Family Therapy in Gilbert, AZ

Heidi E Wyman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85295
My name is Dr. Heidi Wyman. I have a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy and have been practicing in this field for approximately 17 years. I work with children, families, and individuals. I work with a wide variety of issues and tend to focus on individual and family strengths when working with clients. I am committed to helping others and use feedback from those that I help to guide my work and my practice.
My name is Dr. Heidi Wyman. I have a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy and have been practicing in this field for approximately 17 years. I work with children, families, and individuals. I work with a wide variety of issues and tend to focus on individual and family strengths when working with clients. I am committed to helping others and use feedback from those that I help to guide my work and my practice.
(480) 409-2383 View (480) 409-2383
Photo of Heather Fernandez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Heather Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Hello, my name is Heather and I have been a practicing Marriage and Family Therapist since 2013. I have experience working closely with adolescents, adults, individuals, couples, and families. A few of the things I assist in are: anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, stress management, improved communication within families and couples, blended families, co-parenting, healthy relationships to include those with domestic violence history, self-esteem and assertiveness building, trauma, and drug/alcohol addiction history.
Hello, my name is Heather and I have been a practicing Marriage and Family Therapist since 2013. I have experience working closely with adolescents, adults, individuals, couples, and families. A few of the things I assist in are: anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, stress management, improved communication within families and couples, blended families, co-parenting, healthy relationships to include those with domestic violence history, self-esteem and assertiveness building, trauma, and drug/alcohol addiction history.
(602) 536-8261 View (602) 536-8261
Photo of Katherine Schneider, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Katherine Schneider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85297
I am a psychotherapist with advanced trainings in psychodynamic therapy, Exposure Response Prevention for OCD and phobias, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, cognitive behavioral therapy, Functional Family Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples, and specific education and trainings relating to high control groups and spiritual trauma.
People come to me from all walks of life, all seeking something different for themselves. I specialize in helping people working through life transitions. This includes people experiencing faith transitions or healing from religious/spiritual trauma or transitioning away from a high-control group, those transitioning to a new family structure, people entering a new season of life, those coping with a diagnosis or illness, and those navigating new relationships or exploring existing relationships in new ways. As life changes, we change with it. I help my clients explore and navigate this messy, confusing, exhilarating process.
I am a psychotherapist with advanced trainings in psychodynamic therapy, Exposure Response Prevention for OCD and phobias, Cognitive Processing Therapy for PTSD, cognitive behavioral therapy, Functional Family Therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples, and specific education and trainings relating to high control groups and spiritual trauma.
People come to me from all walks of life, all seeking something different for themselves. I specialize in helping people working through life transitions. This includes people experiencing faith transitions or healing from religious/spiritual trauma or transitioning away from a high-control group, those transitioning to a new family structure, people entering a new season of life, those coping with a diagnosis or illness, and those navigating new relationships or exploring existing relationships in new ways. As life changes, we change with it. I help my clients explore and navigate this messy, confusing, exhilarating process.
(480) 530-5093 View (480) 530-5093
Photo of Rachel P Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Rachel P Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Hi All! I am a passionate and empathetic licensed therapist with over 10 years of counseling experience for children, teenagers, adults and families. Being open and vulnerable is a huge step into your healing journey and I love being a guide to help.I help my clients with a variety of challenges such as generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, depression, self-injurious behaviors, gender identity, trauma, anger, self- esteem, grief & loss, life stressors, family and relationship issues including family of origin/generational trauma issues, life changes, pre/post partum mental health issues and eating disorders. I am a LGBTQIA ally.
Hi All! I am a passionate and empathetic licensed therapist with over 10 years of counseling experience for children, teenagers, adults and families. Being open and vulnerable is a huge step into your healing journey and I love being a guide to help.I help my clients with a variety of challenges such as generalized anxiety, OCD, social anxiety, depression, self-injurious behaviors, gender identity, trauma, anger, self- esteem, grief & loss, life stressors, family and relationship issues including family of origin/generational trauma issues, life changes, pre/post partum mental health issues and eating disorders. I am a LGBTQIA ally.
(480) 741-3254 View (480) 741-3254
Photo of Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Gilbert, AZ
Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MAS-MFT, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
Chelsea is a Licensed Associate Clinical Therapist at Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic.
