Photo of Jonathan Baker, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Jonathan Baker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92138  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping individuals negatively affected by trauma, struggling with mood disorders like anxiety and depression, or feeling stuck in negative relational patterns (work/school, family, romantic, etc.
I have been in the counseling field for over 10 years, working with teens and adults, using evidence-based treatments to address a wide range of issues. I work using a multi-cultural and trauma-informed lens that allows me to understand your individual needs and meet you where you are in your journey. I am committed to providing an inclusive environment for all regardless of age, gender identity, race, health status, national origin, relationship status, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and religion.
I specialize in helping individuals negatively affected by trauma, struggling with mood disorders like anxiety and depression, or feeling stuck in negative relational patterns (work/school, family, romantic, etc.
I have been in the counseling field for over 10 years, working with teens and adults, using evidence-based treatments to address a wide range of issues. I work using a multi-cultural and trauma-informed lens that allows me to understand your individual needs and meet you where you are in your journey. I am committed to providing an inclusive environment for all regardless of age, gender identity, race, health status, national origin, relationship status, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and religion.
(619) 202-8956 View (619) 202-8956
Photo of Jiyoung Kim, Associate Clinical Social Worker in California
Jiyoung Kim
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92604
I have expertise in couples and family therapy.
Do you find difficulties with feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship/family problems, and trauma? These emotional disruptions can have a significant impact on our lives. Coping with these events requires various approaches, and I can assist you in recognizing your emotions and identifying possible patterns in your relationships. I can also help you develop resilience and acceptance towards challenging emotions, and support you in setting meaningful goals. I utilize EMDR, CBT, trauma-informed care, mindfulness, & person-centered therapy to reduce anxiety and trauma symptoms, foster resilience, and enhance the quality of life.
I have expertise in couples and family therapy.
Do you find difficulties with feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship/family problems, and trauma? These emotional disruptions can have a significant impact on our lives. Coping with these events requires various approaches, and I can assist you in recognizing your emotions and identifying possible patterns in your relationships. I can also help you develop resilience and acceptance towards challenging emotions, and support you in setting meaningful goals. I utilize EMDR, CBT, trauma-informed care, mindfulness, & person-centered therapy to reduce anxiety and trauma symptoms, foster resilience, and enhance the quality of life.
(949) 704-6617 View (949) 704-6617
Photo of Dorise Hebenstreit, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in California
Dorise Hebenstreit
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
My focus is to help individuals and families heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship/family issues. As the therapeutic area of concern is introduced, we can begin to work together in developing empowerment of self as we set up together healthy and achievable goals. I aim to establish include compassion, good communication and trust. In our relationship then I will work alongside you to develop your own coping tools. My approach is a person-centered (positive type) direction to further your strengths and resilience which is tailored towards your specific goals and needs.
My focus is to help individuals and families heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship/family issues. As the therapeutic area of concern is introduced, we can begin to work together in developing empowerment of self as we set up together healthy and achievable goals. I aim to establish include compassion, good communication and trust. In our relationship then I will work alongside you to develop your own coping tools. My approach is a person-centered (positive type) direction to further your strengths and resilience which is tailored towards your specific goals and needs.
(415) 634-0653 View (415) 634-0653
Photo of Cameron Holliday, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Cameron Holliday
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90041
I am extensively trained in several trauma-based modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Brainspotting, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Anxious, depressed, or stuck? I work to create a safe, non-judgmental space for adults and adolescents of all religions, races, sexualities, and genders to process their life needs, wants, and fears. I provide psychotherapy within the context of a therapeutic working alliance; by first building trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship, one can then work towards tackling larger life goals. I work from a core belief that our minds and bodies are deeply connected. Treating the whole person, including the impact of stress on their physical body, is an important component to treating trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and more.
I am extensively trained in several trauma-based modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Brainspotting, and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Anxious, depressed, or stuck? I work to create a safe, non-judgmental space for adults and adolescents of all religions, races, sexualities, and genders to process their life needs, wants, and fears. I provide psychotherapy within the context of a therapeutic working alliance; by first building trust and safety in the therapeutic relationship, one can then work towards tackling larger life goals. I work from a core belief that our minds and bodies are deeply connected. Treating the whole person, including the impact of stress on their physical body, is an important component to treating trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and more.
