Photo of Kay Cooper, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Kay Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55420  (Online Only)
Whether you are an individual, family or couple seeking a more fulfilling life circumstance, my mission is to empower you to find renewable energy and a foundation for healthy life choices.
I specialize in dealing with the impact of depression, anxiety, grief and trauma that alters client’s lives. I help individuals, couples and families identify and work through abandonment and early attachment injuries to prevent current and future toxic relationship patterns. I am passionate about practicing a culturally specific and holistic approach to therapy.
Whether you are an individual, family or couple seeking a more fulfilling life circumstance, my mission is to empower you to find renewable energy and a foundation for healthy life choices.
I specialize in dealing with the impact of depression, anxiety, grief and trauma that alters client’s lives. I help individuals, couples and families identify and work through abandonment and early attachment injuries to prevent current and future toxic relationship patterns. I am passionate about practicing a culturally specific and holistic approach to therapy.
(952) 592-7949 View (952) 592-7949
Photo of Daniel A. Christensen, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Daniel A. Christensen
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55408
Unseen and Unknown. The pain of not being seen or known can be debilitating and confusing. The experience of being seen within the therapeutic relationship is a central part of change in therapy. I assist people in learning to see themselves in a more grounded way, to learn and practice skills for manifesting core values, and to work out of the traps created by the ruptures and traumas inhibiting the experience of being integrated. I work with developmental/family of origin issues including trauma (physical, sexual, and emotional), neglect, and chemical use issues. My case load consists of individuals, couples, and families.
Unseen and Unknown. The pain of not being seen or known can be debilitating and confusing. The experience of being seen within the therapeutic relationship is a central part of change in therapy. I assist people in learning to see themselves in a more grounded way, to learn and practice skills for manifesting core values, and to work out of the traps created by the ruptures and traumas inhibiting the experience of being integrated. I work with developmental/family of origin issues including trauma (physical, sexual, and emotional), neglect, and chemical use issues. My case load consists of individuals, couples, and families.
(612) 354-8008 View (612) 354-8008
Photo of Ralph Simcox, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Ralph Simcox
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55450
Extensive experience in counseling military members, their families, and other DOD employees as they navigate through personal challenges and/or family and work life issues. The desire to do this type of work is driven by the belief that clients can be their own solution makers. As such this therapist primarily utilizes Solution Focused Therapy, which is strength based, goal oriented, and a resiliency focused model. From this orientation, the therapist assists the client(s) in identifying problem(s) and/or change(s) they would like to see in their lives.
Extensive experience in counseling military members, their families, and other DOD employees as they navigate through personal challenges and/or family and work life issues. The desire to do this type of work is driven by the belief that clients can be their own solution makers. As such this therapist primarily utilizes Solution Focused Therapy, which is strength based, goal oriented, and a resiliency focused model. From this orientation, the therapist assists the client(s) in identifying problem(s) and/or change(s) they would like to see in their lives.
(763) 296-9349 View (763) 296-9349
Photo of Matthew F Ryan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Matthew F Ryan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55401
My specialties are within systemic-based therapy models, solution-focused therapy, family and relationship counseling, adolescent and young adult issues, assessment and treatment of co-occurring disorders, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and positive psychology.
*Please email about availability* Therapy is not surgery; you don't go to sleep and wake up with all of your problems solved. The sweat and strain and heavy lifting are mostly yours. But with this, however, you can feel more satisfied with therapy when actively involved in the sessions. It is my role to work with your motivation & continue to foster this growth towards positive change. I operate from a person-centered approach, which emphasizes being genuine, providing unconditional positive regard, and empathic understanding in the efforts to foster our therapeutic connection to enhance this emotional & powerful relationship.
My specialties are within systemic-based therapy models, solution-focused therapy, family and relationship counseling, adolescent and young adult issues, assessment and treatment of co-occurring disorders, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and positive psychology.
