Photo of Cynthia A. Criss, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Cynthia A. Criss
Counselor, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028
With over 20 years of experience in the counseling field, Cynthia A. Criss, LPC, Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist, founded a private practice, Open Hearts, Open Minds Counseling Services specializing in the treatment of addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma and intimacy disorders. Treatment of intimacy disorders may include a focus on sexual compulsivity, infidelity and relational trauma. Cynthia helps persons to create healthy and intimate relationships. She provides individual, group, couples and family therapy in the treatment of addiction (sexual compulsive behavior, drugs, alcohol), depression, anxiety, and trauma.
With over 20 years of experience in the counseling field, Cynthia A. Criss, LPC, Certified Sexual Addiction Therapist, founded a private practice, Open Hearts, Open Minds Counseling Services specializing in the treatment of addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma and intimacy disorders. Treatment of intimacy disorders may include a focus on sexual compulsivity, infidelity and relational trauma. Cynthia helps persons to create healthy and intimate relationships. She provides individual, group, couples and family therapy in the treatment of addiction (sexual compulsive behavior, drugs, alcohol), depression, anxiety, and trauma.
(602) 461-7619 View (602) 461-7619
Photo of Danielle Fragnito, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Danielle Fragnito
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085
NOW Accepting adult clients for in-person and telehealth sessions. I have 25+ years of experience providing solution-focused short and long-term therapy. I take an open-minded approach to client wellness and consider the client's family traditions, lifestyle, work-life, cultural and spiritual beliefs. My goal, as a Counselor, is to work together with you to help you reach your desired goal. Please feel free to call me at 602-509-6974 or visit my website. I look forward to hearing from you.
NOW Accepting adult clients for in-person and telehealth sessions. I have 25+ years of experience providing solution-focused short and long-term therapy. I take an open-minded approach to client wellness and consider the client's family traditions, lifestyle, work-life, cultural and spiritual beliefs. My goal, as a Counselor, is to work together with you to help you reach your desired goal. Please feel free to call me at 602-509-6974 or visit my website. I look forward to hearing from you.
(480) 409-2379 View (480) 409-2379
Photo of Sarah C Bald, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Sarah C Bald
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85053
I have experience working in both school and private practice settings to help guide your family through elementary, middle, high school, and college.
Is your child slipping academically? Do you find yourself frustrated completing homework with them? Are you constantly arguing with your child or teenager about going to school? Do you witness your child having similar difficulties you did as a child? There are many potential roots to these issues. For example, your child may have a hidden learning disability. He or she may have difficulty concentrating despite appearing to be paying attention. School may be a source of anxiety. Through evaluations, we can work together as a team to determine your child’s unique strengths and weaknesses.
I have experience working in both school and private practice settings to help guide your family through elementary, middle, high school, and college.
Is your child slipping academically? Do you find yourself frustrated completing homework with them? Are you constantly arguing with your child or teenager about going to school? Do you witness your child having similar difficulties you did as a child? There are many potential roots to these issues. For example, your child may have a hidden learning disability. He or she may have difficulty concentrating despite appearing to be paying attention. School may be a source of anxiety. Through evaluations, we can work together as a team to determine your child’s unique strengths and weaknesses.
(602) 857-9982 View (602) 857-9982
Photo of Natalie Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Natalie Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85012
My professional passion is to help people achieve an improved quality of life through the use of a person centered humanistic approach. Clients experiencing anxiety, depression and life changes benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT). All services are provided in a manner which is gender inclusive. Successful therapy is achieved by developing a strong therapeutic alliance with clients and using a collaborative approach to health and well-being.
My professional passion is to help people achieve an improved quality of life through the use of a person centered humanistic approach. Clients experiencing anxiety, depression and life changes benefit from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT). All services are provided in a manner which is gender inclusive. Successful therapy is achieved by developing a strong therapeutic alliance with clients and using a collaborative approach to health and well-being.
(928) 444-8038 View (928) 444-8038
Photo of Life in Motion Therapy , Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Life in Motion Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAS-MFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Immediate openings! Weekends and Evenings available! Affordable tiered rates! We are a private and diverse group practice located in Central Phoenix/Biltmore area. We have highly qualified, licensed & intern therapists that have immediate availability to help you address your unique needs. We offer both in person and virtual therapy, with therapists specializing in teens, family, adults and couples. You would be matched with a therapist that is the best fit for your unique needs and schedule.
