Family Therapy in Boston, MA

Photo of Felicia Hatem Robblee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Felicia Hatem Robblee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02113  (Online Only)
My experience includes a variety of jobs & settings such as online counseling, day treatment center & therapeutic school, residential facility & school, group home for LGBTQIA+ adolescents, juvenile court clinic, & community-based services (intensive care coordination, in-home family therapy & therapeutic mentoring).
I work with adults of all ages experiencing emotional distress relating to anxiety, depression, attentional deficits, trauma, self-harm, chronic suicidal ideation, difficulties attending school/job, transitional stressors & identity exploration. The foundation of my therapeutic approach is strengths-based & person-centered, with aspects of narrative therapy & cognitive behavioral therapy. It is my intention to always provide a supportive & non-judgmental space where my clients can process long-term areas of distress as well as daily stressors, & learn the skills needed to manage symptoms.
My experience includes a variety of jobs & settings such as online counseling, day treatment center & therapeutic school, residential facility & school, group home for LGBTQIA+ adolescents, juvenile court clinic, & community-based services (intensive care coordination, in-home family therapy & therapeutic mentoring).
I work with adults of all ages experiencing emotional distress relating to anxiety, depression, attentional deficits, trauma, self-harm, chronic suicidal ideation, difficulties attending school/job, transitional stressors & identity exploration. The foundation of my therapeutic approach is strengths-based & person-centered, with aspects of narrative therapy & cognitive behavioral therapy. It is my intention to always provide a supportive & non-judgmental space where my clients can process long-term areas of distress as well as daily stressors, & learn the skills needed to manage symptoms.
(781) 650-4277 View (781) 650-4277
Photo of Francesca Bjork, Counselor in Boston, MA
Francesca Bjork
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
I have also worked with those who suffer with depression, stress and anxiety, addictions and compulsions, grief and bereavement, phobias, insomnia, parenting or family problems, chronic pain or illness, eating disorders, and etc.
I am a warm and empathic therapist who will help you to see and grow into your best self and improve your day-to-day life. I believe that a person is more than just the sum of their parts, that people have many levels of self-awareness, that we have free will and participate, rather than simply observe our lives, and that we all have purpose, value, and meaning. We can choose happiness and contentment. Much of our suffering and despair (and our joy and fulfillment) comes from our relationships with others. I want my clients to be treated with respect and care in their relationships and to believe that this is an attainable goal.
I have also worked with those who suffer with depression, stress and anxiety, addictions and compulsions, grief and bereavement, phobias, insomnia, parenting or family problems, chronic pain or illness, eating disorders, and etc.
I am a warm and empathic therapist who will help you to see and grow into your best self and improve your day-to-day life. I believe that a person is more than just the sum of their parts, that people have many levels of self-awareness, that we have free will and participate, rather than simply observe our lives, and that we all have purpose, value, and meaning. We can choose happiness and contentment. Much of our suffering and despair (and our joy and fulfillment) comes from our relationships with others. I want my clients to be treated with respect and care in their relationships and to believe that this is an attainable goal.
(617) 362-4268 View (617) 362-4268
Photo of Diana Cofsky, Licensed Professional Counselor in Boston, MA
Diana Cofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
My approach to therapy is client centered, using a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT and family systems therapy.
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
My approach to therapy is client centered, using a variety of modalities including CBT, DBT and family systems therapy.
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
(617) 606-5363 View (617) 606-5363
Photo of Rob Mudge, Pre-Licensed Professional in Boston, MA
Rob Mudge
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02215
As part of the group practice Leek Therapy, I specialize in late adolescent/early adulthood personal identity formation, college-student development, depression/anxiety, meaning-making, relationships, family systems dynamics, contemplative psychology (mediation, yoga, self-consciousness). I have a passion for bringing self acceptance and understanding to my clients so that they can live happier, more fulfilling lives.
As part of the group practice Leek Therapy, I specialize in late adolescent/early adulthood personal identity formation, college-student development, depression/anxiety, meaning-making, relationships, family systems dynamics, contemplative psychology (mediation, yoga, self-consciousness). I have a passion for bringing self acceptance and understanding to my clients so that they can live happier, more fulfilling lives.