*Please email about availability* Therapy is not surgery; you don't go to sleep and wake up with all of your problems solved. The sweat and strain and heavy lifting are mostly yours. But with this, however, you can feel more satisfied with therapy when actively involved in the sessions. It is my role to work with your motivation & continue to foster this growth towards positive change. I operate from a person-centered approach, which emphasizes being genuine, providing unconditional positive regard, and empathic understanding in the efforts to foster our therapeutic connection to enhance this emotional & powerful relationship.
(612) 260-6885 View (612) 260-6885
Photo of Sandra Struthers, Pre-Licensed Professional in Minneapolis, MN
Sandra Struthers
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55416
Are you seeking individual (teen and adult), couple/partnership, or family therapy? With warmth, humor and “real talk,” I will support you in navigating personal and inter-personal challenges, and creating an authentic life that's in integrity with your values. My approach with clients is informal and collaborative - you are the expert on your life! So, let's work together to create the life you want. FYI: I currently only have new client availability with a clinic that accepts private pay, FSA/HSA cards, or out-of-network insurance coverage.
Are you seeking individual (teen and adult), couple/partnership, or family therapy? With warmth, humor and “real talk,” I will support you in navigating personal and inter-personal challenges, and creating an authentic life that's in integrity with your values. My approach with clients is informal and collaborative - you are the expert on your life! So, let's work together to create the life you want. FYI: I currently only have new client availability with a clinic that accepts private pay, FSA/HSA cards, or out-of-network insurance coverage.
(612) 324-5525 View (612) 324-5525
Photo of Lyndsie Standerwick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Lyndsie Standerwick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55407
In-Person sessions with COVID-19 precautions in place and Virtual sessions available. Lyndsie Standerwick is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Play Therapist. She has over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field with children, adolescents, women, and families. Lyndsie is passionate about walking alongside clients and families as they find what they need within themselves to live life more fully. Lyndsie aims to listen to clients without judgement and to provide feedback and support honestly.
In-Person sessions with COVID-19 precautions in place and Virtual sessions available. Lyndsie Standerwick is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Play Therapist. She has over 10 years of experience working in the mental health field with children, adolescents, women, and families. Lyndsie is passionate about walking alongside clients and families as they find what they need within themselves to live life more fully. Lyndsie aims to listen to clients without judgement and to provide feedback and support honestly.
(612) 361-2247 View (612) 361-2247
Photo of The Tissue Clinic, LLC. , Marriage & Family Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
The Tissue Clinic, LLC.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55423
As a Marriage and Family Therapist since 2011, I have had the pleasure of providing services to individuals, families, and couples dealing with communication issues, intimacy concerns, family conflict, and marital instability. The goal will be to identify ineffective behaviors to improve the ability to communicate and work towards healthier patterns of living in peace and harmony. I offer solution-based work, often utilizing Gottman's Method, as well as in-depth work from an attachment and cognitive behavioral lens. My goal is to create a safe, open and honest environment where we face life's challenges together.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist since 2011, I have had the pleasure of providing services to individuals, families, and couples dealing with communication issues, intimacy concerns, family conflict, and marital instability. The goal will be to identify ineffective behaviors to improve the ability to communicate and work towards healthier patterns of living in peace and harmony. I offer solution-based work, often utilizing Gottman's Method, as well as in-depth work from an attachment and cognitive behavioral lens. My goal is to create a safe, open and honest environment where we face life's challenges together.
(628) 265-4573 View (628) 265-4573
Photo of Marla Rose Wojtanowicz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Marla Rose Wojtanowicz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55413
My goal is to help you, your child, and your family and to improve your interpersonal life, home environment, and family communication, to solve many of life's problems.
We all have times when we run out of ideas about how to deal with problems in our lives. It can help to involve a new set of eyes and ears to see things from a different angle. We work to gain new skills and insights, and tap into our forgotten strengths, to create independence and lasting positive change. We look at the rigid and unhelpful patterns we have, and work together to form new ways of thinking and doing. While this process unfolds you are free to be your authentic self, without feeling judgment, powerlessness, or shame, in a safe and trusting atmosphere.
My goal is to help you, your child, and your family and to improve your interpersonal life, home environment, and family communication, to solve many of life's problems.