(626) 714-2898 View (626) 714-2898
Photo of Beth Coleman, Psychologist in California
Beth Coleman
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MEd
Verified Verified
Burbank, CA 91506
Common goals include improving relationships with family/peers, decreasing undesirable behaviors, and developing coping skills.
While many people come to me feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and defeated, seeking therapy for oneself is actually a sign of strength. It takes a lot to recognize a need for change and to take steps to follow through. In my practice I provide a comfortable, supportive atmosphere to explore alternative ways of living and coping with problems so that life can be more fulfilling and enjoyable. The opportunity to see individuals and families grow and feel better through the therapeutic process is the reason I love my work so much. In addition to providing therapy, I also conduct ADHD screenings and Bariatric surgery screenings.
Common goals include improving relationships with family/peers, decreasing undesirable behaviors, and developing coping skills.
While many people come to me feeling stressed, overwhelmed, and defeated, seeking therapy for oneself is actually a sign of strength. It takes a lot to recognize a need for change and to take steps to follow through. In my practice I provide a comfortable, supportive atmosphere to explore alternative ways of living and coping with problems so that life can be more fulfilling and enjoyable. The opportunity to see individuals and families grow and feel better through the therapeutic process is the reason I love my work so much. In addition to providing therapy, I also conduct ADHD screenings and Bariatric surgery screenings.
(818) 322-0441 View (818) 322-0441
Photo of Roxy Diba, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Roxy Diba
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
My training includes Hollygrove, a community-based mental and behavioral treatment program, Regional Center of Orange County, as well as Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Long Beach.
It takes courage to ask for help. If you're browsing through this site, you're probably wondering how you can make things better for yourself. That's a great first step. And you already took it. Life can be very challenging, and at times unbearable. As a Clinical Therapist, I want to help you find and develop life-enhancing qualities that you need in order to live the kind of life that you envision for yourself.
My training includes Hollygrove, a community-based mental and behavioral treatment program, Regional Center of Orange County, as well as Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Long Beach.
It takes courage to ask for help. If you're browsing through this site, you're probably wondering how you can make things better for yourself. That's a great first step. And you already took it. Life can be very challenging, and at times unbearable. As a Clinical Therapist, I want to help you find and develop life-enhancing qualities that you need in order to live the kind of life that you envision for yourself.
(310) 818-7936 View (310) 818-7936
Photo of Ruben Arancibia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Ruben Arancibia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Pedro, CA 90731
I always wanted to assist those in the community with overcoming emotional challenges. I have over 16 years' experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I've worked with El Nido Family Centers for 16 years providing psychotherapy and case management services. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I obtained my Master's degree from Adelphi University in Garden City, New York. I am fluent in both English and Spanish. I look forward to meeting with you to talk and develop new ways of overcoming life's challenges.
I always wanted to assist those in the community with overcoming emotional challenges. I have over 16 years' experience working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I've worked with El Nido Family Centers for 16 years providing psychotherapy and case management services. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy. I obtained my Master's degree from Adelphi University in Garden City, New York. I am fluent in both English and Spanish. I look forward to meeting with you to talk and develop new ways of overcoming life's challenges.
(424) 275-2390 View (424) 275-2390
Photo of Kathy J Gilbert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Kathy J Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92108
I will be here to help you balance caring for a family member, while still maintaining a sense of yourself, and your life.
Over the last 37 +years I have been a psychotherapist. I have worked with all ages of the life-cycle, including families who have loved ones that have been diagnosed with dementia. I have been a care-giver and daughter of a parent who had a diagnosis of Alzheimers. I have been married for 37 years, and the parent of 2 adult children. My lived and professional experiences , make me qualified to provide clients with a treatment plan and services specifically suited to meet their individual needs. I also limit the number of clients that I work with, so that I can be responsive and available for whatever support that may be needed.
I will be here to help you balance caring for a family member, while still maintaining a sense of yourself, and your life.
