Photo of Sierra Williamsen, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Plata County, CO
Sierra Williamsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Durango, CO 81301
I believe every person, couple, and family have different and specific needs; therefore, I draw from a wide breadth of approaches.
Life can be hard, can’t it?! If life feels hard and you'd like a little more support, I may be a good fit for you. Whether your challenges are due to unexpected life challenges or transitions, anxiety, depression, self esteem, relationship issues, or substance abuse issues, I can help you work through that. My goal as a therapist is to support my clients in whatever life’s difficulty may be and to challenge them to grow and become a better and healthier version of themselves. I seek to understand what my client's individual goals and needs are and work together to feel better.
I believe every person, couple, and family have different and specific needs; therefore, I draw from a wide breadth of approaches.
Life can be hard, can’t it?! If life feels hard and you'd like a little more support, I may be a good fit for you. Whether your challenges are due to unexpected life challenges or transitions, anxiety, depression, self esteem, relationship issues, or substance abuse issues, I can help you work through that. My goal as a therapist is to support my clients in whatever life’s difficulty may be and to challenge them to grow and become a better and healthier version of themselves. I seek to understand what my client's individual goals and needs are and work together to feel better.
(970) 805-0037 View (970) 805-0037
Photo of Emily Wheeler, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Plata County, CO
Emily Wheeler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durango, CO 81301
I believe that committed relationships - whether that is with a partner, family member or friend - are some of the most challenging and rewarding experiences we have as humans.
Many people wonder if they've "waited too long" before starting therapy, but as long as you are committed to working on the relationship, progress is very achievable! Whether you are in a new relationship and wanting to be proactive or feel that you have years of built up resentment and negative relationship dynamics behind you, our work together will help you get where you want to be.
I believe that committed relationships - whether that is with a partner, family member or friend - are some of the most challenging and rewarding experiences we have as humans.
Many people wonder if they've "waited too long" before starting therapy, but as long as you are committed to working on the relationship, progress is very achievable! Whether you are in a new relationship and wanting to be proactive or feel that you have years of built up resentment and negative relationship dynamics behind you, our work together will help you get where you want to be.
(720) 386-6980 View (720) 386-6980
Photo of Heidi Bendell, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Plata County, CO
Heidi Bendell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC, CMAT
Verified Verified
Durango, CO 81301
. I specialize in addictions, and compulsive behaviors . I have been certified in sex addiction therapist for 25 years I also specialize in financial and eating disorders I have years of experience working with adolescents. I have a passion in helping couples develop a healthy partnership in raising children together, including divorced couples, blended families, three generational family systems.. .
. I specialize in addictions, and compulsive behaviors . I have been certified in sex addiction therapist for 25 years I also specialize in financial and eating disorders I have years of experience working with adolescents. I have a passion in helping couples develop a healthy partnership in raising children together, including divorced couples, blended families, three generational family systems.. .
(720) 583-9620 View (720) 583-9620
Photo of Stephanie Armentano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Plata County, CO
Stephanie Armentano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durango, CO 81301  (Online Only)
I believe people seek out therapy because they are in need of non-judgement and unconditional positive regard, whatever it is that is causing suffering. I approach all of my sessions this way. So many of us are experiencing burn-out, depression, anxiety, even post-partum and find ourselves feeling alone despite the circle of friends and family surrounding us. That is where I come in. I am here to listen and support you in achieving whatever your goals are and I am always open to feedback as I know that people need to be heard and each person requires a different approach.
I believe people seek out therapy because they are in need of non-judgement and unconditional positive regard, whatever it is that is causing suffering. I approach all of my sessions this way. So many of us are experiencing burn-out, depression, anxiety, even post-partum and find ourselves feeling alone despite the circle of friends and family surrounding us. That is where I come in. I am here to listen and support you in achieving whatever your goals are and I am always open to feedback as I know that people need to be heard and each person requires a different approach.
(970) 551-3309 View (970) 551-3309
Photo of Heal | Trauma & Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Plata County, CO
Heal | Trauma & Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AT
Verified Verified
Durango, CO 81301
Holland Bozich earned a Masters degree from Loyola Marymount University in Marriage and Family Therapy, with specialized training in Clinical Art Therapy.
I realize that no two people are the same and as such tailor my therapy to meet the specific needs of my clients. When appropriate, I use specialized training in Clinical Art Therapy to provide additional avenues for the expression and depth work that deep healing requires. I interweave DBT, Psychodynamic Theory and depth work to meet clients where they’re at, provide experienced containment during strenuous treatment and guide them towards a greater life worth living. My practice specializes in treating adolescents, young adults, families and group therapy.