We all have times when we run out of ideas about how to deal with problems in our lives. It can help to involve a new set of eyes and ears to see things from a different angle. We work to gain new skills and insights, and tap into our forgotten strengths, to create independence and lasting positive change. We look at the rigid and unhelpful patterns we have, and work together to form new ways of thinking and doing. While this process unfolds you are free to be your authentic self, without feeling judgment, powerlessness, or shame, in a safe and trusting atmosphere.
(612) 260-8920 View (612) 260-8920
Photo of Sandra Haukom Reardon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Sandra Haukom Reardon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT-E, Family Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Sensorimotor Therapy, Expressive arts, mindfulness and strengths-based focus into therapy.
As a therapist, it is an honor to be part of another person's process in understanding their personal worth. I respect and value my client's self-determination, therefore, my therapeutic approach is eclectic to correspond with the matter at hand. I am empathetic, patient and respectful, while building a relationship with my client. I believe that progress begins when my client has established trust in our relationship. I have faith that each client has the ability to discover their strengths and to use these strengths to achieve their individual goals.
I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT-E, Family Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Sensorimotor Therapy, Expressive arts, mindfulness and strengths-based focus into therapy.
As a therapist, it is an honor to be part of another person's process in understanding their personal worth. I respect and value my client's self-determination, therefore, my therapeutic approach is eclectic to correspond with the matter at hand. I am empathetic, patient and respectful, while building a relationship with my client. I believe that progress begins when my client has established trust in our relationship. I have faith that each client has the ability to discover their strengths and to use these strengths to achieve their individual goals.
(612) 255-4642 View (612) 255-4642
Photo of Laura J. Niewald, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Laura J. Niewald
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55410
I work with tweens; adolescents; individuals; married, partnered, or same gender couples; families and 'dyads' in family systems.
I believe in the power of synergy! Collaborating together on your concerns, increases the potential for change. You are the expert of you and I am a facilitator of change. Together, we will work on an approach for moving through areas in your life where you feel stuck. Anxiety, depression, low self esteem or relationship challenges need a pro-active perspective. Identifying, eradicating and replacing your sources of pain with mindfulness and intentional balance will bring more joy into your life.
I work with tweens; adolescents; individuals; married, partnered, or same gender couples; families and 'dyads' in family systems.
I believe in the power of synergy! Collaborating together on your concerns, increases the potential for change. You are the expert of you and I am a facilitator of change. Together, we will work on an approach for moving through areas in your life where you feel stuck. Anxiety, depression, low self esteem or relationship challenges need a pro-active perspective. Identifying, eradicating and replacing your sources of pain with mindfulness and intentional balance will bring more joy into your life.
(612) 293-0150 View (612) 293-0150
Photo of Stacy Ellman, Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Stacy Ellman
Counselor, LPC, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55439  (Online Only)
Transitions such as relationships, challenging family dynamics, identity crisis, trauma, career, abuse, divorce, loss, and grief.
Often a question asked prior to counseling is, am I thriving or simply surviving? Individuals question their life path and need help to figure out where to start exploring. We work together to identify strengths, areas of growth, and both are used to help cultivate a fulfilling life experience. Clients may feel there is a mismatch between their head and hearts so we also work to connect them which in-turn causes less uncertainty and confusion in life choices.
Transitions such as relationships, challenging family dynamics, identity crisis, trauma, career, abuse, divorce, loss, and grief.
Often a question asked prior to counseling is, am I thriving or simply surviving? Individuals question their life path and need help to figure out where to start exploring. We work together to identify strengths, areas of growth, and both are used to help cultivate a fulfilling life experience. Clients may feel there is a mismatch between their head and hearts so we also work to connect them which in-turn causes less uncertainty and confusion in life choices.
(952) 900-4201 View (952) 900-4201
Photo of Erika Farrell at Caspersen Therapy , Licensed Professional Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Erika Farrell at Caspersen Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55406  (Online Only)
I work in English and Spanish and have experience with multicultural family systems.
