meet your needs.
0141 673 9564 View 0141 673 9564
Photo of Shabnum Ashraf, Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Shabnum Ashraf
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Glasgow G76
I support clients with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, trauma, relationship breakdowns, bereavement, self-harm, family conflict, women’s cultural issues, eating disorders and anger management.
I provide sessions face to face, online via video call and also by telephone. The space I offer you is free of judgment and is a safe, confidential space to talk and explore the difficulties you are facing. I offer empathy, unconditional acceptance, respect, genuineness and I will work with you at your own time and pace.
I support clients with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, trauma, relationship breakdowns, bereavement, self-harm, family conflict, women’s cultural issues, eating disorders and anger management.
I provide sessions face to face, online via video call and also by telephone. The space I offer you is free of judgment and is a safe, confidential space to talk and explore the difficulties you are facing. I offer empathy, unconditional acceptance, respect, genuineness and I will work with you at your own time and pace.
01355 203264 View 01355 203264
Photo of Victoria Pollard, Counsellor, BACP
Victoria Pollard
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
 You'll hear counsellors mention 'a safe space' - that's really about the relationship that we build together, and how it differs from talking to a friend or family member who may have their own feelings and judgements around the issues that are concerning you.
Having experienced both seats in the counselling room, I understand first hand the importance of feeling trust and safety within the relationship. Having the opportunity to talk through my own issues not only helped me to better understand myself but also led me here, offering the same service to others.
 You'll hear counsellors mention 'a safe space' - that's really about the relationship that we build together, and how it differs from talking to a friend or family member who may have their own feelings and judgements around the issues that are concerning you.
Having experienced both seats in the counselling room, I understand first hand the importance of feeling trust and safety within the relationship. Having the opportunity to talk through my own issues not only helped me to better understand myself but also led me here, offering the same service to others.
View
Photo of Sophie Robertson, Counsellor, MRes, BACP
Sophie Robertson
Counsellor, MRes, BACP
Verified Verified
Irvine KA12
This can include relationship difficulties, work or school issues, self-harming, family difficulties, and life transitions.
I can offer an integrative and relational approach . This means I focus on building our therapeutic relationship in order to understand the best tools and counselling styles that suit your needs. This can be through long- or short- term counselling, depending on your goals or needs.
This can include relationship difficulties, work or school issues, self-harming, family difficulties, and life transitions.
I can offer an integrative and relational approach . This means I focus on building our therapeutic relationship in order to understand the best tools and counselling styles that suit your needs. This can be through long- or short- term counselling, depending on your goals or needs.
01563 590799 View 01563 590799
Photo of Mary Martin, Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Mary Martin
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
You may have friends and family who rely on your strength yet cannot see how hard it is for you to do what you do.
clients manage their emotional lives and (re)connect with themselves and others in a meaningful way. Therapy can help understand your own needs and learn to communicate them so you can be heard. Through a supportive relationship I hope to remind you of your value as a human being not just a human doing and get comfortable receiving as well as giving.
You may have friends and family who rely on your strength yet cannot see how hard it is for you to do what you do.
clients manage their emotional lives and (re)connect with themselves and others in a meaningful way. Therapy can help understand your own needs and learn to communicate them so you can be heard. Through a supportive relationship I hope to remind you of your value as a human being not just a human doing and get comfortable receiving as well as giving.
07400 647453 View 07400 647453
Photo of Lorraine Fitzsimmons, Counsellor, MBACP
Lorraine Fitzsimmons
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine KA11
I work with clients who may be struggling with depression or trauma related to their relationships or family.
Each person is unique and are THEE experts in their own life, but sometimes when faced with particular challenges, fears, or difficulties including, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions (e.g new parents or menopause), or relationship problems, it can often feel that no matter how hard you've tried, you're unable to find resolutions or solutions to the issues being faced. You feel overwhelmed, isolated, unheard and, STUCK. It doesn't have to be that way and I can help. You will be heard and I'm here for you. I'll support you to explore, address, and overcome the challenges negatively impacting your wellbeing.
I work with clients who may be struggling with depression or trauma related to their relationships or family.
Each person is unique and are THEE experts in their own life, but sometimes when faced with particular challenges, fears, or difficulties including, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions (e.g new parents or menopause), or relationship problems, it can often feel that no matter how hard you've tried, you're unable to find resolutions or solutions to the issues being faced. You feel overwhelmed, isolated, unheard and, STUCK. It doesn't have to be that way and I can help. You will be heard and I'm here for you. I'll support you to explore, address, and overcome the challenges negatively impacting your wellbeing.
01294 445380 View 01294 445380
Photo of Alan Mclauchlan
Alan Mclauchlan
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ayr KA8
It is always difficult to recognise that you, a friend or family member have an issue and need to ask for support to work through it and move on .
Hi, my name is Alan . I am a qualified cognitive behaviour therapist . As people we all struggle with stress, anxiety and trauma from time to time and need support to help us to work through our issues and move on with our lives . I will work with you in a person centred manner , with the use of cognitive behaviour therapy . I will introduce you to CBT interventions to assist you to achieve your own personal goal and become more confident in your future .As a therapist I am able to support you at a level and pace that is beneficial to you and allows you the opportunity to move forward .
