Photo of Maytal Eyal, PhD, Psychologist
Maytal Eyal
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I do this by using highly effective practices including mindfulness, self-compassion, acceptance and commitment therapy, and internal family systems.
Life is hard and suffering is normal. It’s an inevitable part of being human. Most of us, often from a young age, develop different patterns or defenses to manage our suffering in order to keep our heads above water. This can look like many different things: numbing our emotions, self-criticism, addiction, anxiety, self-sabotage - the list goes on. We do these things not because anything is inherently wrong with us, but because for a long time, these patterns help us survive. Clients often come to me when they reconcile the fact that these patterns are no longer working - and instead, they’re making them miserable.
I do this by using highly effective practices including mindfulness, self-compassion, acceptance and commitment therapy, and internal family systems.
Life is hard and suffering is normal. It’s an inevitable part of being human. Most of us, often from a young age, develop different patterns or defenses to manage our suffering in order to keep our heads above water. This can look like many different things: numbing our emotions, self-criticism, addiction, anxiety, self-sabotage - the list goes on. We do these things not because anything is inherently wrong with us, but because for a long time, these patterns help us survive. Clients often come to me when they reconcile the fact that these patterns are no longer working - and instead, they’re making them miserable.
(512) 883-8585 View (512) 883-8585
Photo of Anita Lane - Anita Lane, Core Breakthrough Coaching, CPC, BS
Anita Lane, Core Breakthrough Coaching
CPC, BS
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
STUCK or STRUGGLING with: *disempowering relationships *unsupportive family *unfulfilling work *poor boundaries *low self worth *poor self care *lacking motivation *stress *anxiety *procrastination *or communication challenges? Are you frustrated with making slow, minimal progress in resolving your challenge? If so, then consider Coaching! Coaching is success and results-oriented. My practice is based on working with the part of your mind that creates immediate, lasting change and fulfillment. So, we uncover and change your core limiting beliefs, which changes your thoughts and feelings, which can change your life!
STUCK or STRUGGLING with: *disempowering relationships *unsupportive family *unfulfilling work *poor boundaries *low self worth *poor self care *lacking motivation *stress *anxiety *procrastination *or communication challenges? Are you frustrated with making slow, minimal progress in resolving your challenge? If so, then consider Coaching! Coaching is success and results-oriented. My practice is based on working with the part of your mind that creates immediate, lasting change and fulfillment. So, we uncover and change your core limiting beliefs, which changes your thoughts and feelings, which can change your life!
(512) 843-8242 View (512) 843-8242
Photo of Dr. Daniela Krotzer, PhD, LCSW, EMDR-C, IFS-C, CDBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Daniela Krotzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, EMDR-C, IFS-C, CDBT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
The last years have been trying years for everyone. Perhaps they brought new behaviors from your partner, family member, or yourself. Maybe they reminded you of past traumas. Many have "big T" traumas like abuse or near-death experiences. We all have some "little t" traumas, like feeling rejected by others. Part of us gets stuck back to when we experienced the trauma. But you don't have to stay there! You can be free of the grip of both "big T" & "little t" traumas. These no longer have to affect you, your relationships, or many other things. Sign up today for a consultation at drdanielakrotzer.com.
The last years have been trying years for everyone. Perhaps they brought new behaviors from your partner, family member, or yourself. Maybe they reminded you of past traumas. Many have "big T" traumas like abuse or near-death experiences. We all have some "little t" traumas, like feeling rejected by others. Part of us gets stuck back to when we experienced the trauma. But you don't have to stay there! You can be free of the grip of both "big T" & "little t" traumas. These no longer have to affect you, your relationships, or many other things. Sign up today for a consultation at drdanielakrotzer.com.
(817) 396-7384 View (817) 396-7384
Photo of Leah Leeds, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Leeds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
My areas of expertise are trauma, family of origin concerns, parent coaching, anxiety and depression.
Hello! My name is Leah and I use she/her pronouns. I’ve been a practicing clinical social worker for over 10 years. I would describe my therapeutic approach as warm and collaborative with a focus on building safe and inclusive spaces that encourage curiosity, creativity, and insight. I believe in the importance of choice to establish a foundation on which clients can engage in therapy as their authentic selves and I value humor and transparency along the way.
My areas of expertise are trauma, family of origin concerns, parent coaching, anxiety and depression.