Over the last 37 +years I have been a psychotherapist. I have worked with all ages of the life-cycle, including families who have loved ones that have been diagnosed with dementia. I have been a care-giver and daughter of a parent who had a diagnosis of Alzheimers. I have been married for 37 years, and the parent of 2 adult children. My lived and professional experiences , make me qualified to provide clients with a treatment plan and services specifically suited to meet their individual needs. I also limit the number of clients that I work with, so that I can be responsive and available for whatever support that may be needed.
(619) 574-0677 View (619) 574-0677
Photo of Robert Scholz, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Robert Scholz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
As a licensed mental health professional for over 20 years, I have expertise in the areas of anxiety, depression, addiction, men's issues, career coaching, sports psych, couples/ family therapy, trauma and young adult health.
Thanks for your interest in my practice. My clients are often high-achievers, yet struggling to stay afloat in other aspects of their life. Men and women professionals often seek out my psychotherapy and coaching services when they find themselves stuck in long-standing patterns of addictive behaviors, anxiety and depression or when faced with learning how to manage a significant change in their personal or business life. I provide an empathic ear and will also challenge you in ways to help you meet your goals. I help clients gain focus, develop options and increase the motivation needed to make meaningful, sustainable changes.
As a licensed mental health professional for over 20 years, I have expertise in the areas of anxiety, depression, addiction, men's issues, career coaching, sports psych, couples/ family therapy, trauma and young adult health.
Thanks for your interest in my practice. My clients are often high-achievers, yet struggling to stay afloat in other aspects of their life. Men and women professionals often seek out my psychotherapy and coaching services when they find themselves stuck in long-standing patterns of addictive behaviors, anxiety and depression or when faced with learning how to manage a significant change in their personal or business life. I provide an empathic ear and will also challenge you in ways to help you meet your goals. I help clients gain focus, develop options and increase the motivation needed to make meaningful, sustainable changes.
(805) 742-4471 View (805) 742-4471
Photo of Jennifer Lopez, Counselor in California
Jennifer Lopez
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Northridge, CA 91325  (Online Only)
SPECIALTIES Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Self esteem, and Coping with life changes.
Hi! My name is Jennifer Lopez and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of California. I have fourteen (14) years of clinical counseling experience and several years of Christian counseling experience as well. Working with diverse clients over the years has given me opportunities to learn about people and their unique individuality. Respect and learning about your culture and how it affects your worldview and experience without judgment or assumption is important in deepening my understanding of where you are coming from.
SPECIALTIES Stress, Anxiety, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Self esteem, and Coping with life changes.
Hi! My name is Jennifer Lopez and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of California. I have fourteen (14) years of clinical counseling experience and several years of Christian counseling experience as well. Working with diverse clients over the years has given me opportunities to learn about people and their unique individuality. Respect and learning about your culture and how it affects your worldview and experience without judgment or assumption is important in deepening my understanding of where you are coming from.
(805) 519-7675 View (805) 519-7675
Photo of Sarah Koch-Schiller, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Sarah Koch-Schiller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
Thank you so much for visiting my page. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience providing psychotherapy to adults, families, and children. I am a relational therapist, meaning that I deeply value the healing aspects of the therapeutic relationship, and work collaboratively with my clients to ensure therapy is meaningful and aligned with treatment goals.
Thank you so much for visiting my page. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience providing psychotherapy to adults, families, and children. I am a relational therapist, meaning that I deeply value the healing aspects of the therapeutic relationship, and work collaboratively with my clients to ensure therapy is meaningful and aligned with treatment goals.
(628) 216-2060 View (628) 216-2060
Photo of Stephen Elias, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Stephen Elias
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lodi, CA 95242
Together, we'll figure out how you can breakthrough to your full potential so that you can continue to be the man your family and job needs you to be.
I am currently accepting new clients for both in-person and online therapy. My ideal clients are kiddos, ages 3-18 as well as male adults. In my 5+ years working with kids I've helped them overcome anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, bullying and increased their self-esteem. We start by increasing your child's ability to label their emotions, once they have a grasp on that, we move towards promoting their self-awareness of when their negative emotions come up. We then give them skills to replace those negative emotions with positive emotions as well as teach you, their parents, how you can support them in the process.
Together, we'll figure out how you can breakthrough to your full potential so that you can continue to be the man your family and job needs you to be.