Holland Bozich earned a Masters degree from Loyola Marymount University in Marriage and Family Therapy, with specialized training in Clinical Art Therapy.
I realize that no two people are the same and as such tailor my therapy to meet the specific needs of my clients. When appropriate, I use specialized training in Clinical Art Therapy to provide additional avenues for the expression and depth work that deep healing requires. I interweave DBT, Psychodynamic Theory and depth work to meet clients where they’re at, provide experienced containment during strenuous treatment and guide them towards a greater life worth living. My practice specializes in treating adolescents, young adults, families and group therapy.
(970) 404-8817 View (970) 404-8817
Photo of Nancy Raffaele, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Plata County, CO
Nancy Raffaele
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Durango, CO 81301
Many clients are confused and unsure where to begin on their path for change. Unresolved trauma, grief, guilt, abuse, negative memories, abandonment, betrayal by friends or family can create low self-esteem, unregulated emotions, relational issues, self-isolation, fear of trusting others or being hurt, loneliness, self-harm, feeling burdened by self, suicide ideation, addictive behavior to mask pain, depression, anxiety, co-dependency. I have often helped clients gain self-compassion, love, respect, clarity and confidence with the understanding it takes time and patience. I offer a warm, accepting approach in a pleasing safe space.
Many clients are confused and unsure where to begin on their path for change. Unresolved trauma, grief, guilt, abuse, negative memories, abandonment, betrayal by friends or family can create low self-esteem, unregulated emotions, relational issues, self-isolation, fear of trusting others or being hurt, loneliness, self-harm, feeling burdened by self, suicide ideation, addictive behavior to mask pain, depression, anxiety, co-dependency. I have often helped clients gain self-compassion, love, respect, clarity and confidence with the understanding it takes time and patience. I offer a warm, accepting approach in a pleasing safe space.
(970) 251-1753 View (970) 251-1753
Photo of Stephanie Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Plata County, CO
Stephanie Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Durango, CO 81301
I am passionate about supporting the well-being, balance and wholeness of each client. I believe every person deserves the space and opportunity to let their authentic selves flourish. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, loss and grief, low self-esteem, phase of life issues, family and relationship challenges, and substance use. I work collaboratively and creatively, walking alongside you on your journey, to help you navigate life's challenges.
I am passionate about supporting the well-being, balance and wholeness of each client. I believe every person deserves the space and opportunity to let their authentic selves flourish. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, loss and grief, low self-esteem, phase of life issues, family and relationship challenges, and substance use. I work collaboratively and creatively, walking alongside you on your journey, to help you navigate life's challenges.
(970) 478-8883 View (970) 478-8883
Photo of Julia Lehr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Plata County, CO
Julia Lehr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bayfield, CO 81122  (Online Only)
I additionally pull from experiential approaches such as Internal Family Systems.
Beginning the process of healing can be both beautiful and activate challenging emotions that are hard to face alone. I support individuals and couples track hard to see patterns, themes, and truths with compassion and kindness. It can be vulnerable to sit with tough emotions and discomfort often associated with grief and emotional pain. My goal is to guide clients through this healing process so that they feel a greater sense of confidence, pride, and growth. With greater relief from symptoms, clients are able to increase awareness of their patterns and make changes that create long term change.
I additionally pull from experiential approaches such as Internal Family Systems.
Beginning the process of healing can be both beautiful and activate challenging emotions that are hard to face alone. I support individuals and couples track hard to see patterns, themes, and truths with compassion and kindness. It can be vulnerable to sit with tough emotions and discomfort often associated with grief and emotional pain. My goal is to guide clients through this healing process so that they feel a greater sense of confidence, pride, and growth. With greater relief from symptoms, clients are able to increase awareness of their patterns and make changes that create long term change.
(970) 442-5271 View (970) 442-5271
Photo of Caitlin Morris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Plata County, CO
Caitlin Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durango, CO 81301  (Online Only)
My background includes family therapy, crisis response, intimate partner abuse, and yoga teacher training.
I believe an excellent therapist meets every client where they’re at. Navigating this world with presence and grace is more accessible and meaningful with someone to help process your experiences. We all need someone to talk to sometimes, and I strive to create an integrated and unique safe space for each client to unfold their narratives, fears, hopes and discover their untapped resources. Many people grapple with traumatic stress. It can interfere with our lives, relationships, and overall well-being. Ignoring or suppressing it may be tempting but will only make it worse.
My background includes family therapy, crisis response, intimate partner abuse, and yoga teacher training.
