Family Therapy in Phoenix, AZ

Photo of Danielle Bosma, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BC-TMH
Danielle Bosma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85032
For trauma healing, I take a gentle approach using an Internal Family System-informed approach that moves towards EMDR processing or narrative therapy.
Love, sex & trauma. After experiencing stress or trauma we can experience anxiety, spaciness, tension, temper flares, relational conflict, or intense shame or worthlessness. Trauma can be obvious - a sudden, horrible event, but for many, life has been overwhelming, disconnected or emotionally isolated for a very long time. I use experiential therapies (visualizing, meditating and other creative approaches) to help you live out your values from a place of calm strength.
For trauma healing, I take a gentle approach using an Internal Family System-informed approach that moves towards EMDR processing or narrative therapy.
Love, sex & trauma. After experiencing stress or trauma we can experience anxiety, spaciness, tension, temper flares, relational conflict, or intense shame or worthlessness. Trauma can be obvious - a sudden, horrible event, but for many, life has been overwhelming, disconnected or emotionally isolated for a very long time. I use experiential therapies (visualizing, meditating and other creative approaches) to help you live out your values from a place of calm strength.
(602) 704-5489 View (602) 704-5489
Photo of Steven Howell, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Steven Howell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Couples typically need improvement in communication, repair of betrayal trauma from infidelity, conflict resolution, aid in creating boundaries with family, etc.
Traumatic experiences, regardless of what kind, leave behind hidden wounds and scars. Among many things you find yourself on high alert around others; bracing for some unknown threat. Some people may tell you to simply 'push through it' or just 'toughen up.' But it simply does not work that way. You, the client, determine when and what trauma material you are ready to process. We work to heal the traumatized self, in our sessions, through ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), psychodynamic and Inner Child work. You don't have to suffer quietly alone.
Couples typically need improvement in communication, repair of betrayal trauma from infidelity, conflict resolution, aid in creating boundaries with family, etc.
Traumatic experiences, regardless of what kind, leave behind hidden wounds and scars. Among many things you find yourself on high alert around others; bracing for some unknown threat. Some people may tell you to simply 'push through it' or just 'toughen up.' But it simply does not work that way. You, the client, determine when and what trauma material you are ready to process. We work to heal the traumatized self, in our sessions, through ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), psychodynamic and Inner Child work. You don't have to suffer quietly alone.
(630) 480-4256 View (630) 480-4256
Photo of Kyle Giblin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kyle Giblin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Some of our highly specialized treatment modalities include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and attachment-based approaches.
Trauma and addiction can leave you feeling broken, unworthy, and trapped in cycles of pain, numbing, and survival. The weight of the past—and the stress of the present—can feel unbearable, leaving you exhausted, anxious, or disconnected. Political turmoil and systemic oppression can deepen this sense of powerlessness, making every day a battle. But healing is possible. You deserve to feel safe, empowered, and whole again. Our team at Noble Path offers compassion, understanding, and real tools for change. Call, text, or email today—let’s walk this path together. Now accepting new virtual clients. Open-Affirming-Responsive!
Some of our highly specialized treatment modalities include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and attachment-based approaches.
Trauma and addiction can leave you feeling broken, unworthy, and trapped in cycles of pain, numbing, and survival. The weight of the past—and the stress of the present—can feel unbearable, leaving you exhausted, anxious, or disconnected. Political turmoil and systemic oppression can deepen this sense of powerlessness, making every day a battle. But healing is possible. You deserve to feel safe, empowered, and whole again. Our team at Noble Path offers compassion, understanding, and real tools for change. Call, text, or email today—let’s walk this path together. Now accepting new virtual clients. Open-Affirming-Responsive!
(928) 693-4094 View (928) 693-4094
Photo of Jasmine Buirse-Gerberding, Counselor, MS, LAC
Jasmine Buirse-Gerberding
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085
Waitlist for new clients
They might also be navigating neurodivergence, either personally or within their family.
I offer a client-centered, non-judgmental space, drawing on techniques like CBT, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy. Specializing in neurodivergence, I work with children and families to build understanding and growth. My approach helps clients manage stress, build coping skills, and work toward change in a way that feels empowering
They might also be navigating neurodivergence, either personally or within their family.
