Photo of Claire Abernathy, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Claire Abernathy, LCSW-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21209
Hello, I am J. Claire Abernathy. I have focused on supporting people dealing with a wide range of psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression , family relationships, grief and loss, trauma, and adjustment. I also have experience treating substance use disorders and supporting persons in recovery. I work with the LGBTQ+ community. I welcome desisters, detransitioners, and those families with children questioning sex and gender identity, that want a risk averse approach to care.
Hello, I am J. Claire Abernathy. I have focused on supporting people dealing with a wide range of psychiatric disorders such as anxiety and depression , family relationships, grief and loss, trauma, and adjustment. I also have experience treating substance use disorders and supporting persons in recovery. I work with the LGBTQ+ community. I welcome desisters, detransitioners, and those families with children questioning sex and gender identity, that want a risk averse approach to care.
(410) 457-3234 View (410) 457-3234
Photo of Kathleen Fanone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Kathleen Fanone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
I offer individual therapy to adults. I have many years of experience working with survivors of trauma, abuse, and neglect. Other areas of clinical interest and expertise include depression, anxiety, grief and loss, difficult family systems, vicarious trauma, professional burnout, exploration of gender identity, and issues surrounding pregnancy (infertility, miscarriage, postpartum depression, etc.)
I offer individual therapy to adults. I have many years of experience working with survivors of trauma, abuse, and neglect. Other areas of clinical interest and expertise include depression, anxiety, grief and loss, difficult family systems, vicarious trauma, professional burnout, exploration of gender identity, and issues surrounding pregnancy (infertility, miscarriage, postpartum depression, etc.)
(443) 345-1617 View (443) 345-1617
Photo of Brittany Spencer, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Brittany Spencer
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21201
I support individuals & couples navigating, trauma within family of origin, high demand job stress, LGBTQIA concerns, nontraditional relationship support, BIPOC support, sexual health, life transitions.
Therapy, we all have been given different messages (good & bad) about what it “means” to utilize it. In case no one has told you lately, seeking therapy does not mean something is wrong with you. Rather you are new to therapy and wondering what to discuss in session or have intermittently done therapy, I work to ensure my clients therapeutic journey is catered to meet their wants and needs.
I support individuals & couples navigating, trauma within family of origin, high demand job stress, LGBTQIA concerns, nontraditional relationship support, BIPOC support, sexual health, life transitions.
Therapy, we all have been given different messages (good & bad) about what it “means” to utilize it. In case no one has told you lately, seeking therapy does not mean something is wrong with you. Rather you are new to therapy and wondering what to discuss in session or have intermittently done therapy, I work to ensure my clients therapeutic journey is catered to meet their wants and needs.
(202) 759-6027 View (202) 759-6027
Photo of Peyton Kirkendall, Art Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Peyton Kirkendall
Art Therapist, MA, LCPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21215  (Online Only)
I help individuals of all ages experiencing anxiety, frustration, loss, fear, confusion, etc. to regain a sense of grounding and clarity in their lives through the use of person-centered psychotherapy and Art therapy. My clients may utilize talk therapy and/or non-threatening art materials and age appropriate directives to aid in the their therapeutic process. I have extensive experience with clients who have experienced or are currently experiencing childhood trauma (medical and otherwise), chronic illness, loss of a family member, mental illness, and generalized anxiety.
I help individuals of all ages experiencing anxiety, frustration, loss, fear, confusion, etc. to regain a sense of grounding and clarity in their lives through the use of person-centered psychotherapy and Art therapy. My clients may utilize talk therapy and/or non-threatening art materials and age appropriate directives to aid in the their therapeutic process. I have extensive experience with clients who have experienced or are currently experiencing childhood trauma (medical and otherwise), chronic illness, loss of a family member, mental illness, and generalized anxiety.
(410) 941-3415 View (410) 941-3415
Photo of Healing From Within, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Healing From Within
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
My clients seek help for various life problems such as depression, anxiety, trauma, family relationship and marital issues, mood disorders, trauma disorders, addiction, just to name a few. Whatever the issue that brings someone to therapy, we all need support, guidance, and healing in a safe nurturing environment. I offer a compassionate individualized approach to therapy and healing. I believe that a therapist's role is to help others to tap into the wisdom and healing that resides within.