I am currently accepting new clients for both in-person and online therapy. My ideal clients are kiddos, ages 3-18 as well as male adults. In my 5+ years working with kids I've helped them overcome anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, bullying and increased their self-esteem. We start by increasing your child's ability to label their emotions, once they have a grasp on that, we move towards promoting their self-awareness of when their negative emotions come up. We then give them skills to replace those negative emotions with positive emotions as well as teach you, their parents, how you can support them in the process.
(209) 249-0972 View (209) 249-0972
Photo of Shanti Sanchez, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Shanti Sanchez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orcutt, CA 93455
Welcome to my profile! My name is Shanti Sanchez, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Walnut Creek, California. I offer mental health services to clients throughout the state of California via telehealth. I work with individuals 18 and older and specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders, using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused CBT (TF-CBT), and Family Based Treatment for Eating Disorders (FBT). My vocation is to help others and I am excited to offer my supportive services to you.
Welcome to my profile! My name is Shanti Sanchez, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Walnut Creek, California. I offer mental health services to clients throughout the state of California via telehealth. I work with individuals 18 and older and specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and eating disorders, using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused CBT (TF-CBT), and Family Based Treatment for Eating Disorders (FBT). My vocation is to help others and I am excited to offer my supportive services to you.
(805) 590-9785 View (805) 590-9785
Photo of Christi Gallon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Christi Gallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing relationship/family issues, divorce, and LGBTQ challenges.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
I also have extensive experience working with children, adolescents and adults who are experiencing relationship/family issues, divorce, and LGBTQ challenges.
Are you hindered by anxiety, depression, or trauma, preventing you from expressing your authentic self? Do you find yourself trapped in navigating challenging family and relationship situations? Every minor issue now feels incredibly overwhelming, reopening past wounds and creating new ones. Despite attempting to bury the pain, it persists, leaving you feeling isolated and tormented. The constant exhaustion, stress, and anger make you question your resilience. Unsure of where to seek assistance, you don't have to endure this painful journey by yourself. I aim to assist you in achieving a more integrated and balanced sense of self.
(415) 818-9787 View (415) 818-9787
Photo of Sharifa Freightman, Psychologist in California
Sharifa Freightman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newark, CA 94560  (Online Only)
I am currently providing telehealth (phone or video) appointments. Are you motivated to address family-of-origin, mood, or interpersonal issues in psychotherapy? I enjoy working with clients who want to improve their self-esteem and assertiveness, in particular people who would be considered late social bloomers (including socially awkward/mildly anxious). My ideal client wants to break out of self- or other-imposed limitations so that they can live a full life that is in line with their own sense of sovereignty.
I am currently providing telehealth (phone or video) appointments. Are you motivated to address family-of-origin, mood, or interpersonal issues in psychotherapy? I enjoy working with clients who want to improve their self-esteem and assertiveness, in particular people who would be considered late social bloomers (including socially awkward/mildly anxious). My ideal client wants to break out of self- or other-imposed limitations so that they can live a full life that is in line with their own sense of sovereignty.
(341) 888-6016 View (341) 888-6016
Photo of Jenny Moon , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Jenny Moon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90503  (Online Only)
Using the Internal Family Systems model, CBT, and mindfulness, we'll take a deeper look into how your upbringing and life events have shaped your internal belief system.
Imagine the freedom of living without constant worry and anxiety. As an Asian American therapist, I offer culturally responsive care addressing intergenerational trauma, stress and depression. Together we'll work towards unlocking your unmet needs, discover purpose and restore balance back into your life. Do you find yourself lost in responsibilities for others; whether its your partner, work, family, church or even your child? This can lead to a loss of self and identity, overwhelm, low self-esteem, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. Hardship and pain can often feel lonely, but you don't have to face these challenges alone.
Using the Internal Family Systems model, CBT, and mindfulness, we'll take a deeper look into how your upbringing and life events have shaped your internal belief system.
Imagine the freedom of living without constant worry and anxiety. As an Asian American therapist, I offer culturally responsive care addressing intergenerational trauma, stress and depression. Together we'll work towards unlocking your unmet needs, discover purpose and restore balance back into your life. Do you find yourself lost in responsibilities for others; whether its your partner, work, family, church or even your child? This can lead to a loss of self and identity, overwhelm, low self-esteem, and a relentless pursuit of perfection. Hardship and pain can often feel lonely, but you don't have to face these challenges alone.