Hello! My name is Leah and I use she/her pronouns. I’ve been a practicing clinical social worker for over 10 years. I would describe my therapeutic approach as warm and collaborative with a focus on building safe and inclusive spaces that encourage curiosity, creativity, and insight. I believe in the importance of choice to establish a foundation on which clients can engage in therapy as their authentic selves and I value humor and transparency along the way.
(737) 758-3462 View (737) 758-3462
Photo of Janet Griffis, MA, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janet Griffis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rollingwood, TX 78746
Do you struggle with identity and purpose, not knowing who you are outside of your family, your work, and the day-to-day roles you play? You may be stuck in old narratives and limiting beliefs about who you are and what you are “supposed” to be.
Relationships are difficult! Taking care of a partnership is not something we are taught how to do, and many of us didn’t have good models of this growing up. You and your partner are stuck in unhealthy patterns that you feel are related to your troubled past. Intimacy starts with a secure connection. When you feel safe in a relationship, you can disagree and be authentic. You can grow as individuals, without threatening the relationship. If you and your partner are resentful, feeling stuck, acting out, or otherwise off-course, then you may be in need of some help. I can support you in re-connecting and thriving again.
Do you struggle with identity and purpose, not knowing who you are outside of your family, your work, and the day-to-day roles you play? You may be stuck in old narratives and limiting beliefs about who you are and what you are “supposed” to be.
Relationships are difficult! Taking care of a partnership is not something we are taught how to do, and many of us didn’t have good models of this growing up. You and your partner are stuck in unhealthy patterns that you feel are related to your troubled past. Intimacy starts with a secure connection. When you feel safe in a relationship, you can disagree and be authentic. You can grow as individuals, without threatening the relationship. If you and your partner are resentful, feeling stuck, acting out, or otherwise off-course, then you may be in need of some help. I can support you in re-connecting and thriving again.
(844) 627-4593 View (844) 627-4593
Photo of Courtney Guess, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Guess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I have worked with clients who have struggled with a wide range of challenges including stress, anxiety, depression,  relational issues, grief, loss, abuse, trauma, dissociation, PTSD, family of origin issues and low self esteem.
Are you struggling with day-to- day stressors, anxiety, depression, or relational challenges? It is possible to feel more balanced, in tune with your emotions and prepared to cope with life's challenges. I believe that we all have the ability to heal and make positive changes. I can help you to gain insight into your experiences and discover your strengths. Finding a therapist who you feel comfortable with is an important part of the process.  My goal is to create a warm, open and supportive environment where we can work together to meet your goals. Please contact my office to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation.
I have worked with clients who have struggled with a wide range of challenges including stress, anxiety, depression,  relational issues, grief, loss, abuse, trauma, dissociation, PTSD, family of origin issues and low self esteem.
Are you struggling with day-to- day stressors, anxiety, depression, or relational challenges? It is possible to feel more balanced, in tune with your emotions and prepared to cope with life's challenges. I believe that we all have the ability to heal and make positive changes. I can help you to gain insight into your experiences and discover your strengths. Finding a therapist who you feel comfortable with is an important part of the process.  My goal is to create a warm, open and supportive environment where we can work together to meet your goals. Please contact my office to schedule a free 15 minute phone consultation.
(512) 730-0181 View (512) 730-0181
Photo of Heather McPherson - Respark Therapy & Associates, MA, LPC-S, LMFT-S, CST, AASECT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Respark Therapy & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC-S, LMFT-S, CST, AASECT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I am an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT-S).
Need a Certified Sex Therapist or Couple's Therapist? Having relationship issues? Feeling disconnected or is the spark gone? If you have questions, we can help. We work with individuals and couples who are struggling with their relationships and/or sexuality. Together we can resolve conflicts and light the fire by learning practical tools that will stick. Whether it's constant conflict or difficulty connecting, there is hope. We help clients gain confidence, rebuild trust, and find passion and meaning in their relationships and lives. We are non-judgmental and affirming to all lifestyles, orientations, and relationship practices.
I am an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S) and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT-S).
Need a Certified Sex Therapist or Couple's Therapist? Having relationship issues? Feeling disconnected or is the spark gone? If you have questions, we can help. We work with individuals and couples who are struggling with their relationships and/or sexuality. Together we can resolve conflicts and light the fire by learning practical tools that will stick. Whether it's constant conflict or difficulty connecting, there is hope. We help clients gain confidence, rebuild trust, and find passion and meaning in their relationships and lives. We are non-judgmental and affirming to all lifestyles, orientations, and relationship practices.
(512) 337-4754 View (512) 337-4754
Photo of Dena Hutton, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dena Hutton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I collaborate with you to treat issues related trauma, relationship conflict, anxiety, depression, loss/life transitions and family of origin issues.