My clients seek help for various life problems such as depression, anxiety, trauma, family relationship and marital issues, mood disorders, trauma disorders, addiction, just to name a few. Whatever the issue that brings someone to therapy, we all need support, guidance, and healing in a safe nurturing environment. I offer a compassionate individualized approach to therapy and healing. I believe that a therapist's role is to help others to tap into the wisdom and healing that resides within.
(443) 429-1372 View (443) 429-1372
Photo of Lauren C Going, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Lauren C Going
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
We offer a variety of modalities that all work from a holistic lens such as somatic experiencing, breathwork, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), IFS (internal family systems), psychedelic/ ketamine assisted therapy, and microdose coaching.
Are you searching for a more holistic orientation that considers the mind, body, and spirit? Are you looking for alternative treatments such as psychedelic assisted therapy (ketamine), microdosing, and somatic therapy for example? Then look no further! I am the co-founder and primary therapist at Inner Path Wellness, Baltimore's first psychedelic assisted therapy and wellness center. We specialize in working with clients that are looking for something more than traditional talk therapy.
We offer a variety of modalities that all work from a holistic lens such as somatic experiencing, breathwork, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), IFS (internal family systems), psychedelic/ ketamine assisted therapy, and microdose coaching.
Are you searching for a more holistic orientation that considers the mind, body, and spirit? Are you looking for alternative treatments such as psychedelic assisted therapy (ketamine), microdosing, and somatic therapy for example? Then look no further! I am the co-founder and primary therapist at Inner Path Wellness, Baltimore's first psychedelic assisted therapy and wellness center. We specialize in working with clients that are looking for something more than traditional talk therapy.
(443) 594-7703 View (443) 594-7703
Photo of Rachael Spenadel, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Rachael Spenadel
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21224  (Online Only)
I can help with life transitions, relationship issues, family-of-origin issues, ADHD, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and childhood or relationship trauma processing.
Please note I am only seeing clients via telehealth. I have convenient evening hours, available 3pm to 8pm, Monday through Thursday. My ideal client is motivated to change and build a deeper understanding of self. They may be feeling stuck or lost and need an external push. I provide compassion, humor, and insight, and tailored strategies to empower you to finding your way. I have a lot of experience working with college students and post-grads, but love working with teenagers and adults of any age.
I can help with life transitions, relationship issues, family-of-origin issues, ADHD, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and childhood or relationship trauma processing.
Please note I am only seeing clients via telehealth. I have convenient evening hours, available 3pm to 8pm, Monday through Thursday. My ideal client is motivated to change and build a deeper understanding of self. They may be feeling stuck or lost and need an external push. I provide compassion, humor, and insight, and tailored strategies to empower you to finding your way. I have a lot of experience working with college students and post-grads, but love working with teenagers and adults of any age.
(240) 453-4029 View (240) 453-4029
Photo of Lori Mostofsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Lori Mostofsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
My practice focus includes adolescents, individuals, couples and family therapy, treatment of mood/anxiety/substance use disorders, and trauma.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the field of mental health for over 30 years, having graduated from SUNY Stony Brook, School of Social Work, in 1990. I have advanced training in family therapy, CBT for anxiety/depression/trauma, and addictions. I am a Certified Mediator focusing on family mediation using relational conflict theory. In addition to my therapy practice, I have taught at McDaniel University Masters in Counseling program, supervised students and colleagues, and worked for 10 years in Child Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital and served as a member of the hospital wide Ethics Committee.
My practice focus includes adolescents, individuals, couples and family therapy, treatment of mood/anxiety/substance use disorders, and trauma.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker practicing in the field of mental health for over 30 years, having graduated from SUNY Stony Brook, School of Social Work, in 1990. I have advanced training in family therapy, CBT for anxiety/depression/trauma, and addictions. I am a Certified Mediator focusing on family mediation using relational conflict theory. In addition to my therapy practice, I have taught at McDaniel University Masters in Counseling program, supervised students and colleagues, and worked for 10 years in Child Psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Hospital and served as a member of the hospital wide Ethics Committee.
(443) 486-0184 View (443) 486-0184
Photo of Kelly Keys, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Kelly Keys
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21230
Waitlist for new clients
In therapy sessions, I typically use CBT, DBT and family therapy modalities to explore client’s thoughts, feelings and behaviors to provide insight into the connection between these three entities as well as provide skills to regulate emotions, improve relationships, handle stress, and live mindfully (focusing heavily on acceptance of emotions).