I offer a client-centered, non-judgmental space, drawing on techniques like CBT, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy. Specializing in neurodivergence, I work with children and families to build understanding and growth. My approach helps clients manage stress, build coping skills, and work toward change in a way that feels empowering
(520) 523-5295 View (520) 523-5295
Photo of Allison Duquette, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Allison Duquette
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The treatment types I use are wholly based on the needs of the client, however, there will always be interwoven elements of Internal Family Systems, Shame-Resiliency, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
My view on therapy is very simple, though not always easy: 'through relationships, we heal’. Many of the barriers that inhibit healthy relationships include negative self-talk, fear of judgement, and our need to maintain a sense of control, especially when we are deeply hurt or wounded. Trauma does not discriminate and it does not wait for an opportune time to present, but we can make sense of it and heal old wounds that hold us back from really connecting with those we love.
The treatment types I use are wholly based on the needs of the client, however, there will always be interwoven elements of Internal Family Systems, Shame-Resiliency, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
My view on therapy is very simple, though not always easy: 'through relationships, we heal’. Many of the barriers that inhibit healthy relationships include negative self-talk, fear of judgement, and our need to maintain a sense of control, especially when we are deeply hurt or wounded. Trauma does not discriminate and it does not wait for an opportune time to present, but we can make sense of it and heal old wounds that hold us back from really connecting with those we love.
(602) 362-4942 View (602) 362-4942
Photo of Amber King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amber King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Or perhaps you or your family has been negatively impacted by substance use and you're seeking compassionate support to navigate through these challenges.
If you're ready to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can navigate the complexities of life, develop practical skills, and create a more fulfilling and balanced future. I am committed to being by your side and offering a supportive environment through the healing process.
Or perhaps you or your family has been negatively impacted by substance use and you're seeking compassionate support to navigate through these challenges.
If you're ready to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, growth, and healing, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can navigate the complexities of life, develop practical skills, and create a more fulfilling and balanced future. I am committed to being by your side and offering a supportive environment through the healing process.
(928) 628-6439 View (928) 628-6439
Photo of Amorita Young, Counselor, LAC
Amorita Young
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85085
I am in-network for Aetna, BCBS, United Healthcare, Arizona Complete Care (AHCCCS), Banner University Family Care (AHCCCS), United Healthcare Community Plan (AHCCCS), AmeriBen, Meritain, AmBetter, CHAMPVA, UMR.
Accepting New Clients Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) Amorita is a licensed associate counselor with a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University. She adopts a non-judgmental, direct approach that empowers clients to develop practical coping skills. Amorita specializes in working with adults and couples dealing with a variety of issues and is trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), Flash Technique, Symbis Assessment (pre-marital assessment), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); her goal is to help you discover the best version of yourself and provide you with the tools needed.
I am in-network for Aetna, BCBS, United Healthcare, Arizona Complete Care (AHCCCS), Banner University Family Care (AHCCCS), United Healthcare Community Plan (AHCCCS), AmeriBen, Meritain, AmBetter, CHAMPVA, UMR.
Accepting New Clients Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) Amorita is a licensed associate counselor with a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grand Canyon University. She adopts a non-judgmental, direct approach that empowers clients to develop practical coping skills. Amorita specializes in working with adults and couples dealing with a variety of issues and is trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), Flash Technique, Symbis Assessment (pre-marital assessment), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); her goal is to help you discover the best version of yourself and provide you with the tools needed.
(623) 304-4997 View (623) 304-4997
Photo of Lora I Hudson - Monarch Behavioral Health Center LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Monarch Behavioral Health Center LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I am certified in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma Focused Psychotherapy, Trauma Informed Care, Internal Family Systems, Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I opened Monarch Behavioral Health Center in 2020 to help assist people with their mental health and substance abuse issues. I offer therapy/treatment services for men, women and young adults that struggle with mental health and/or substance abuse disorders. I have trained with the United States Military for treating Posttraumatic Stress/Co-occurring disorders. I am a lifelong advocate for the LGBTQ community and our Veteran community. I have been dedicated for over 15 years, working to assist people in healing, growing, and discovering or re-discovering their inter-strengths and peace.