Do you find yourself repeating patterns in your life and/or relationships? Do you feel stuck or powerless to change? Are you in the midst of a huge life transition or is your relationship in crisis? I can help. I believe deeply that change is possible for anyone, and it begins with a safe and accepting environment to explore the barriers to happiness. My approach to therapy is warm, direct, non-threatening and empowering, with a focus on identifying patterns, negative beliefs and/or obstacles that prevent you from reaching your goals. You can heal wounds, release resentment, find your voice, and live life more fully.
I collaborate with you to treat issues related trauma, relationship conflict, anxiety, depression, loss/life transitions and family of origin issues.
Do you find yourself repeating patterns in your life and/or relationships? Do you feel stuck or powerless to change? Are you in the midst of a huge life transition or is your relationship in crisis? I can help. I believe deeply that change is possible for anyone, and it begins with a safe and accepting environment to explore the barriers to happiness. My approach to therapy is warm, direct, non-threatening and empowering, with a focus on identifying patterns, negative beliefs and/or obstacles that prevent you from reaching your goals. You can heal wounds, release resentment, find your voice, and live life more fully.
(361) 255-4530 View (361) 255-4530
Photo of Maren Elizabeth Williams, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maren Elizabeth Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I have 10 plus years of experience in various settings within the community working with children, adolescents, adults, in individual, couples, and family settings prior to opening up my private practice.
Life transitions and hardships can bring about stress, Anxiety, and/or Depression. Left unattended the levels of stress and Anxiety can intensify. Together we can work to gain insight and understanding into these issues and strive for the life you envision.
I have 10 plus years of experience in various settings within the community working with children, adolescents, adults, in individual, couples, and family settings prior to opening up my private practice.
Life transitions and hardships can bring about stress, Anxiety, and/or Depression. Left unattended the levels of stress and Anxiety can intensify. Together we can work to gain insight and understanding into these issues and strive for the life you envision.
(512) 865-6180 View (512) 865-6180
Photo of Marissa Blankenship, LCSW
Marissa Blankenship
LCSW
Verified Verified
West Lake Hills, TX 78746  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, family dynamics, behavioral challenges, adoptive/foster care, couples, and attachment.
Welcome! Often I hear am I broken? Is there hope? Will it get better? Will I get better? Can I get through my past? The answer is yes. This is the first step to become a better you. My end goal is to empower you to address the struggles head on and then overcome them. I will then support you on your journey to reach the goals that you desire.
I specialize in trauma, family dynamics, behavioral challenges, adoptive/foster care, couples, and attachment.
Welcome! Often I hear am I broken? Is there hope? Will it get better? Will I get better? Can I get through my past? The answer is yes. This is the first step to become a better you. My end goal is to empower you to address the struggles head on and then overcome them. I will then support you on your journey to reach the goals that you desire.
(512) 598-6593 View (512) 598-6593
Photo of Rebecca Kloc, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Kloc
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Sometimes things happen along the way that are too overwhelming to deal with on your own. I can help you identify the factors that are holding you back and provide support while you develop the necessary skills and insights to move forward. Trauma, divorce, behavior issues at school/home, grief/loss, family and life transitions, anxiety and depression can challenge even the healthiest individuals and families. I use a combination of traditional talk therapy, play therapy, and EMDR in my treatment of children, adolescents, women, adults, and families. I customize each client's treatment based on their unique needs.
Sometimes things happen along the way that are too overwhelming to deal with on your own. I can help you identify the factors that are holding you back and provide support while you develop the necessary skills and insights to move forward. Trauma, divorce, behavior issues at school/home, grief/loss, family and life transitions, anxiety and depression can challenge even the healthiest individuals and families. I use a combination of traditional talk therapy, play therapy, and EMDR in my treatment of children, adolescents, women, adults, and families. I customize each client's treatment based on their unique needs.
(512) 940-7434 View (512) 940-7434
Photo of Crystalyn Jass Kirkpatrick, MEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystalyn Jass Kirkpatrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746  (Online Only)
Hi there. I’m Crystalyn and I’m a psychotherapist and counselor that specializes in Internal Family Systems therapy. I help clients bridge the gap from feelings of inadequacy, worry, burnout, frustration, and overwhelm to a place with more balance and harmony. In therapy we will work together to find the core place within yourself that holds confidence, courage, clarity, and creativity that can give you what you need to create internal change that allows you to go out into the world and make the difference you want to make without sacrificing yourself to the point of defeat.