Are you and/or your child open to the challenging and vulnerable, but beautiful journey that is exploring/bettering overall mental health? If so, you've come to the -not-so- perfect place! I most enjoy working with clients who can appreciate humor and straight-forwardness, as I often approach the therapeutic relationship with authenticity and acceptance as well as the mindset of embracing imperfection. I specialize in individual and family therapy focusing on ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress/trauma for individuals under the age of 30 :)
In therapy sessions, I typically use CBT, DBT and family therapy modalities to explore client’s thoughts, feelings and behaviors to provide insight into the connection between these three entities as well as provide skills to regulate emotions, improve relationships, handle stress, and live mindfully (focusing heavily on acceptance of emotions).
Are you and/or your child open to the challenging and vulnerable, but beautiful journey that is exploring/bettering overall mental health? If so, you've come to the -not-so- perfect place! I most enjoy working with clients who can appreciate humor and straight-forwardness, as I often approach the therapeutic relationship with authenticity and acceptance as well as the mindset of embracing imperfection. I specialize in individual and family therapy focusing on ADHD, anxiety, depression, stress/trauma for individuals under the age of 30 :)
(443) 972-5862 View (443) 972-5862
Photo of Brenna Neimanis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Brenna Neimanis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21218  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also specialize in Parent, Child, & Family Therapy for those struggling with family relationships and emotional/behavioral concerns.
I currently have a waitlist - Welcome to therapy, I’m so happy you are here! My practice is focused on feeling at home within yourself & providing a safe place to explore your whole self through individual, partnered, and/or family therapy. I use an inclusive, holistic approach & understand that each client is a unique individual & is impacted by their experiences, as well as societal structures & norms. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, burn-out, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, mood disorders, difficulty coping, family/partner conflict, concerns with self-worth, & those who have experienced trauma.
I also specialize in Parent, Child, & Family Therapy for those struggling with family relationships and emotional/behavioral concerns.
I currently have a waitlist - Welcome to therapy, I’m so happy you are here! My practice is focused on feeling at home within yourself & providing a safe place to explore your whole self through individual, partnered, and/or family therapy. I use an inclusive, holistic approach & understand that each client is a unique individual & is impacted by their experiences, as well as societal structures & norms. I work with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, burn-out, disordered eating, body dysmorphia, mood disorders, difficulty coping, family/partner conflict, concerns with self-worth, & those who have experienced trauma.
(443) 457-9293 View (443) 457-9293
Photo of Elana Dorfman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Elana Dorfman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21215  (Online Only)
I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Cognitive Behavioral Techniques (CBT) to help clients understand their internal processes better.
Do you feel like there is something missing in your relationships? Are you feeling depressed, anxious, lonely, or angry? Are you struggling to understand why you behave and think a certain way? My philosophy is that positive relationships are the most important aspect to a healthy and fulfilling life. My greatest goal is to help others develop themselves so that they can more easily connect with others and reach a high level of satisfaction in their lives.
I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Cognitive Behavioral Techniques (CBT) to help clients understand their internal processes better.
Do you feel like there is something missing in your relationships? Are you feeling depressed, anxious, lonely, or angry? Are you struggling to understand why you behave and think a certain way? My philosophy is that positive relationships are the most important aspect to a healthy and fulfilling life. My greatest goal is to help others develop themselves so that they can more easily connect with others and reach a high level of satisfaction in their lives.
(410) 346-5587 View (410) 346-5587
Photo of One Life to Live Therapy LLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Baltimore, MD
One Life to Live Therapy LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21214
If you think you might be ready to start working on some of your mental health concerns, job stressors, relationship or family problems, give me a call.
One Life to Live Therapy LLC is a mental health practice, designed to provide quality mental health care in a nonjudgemental space. The goal of One Life to Live Therapy is to provide support, education and inspiration to clients on their journey to health, wellness and peace of mind.
If you think you might be ready to start working on some of your mental health concerns, job stressors, relationship or family problems, give me a call.
One Life to Live Therapy LLC is a mental health practice, designed to provide quality mental health care in a nonjudgemental space. The goal of One Life to Live Therapy is to provide support, education and inspiration to clients on their journey to health, wellness and peace of mind.