I am certified in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Trauma Focused Psychotherapy, Trauma Informed Care, Internal Family Systems, Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I opened Monarch Behavioral Health Center in 2020 to help assist people with their mental health and substance abuse issues. I offer therapy/treatment services for men, women and young adults that struggle with mental health and/or substance abuse disorders. I have trained with the United States Military for treating Posttraumatic Stress/Co-occurring disorders. I am a lifelong advocate for the LGBTQ community and our Veteran community. I have been dedicated for over 15 years, working to assist people in healing, growing, and discovering or re-discovering their inter-strengths and peace.
(928) 384-3805 View (928) 384-3805
Photo of Dr. Sandra Lee, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Dr. Sandra Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
AAMFT Clinical Supervisor, EMDR Certified Therapist (Trauma), Advanced Training: Emotionally Focused Therapy (Couples), EFIT (Individual Trauma), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Jungian, Cognitive Behavioral, Training in Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing, Dialectical Behavioral
Unhealed trauma or other painful childhood or adult experiences may disrupt our ability to connect well with our true self and with others and to achieve our deepest heart's desires. Strategies we needed to protect ourselves at one point in life, may be outworn, leaving us stuck with anxiety, depression, anger, or guilt, interfering with healthy relationships and experiencing joy. For over 20 years I have helped individuals and couples heal old wounds and grow past outworn patterns into greater freedom, joy, and deep connections. I offer myself as a compassionate witness to your pain and companion in your journey of personal growth.
AAMFT Clinical Supervisor, EMDR Certified Therapist (Trauma), Advanced Training: Emotionally Focused Therapy (Couples), EFIT (Individual Trauma), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Jungian, Cognitive Behavioral, Training in Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing, Dialectical Behavioral
Unhealed trauma or other painful childhood or adult experiences may disrupt our ability to connect well with our true self and with others and to achieve our deepest heart's desires. Strategies we needed to protect ourselves at one point in life, may be outworn, leaving us stuck with anxiety, depression, anger, or guilt, interfering with healthy relationships and experiencing joy. For over 20 years I have helped individuals and couples heal old wounds and grow past outworn patterns into greater freedom, joy, and deep connections. I offer myself as a compassionate witness to your pain and companion in your journey of personal growth.
(602) 207-8845 View (602) 207-8845
Photo of Dr. Joel Touchet, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Dr. Joel Touchet
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I specialize in helping individuals and couples who are facing the normal struggles of life.
What sets my practice apart is my experience working with a wide range of clients: adolescents, adults, and couples. No matter the age or relationship dynamic, I have the tools to help you overcome obstacles and build stronger, healthier connections with yourself and others. I believe that change is always possible.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist, I specialize in helping individuals and couples who are facing the normal struggles of life.
What sets my practice apart is my experience working with a wide range of clients: adolescents, adults, and couples. No matter the age or relationship dynamic, I have the tools to help you overcome obstacles and build stronger, healthier connections with yourself and others. I believe that change is always possible.
(928) 249-9669 View (928) 249-9669
Photo of Shirli Regev, Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Shirli Regev
Pastoral Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
Balancing family, relationships, choices, and self-worth can feel overwhelming.
Dr. Shirli works with women through practical intervention therapy, somatic healing, and energy work, guiding those who feel stuck, lost, or emotionally broken to regain clarity and empowerment. Focusing on mind, body, soul, and emotions, we restore balance, resilience, and coping skills for life's challenges. True transformation begins when life itself demands change. Together, we’ll rewrite limiting patterns, strengthen your energy field, and navigate challenges with grace, harmony, and emotional mastery—empowering you to steer your life toward peace and purpose. You are not here to survive—you are here to thrive.
Balancing family, relationships, choices, and self-worth can feel overwhelming.
Dr. Shirli works with women through practical intervention therapy, somatic healing, and energy work, guiding those who feel stuck, lost, or emotionally broken to regain clarity and empowerment. Focusing on mind, body, soul, and emotions, we restore balance, resilience, and coping skills for life's challenges. True transformation begins when life itself demands change. Together, we’ll rewrite limiting patterns, strengthen your energy field, and navigate challenges with grace, harmony, and emotional mastery—empowering you to steer your life toward peace and purpose. You are not here to survive—you are here to thrive.
(928) 223-5744 View (928) 223-5744
Photo of Crystal Sing Schaeffer, Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, LCSW
Crystal Sing Schaeffer
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Drawing extensive knowledge on child and adolescent, couples:individuals facing depression, self esteem and family issues.
remote therapy only.