Taking the step to seek therapy is the first step to getting closer to change. Chelsea Hausenfluck believes that deciding to participate in therapy can be one of the most beneficial choices a person can make. Her hope and her main goal as a therapist is to help her clients feel comfortable in the therapy room. She prides herself in remaining neutral and unbiased as she works collaboratively with her clients on the presenting symptom that is affecting their lives. She loves working with her clients to create realistic and healthy goals to focus on throughout therapy.
Chelsea is a Licensed Associate Clinical Therapist at Arizona Marriage and Family Therapy Clinic.
Taking the step to seek therapy is the first step to getting closer to change. Chelsea Hausenfluck believes that deciding to participate in therapy can be one of the most beneficial choices a person can make. Her hope and her main goal as a therapist is to help her clients feel comfortable in the therapy room. She prides herself in remaining neutral and unbiased as she works collaboratively with her clients on the presenting symptom that is affecting their lives. She loves working with her clients to create realistic and healthy goals to focus on throughout therapy.
(480) 470-1366 View (480) 470-1366
Photo of Neal McMann, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Neal McMann
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85297  (Online Only)
We all encounter challenges in our lives. I am here to help you successfully navigate through those challenges, to discover untapped inner resources and possibilities, for successful change to take place. Have you or your family been struggling to keep everything together but now have a growing sense that you are stuck and need help? Are you telling yourself “just get through another day”? Or do past events distress you still even though they happened years ago? If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, then I can help you bring a sense of balance and healing to your life.
We all encounter challenges in our lives. I am here to help you successfully navigate through those challenges, to discover untapped inner resources and possibilities, for successful change to take place. Have you or your family been struggling to keep everything together but now have a growing sense that you are stuck and need help? Are you telling yourself “just get through another day”? Or do past events distress you still even though they happened years ago? If you answer “yes” to any of these questions, then I can help you bring a sense of balance and healing to your life.
(480) 508-8565 View (480) 508-8565
Photo of Amy Bryant, Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Amy Bryant
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85295
I utilize EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Trauma Model Therapy, Attachment and Somatic Therapy approaches.
Tired of managing your emotional pain on your own? Let’s start your healing process together. In my practice, I am committed to providing my clients a safe space and support to work through their past and the tools to thrive in the future.
I utilize EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Trauma Model Therapy, Attachment and Somatic Therapy approaches.
Tired of managing your emotional pain on your own? Let’s start your healing process together. In my practice, I am committed to providing my clients a safe space and support to work through their past and the tools to thrive in the future.
(480) 573-8135 View (480) 573-8135
Photo of Taelor Emmert, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Taelor Emmert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296  (Online Only)
Hi there! I am an Arizona State University graduate (Go Sun Devils!) with a Bachelors Degree in Family and Human Development and a Masters Degree in Counseling. I have clinical experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families with a variety of struggles including family disruption, trauma, anxiety, behavioral problems, grief, faith crisis, self esteem and depression. I approach the therapeutic process by incorporating many modalities into therapy that fit the needs of each client.
Hi there! I am an Arizona State University graduate (Go Sun Devils!) with a Bachelors Degree in Family and Human Development and a Masters Degree in Counseling. I have clinical experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families with a variety of struggles including family disruption, trauma, anxiety, behavioral problems, grief, faith crisis, self esteem and depression. I approach the therapeutic process by incorporating many modalities into therapy that fit the needs of each client.
(480) 680-7429 View (480) 680-7429
Photo of Katina M Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Katina M Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296  (Online Only)
I am trained as a family trauma professional, specializing in Trauma, Infertility, Prenatal, and Maternal Mental health.
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety and those navigating their fertility journey, including infertility, prenatal and postpartum experiences, as well as healing from trauma and PTSD. These journeys can often be emotionally messy and complex, with their own unique moments of joy and grief. Our work together will focus on understanding where you currently are in your journey, where you are headed, and the bumps that happen along the way.
I am trained as a family trauma professional, specializing in Trauma, Infertility, Prenatal, and Maternal Mental health.
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety and those navigating their fertility journey, including infertility, prenatal and postpartum experiences, as well as healing from trauma and PTSD. These journeys can often be emotionally messy and complex, with their own unique moments of joy and grief. Our work together will focus on understanding where you currently are in your journey, where you are headed, and the bumps that happen along the way.