Hi there. I’m Crystalyn and I’m a psychotherapist and counselor that specializes in Internal Family Systems therapy. I help clients bridge the gap from feelings of inadequacy, worry, burnout, frustration, and overwhelm to a place with more balance and harmony. In therapy we will work together to find the core place within yourself that holds confidence, courage, clarity, and creativity that can give you what you need to create internal change that allows you to go out into the world and make the difference you want to make without sacrificing yourself to the point of defeat.
(210) 741-8329 View (210) 741-8329
Photo of Shina Lee, LCSW, EMDR-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shina Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
My specialties include anxiety, depression, unresolved past trauma, childhood abuse/neglect, loss and grief, parenting, stress management, and working with Asian American/minority issues such as family conflict, immigrant mental health, intergenerational trauma, perfectionism, and cultural identity.
Sometimes we feel overwhelmed from having various types of stressors that hinder us from fully enjoying and living life. At times, our problems can feel like we are facing an enormous mountain that blocks us from getting to the other side, leaving us feeling stuck and hopeless. Someone once told me that instead of looking up at the mountain and letting it block you from moving forward, start climbing, one step at a time. You do not have to climb by yourself. My role would be to journey alongside with you, guide, and help you to achieve a satisfying and fulfilling life.
My specialties include anxiety, depression, unresolved past trauma, childhood abuse/neglect, loss and grief, parenting, stress management, and working with Asian American/minority issues such as family conflict, immigrant mental health, intergenerational trauma, perfectionism, and cultural identity.
Sometimes we feel overwhelmed from having various types of stressors that hinder us from fully enjoying and living life. At times, our problems can feel like we are facing an enormous mountain that blocks us from getting to the other side, leaving us feeling stuck and hopeless. Someone once told me that instead of looking up at the mountain and letting it block you from moving forward, start climbing, one step at a time. You do not have to climb by yourself. My role would be to journey alongside with you, guide, and help you to achieve a satisfying and fulfilling life.
(512) 881-7736 View (512) 881-7736
Photo of Vagdevi Meunier - The Center for Relationships, PsyD, Psychologist
The Center for Relationships
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
The Center for Relationships is a community wellness center offering individual, couples, family, counseling services to promote relational wellness and flourishing.
Relationship Science informed wellness services are our speciality. If you are distressed about communicating with a loved one, managing conflict, building intimacy, or struggling to connect in a healthy way with romantic partners, parents, siblings, friends, or co-workers, seek proven strategies from a relationship expert. We are passionate about building healthy relationships at all levels of society. Our counselors trained in a variety of science-based relationship models including the Gottman method of couples therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, the Internal Family Systems model, Intimacy support models, and the relational cultural model of counseling.
The Center for Relationships is a community wellness center offering individual, couples, family, counseling services to promote relational wellness and flourishing.
Relationship Science informed wellness services are our speciality. If you are distressed about communicating with a loved one, managing conflict, building intimacy, or struggling to connect in a healthy way with romantic partners, parents, siblings, friends, or co-workers, seek proven strategies from a relationship expert. We are passionate about building healthy relationships at all levels of society. Our counselors trained in a variety of science-based relationship models including the Gottman method of couples therapy, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, the Internal Family Systems model, Intimacy support models, and the relational cultural model of counseling.
(512) 872-3146 View (512) 872-3146
Photo of Julia Kite Piper, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Kite Piper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I then incorporate Mindfulness-based therapies and Internal Family Systems work to assist clients in developing healthy connections with life, others, and self.
At the heart of my approach is the belief that human beings naturally possess the power to heal, change, and grow. With that in mind, I encourage and support a collaborative process between myself and the client. The purpose of forming this therapeutic relationship is to enable the client to identify the obstacles and resolve the conflicts which interfere with his or her ability to live life fully.
I then incorporate Mindfulness-based therapies and Internal Family Systems work to assist clients in developing healthy connections with life, others, and self.
At the heart of my approach is the belief that human beings naturally possess the power to heal, change, and grow. With that in mind, I encourage and support a collaborative process between myself and the client. The purpose of forming this therapeutic relationship is to enable the client to identify the obstacles and resolve the conflicts which interfere with his or her ability to live life fully.