I believe an excellent therapist meets every client where they’re at. Navigating this world with presence and grace is more accessible and meaningful with someone to help process your experiences. We all need someone to talk to sometimes, and I strive to create an integrated and unique safe space for each client to unfold their narratives, fears, hopes and discover their untapped resources. Many people grapple with traumatic stress. It can interfere with our lives, relationships, and overall well-being. Ignoring or suppressing it may be tempting but will only make it worse.
(970) 406-4772 View (970) 406-4772
Photo of Eileen Andricovich LMFT- Spirals of Eternity, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Plata County, CO
Eileen Andricovich LMFT- Spirals of Eternity
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Durango, CO 81301  (Online Only)
Other areas of specialty are family relationship and special success helping couples.
I believe that change begins in respecting each person's life choices. I listen and reflect to help people become aware and transform negative thought patterns, and to identify and release emotional and negative thoughts that promote feeling "stuck." Testimonial "Eileen made us feel comfortable from the 1st day," I use Solution Focused Approach with couples and help them to develop clear communication and listening skills. I have developed simple yet powerful healing methods that are essential tools for stress reduction elimination of anxiety and panic episodes and healing sexual abuse/trauma.
Other areas of specialty are family relationship and special success helping couples.
I believe that change begins in respecting each person's life choices. I listen and reflect to help people become aware and transform negative thought patterns, and to identify and release emotional and negative thoughts that promote feeling "stuck." Testimonial "Eileen made us feel comfortable from the 1st day," I use Solution Focused Approach with couples and help them to develop clear communication and listening skills. I have developed simple yet powerful healing methods that are essential tools for stress reduction elimination of anxiety and panic episodes and healing sexual abuse/trauma.
(970) 507-3389 View (970) 507-3389
Photo of Wise Owl Counseling and Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Plata County, CO
Wise Owl Counseling and Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durango, CO 81301
Mariah provides clinical assessment, individual and family therapy, family intensives, and clinical supervision, helping people examine the many dimensions of their mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health.
Mariah has worked as an individual and family therapist for over 17 years supporting youth, young adults, and families through transformative therapeutic experiences. Mariah excels at helping people examine the many dimensions of their mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health. She is known for her attunement and tenacious dedication to the evolving needs of all she works.
Mariah provides clinical assessment, individual and family therapy, family intensives, and clinical supervision, helping people examine the many dimensions of their mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health.
Mariah has worked as an individual and family therapist for over 17 years supporting youth, young adults, and families through transformative therapeutic experiences. Mariah excels at helping people examine the many dimensions of their mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health. She is known for her attunement and tenacious dedication to the evolving needs of all she works.
(970) 578-1413 View (970) 578-1413
Photo of Kiira Moore, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Plata County, CO
Kiira Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, IMH-E®
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durango, CO 81301
I provide individual sessions to adults, teenagers, or children (0-18) and/or the family system using evidence-based, family systemic, attachment-informed, and trauma-responsive tools.
My background in therapy involves working in Child Welfare so I am familiar with complex trauma, PTSD symptoms, attachment issues, and family systemic issues. I am trained in Synergetic Play Therapy, EMDR, Child Parent Psychotherapy, Circle of Security Parenting, and in Postpartum Support International Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders. I am also trained in using a variety of assessment tools such as the Crowell Parent-Child Interaction Procedure, DC 0-5, Keys to Interactive Parenting Scale, and the Working Model of the Child.
I provide individual sessions to adults, teenagers, or children (0-18) and/or the family system using evidence-based, family systemic, attachment-informed, and trauma-responsive tools.
My background in therapy involves working in Child Welfare so I am familiar with complex trauma, PTSD symptoms, attachment issues, and family systemic issues. I am trained in Synergetic Play Therapy, EMDR, Child Parent Psychotherapy, Circle of Security Parenting, and in Postpartum Support International Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders. I am also trained in using a variety of assessment tools such as the Crowell Parent-Child Interaction Procedure, DC 0-5, Keys to Interactive Parenting Scale, and the Working Model of the Child.
(970) 323-2608 View (970) 323-2608
Photo of Hillary Wolfe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Plata County, CO
Hillary Wolfe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durango, CO 81301
I know that contacting a therapist can be intimidating so please let me know if there is any way I can make it easier for you and/or your family.
I am a Durango native, born and raised. Having lived here my whole life, I have deep roots in this community and understand the joys and struggles of living in a rural town. I have a passion for helping women, and young adults experiencing life transitions such as going to college or ending a long-term relationship, as well as, helping people heal and process traumatic events. I also help parents understand and improve their connection with their children or teens through parent coaching and am a registred Play Therapist.