(410) 724-1403 View (410) 724-1403
Photo of Lahna Segarnick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Lahna Segarnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21211
Waitlist for new clients
Whether I am working with couples, family, or an individual, I strive to understand your how your story is impacted by everything around you.
Whether you're looking to make changes in your life, or trying to accept things you cannot change, you deserve a comfortable and safe place to process your feelings. Together we will look at the relationships in your life, your past, and how you narrate your own story. I strive to create a welcoming space for my clients by fostering a relaxed atmosphere, nonjudgmental environment, and humor. I specialize in working with clients who may not enjoy all aspects of therapy. Therefore, if you are uncomfortable with the idea of therapy, I offer creative methods to process difficult feelings.
Whether I am working with couples, family, or an individual, I strive to understand your how your story is impacted by everything around you.
Whether you're looking to make changes in your life, or trying to accept things you cannot change, you deserve a comfortable and safe place to process your feelings. Together we will look at the relationships in your life, your past, and how you narrate your own story. I strive to create a welcoming space for my clients by fostering a relaxed atmosphere, nonjudgmental environment, and humor. I specialize in working with clients who may not enjoy all aspects of therapy. Therefore, if you are uncomfortable with the idea of therapy, I offer creative methods to process difficult feelings.
(443) 251-3587 View (443) 251-3587
Photo of Dr. Misbha E. Qureshi, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Dr. Misbha E. Qureshi
Counselor, PhD, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21218
About Dr. Qureshi-> Dr. Misbha Qureshi received her Master and PhD in Couple and Family Therapy from Drexel University (PA). She has over 17 years of clinical experience in the behavioral health system of care, providing individual, family, couples, and group therapies to culturally diverse communities. Her areas of expertise address cultural diversity, social justice, trauma/abuse, parent-child relationships, and family dynamics, while targeting symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, PTSD, and much more.
About Dr. Qureshi-> Dr. Misbha Qureshi received her Master and PhD in Couple and Family Therapy from Drexel University (PA). She has over 17 years of clinical experience in the behavioral health system of care, providing individual, family, couples, and group therapies to culturally diverse communities. Her areas of expertise address cultural diversity, social justice, trauma/abuse, parent-child relationships, and family dynamics, while targeting symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, substance abuse, PTSD, and much more.
(301) 900-6961 View (301) 900-6961
Photo of Alan Kutner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Alan Kutner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21218  (Online Only)
I empower men to overcome anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and more through personalized, collaborative therapy, drawing on CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), mindfulness, and music therapies to help them find their unique path to healing and growth.
"The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem." Are you tired of pretending "everything's fine", when it's not? Real men embrace vulnerability, honesty & courage. It takes guts to ask for help & face struggles head-on. It takes strength to open up & true bravery to take action for lasting change. We often hit a wall in life & reach a turning point – a bridge we need to cross. Are you looking for a therapist who is real and genuine & can guide you across? As we embark on this transformative journey, I will be here to support you every step of the way, empowering you to unlock your true potential.
I empower men to overcome anxiety, depression, addiction, trauma, and more through personalized, collaborative therapy, drawing on CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), mindfulness, and music therapies to help them find their unique path to healing and growth.
"The problem is not the problem. The problem is your attitude about the problem." Are you tired of pretending "everything's fine", when it's not? Real men embrace vulnerability, honesty & courage. It takes guts to ask for help & face struggles head-on. It takes strength to open up & true bravery to take action for lasting change. We often hit a wall in life & reach a turning point – a bridge we need to cross. Are you looking for a therapist who is real and genuine & can guide you across? As we embark on this transformative journey, I will be here to support you every step of the way, empowering you to unlock your true potential.
(410) 989-4718 View (410) 989-4718
Photo of Daisy Mitchell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Baltimore, MD
Daisy Mitchell
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
Despite what anybody else has ever said, you ARE worth the investment in your own wellbeing, and the wellbeing of your relationships and family.
Times are stressful to say the least. Identity questions, relationship challenges, loss, past trauma, and anxiety or depression can add to the difficulties in knowing how to cope and find a path forward. I believe in both personal and collective power to change. We can make individual changes and we can change systems. When it feels like you're struggling to hope or find optimism in your situation, I can hold that for you until the day you're able to. I can assist children and youth in learning themselves more deeply. I can support families, as well as couples and partners, through questions, stuck places, or crisis.