(857) 376-6622 View (857) 376-6622
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker in Boston, MA
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
PhD, NCC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02108
in Marriage and Family therapy from Nova Southeastern University.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
in Marriage and Family therapy from Nova Southeastern University.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(857) 574-4741 View (857) 574-4741
Photo of Marissa Dungan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Marissa Dungan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02131
Focusing her practice on couples, sexuality, and family systems, Marissa works with couples and families navigating relational dynamics. Marissa has worked with couples to rebuild trust and create new relational agreements. She has experience working with interracial, interfaith, and multicultural families. Marissa is trained in the developmental model of couples therapy via South Shore Sexual Health Center. Her training includes working with desire, intimacy, infidelity conflict management, and parenting.
Focusing her practice on couples, sexuality, and family systems, Marissa works with couples and families navigating relational dynamics. Marissa has worked with couples to rebuild trust and create new relational agreements. She has experience working with interracial, interfaith, and multicultural families. Marissa is trained in the developmental model of couples therapy via South Shore Sexual Health Center. Her training includes working with desire, intimacy, infidelity conflict management, and parenting.
(781) 886-7902 View (781) 886-7902
Photo of Kathleen Connolly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Kathleen Connolly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02132  (Online Only)
Change and life transitions can be difficult and scary. You don't have to go through them alone. COVID has affected everyone and their emotions. We have all been challenged to live our lives differently. Are there more family members living at home? Has your job changed? Are your children learning virtually now? Do you have a family member in hospital or nursing home that you can't visit as often as you would like? You may find yourself anxious or depressed. Your self esteem may be wavering. You may feel lonely. You don't have to be alone with any of this. I can help.
Change and life transitions can be difficult and scary. You don't have to go through them alone. COVID has affected everyone and their emotions. We have all been challenged to live our lives differently. Are there more family members living at home? Has your job changed? Are your children learning virtually now? Do you have a family member in hospital or nursing home that you can't visit as often as you would like? You may find yourself anxious or depressed. Your self esteem may be wavering. You may feel lonely. You don't have to be alone with any of this. I can help.
(781) 208-5977 View (781) 208-5977
Photo of Kimika Watkins-Tashima, Counselor in Boston, MA
Kimika Watkins-Tashima
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
She will use an integrative approach to intervention using her training in trauma-focused, psychodynamics, attachment-based, IFS, component-based psychotherapy, DBT, EMDR, body-mind approach such as sensorimotor psychotherapy, family therapy, ARC, SMART, Mindfulness and CBT.
Kimika is a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) with 15+ years of clinical experience partnering with adults, children, families and couples seeking help with a wide variety of issues. She specializes particularly in treating individuals impacted by trauma including but not limited to attachment issues, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sociocultural issues, addiction, emotion regulation issues, loss, and life transition.
She will use an integrative approach to intervention using her training in trauma-focused, psychodynamics, attachment-based, IFS, component-based psychotherapy, DBT, EMDR, body-mind approach such as sensorimotor psychotherapy, family therapy, ARC, SMART, Mindfulness and CBT.
Kimika is a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) with 15+ years of clinical experience partnering with adults, children, families and couples seeking help with a wide variety of issues. She specializes particularly in treating individuals impacted by trauma including but not limited to attachment issues, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sociocultural issues, addiction, emotion regulation issues, loss, and life transition.
(508) 406-7522 View (508) 406-7522
Photo of Laci Gonzalez in Boston, MA
Laci Gonzalez
MSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109
I have experience providing individual and family therapy to clients ages 5 to 18 years of age.
Hello! My name is Laci. I am a compassionate, dedicated, analytical, and team oriented therapist with a lifelong passion towards helping and uplifting others. My passion stems from my own childhood and my difficulties with my mental health and self confidence. I believe that everyone is capable of positive change no matter a person’s age, race, sexual orientation, ethnicity, and overall background. It is up to those in the helping professions, like myself, to assist in lighting that spark for change.
I have experience providing individual and family therapy to clients ages 5 to 18 years of age.