(480) 376-7638 View (480) 376-7638
Photo of Becky Verbansky, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Becky Verbansky, MS, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85297  (Online Only)
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both California and Arizona, who has practiced for over 20 years and specialize in EMDR and ERP treatments for anxiety and OCD.
You're not sure when it started but you no longer feel confident, secure, or in control of your own body or thoughts. Has anxiety, worry and stress robbed you of time, energy, and sleep? Do you find yourself battling intrusive, disturbing thoughts, fears or images? You can feel calmer and in control again. My approach is kind, thoughtful and encouraging. I know how hard it can be to develop connected, resilient, truly joyful relationships. I also know the rewards are worth it! I can help you become your "best self"; emotionally, socially, relationally, and professionally.
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both California and Arizona, who has practiced for over 20 years and specialize in EMDR and ERP treatments for anxiety and OCD.
You're not sure when it started but you no longer feel confident, secure, or in control of your own body or thoughts. Has anxiety, worry and stress robbed you of time, energy, and sleep? Do you find yourself battling intrusive, disturbing thoughts, fears or images? You can feel calmer and in control again. My approach is kind, thoughtful and encouraging. I know how hard it can be to develop connected, resilient, truly joyful relationships. I also know the rewards are worth it! I can help you become your "best self"; emotionally, socially, relationally, and professionally.
(480) 588-2374 View (480) 588-2374
Photo of Alexa Bailey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Alexa Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85296
I have experience treating a variety of needs including depression, anxiety, trauma, family & relational challenges, women issues, identity concerns, faith crises, grief/loss, and life transitions/stressors.
Every person faces the wilderness of the world, whether that be depression, trauma, painful life experiences, or any other challenges. We are all searching for a way to walk in harmony with that wilderness and to grow through our experiences. I believe that each person walks their own path and that therapy is about individuals learning to recognize and accept their intrinsic worth and fostering resilience. Lasting change is possible and we all start somewhere. Why not start here?
I have experience treating a variety of needs including depression, anxiety, trauma, family & relational challenges, women issues, identity concerns, faith crises, grief/loss, and life transitions/stressors.
Every person faces the wilderness of the world, whether that be depression, trauma, painful life experiences, or any other challenges. We are all searching for a way to walk in harmony with that wilderness and to grow through our experiences. I believe that each person walks their own path and that therapy is about individuals learning to recognize and accept their intrinsic worth and fostering resilience. Lasting change is possible and we all start somewhere. Why not start here?
(480) 771-8043 View (480) 771-8043
Photo of Charise Schwertfeger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Charise Schwertfeger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MAS, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85295
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working with individuals and families in the community for over 11 years. I offer individual adult therapy for people wanting to change their life for the better. I believe that having a strong therapeutic relationship with your therapist exponentially increases your likelihood for change.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working with individuals and families in the community for over 11 years. I offer individual adult therapy for people wanting to change their life for the better. I believe that having a strong therapeutic relationship with your therapist exponentially increases your likelihood for change.
(602) 730-6779 View (602) 730-6779
Photo of Karen Hawk, Psychologist in Gilbert, AZ
Karen Hawk
Psychologist, PsyD, LAC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85298
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR GROUP AND INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. Thank you for believing you deserve to feel better! I have extensive experience and training in trauma, family conflict, infidelity, intimacy and communication difficulties, anxiety, depression, substance use, porn addiction, pre-teen and teen challenges, “midlife crisis,” loneliness, fear of abandonment, and rejection, co-parenting, pre-and-post divorce difficulties, grief, ethnic and cultural diversity, and the effects of narcissism in relationships. I hope to instill confidence and agency in survivors of abuse so they can live happy lives!
NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR GROUP AND INDIVIDUAL THERAPY. WEEKEND APPOINTMENTS. Thank you for believing you deserve to feel better! I have extensive experience and training in trauma, family conflict, infidelity, intimacy and communication difficulties, anxiety, depression, substance use, porn addiction, pre-teen and teen challenges, “midlife crisis,” loneliness, fear of abandonment, and rejection, co-parenting, pre-and-post divorce difficulties, grief, ethnic and cultural diversity, and the effects of narcissism in relationships. I hope to instill confidence and agency in survivors of abuse so they can live happy lives!