It is always difficult to recognise that you, a friend or family member have an issue and need to ask for support to work through it and move on .
Hi, my name is Alan . I am a qualified cognitive behaviour therapist . As people we all struggle with stress, anxiety and trauma from time to time and need support to help us to work through our issues and move on with our lives . I will work with you in a person centred manner , with the use of cognitive behaviour therapy . I will introduce you to CBT interventions to assist you to achieve your own personal goal and become more confident in your future .As a therapist I am able to support you at a level and pace that is beneficial to you and allows you the opportunity to move forward .
01292 439732 View 01292 439732
Photo of Sarah Watson, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Sarah Watson
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
If you or know someone who has such feelings as anxiety, loss or anger, experiencing family/relationship issues, parents separation, I believe through empathy, understanding and acceptance I can help you to develop more confidence and a stronger understanding about yourself which will enable you to build resilience to work through the challenges you face .
As an Accredited Play and Creative Arts Therapist and teenage counsellor with experience as a children and families social worker previously, I recognise that many young people experience the stresses of life in different ways and that sometimes events and subsequent feelings may become overwhelming and cause anxiety or a sense of isolation. This can then have a knock on effect to other aspects of life such as relationships, engagement with school work and own sense of identity and self worth. I understand their need for a sense of respite and an opportunity to explore experiences or confusions in a safe and non-judgmental place.
If you or know someone who has such feelings as anxiety, loss or anger, experiencing family/relationship issues, parents separation, I believe through empathy, understanding and acceptance I can help you to develop more confidence and a stronger understanding about yourself which will enable you to build resilience to work through the challenges you face .
As an Accredited Play and Creative Arts Therapist and teenage counsellor with experience as a children and families social worker previously, I recognise that many young people experience the stresses of life in different ways and that sometimes events and subsequent feelings may become overwhelming and cause anxiety or a sense of isolation. This can then have a knock on effect to other aspects of life such as relationships, engagement with school work and own sense of identity and self worth. I understand their need for a sense of respite and an opportunity to explore experiences or confusions in a safe and non-judgmental place.
View
Photo of Diane Wardman, Psychotherapist, MBACP
Diane Wardman
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I can help you with a variety of issues such as:- abuse (emotional, physical, sexual), ADHD, anger issues, anxiety, autism, fears, body image, depression, disability, family issues, grief, LGBTQ+, loss, mood disorders, OCD, phobias, relationship issues, self-esteem, self-worth, stress, substance dependency, trauma, work issues, and much more.
Hello, I am Diane Wardman, a Qualified BACP Registered Psychotherapist working exclusively online with private clients throughout the UK. No matter who you are or what you are going through start your counselling journey today. Asking for help with your mental health can be hard but you are not alone. I offer short and long-term therapy but you decide on the frequency to accommodate your lifestyle. You can directly book a FREE 20-minute Introduction Session or a PAID 50-minute Counselling Session through my website:- www.shoresidetherapy.com
I can help you with a variety of issues such as:- abuse (emotional, physical, sexual), ADHD, anger issues, anxiety, autism, fears, body image, depression, disability, family issues, grief, LGBTQ+, loss, mood disorders, OCD, phobias, relationship issues, self-esteem, self-worth, stress, substance dependency, trauma, work issues, and much more.
Hello, I am Diane Wardman, a Qualified BACP Registered Psychotherapist working exclusively online with private clients throughout the UK. No matter who you are or what you are going through start your counselling journey today. Asking for help with your mental health can be hard but you are not alone. I offer short and long-term therapy but you decide on the frequency to accommodate your lifestyle. You can directly book a FREE 20-minute Introduction Session or a PAID 50-minute Counselling Session through my website:- www.shoresidetherapy.com
01475 603626 View 01475 603626
Photo of Jenna Molloy, Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Jenna Molloy
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paisley PA2
Hi, I’m Jenna. Do you ever find yourself lying awake at night, overwhelmed by your thoughts? Do you experience sadness, anxiety, or stress about certain situations? Perhaps you’ve lost a beloved family pet, find it difficult to concentrate, or feel anger bubbling up unexpectedly. Maybe your sleep patterns are all over the place. If any of this resonates with you, I’m here to help. Taking the first step toward something new can be challenging, and it’s normal to feel uneasy about it. However, I promise to create a space where you’ll be met with compassion, safety, and respect. Our sessions will be non-judgmental and fully centered a
Hi, I’m Jenna. Do you ever find yourself lying awake at night, overwhelmed by your thoughts? Do you experience sadness, anxiety, or stress about certain situations? Perhaps you’ve lost a beloved family pet, find it difficult to concentrate, or feel anger bubbling up unexpectedly. Maybe your sleep patterns are all over the place. If any of this resonates with you, I’m here to help. Taking the first step toward something new can be challenging, and it’s normal to feel uneasy about it. However, I promise to create a space where you’ll be met with compassion, safety, and respect. Our sessions will be non-judgmental and fully centered a
0141 673 0960 View 0141 673 0960
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.