Immediate openings! Weekends and Evenings available! Affordable tiered rates! We are a private and diverse group practice located in Central Phoenix/Biltmore area. We have highly qualified, licensed & intern therapists that have immediate availability to help you address your unique needs. We offer both in person and virtual therapy, with therapists specializing in teens, family, adults and couples. You would be matched with a therapist that is the best fit for your unique needs and schedule.
(623) 469-7813 View (623) 469-7813
Photo of Resolutions, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Resolutions
Counselor, MA, MBA, LPC, CM
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85044
SATURDAY AND EVENING APPOINTMENTS. I specialize in Couples Counseling, Dating Coaching, Divorce Mediation and Parent/Teen/Family Relationship, as well as Anxiety Disorders and Life Coaching. My therapy practice measures results for improvement in your life - helping you reach your goals whether they are relational, professional or financial. Let's look at all aspects of your relationship or your life and construct a more successful version to achieve your desired result - A Happier Marriage, A Civil Divorce, Better Communication with your Teen, More Dating Options, Improved Budgeting and Financial Success with your Home or Business, A Healthier Workplace
SATURDAY AND EVENING APPOINTMENTS. I specialize in Couples Counseling, Dating Coaching, Divorce Mediation and Parent/Teen/Family Relationship, as well as Anxiety Disorders and Life Coaching. My therapy practice measures results for improvement in your life - helping you reach your goals whether they are relational, professional or financial. Let's look at all aspects of your relationship or your life and construct a more successful version to achieve your desired result - A Happier Marriage, A Civil Divorce, Better Communication with your Teen, More Dating Options, Improved Budgeting and Financial Success with your Home or Business, A Healthier Workplace
(480) 409-0248 View (480) 409-0248
Photo of Mar M Navarro, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Mar M Navarro
Counselor, LPC-S, TAD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012
I’m also trained in Internal Family systems model, Theraplay, sand tray play therapy, and Brainspotting among others.
It is a privilege and an honor for me to be able to be part of your healing process and growth. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Doctor of Behavioral Health working with children, families, and adults. I'm an attachment and trauma-based counselor and bilingual in English and Spanish. My focus is to work with patients and identify and alleviate root causes associated with social, emotional, behavioral, and psychological challenges in various stages of development. I utilize a solution focused, strength-based approach to make progress towards the goals that we create together.
I’m also trained in Internal Family systems model, Theraplay, sand tray play therapy, and Brainspotting among others.
It is a privilege and an honor for me to be able to be part of your healing process and growth. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Doctor of Behavioral Health working with children, families, and adults. I'm an attachment and trauma-based counselor and bilingual in English and Spanish. My focus is to work with patients and identify and alleviate root causes associated with social, emotional, behavioral, and psychological challenges in various stages of development. I utilize a solution focused, strength-based approach to make progress towards the goals that we create together.
(928) 683-4004 View (928) 683-4004
Photo of Linda J Williamson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Linda J Williamson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CPDPE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020
I am a client centered therapist where I assist my clients work through the challenges which bring them to treatment and move to a more balanced and serne life experience. My passion is working with adolescents and their families by improving communication, boundaries, and healing trauma providing noticeabe growth for the individual and/or family members. Providing a safe place to share emotional responses to tramatic and/or everyday life situation and learn how to manage and share their emotions appropriateluy no matter the developmental stage of life. I work collobratively with my clients in developing their goals.
I am a client centered therapist where I assist my clients work through the challenges which bring them to treatment and move to a more balanced and serne life experience. My passion is working with adolescents and their families by improving communication, boundaries, and healing trauma providing noticeabe growth for the individual and/or family members. Providing a safe place to share emotional responses to tramatic and/or everyday life situation and learn how to manage and share their emotions appropriateluy no matter the developmental stage of life. I work collobratively with my clients in developing their goals.
(602) 671-2869 View (602) 671-2869
Photo of Aynne Henry, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Aynne Henry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018
My practice is unique. I treat two groups of clients: One is very high functioning - the highly successful professional who wants to improve personal strengths, interpersonal interactions, relationships, and intimacy. The second set are those who have been struggling with a diagnosable mental or physical illness that has not been effectively managed. Both may need various clinical treatments which include therapies such as Interpersonal Social Rhythm Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (Couples & Family), Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) or trauma oriented skills such as Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Hypnosis, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) - Feeling-State Addiction Therapy, Relaxation & Mindfulness.