(480) 771-9905 View (480) 771-9905
Photo of Jared Crouse, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Jared Crouse
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85295
My areas of focus include helping with sexual maladaptive behaviors, pornography, substance addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, behavioral issues, divorce, family conflict, grief, loss, and communication.
I specialize in adolescent and adult sexual maladaptive behaviors (including sexual/pornography addiction). I also have experience in working with those who suffer from depression, anxiety and trauma. I earned my Masters Degree in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. I have been in the behavioral health field for over 17 years. I began my career working with juveniles in residential treatment centers beginning in 1999 with A New Leaf, and eventually the U-Turn Foundation. While working with the U-Turn Foundation, I also provided outpatient counseling for at-risk youth in the Arizona Juvenile Superior Court system.
My areas of focus include helping with sexual maladaptive behaviors, pornography, substance addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, behavioral issues, divorce, family conflict, grief, loss, and communication.
I specialize in adolescent and adult sexual maladaptive behaviors (including sexual/pornography addiction). I also have experience in working with those who suffer from depression, anxiety and trauma. I earned my Masters Degree in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. I have been in the behavioral health field for over 17 years. I began my career working with juveniles in residential treatment centers beginning in 1999 with A New Leaf, and eventually the U-Turn Foundation. While working with the U-Turn Foundation, I also provided outpatient counseling for at-risk youth in the Arizona Juvenile Superior Court system.
(480) 300-1926 View (480) 300-1926
Photo of Jolyn Andrews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Jolyn Andrews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296  (Online Only)
My youngest son is medically complex and I understand the toll this takes on the family.
The stress of recent world events may increase anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Big "T" traumas are life-threatening events that may be witnessed (bystanders) or experienced. Little "t" traumas include non-life-threatening injuries, emotional abuse, death of a pet, bullying or harassment, loss of significant relationships, just to name a few. All traumas have a significant emotional impact. Failing to address any trauma may result in anxiety, depression, and substance abuse, just to name a few. Living with painful memories can be devastating to the mind by creating chaotic thinking.
My youngest son is medically complex and I understand the toll this takes on the family.
The stress of recent world events may increase anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Big "T" traumas are life-threatening events that may be witnessed (bystanders) or experienced. Little "t" traumas include non-life-threatening injuries, emotional abuse, death of a pet, bullying or harassment, loss of significant relationships, just to name a few. All traumas have a significant emotional impact. Failing to address any trauma may result in anxiety, depression, and substance abuse, just to name a few. Living with painful memories can be devastating to the mind by creating chaotic thinking.
(480) 478-1922 View (480) 478-1922
Photo of Natalie Cooper, Pre-Licensed Professional in Gilbert, AZ
Natalie Cooper
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAS-MFT, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85295
I received my Master’s of Advanced Study in Marriage and Family Therapy with distinction at Arizona State University.
When working with clients I use a creative, collaborative, and systemic approach that can help people maneuver when stuck, heal when hurt, and find answers when struggling. Using evidenced-based techniques, I have seen families, couples, and individuals make significant positive changes in their lives. Although change can be uncomfortable, it is my goal to help you find comfort in the discomfort that change and life sometimes bring.
I received my Master’s of Advanced Study in Marriage and Family Therapy with distinction at Arizona State University.
When working with clients I use a creative, collaborative, and systemic approach that can help people maneuver when stuck, heal when hurt, and find answers when struggling. Using evidenced-based techniques, I have seen families, couples, and individuals make significant positive changes in their lives. Although change can be uncomfortable, it is my goal to help you find comfort in the discomfort that change and life sometimes bring.
(480) 841-9587 View (480) 841-9587
Photo of Sharon Morley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gilbert, AZ
Sharon Morley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gilbert, AZ 85234
Thank you for viewing my profile! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist- I truly understand couples, families, and individuals from the perspective of their experiences with each other. The people we love can be a source of great joy as well as a source of great distress. Allow me to help you experience more joy, connection, and hope in your life and your relationships. I specialize in couples and family issues, life transitions, teens, grief and loss. I use the research based treatment approaches of Dr. Susan Johnson's Emotionally Focused Therapy and Dr. John Gottman's Couples Method.