I know that contacting a therapist can be intimidating so please let me know if there is any way I can make it easier for you and/or your family.
I am a Durango native, born and raised. Having lived here my whole life, I have deep roots in this community and understand the joys and struggles of living in a rural town. I have a passion for helping women, and young adults experiencing life transitions such as going to college or ending a long-term relationship, as well as, helping people heal and process traumatic events. I also help parents understand and improve their connection with their children or teens through parent coaching and am a registred Play Therapist.
(970) 769-0131 View (970) 769-0131
Photo of Maura R Nolan, Counselor in La Plata County, CO
Maura R Nolan
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC, CMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Durango, CO 81301
I utilize ecotherapy and nature, art and dance movement therapy, post-traumatic growth, DBT, IFS, candid feedback, and family systems in my practice.
My goal is to move you from surving to thriving in life. I help young adults and families struggling with mood disorders, PTSD, communication issues, and addiction. Empowering you to overcome grief, trauma, and stress through somatic experiencing, EMDR, and parts work will allow you to lead a life according to your values. Whatever has brought you to therapy- I encourage you to come as you are. I am an altruistic and creative clinician, whose focus is connecting with you to build authenticity and trust. Humor is an innate part of the human experience, and I invite you to find laughter and play in our work together.
I utilize ecotherapy and nature, art and dance movement therapy, post-traumatic growth, DBT, IFS, candid feedback, and family systems in my practice.
My goal is to move you from surving to thriving in life. I help young adults and families struggling with mood disorders, PTSD, communication issues, and addiction. Empowering you to overcome grief, trauma, and stress through somatic experiencing, EMDR, and parts work will allow you to lead a life according to your values. Whatever has brought you to therapy- I encourage you to come as you are. I am an altruistic and creative clinician, whose focus is connecting with you to build authenticity and trust. Humor is an innate part of the human experience, and I invite you to find laughter and play in our work together.
(970) 575-5464 View (970) 575-5464
Photo of Linza Vargas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Plata County, CO
Linza Vargas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durango, CO 81301
I weave together my training experience in somatic experiencing, polyvagal theory and internal family systems to help clients understand and work through developmental trauma, adverse family dynamics and anxiety.
Are you feeling stuck, anxious, unmotivated, or an overall lack of life satisfaction? You are not alone. In therapy, I encourage you to uncover your wholeness through the experience of safety and connection. I support individuals, couples and families in discovering their fullest potential so they can pursue a life worth living, as defined by them. I aim to support you in moving from “talking” about your struggles to an ability to feel and move through them. I guide you towards radical acceptance, so you can harmonize and the heal the stories of yourself and your experiences.
I weave together my training experience in somatic experiencing, polyvagal theory and internal family systems to help clients understand and work through developmental trauma, adverse family dynamics and anxiety.
Are you feeling stuck, anxious, unmotivated, or an overall lack of life satisfaction? You are not alone. In therapy, I encourage you to uncover your wholeness through the experience of safety and connection. I support individuals, couples and families in discovering their fullest potential so they can pursue a life worth living, as defined by them. I aim to support you in moving from “talking” about your struggles to an ability to feel and move through them. I guide you towards radical acceptance, so you can harmonize and the heal the stories of yourself and your experiences.
(610) 563-9758 View (610) 563-9758
Photo of Lauren Bryan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Plata County, CO
Lauren Bryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durango, CO 81303  (Online Only)
I am a certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist and use this treatment interchangeably with Internal Family Systems and Somatic Experiencing.
We will work together to help navigate life stresses and upsetting events in order to find your healing journey. Through our time together we will explore past/current wounds, life's difficulties, and future desires to help build mind, body, and spiritual connections. If you are seeking and wanting to integrate faith into our time together, I am honored to have this as a centering piece of our time together.
I am a certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist and use this treatment interchangeably with Internal Family Systems and Somatic Experiencing.
We will work together to help navigate life stresses and upsetting events in order to find your healing journey. Through our time together we will explore past/current wounds, life's difficulties, and future desires to help build mind, body, and spiritual connections. If you are seeking and wanting to integrate faith into our time together, I am honored to have this as a centering piece of our time together.
(619) 350-0461 View (619) 350-0461
Photo of Sarah G Conti, Licensed Professional Counselor in La Plata County, CO
Sarah G Conti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CACIII
Verified Verified
Bayfield, CO 81122
I am a former Colorado Approved Domestic Violence Treatment Provider, a Certified Addiction Specialist and a Colorado Certified Child/Family Investigator.