My practice is unique. I treat two groups of clients: One is very high functioning - the highly successful professional who wants to improve personal strengths, interpersonal interactions, relationships, and intimacy. The second set are those who have been struggling with a diagnosable mental or physical illness that has not been effectively managed. Both may need various clinical treatments which include therapies such as Interpersonal Social Rhythm Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (Couples & Family), Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT) or trauma oriented skills such as Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Hypnosis, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) - Feeling-State Addiction Therapy, Relaxation & Mindfulness.
(602) 957-2336 View (602) 957-2336
Photo of Dynamic Counseling and Coaching Solutions, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Dynamic Counseling and Coaching Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAPC, LPC, CCTP, CAGSSAC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85027
At Dynamic Counseling and Coaching Solutions we believe whole people connecting with one another enhances the well-being of the family and the community. Similarly, people living and working together as whole communities will make the world better for all of us. Additionally, we all need places where we can speak without fear of judgement or rejection. When these needs are met, barriers to growth and well being can be removed. Our goal is to provide an environment that fosters the kind of individual growth that comes from intentional change by promoting health, healing and restoration.
At Dynamic Counseling and Coaching Solutions we believe whole people connecting with one another enhances the well-being of the family and the community. Similarly, people living and working together as whole communities will make the world better for all of us. Additionally, we all need places where we can speak without fear of judgement or rejection. When these needs are met, barriers to growth and well being can be removed. Our goal is to provide an environment that fosters the kind of individual growth that comes from intentional change by promoting health, healing and restoration.
(602) 598-5373 View (602) 598-5373
Photo of Beverly Sue Mahaffey, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Beverly Sue Mahaffey
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I have been especially helpful to people experiencing the following challenges: relationship difficulties including couple, family and work issues, grief/loss, parenting, teen and young adult issues. Each person/couple is viewed from a place of deep respect for their history, struggles and victories. My style is individualized, collaborative and designed to access the wisdom and strength within every person. Couples have felt that therapy helped them reestablish their emotional connection. My specialty is determining the core issues underneath conflict within any relationship including with self. I will serve as clinician, teacher, guide and encourager as you experience growth/healing.
I have been especially helpful to people experiencing the following challenges: relationship difficulties including couple, family and work issues, grief/loss, parenting, teen and young adult issues. Each person/couple is viewed from a place of deep respect for their history, struggles and victories. My style is individualized, collaborative and designed to access the wisdom and strength within every person. Couples have felt that therapy helped them reestablish their emotional connection. My specialty is determining the core issues underneath conflict within any relationship including with self. I will serve as clinician, teacher, guide and encourager as you experience growth/healing.
(602) 903-7147 View (602) 903-7147
Photo of Dr. Karen Ruskin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Dr. Karen Ruskin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028
As a Psychotherapist, LMFT, life/relationship/family/job coach, consultant, I'm compassionate & multidisciplinary using the best fit therapy style based on the unique needs of each client: CBT, IFS, solutions, mind-body connection, strategies/action steps, meditation, mindfulness, holistic, family systems, insight, narrative, direct, empowerment & more.
YOU deserve the best! Couple crisis (infidelity, intimacy, sexual, traditional, non-traditional, LS, conflict, communication, trust, deciding-stay or go, parenting, infertility)? As an expert in relational health, I offer a safe space to provide you with the solution-focused help you deserve. Marriage saving? Dating? Divorced? Be your best self? Men's or Women's issues? Young adult? Youth? Stress related body ailments? Anxiety? Trauma? Grief/Loss? Stuck? Hi, I'm Dr. Karen & I get it! I'm a nationally renowned leader in mental and relational wellness providing individual, couple & family counseling for ANY challenge & TV contributor.
As a Psychotherapist, LMFT, life/relationship/family/job coach, consultant, I'm compassionate & multidisciplinary using the best fit therapy style based on the unique needs of each client: CBT, IFS, solutions, mind-body connection, strategies/action steps, meditation, mindfulness, holistic, family systems, insight, narrative, direct, empowerment & more.