Thank you for viewing my profile! I am a Marriage and Family Therapist- I truly understand couples, families, and individuals from the perspective of their experiences with each other. The people we love can be a source of great joy as well as a source of great distress. Allow me to help you experience more joy, connection, and hope in your life and your relationships. I specialize in couples and family issues, life transitions, teens, grief and loss. I use the research based treatment approaches of Dr. Susan Johnson's Emotionally Focused Therapy and Dr. John Gottman's Couples Method.
(602) 635-3153 View (602) 635-3153
Photo of Amy Wesson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Gilbert, AZ
Amy Wesson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MAS, LAMFT, CCLS
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work from a family systems perspective, understanding that a person is shaped and affected by their familial, cultural, and spiritual circles.
I create a safe and comfortable environment where couples, families, teens and individuals can feel supported in their sharing, growth, and healing. As a Certified Child Life Specialist for Phoenix Children’s Hospital, I gained extensive experience supporting children and parents through in trauma, loss, diagnosis and life changes. I have worked with couples, parents, families, teens and children in many capacities over the last 20 years and look forward to supporting you. I believe my clients are the experts of their lives and I am here to aid in the processing of their story, to provide positive change and hope.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work from a family systems perspective, understanding that a person is shaped and affected by their familial, cultural, and spiritual circles.
I create a safe and comfortable environment where couples, families, teens and individuals can feel supported in their sharing, growth, and healing. As a Certified Child Life Specialist for Phoenix Children’s Hospital, I gained extensive experience supporting children and parents through in trauma, loss, diagnosis and life changes. I have worked with couples, parents, families, teens and children in many capacities over the last 20 years and look forward to supporting you. I believe my clients are the experts of their lives and I am here to aid in the processing of their story, to provide positive change and hope.
(928) 451-7909 View (928) 451-7909
Photo of Shelley Newman, Pre-Licensed Professional in Gilbert, AZ
Shelley Newman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CDBT
Not Verified Not Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85296  (Online Only)
Wherever you are, be right there. We get to generate healing in that very space. Whether therapy seems scary, or it has been a familiar experience for you, the clarity and tools gained in this process, are well worth it! I customize a range of therapeutic techniques depending on your needs. I see you as an individual, not a diagnosis. Over 7 years experienced in multiple therapeutic approaches (Psychoanalytic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma and Family Systems Theory), which are evidence-based approaches to treatment that focus on helping clients holistically, mind, body, and spirit.
Wherever you are, be right there. We get to generate healing in that very space. Whether therapy seems scary, or it has been a familiar experience for you, the clarity and tools gained in this process, are well worth it! I customize a range of therapeutic techniques depending on your needs. I see you as an individual, not a diagnosis. Over 7 years experienced in multiple therapeutic approaches (Psychoanalytic, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma and Family Systems Theory), which are evidence-based approaches to treatment that focus on helping clients holistically, mind, body, and spirit.
(480) 771-2834 View (480) 771-2834
Photo of Santiago Ayala, Counselor in Gilbert, AZ
Santiago Ayala
Counselor, MSc, LAC
Verified Verified
Gilbert, AZ 85233
Now accepting New Clients via Telemedicine! Do you know a child, adolescent or teen demonstrating symptoms of anxiety, depression, substance use, or any life changes? These life struggles can lead to Anxious and Depressive Symptoms (sx's) that may seem overwhelming at times. My passion is to help children and families work through depressive sx's, anxious sx's, low self-esteem sx's, grief sx's, behavioral issues, peer relationships, family conflict, trauma and substance use. Techniques practiced are evidence-based methods with collaborative client focused processes, such as, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Now accepting New Clients via Telemedicine! Do you know a child, adolescent or teen demonstrating symptoms of anxiety, depression, substance use, or any life changes? These life struggles can lead to Anxious and Depressive Symptoms (sx's) that may seem overwhelming at times. My passion is to help children and families work through depressive sx's, anxious sx's, low self-esteem sx's, grief sx's, behavioral issues, peer relationships, family conflict, trauma and substance use. Techniques practiced are evidence-based methods with collaborative client focused processes, such as, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Solution-Focused Therapy.
(623) 288-4014 View (623) 288-4014

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.