(512) 561-0999 View (512) 561-0999
Photo of Karen M Boeke, PhD, Psychologist
Karen M Boeke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I have enjoyed working in private practice for 30 years with adolescents and adults. Their issues generally include such things as depression, trauma, anxiety, and relationship conflict or disconnection from loved ones. Sometimes people have been struggling with these things for a very long time. Experience has shown me that using an Internal Family Systems/Attachment-based psychodynamic approach works best for most people, and can lead to deep and lasting transformation in people's lives. At other times I work with people on a more short-term basis, using a more eclectic, skill building approach to our work together.
I have enjoyed working in private practice for 30 years with adolescents and adults. Their issues generally include such things as depression, trauma, anxiety, and relationship conflict or disconnection from loved ones. Sometimes people have been struggling with these things for a very long time. Experience has shown me that using an Internal Family Systems/Attachment-based psychodynamic approach works best for most people, and can lead to deep and lasting transformation in people's lives. At other times I work with people on a more short-term basis, using a more eclectic, skill building approach to our work together.
(512) 468-3649 View (512) 468-3649
Photo of Janis Claflin, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janis Claflin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Janis Claflin is a psychotherapist in a private practice. Her practice includes individual, family and group therapy, grief and loss, business consulting, mediation, executive coaching and wealth counseling. She has over 30 years experience. Janis is licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist. She is also the founder of several non-profit organizations.
Janis Claflin is a psychotherapist in a private practice. Her practice includes individual, family and group therapy, grief and loss, business consulting, mediation, executive coaching and wealth counseling. She has over 30 years experience. Janis is licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist. She is also the founder of several non-profit organizations.
(512) 920-5484 View (512) 920-5484
Photo of Heidi Schilling, PsyD, Psychologist
Heidi Schilling
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Everyone wants to be heard, seen, and understood. However, we often don't feel those things in life, especially when we have experienced trauma. It is easy to feel alone as you struggle in silence. However, you are not alone. I aim to create a safe, warm, empathetic space so you or your child/adolescent can find relief and power in sharing your story. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, as well as with adults who have experienced trauma. Working with children and adolescents gives me a unique perspective to help adults addressing childhood trauma. I provide individual and family therapy and parent coaching.
Everyone wants to be heard, seen, and understood. However, we often don't feel those things in life, especially when we have experienced trauma. It is easy to feel alone as you struggle in silence. However, you are not alone. I aim to create a safe, warm, empathetic space so you or your child/adolescent can find relief and power in sharing your story. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, as well as with adults who have experienced trauma. Working with children and adolescents gives me a unique perspective to help adults addressing childhood trauma. I provide individual and family therapy and parent coaching.
(512) 782-0623 View (512) 782-0623
JoAnn Ponder
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I'm JoAnn Ponder, psychologist in private practice. I earned my Ph.D. in educational psychology in 1998, but started practicing with my M.A. in 1977. I have over 30 years of experience in working with children and adults in inpatient and outpatient treatment. I've had postgraduate training in play therapy, sandplay, infant-parent intervention, family/couples therapy, and child/adult psychoanalysis. Research has demonstrated that early experiences with significant others affect brain structure; foster individuation, self-esteem, and emotional regulation; and serve as templates for subsequent interpersonal relationships.
I'm JoAnn Ponder, psychologist in private practice. I earned my Ph.D. in educational psychology in 1998, but started practicing with my M.A. in 1977. I have over 30 years of experience in working with children and adults in inpatient and outpatient treatment. I've had postgraduate training in play therapy, sandplay, infant-parent intervention, family/couples therapy, and child/adult psychoanalysis. Research has demonstrated that early experiences with significant others affect brain structure; foster individuation, self-esteem, and emotional regulation; and serve as templates for subsequent interpersonal relationships.
(512) 496-8244 View (512) 496-8244
Photo of Ana Maria Cabezas, LPC-S, SEP, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ana Maria Cabezas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, SEP, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
At Austin Bilingual Therapy, you will find a safe and trusting place to explore your concerns. Through nurturing, curiosity and playfulness, you will become aware of what keeps you from believing, feeling or doing what you want to reach in life. I see myself as a companion to you or to your family and children in this journey that is life. I feel honored that you are choosing me to be a witness to your growth as an individual, parent, child, sibling, and partner.
At Austin Bilingual Therapy, you will find a safe and trusting place to explore your concerns. Through nurturing, curiosity and playfulness, you will become aware of what keeps you from believing, feeling or doing what you want to reach in life. I see myself as a companion to you or to your family and children in this journey that is life. I feel honored that you are choosing me to be a witness to your growth as an individual, parent, child, sibling, and partner.
(512) 357-7414 View (512) 357-7414
Family Therapy

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.