YOU deserve the best! Couple crisis (infidelity, intimacy, sexual, traditional, non-traditional, LS, conflict, communication, trust, deciding-stay or go, parenting, infertility)? As an expert in relational health, I offer a safe space to provide you with the solution-focused help you deserve. Marriage saving? Dating? Divorced? Be your best self? Men's or Women's issues? Young adult? Youth? Stress related body ailments? Anxiety? Trauma? Grief/Loss? Stuck? Hi, I'm Dr. Karen & I get it! I'm a nationally renowned leader in mental and relational wellness providing individual, couple & family counseling for ANY challenge & TV contributor.
(781) 241-7837 View (781) 241-7837
Photo of Betheny Schaudt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Betheny Schaudt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85085
I would love the opportunity to support your family in overcoming obstacles and facing new challenges.
Let's face it — it's a big confusing world out there. And sometimes, we all need a little help to get through it. Hi, I'm Betheny. I have been working with kids and families for nearly a decade to do just that. Therapy can help people process trauma, cope with stressors, and allow them to live their best lives — and I feel honored and humbled to be part of that process.
I would love the opportunity to support your family in overcoming obstacles and facing new challenges.
Let's face it — it's a big confusing world out there. And sometimes, we all need a little help to get through it. Hi, I'm Betheny. I have been working with kids and families for nearly a decade to do just that. Therapy can help people process trauma, cope with stressors, and allow them to live their best lives — and I feel honored and humbled to be part of that process.
(520) 873-9424 View (520) 873-9424
Photo of Shelby Steele, Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Shelby Steele
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85020
I work through a compassionate and individualized approach to treatment that recognizes the intricacy of each individual's and family’s experiences.
Seeking outside support isn’t always easy. It can feel overwhelming, stressful, and even scary. I understand and hope to provide some reassurance that we can work together to find the relief you and your child are seeking. I am an empathetic, person-centered, Child & Adolescent Trauma Therapist who utilizes an integrative approach with modalities such as play therapy, expressive art therapy, EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing. I have experience working with children and families who have experienced trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, socioeconomic stress, and parental separation
I work through a compassionate and individualized approach to treatment that recognizes the intricacy of each individual's and family’s experiences.
Seeking outside support isn’t always easy. It can feel overwhelming, stressful, and even scary. I understand and hope to provide some reassurance that we can work together to find the relief you and your child are seeking. I am an empathetic, person-centered, Child & Adolescent Trauma Therapist who utilizes an integrative approach with modalities such as play therapy, expressive art therapy, EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and motivational interviewing. I have experience working with children and families who have experienced trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, socioeconomic stress, and parental separation
(602) 641-3366 View (602) 641-3366
Photo of Totus Tuus Therapy Clinic LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Totus Tuus Therapy Clinic LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85041
As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I recognize the importance of providing my clients with an atmosphere that promotes trust,support,and understanding without judgment. After completing a comprehensive assessment of my client's needs, we work together to create a treatment plan that includes goals that are measurable. I have been trained in psychotherapy and family systems to use the most effective therapy approaches and techniques. I have witnessed positive changes that offer relief from emotional and relationship struggles. It is very rewarding to help clients discover their own strengths and successfully manage their problems.
As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I recognize the importance of providing my clients with an atmosphere that promotes trust,support,and understanding without judgment. After completing a comprehensive assessment of my client's needs, we work together to create a treatment plan that includes goals that are measurable. I have been trained in psychotherapy and family systems to use the most effective therapy approaches and techniques. I have witnessed positive changes that offer relief from emotional and relationship struggles. It is very rewarding to help clients discover their own strengths and successfully manage their problems.
(623) 748-1056 View (623) 748-1056
Photo of Sarah Gallimore, Psychologist in Phoenix, AZ
Sarah Gallimore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I provide evaluation services for a variety of issues within criminal, family, and juvenile court matters.
I am a Phoenix-based forensic psychologist with extensive experience in forensic evaluations of adolescents and adults at all stages of criminal and divorce proceedings as well as child abuse and neglect cases. I have provided consultation, diagnostic assessments, forensic psychological assessments, and expert testimony for both prosecution and defense. I am also a court-appointed evaluator for the Superior Court of Arizona, Maricopa County.
I provide evaluation services for a variety of issues within criminal, family, and juvenile court matters.