Hello! My name is Laci. I am a compassionate, dedicated, analytical, and team oriented therapist with a lifelong passion towards helping and uplifting others. My passion stems from my own childhood and my difficulties with my mental health and self confidence. I believe that everyone is capable of positive change no matter a person’s age, race, sexual orientation, ethnicity, and overall background. It is up to those in the helping professions, like myself, to assist in lighting that spark for change.
(857) 847-3871 View (857) 847-3871
Photo of Jefferson Crowe, Psychologist in Boston, MA
Jefferson Crowe
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
I am an individual and family therapist located in Boston, MA. I specialize in working with boys and men, families, Autism-spectrum Disorders, and complex relationship issues. I have worked for the past three years at an amazing group practice, Commonwealth Psychology Associates. April 1, 2019 I will be opening my own practice, Crowe Psychology, PLLC and will be accepting a limited number of new clients. My passion is in therapy, and I am humbled and grateful when people invite me to play a meaningful role in their lives.
I am an individual and family therapist located in Boston, MA. I specialize in working with boys and men, families, Autism-spectrum Disorders, and complex relationship issues. I have worked for the past three years at an amazing group practice, Commonwealth Psychology Associates. April 1, 2019 I will be opening my own practice, Crowe Psychology, PLLC and will be accepting a limited number of new clients. My passion is in therapy, and I am humbled and grateful when people invite me to play a meaningful role in their lives.
(617) 850-9486 View (617) 850-9486
Photo of Lindsey Fox, Counselor in Boston, MA
Lindsey Fox
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
Your life is a constant juggle, a never-ending to-do list. College, work, family, & unexpected life shifts—your plate is full to the brim. Sometimes, it feels like you're drowning in responsibilities. The weight of it all can be suffocating, leaving you utterly exhausted. You've become a master at putting others' needs first, but who's taking care of you? You keep telling yourself, "It'll be okay," while pushing down the mounting pressure, but deep inside, you're struggling. You wear a brave face but you long for a moment to pause, to be heard, to acknowledge that it's okay to not be okay.
Your life is a constant juggle, a never-ending to-do list. College, work, family, & unexpected life shifts—your plate is full to the brim. Sometimes, it feels like you're drowning in responsibilities. The weight of it all can be suffocating, leaving you utterly exhausted. You've become a master at putting others' needs first, but who's taking care of you? You keep telling yourself, "It'll be okay," while pushing down the mounting pressure, but deep inside, you're struggling. You wear a brave face but you long for a moment to pause, to be heard, to acknowledge that it's okay to not be okay.
(617) 683-1254 View (617) 683-1254
Photo of Barbara A. Hershey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Barbara A. Hershey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
At some point, we all experience difficulties and unpleasant emotions in life. I help clients to learn how to cope with family changes, life transitions, loss, school and work stressors and help develop meaningful relationships through exploring relationship patterns. To meet the individual needs of each client, I empower them to gain self-awareness of their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Together we identify their personal strengths, practice mindfulness, and develop coping strategies that can be utilized daily.
At some point, we all experience difficulties and unpleasant emotions in life. I help clients to learn how to cope with family changes, life transitions, loss, school and work stressors and help develop meaningful relationships through exploring relationship patterns. To meet the individual needs of each client, I empower them to gain self-awareness of their thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Together we identify their personal strengths, practice mindfulness, and develop coping strategies that can be utilized daily.
(617) 996-7074 View (617) 996-7074
Photo of New Hope Psychotherapy LCSW, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
New Hope Psychotherapy LCSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
With me as your therapist, you’re not just becoming a client, but a valued member of the therapeutic family.
Hi, I'm Genesis Urena, founder of New Hope Psychotherapy. We are dedicated to working with clients seeking transformative experiences of self-discovery. We specialize in supporting individuals, families and couples struggling with relationship conflicts, stress management, anxiety, depressive moods, and traumatic experiences. It’s hard to feel motivated when you’re feeling stressed about work assignments, a spouse’s expectations, or those awful things you went through. With a relationship built on compassion, we will help you uncover what is and isn’t working, while helping you reach your goals.
With me as your therapist, you’re not just becoming a client, but a valued member of the therapeutic family.