Despite what anybody else has ever said, you ARE worth the investment in your own wellbeing, and the wellbeing of your relationships and family.
Times are stressful to say the least. Identity questions, relationship challenges, loss, past trauma, and anxiety or depression can add to the difficulties in knowing how to cope and find a path forward. I believe in both personal and collective power to change. We can make individual changes and we can change systems. When it feels like you're struggling to hope or find optimism in your situation, I can hold that for you until the day you're able to. I can assist children and youth in learning themselves more deeply. I can support families, as well as couples and partners, through questions, stuck places, or crisis.
(410) 657-6204 View (410) 657-6204
Photo of Dr. Joseph Tropper, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Dr. Joseph Tropper
Counselor, PsyD, MS, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
My experience has put me in contact with hundreds of clients ranging from children to adults suffering from issues that include: anxiety, depression, adjustment, addictions, trauma, family challenges and much more.
If you found this page it's because you're contemplating getting help for yourself or a loved one. Congratulations on taking the next step! It takes bravery and honesty to face our challenges. The good news is your life can and will be better. With our shared commitment to your growth and success we can work together to help you live the life you've always dreamed of and that you deserve. I’m licensed in Maryland, NY and NJ. Call me for a free consult today with any questions you have.
My experience has put me in contact with hundreds of clients ranging from children to adults suffering from issues that include: anxiety, depression, adjustment, addictions, trauma, family challenges and much more.
If you found this page it's because you're contemplating getting help for yourself or a loved one. Congratulations on taking the next step! It takes bravery and honesty to face our challenges. The good news is your life can and will be better. With our shared commitment to your growth and success we can work together to help you live the life you've always dreamed of and that you deserve. I’m licensed in Maryland, NY and NJ. Call me for a free consult today with any questions you have.
(443) 221-6294 View (443) 221-6294
Photo of Grace Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Grace Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21210
I specialize in working with people of all ages who are struggling with anxiety, OCD, and trauma. In addition to this, I specialize in working with people of all ages who are questioning their gender or sexual orientation. Through gender affirming care, I hope to validate and empower you to feel comfortable being your truest self. As a therapist, I tailor my practice and treatment approach to each individual and family, while working to meet my clients where they are. I believe that providing a safe and welcoming space for my clients is essential to the therapeutic process, and promotes emotional growth and change.
I specialize in working with people of all ages who are struggling with anxiety, OCD, and trauma. In addition to this, I specialize in working with people of all ages who are questioning their gender or sexual orientation. Through gender affirming care, I hope to validate and empower you to feel comfortable being your truest self. As a therapist, I tailor my practice and treatment approach to each individual and family, while working to meet my clients where they are. I believe that providing a safe and welcoming space for my clients is essential to the therapeutic process, and promotes emotional growth and change.
(443) 232-1698 View (443) 232-1698
Photo of Mallory English, Counselor in Baltimore, MD
Mallory English
Counselor, LCPC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21208  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a licensed counselor with a passion for working with pre-teens, adolescents, and young adults. I love assisting those who are struggling with life adjustments, anxiety, depression, family and peer relationship issues, self-esteem, anger, grief, school issues, and a need for coping strategies. I will listen and provide compassionate support throughout your healing journey.
Hello! I am a licensed counselor with a passion for working with pre-teens, adolescents, and young adults. I love assisting those who are struggling with life adjustments, anxiety, depression, family and peer relationship issues, self-esteem, anger, grief, school issues, and a need for coping strategies. I will listen and provide compassionate support throughout your healing journey.
(443) 335-2680 View (443) 335-2680
Photo of Sophie Sgarlat, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Baltimore, MD
Sophie Sgarlat
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21202
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identity? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to tell your friends your preferred pronouns. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
Do you think you may have ADHD or Autism? Have you struggled to assert boundaries at work, with family, & partners? Have you felt curious about exploring different pronouns and gender identity? Do you feel bad that you have a disability and don't know how to tell your friends that you can't do certain activities? You may have goals to tell your friends your preferred pronouns. Goals to get a diagnosis for your disability & curious about medication, goals to reevaluate your relationship with cannabis/alcohol. You may feel shame & anger about your childhood & the way your parents handled your behavior.
(443) 331-9071 View (443) 331-9071

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.