Drawing extensive knowledge on child and adolescent, couples:individuals facing depression, self esteem and family issues.
remote therapy only.
(646) 760-5760 View (646) 760-5760
Photo of Anna Bernasconi, Counselor, LPC
Anna Bernasconi
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Additional areas of focus are ADHD, sex addiction, borderline personality disorder, family and relationship problems, men’s issues, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.
I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to process anything troubling, help you understand it, and work towards a fulfilling lifestyle. I use a person-centered approach that includes somatic therapy, DBT, strengths-based, CBT, Gottman for couples, and trauma-informed care.
Additional areas of focus are ADHD, sex addiction, borderline personality disorder, family and relationship problems, men’s issues, self-harm, and suicidal ideation.
I offer a safe and non-judgmental space to process anything troubling, help you understand it, and work towards a fulfilling lifestyle. I use a person-centered approach that includes somatic therapy, DBT, strengths-based, CBT, Gottman for couples, and trauma-informed care.
(480) 482-1838 View (480) 482-1838
Photo of Jordyn Oleson - Christian Counseling Care, Pre-Licensed Professional
Christian Counseling Care
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85086
Her personal background includes experiences with surviving extensive domestic violence involving the court systems, sexual assault, complex family scenarios, divorced parents, and helping all ages develop self helping skills to navigate life's challenges as they come.
We will work together to assess all areas creating conflict and set backs, using tools such as CBT, IFS, EMDR to navigate and desensitize the trauma one layer at a time. She works with individual adults, adolescents and couples to strengthen their self beliefs to foster better relationships with themselves and others around them.
Her personal background includes experiences with surviving extensive domestic violence involving the court systems, sexual assault, complex family scenarios, divorced parents, and helping all ages develop self helping skills to navigate life's challenges as they come.
We will work together to assess all areas creating conflict and set backs, using tools such as CBT, IFS, EMDR to navigate and desensitize the trauma one layer at a time. She works with individual adults, adolescents and couples to strengthen their self beliefs to foster better relationships with themselves and others around them.
(520) 337-9278 View (520) 337-9278
Photo of Ryan Carey, Counselor, LAC, MFA
Ryan Carey
Counselor, LAC, MFA
Verified Verified
Online Only
Using a combination of IFS (Internal Family Systems), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), and Gottman techniques, I work with you to uncover the emotional patterns and behaviors that may be keeping you and your relationship stuck.
Together, we will explore your unique journey and create a path toward the transformation you deserve. If fear and anger are your primary emotions, let's work to uncover and understand the deeper feelings behind them. My approach is supportive, empathetic, and always tailored to your individual needs.
Using a combination of IFS (Internal Family Systems), EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), and Gottman techniques, I work with you to uncover the emotional patterns and behaviors that may be keeping you and your relationship stuck.
Together, we will explore your unique journey and create a path toward the transformation you deserve. If fear and anger are your primary emotions, let's work to uncover and understand the deeper feelings behind them. My approach is supportive, empathetic, and always tailored to your individual needs.
(623) 352-5317 View (623) 352-5317
Photo of Annette Benneche, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD Student, LPC, MS, MEd
Annette Benneche
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD Student, LPC, MS, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Benneche has a plethora of specialties including individual psychotherapy, trauma (PTSD) and family/couples counseling.
Annette Benneche works within a broad age range - counseling children, adolescents, adults and elders. Mrs. Benneche holds two master level degrees- a Master of Science in Counseling/Psychology, and a Master of Education degree. She is also a PhD. in Psychology doctoral student. She owns SERVE, LLC which operates out of the states of Georgia, Arizona and Nevada, providing quality, virtual, mental health services. SERVE, LLC was initially founded in Macon, GA in 2002 & legally incorporated in March 2006. She became a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor in 2010.
Benneche has a plethora of specialties including individual psychotherapy, trauma (PTSD) and family/couples counseling.
Annette Benneche works within a broad age range - counseling children, adolescents, adults and elders. Mrs. Benneche holds two master level degrees- a Master of Science in Counseling/Psychology, and a Master of Education degree. She is also a PhD. in Psychology doctoral student. She owns SERVE, LLC which operates out of the states of Georgia, Arizona and Nevada, providing quality, virtual, mental health services. SERVE, LLC was initially founded in Macon, GA in 2002 & legally incorporated in March 2006. She became a Licensed Associate Professional Counselor and Licensed Professional Counselor in 2010.