(424) 340-0735 View (424) 340-0735
Photo of Alexander Ochoa, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Alexander Ochoa
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Finding a therapist can be difficult, especially finding a therapist who looks like you and can relate to struggles you face with. Being a young male in todayʻs society can be difficult and often times problems are over looked due to the stigma of ʻman upʻ. Being a parent and adjusting to the changes of a growing family, strain on a marriage, issues from childhood impacting parenting can be difficult to identify and reflect on. Being an athlete and finding space to process how issues outside of the sport could be impacting your performance can be outside of your comfort zone because personal or athletic lives tend to be seperate.
Finding a therapist can be difficult, especially finding a therapist who looks like you and can relate to struggles you face with. Being a young male in todayʻs society can be difficult and often times problems are over looked due to the stigma of ʻman upʻ. Being a parent and adjusting to the changes of a growing family, strain on a marriage, issues from childhood impacting parenting can be difficult to identify and reflect on. Being an athlete and finding space to process how issues outside of the sport could be impacting your performance can be outside of your comfort zone because personal or athletic lives tend to be seperate.
(510) 900-5394 View (510) 900-5394
Photo of Rebecca Heisler, Marriage & Family Therapist in California
Rebecca Heisler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92591
Life is relationship. People come to therapy because their relationships seem strained: You feel misunderstood by your partner, fights increasing, the distance between you growing. You're not on the same page parenting the kids. There are fewer "good times." You feel alone. You crave a renewing, loving relationship, more family harmony. Perhaps you have not succeeded in creating the fulfilling relationship you desire and suffer in its absence, flying solo- anxious, depressed, bored. Can't relax, overwhelmed by your job. The therapeutic work we do together can help you overcome these challenges, building more satisfying, loving relationships, a better fitting life.
Life is relationship. People come to therapy because their relationships seem strained: You feel misunderstood by your partner, fights increasing, the distance between you growing. You're not on the same page parenting the kids. There are fewer "good times." You feel alone. You crave a renewing, loving relationship, more family harmony. Perhaps you have not succeeded in creating the fulfilling relationship you desire and suffer in its absence, flying solo- anxious, depressed, bored. Can't relax, overwhelmed by your job. The therapeutic work we do together can help you overcome these challenges, building more satisfying, loving relationships, a better fitting life.
(619) 383-1957 View (619) 383-1957
Photo of Gwen Harville-Washington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in California
Gwen Harville-Washington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indio, CA 92201
Are you looking to heal from past experiences, work through a stressful life transition, or improve your family dynamics and relationships? Do your relationships feel overwhelming and you can't seem to find your way to better days? I aid individuals in understanding how past traumas and other negative experiences affect behaviors and their interactions with others.
Are you looking to heal from past experiences, work through a stressful life transition, or improve your family dynamics and relationships? Do your relationships feel overwhelming and you can't seem to find your way to better days? I aid individuals in understanding how past traumas and other negative experiences affect behaviors and their interactions with others.
(442) 244-9638 View (442) 244-9638
Photo of David Chung, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in California
David Chung
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
I care deeply about supporting my clients on their evolving journey towards healing and returning to the truth of who they really are, and I honor their autonomy and unique life experiences as essential to their growth and unfolding. Coming from a first-gen immigrant family, I know that our lives can often be impacted by layers of familial & cultural pressures, trauma, and childhood wounding. I hold compassionate space to explore these aspects of experience through a holistic and trauma-informed lens. As an integrative therapist, I use a variety of approaches including EMDR.
I care deeply about supporting my clients on their evolving journey towards healing and returning to the truth of who they really are, and I honor their autonomy and unique life experiences as essential to their growth and unfolding. Coming from a first-gen immigrant family, I know that our lives can often be impacted by layers of familial & cultural pressures, trauma, and childhood wounding. I hold compassionate space to explore these aspects of experience through a holistic and trauma-informed lens. As an integrative therapist, I use a variety of approaches including EMDR.
(510) 330-0465 View (510) 330-0465
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.