Hi, I'm Genesis Urena, founder of New Hope Psychotherapy. We are dedicated to working with clients seeking transformative experiences of self-discovery. We specialize in supporting individuals, families and couples struggling with relationship conflicts, stress management, anxiety, depressive moods, and traumatic experiences. It’s hard to feel motivated when you’re feeling stressed about work assignments, a spouse’s expectations, or those awful things you went through. With a relationship built on compassion, we will help you uncover what is and isn’t working, while helping you reach your goals.
(781) 604-1247 View (781) 604-1247
Aneesah Dambreville
Counselor, LMHC, RDT
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02122  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician, and a Registered Drama Therapist. I received a Bachelor of Arts in Theater Arts from Union College and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University. I provide both individual and group therapy to children and adults of all ages and abilities. I have worked in public and residential schools, psychiatric hospitals, specialized clinics, and family services. If you are coping with anxiety, stress, depression, or perhaps having difficulties managing some major life changes, or looking to increase your self- esteem then together we can create the wellness you desire
I am a Licensed Mental Health Clinician, and a Registered Drama Therapist. I received a Bachelor of Arts in Theater Arts from Union College and a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Lesley University. I provide both individual and group therapy to children and adults of all ages and abilities. I have worked in public and residential schools, psychiatric hospitals, specialized clinics, and family services. If you are coping with anxiety, stress, depression, or perhaps having difficulties managing some major life changes, or looking to increase your self- esteem then together we can create the wellness you desire
(617) 655-8747 View (617) 655-8747
Photo of Salem Black, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Salem Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02122  (Online Only)
I borrow from a number of modalities to be flexible enough to meet you where you are; including cbt, dbt, act, internal family system).
This is a place of openness, realistic goal setting, and freedom to discuss the issues most important to you. I typically work with children/adolescents/young adults or parents to reach your goals. You may be struggling with a trauma history, identity development, overwhelming stress or a need for additional coping skills to just get through the day. I like to be straight forward and still compassionate, direct on issues and supportive in solutions. Together we can identify what's working, what's not and how we find the balance to support everyday functioning.
I borrow from a number of modalities to be flexible enough to meet you where you are; including cbt, dbt, act, internal family system).
This is a place of openness, realistic goal setting, and freedom to discuss the issues most important to you. I typically work with children/adolescents/young adults or parents to reach your goals. You may be struggling with a trauma history, identity development, overwhelming stress or a need for additional coping skills to just get through the day. I like to be straight forward and still compassionate, direct on issues and supportive in solutions. Together we can identify what's working, what's not and how we find the balance to support everyday functioning.
(617) 380-4659 View (617) 380-4659
Photo of The Peace Practice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
The Peace Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130
Welcome, you made it. Take a breath. My name is Liz and I offer a variety of therapeutic services for humans of all kinds. Many people I see, from adolescents to those in late adulthood, move through the world with queer and/or neurodivergent identities. They are seeking support managing the impact of chronic trauma, anxiety, stress, and depression, or looking for help navigating life transitions, peer relationships, and family interactions. They're looking for a reprieve from the inner critic and racing thoughts, they want to regain control, and feel peace. Most of all they want to be seen and heard for who they are.
Welcome, you made it. Take a breath. My name is Liz and I offer a variety of therapeutic services for humans of all kinds. Many people I see, from adolescents to those in late adulthood, move through the world with queer and/or neurodivergent identities. They are seeking support managing the impact of chronic trauma, anxiety, stress, and depression, or looking for help navigating life transitions, peer relationships, and family interactions. They're looking for a reprieve from the inner critic and racing thoughts, they want to regain control, and feel peace. Most of all they want to be seen and heard for who they are.
(857) 353-6973 View (857) 353-6973
Photo of Lisa Garcia, Counselor in Boston, MA
Lisa Garcia
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I have diverse experience working with families, couples and individuals with mood/ anxiety disorders, relationship challenges, family restructuring needs and trauma/PTSD both in English and Spanish.
Accepting New Clients via Telehealth! Anxiety, depression and relationship issues are common experiences that can impact our ability to feel like ourselves and live at our best capacity. Often these issues are rooted in hard life experiences or the accumulating stressors of today's world. Working from a person-centered and solution-focused approach I support my clients by helping them find connections between their feelings, thoughts and actions. I strive to create powerful therapeutic relationships as I believe this is the foundation of a successful healing alliance.