(775) 235-0388 View (775) 235-0388
Photo of Marc D. Adams - Existential Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MBA
Existential Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach is grounded in fundamental therapeutic modalities that include Jungian psychology, existential analysis, cognitive behavioral therapy, logotherapy, family systems, and depth psychology.
My clients typically experience some level of dissatisfaction in their lives that may manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, despair, shame, or frustration. These feelings are indicators of something deeper at work that needs attending in an environment that is safe and caring, with dignity and respect, and with competence.
My approach is grounded in fundamental therapeutic modalities that include Jungian psychology, existential analysis, cognitive behavioral therapy, logotherapy, family systems, and depth psychology.
My clients typically experience some level of dissatisfaction in their lives that may manifest as anxiety, depression, anger, despair, shame, or frustration. These feelings are indicators of something deeper at work that needs attending in an environment that is safe and caring, with dignity and respect, and with competence.
(602) 698-9515 View (602) 698-9515
Photo of Catherine S Shea, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Catherine S Shea
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Online Only
Although I work with all adults, I have specialized training in human development and marriage and family systems.
My ideal client is motivated to change, but struggling to find the right path for them. I specialize in life transitions. I work best with an individual that wants to improve their ability to have healthy relationships. This might mean they need to work on figuring out their own needs first. I like to develop a connection and help people learn to change their cognitive filters to help shift their emotional well-being. My clients tell me they feel cared about and appreciate my sense of humor. Some have said they feel like they are talking to a friend that is objective and only has their best interest at heart.
Although I work with all adults, I have specialized training in human development and marriage and family systems.
My ideal client is motivated to change, but struggling to find the right path for them. I specialize in life transitions. I work best with an individual that wants to improve their ability to have healthy relationships. This might mean they need to work on figuring out their own needs first. I like to develop a connection and help people learn to change their cognitive filters to help shift their emotional well-being. My clients tell me they feel cared about and appreciate my sense of humor. Some have said they feel like they are talking to a friend that is objective and only has their best interest at heart.
(520) 569-9111 View (520) 569-9111
Photo of Jason Powell, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Jason Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT. My work focuses on relationships and sex therapy, specifically centered on infidelity repair, communication issues, relationships on the brink, and those experiencing a range of intimacy blocks and challenges. I have been featured in AARP, Forbes, The Knot, and other leading media outlets sharing my insights and tips related to communication, sex, and marriage. I invite you to schedule a free consultation to discuss your unique circumstances and ways that I may be able to help.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Certified Sex Therapist (CST) through AASECT. My work focuses on relationships and sex therapy, specifically centered on infidelity repair, communication issues, relationships on the brink, and those experiencing a range of intimacy blocks and challenges. I have been featured in AARP, Forbes, The Knot, and other leading media outlets sharing my insights and tips related to communication, sex, and marriage. I invite you to schedule a free consultation to discuss your unique circumstances and ways that I may be able to help.
(480) 637-5924 View (480) 637-5924
Photo of Dr. Zoë Teresa Folts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW
Dr. Zoë Teresa Folts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DBH, LCSW
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, family issues, infertility, grief and trauma.
Talking to an experienced therapist, without feeling judgement, can change your life. I work with clients in building an open, trusting relationship where you can feel comfortable talking about yourself authentically; to learn and know yourself in a new way. I have extensive experience in the field of psychotherapy. I have been a faculty member at Maricopa Community Colleges and have provided counseling services to students, employees, and faculty at Arizona State University. I completed a Doctorate in Behavioral Health in 2014, furthering my research in depression, grief, anxiety, and issues facing individuals and couples.
I work with clients struggling with depression, anxiety, family issues, infertility, grief and trauma.
Talking to an experienced therapist, without feeling judgement, can change your life. I work with clients in building an open, trusting relationship where you can feel comfortable talking about yourself authentically; to learn and know yourself in a new way. I have extensive experience in the field of psychotherapy. I have been a faculty member at Maricopa Community Colleges and have provided counseling services to students, employees, and faculty at Arizona State University. I completed a Doctorate in Behavioral Health in 2014, furthering my research in depression, grief, anxiety, and issues facing individuals and couples.
(602) 671-2607 View (602) 671-2607
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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.