To help you get to know me, I go by my nickname "Sam". I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals over the age of 14 and families. I specialize in helping families avoid and survive high conflict divorce. I coach parents about parental responsibility as part of divorce. I have a major area of interest working with individuals with Dissociative Disorders. I work with offenders of Domestic Violence. I enjoy working with adults who want to improve their quality of life through personal growth. I have experience working with the GLBTQ+ community. I have additional training working with Veterans of all services .
I am a former Colorado Approved Domestic Violence Treatment Provider, a Certified Addiction Specialist and a Colorado Certified Child/Family Investigator.
To help you get to know me, I go by my nickname "Sam". I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals over the age of 14 and families. I specialize in helping families avoid and survive high conflict divorce. I coach parents about parental responsibility as part of divorce. I have a major area of interest working with individuals with Dissociative Disorders. I work with offenders of Domestic Violence. I enjoy working with adults who want to improve their quality of life through personal growth. I have experience working with the GLBTQ+ community. I have additional training working with Veterans of all services .
(970) 300-5695 View (970) 300-5695
Photo of Jeni Allton, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Plata County, CO
Jeni Allton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durango, CO 81301
Hello and welcome. I understand that trying to find a therapist who feels like the right fit for you and your family can sometimes seem overwhelming. If you are here, you have already taken a courageous next step on your journey of growth. Together we will build a strong therapeutic relationship based in trust, openness, and authenticity. My approach is gentle, personable, and direct, often utilizing humor and metaphor. My strengths based, solution-focused lens serves to help orient my clients to a more holistic picture beyond “the presenting problem.”
Hello and welcome. I understand that trying to find a therapist who feels like the right fit for you and your family can sometimes seem overwhelming. If you are here, you have already taken a courageous next step on your journey of growth. Together we will build a strong therapeutic relationship based in trust, openness, and authenticity. My approach is gentle, personable, and direct, often utilizing humor and metaphor. My strengths based, solution-focused lens serves to help orient my clients to a more holistic picture beyond “the presenting problem.”
(970) 538-8816 View (970) 538-8816
Photo of Anca Niculae, Marriage & Family Therapist in La Plata County, CO
Anca Niculae
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durango, CO 81302
In our lifetime, we find ourselves at many crossroads, and we can feel stuck or at a loss for direction. Whether you're trying to figure out if you're in the best relationship, which career path to take, how to manage difficult family or work relationships, or how to finally make that one big change you've been wanting to make, you're not alone. Life is challenging, the options can feel overwhelming, and it's easy to feel lost and lonely; we've all been there, many times. You don't have to wander and struggle alone; I'm here to guide and support you, and provide ideas, skills, and even scientific research to help you decide.
In our lifetime, we find ourselves at many crossroads, and we can feel stuck or at a loss for direction. Whether you're trying to figure out if you're in the best relationship, which career path to take, how to manage difficult family or work relationships, or how to finally make that one big change you've been wanting to make, you're not alone. Life is challenging, the options can feel overwhelming, and it's easy to feel lost and lonely; we've all been there, many times. You don't have to wander and struggle alone; I'm here to guide and support you, and provide ideas, skills, and even scientific research to help you decide.
(970) 344-6154 View (970) 344-6154
Photo of Jo Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in La Plata County, CO
Jo Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durango, CO 81301
Therapy is becoming more normalized in a way that it wasn’t for your parents or grandparents. This is an opportunity to explore your own wants/needs, boundaries and personal values that drive your life daily. I focus on three main modalities of mindfulness, somatic experiencing and EMDR. I start every session with a 5-10min mindfulness meditation. Secondly, somatic experiencing is feeling your emotions through physical sensations. Lastly I am trained in EMDR which can be helpful for a range of symptoms from anxiety, depression to PTSD. I also offer psychedelic/ entheogens intention setting and/or integration therapy.
Therapy is becoming more normalized in a way that it wasn’t for your parents or grandparents. This is an opportunity to explore your own wants/needs, boundaries and personal values that drive your life daily. I focus on three main modalities of mindfulness, somatic experiencing and EMDR. I start every session with a 5-10min mindfulness meditation. Secondly, somatic experiencing is feeling your emotions through physical sensations. Lastly I am trained in EMDR which can be helpful for a range of symptoms from anxiety, depression to PTSD. I also offer psychedelic/ entheogens intention setting and/or integration therapy.
(970) 671-7174 View (970) 671-7174

See more therapy options for La Plata County

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.