I have diverse experience working with families, couples and individuals with mood/ anxiety disorders, relationship challenges, family restructuring needs and trauma/PTSD both in English and Spanish.
Accepting New Clients via Telehealth! Anxiety, depression and relationship issues are common experiences that can impact our ability to feel like ourselves and live at our best capacity. Often these issues are rooted in hard life experiences or the accumulating stressors of today's world. Working from a person-centered and solution-focused approach I support my clients by helping them find connections between their feelings, thoughts and actions. I strive to create powerful therapeutic relationships as I believe this is the foundation of a successful healing alliance.
(617) 849-8022 View (617) 849-8022
Photo of Brian Orr at Orr Therapy Services LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Brian Orr at Orr Therapy Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
This will lead you to feel more present at work, with family and friends, and things you feel passionate about in life.
I am a big believer that, when we are able to feel more at peace with ourselves, we find greater joy in life. The journey to feeling peaceful and satisfied is not always smooth–it can feel so personal that we may avoid talking about the “bumps” with our loved ones. Talking with (and thinking together with) someone who is objective & private can be so useful. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over seven years of clinical experience. I have worked with patients who have felt down, worried about every day stressors, dealt with burnout, struggled with a work/life balance, and wanted to find more satisfaction out of life.
This will lead you to feel more present at work, with family and friends, and things you feel passionate about in life.
I am a big believer that, when we are able to feel more at peace with ourselves, we find greater joy in life. The journey to feeling peaceful and satisfied is not always smooth–it can feel so personal that we may avoid talking about the “bumps” with our loved ones. Talking with (and thinking together with) someone who is objective & private can be so useful. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over seven years of clinical experience. I have worked with patients who have felt down, worried about every day stressors, dealt with burnout, struggled with a work/life balance, and wanted to find more satisfaction out of life.
(978) 467-4066 View (978) 467-4066
Photo of Gaia Zanna, Counselor in Boston, MA
Gaia Zanna
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
I use CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy as useful concepts to best suit your needs in your inner-self discovery.
Buongiorno & Good Morning! Sometimes it is difficult to make sense of feelings, learning how to manage them, and being able to find healthy ways to express your inner self. Therapy is a safe space and confidential process that through time, consistency and work together will allow you to identify and develop a healthy voice to express difficult feelings. Connection and Bonding in therapy promote resiliency, stimulating and feeding the mind. Feeling heard, being seeing, feeling that we have a purpose in life is a vital, indispensable healing and nurturing process of psychotherapy.
I use CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy as useful concepts to best suit your needs in your inner-self discovery.
Buongiorno & Good Morning! Sometimes it is difficult to make sense of feelings, learning how to manage them, and being able to find healthy ways to express your inner self. Therapy is a safe space and confidential process that through time, consistency and work together will allow you to identify and develop a healthy voice to express difficult feelings. Connection and Bonding in therapy promote resiliency, stimulating and feeding the mind. Feeling heard, being seeing, feeling that we have a purpose in life is a vital, indispensable healing and nurturing process of psychotherapy.
(617) 440-4031 View (617) 440-4031
Photo of Samantha Ueberroth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Boston, MA
Samantha Ueberroth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients for Individual, Couples & Family Counseling! Accepting BCBS in MA. Samantha Ueberroth is a LCSW in New York and LICSW in MA with Therapy Together, LCSW, PLLC. Samantha has expertise working with adults, millennials, and older adults and is passionate about empowering and supporting her clients in their journey to becoming their most authentic, confident selves. She specializes in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, career difficulties, compassion fatigue, coping with grief and loss, coping with life changes, family conflicts, relationship issues, self-esteem, and stress management.
Accepting New Clients for Individual, Couples & Family Counseling! Accepting BCBS in MA. Samantha Ueberroth is a LCSW in New York and LICSW in MA with Therapy Together, LCSW, PLLC. Samantha has expertise working with adults, millennials, and older adults and is passionate about empowering and supporting her clients in their journey to becoming their most authentic, confident selves. She specializes in working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, career difficulties, compassion fatigue, coping with grief and loss, coping with life changes, family conflicts, relationship issues, self-esteem, and stress management.
(680) 213-7904 View (680) 213-7904

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.