I am a Phoenix-based forensic psychologist with extensive experience in forensic evaluations of adolescents and adults at all stages of criminal and divorce proceedings as well as child abuse and neglect cases. I have provided consultation, diagnostic assessments, forensic psychological assessments, and expert testimony for both prosecution and defense. I am also a court-appointed evaluator for the Superior Court of Arizona, Maricopa County.
(480) 351-4875 View (480) 351-4875
Photo of Tiffany Jp Hernandez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Tiffany Jp Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85085  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Family Trauma Professional.
Email for all inquiries! Congratulations on taking the first step to living your best life! The last couple years have been difficult for all of us, but especially those who were already struggling with their mental health. It has been a time for reflection and now it is time to take action towards healing and making lifelong changes. Please allow me to assist you in discovering your strengths and recognizing your resiliency. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques each designed to help you on your unique journey of self-improvement.
I am a Certified Family Trauma Professional.
Email for all inquiries! Congratulations on taking the first step to living your best life! The last couple years have been difficult for all of us, but especially those who were already struggling with their mental health. It has been a time for reflection and now it is time to take action towards healing and making lifelong changes. Please allow me to assist you in discovering your strengths and recognizing your resiliency. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques each designed to help you on your unique journey of self-improvement.
(480) 485-0943 View (480) 485-0943
Photo of Linda Kriesel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Linda Kriesel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85012
Greetings! I have had the privilege of practicing the art of psychotherapy for 48 yrs. and utilize a number of modalities: family of origin, shame reduction, enneagram, mindfulness, dream interpretation, cognitive therapy and DBT. The entry point to authentic healing and lasting growth, is the development of self awareness and self compassion. I guide my clients to realize their capacity to welcome current challenges, feelings and thoughts without judgment but with acceptance and curiosity. My approach is eclectic, respectful, highly interactive, compassionate and sometimes challenging. I suggest homework between sessions.
Greetings! I have had the privilege of practicing the art of psychotherapy for 48 yrs. and utilize a number of modalities: family of origin, shame reduction, enneagram, mindfulness, dream interpretation, cognitive therapy and DBT. The entry point to authentic healing and lasting growth, is the development of self awareness and self compassion. I guide my clients to realize their capacity to welcome current challenges, feelings and thoughts without judgment but with acceptance and curiosity. My approach is eclectic, respectful, highly interactive, compassionate and sometimes challenging. I suggest homework between sessions.
(602) 737-0364 View (602) 737-0364
Photo of Judith McHale, Licensed Professional Counselor in Phoenix, AZ
Judith McHale
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018
My areas of expertise include marriage, couples, relationship issues, grief, divorce/separation, family of origin dysfunction, incest, women's support issues.
The relationship between therapist and client is unique. Time spent together is purposefully structured to support that uniqueness and establish a framework and rhythm for working. Our work together will be centered in a spirit of safety, dignity, and respect at all times for your goals and needs.
My areas of expertise include marriage, couples, relationship issues, grief, divorce/separation, family of origin dysfunction, incest, women's support issues.
The relationship between therapist and client is unique. Time spent together is purposefully structured to support that uniqueness and establish a framework and rhythm for working. Our work together will be centered in a spirit of safety, dignity, and respect at all times for your goals and needs.
(602) 540-9963 View (602) 540-9963
Photo of Anna Valenti-Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Phoenix, AZ
Anna Valenti-Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISAC, CSAT-S, CMAT-S
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018
Each person, couple or family who comes to see me is different and has unique needs! My clients have ranged from 18 to 80+ and come individually, as a coupleship, as half of a partnership, or part of a family.
Change is hard. I respect your right to CHOOSE support. I believe you want to improve your life. I provide you with tangible methods to help you achieve realistic goals. I support you with positive encouragement instead of guilt or shame. I am here to help you help yourself.
Each person, couple or family who comes to see me is different and has unique needs! My clients have ranged from 18 to 80+ and come individually, as a coupleship, as half of a partnership, or part of a family.
Change is hard. I respect your right to CHOOSE support. I believe you want to improve your life. I provide you with tangible methods to help you achieve realistic goals. I support you with positive encouragement instead of guilt or shame. I am here to help you help yourself.
(623) 695-0064 View (623) 695-0064
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.