Currently accepting new clients. My approach to therapy is person-centered, collaborative and dynamic. I see it as my role to help you pause and reflect, and challenge the schemas that may be keeping you stuck in undesired patterns of behavior. While therapy is serious work, it’s also important to laugh at the absurd moments and try to enjoy the journey as we walk it together. If you're struggling with relationships, feeling unheard or confused, reeling from a traumatic event or history, or experiencing a loss, we can work through these issues at your pace. Unable to write ESA or workers accommodation letters.
I work in English and Spanish and have experience with multicultural family systems.
Currently accepting new clients. My approach to therapy is person-centered, collaborative and dynamic. I see it as my role to help you pause and reflect, and challenge the schemas that may be keeping you stuck in undesired patterns of behavior. While therapy is serious work, it’s also important to laugh at the absurd moments and try to enjoy the journey as we walk it together. If you're struggling with relationships, feeling unheard or confused, reeling from a traumatic event or history, or experiencing a loss, we can work through these issues at your pace. Unable to write ESA or workers accommodation letters.
(612) 662-7989 View (612) 662-7989
Photo of Joseph R. Toth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Joseph R. Toth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55439
As a licensed therapist, I offer my genuineness and openness in helping adults having emotional burdens and feeling overwhelmed with the uncertainty of life stressors, including situational crisis. I have over 15 years of providing licensed therapy. I help people with life crises, such as marriage conflicts, workplace, career, family dynamics, low self-esteem and peer relationship issues.
As a licensed therapist, I offer my genuineness and openness in helping adults having emotional burdens and feeling overwhelmed with the uncertainty of life stressors, including situational crisis. I have over 15 years of providing licensed therapy. I help people with life crises, such as marriage conflicts, workplace, career, family dynamics, low self-esteem and peer relationship issues.
(612) 482-2840 View (612) 482-2840
Photo of Brian E. Stawarz, LP, LMFT, LLC, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Brian E. Stawarz, LP, LMFT, LLC
Psychologist, MA, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55419  (Online Only)
My initial training as a family therapist has helped me to remember the family my client may live with now, were raised in and their culture.
I have practiced for 39 years in Minnesota, seeing children, adults, couples and families. My practice currently is primarily with adults and couples (and adult teens) who are seeking a therapist who is collaborative, offers guidance and new perspectives, and believes the client is ultimately in charge of change. I value awareness, mindfulness and the process of living out a personal story that is based on strengths and hopefulness. Above all, I believe that if people feel respected and cared for they are capable of growth and moving through even the most difficult times.
My initial training as a family therapist has helped me to remember the family my client may live with now, were raised in and their culture.
I have practiced for 39 years in Minnesota, seeing children, adults, couples and families. My practice currently is primarily with adults and couples (and adult teens) who are seeking a therapist who is collaborative, offers guidance and new perspectives, and believes the client is ultimately in charge of change. I value awareness, mindfulness and the process of living out a personal story that is based on strengths and hopefulness. Above all, I believe that if people feel respected and cared for they are capable of growth and moving through even the most difficult times.
(651) 301-8916 View (651) 301-8916
Photo of Hope Z White, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Hope Z White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
However, areas of special focus include parent development, adolescent development and mental health, couple's and family relationships, trauma, shame, regret and remorse, self esteem, addictions, parenting, life transitions, depression and anxiety.
Life is difficult. Feeling better is possible. We all have the right and the ability to feel some peace and acceptance about our lives; the things we can control and the things we can not. We may often believe the negative thoughts we have (that we often make up) and act accordingly. You can change your life, your outlook and the way you think and feel about yourself and your relationships. I believe changes and growth occur when an individual is able to challenge their thoughts, examine their perspectives and learn how to be true to themselves.
However, areas of special focus include parent development, adolescent development and mental health, couple's and family relationships, trauma, shame, regret and remorse, self esteem, addictions, parenting, life transitions, depression and anxiety.
Life is difficult. Feeling better is possible. We all have the right and the ability to feel some peace and acceptance about our lives; the things we can control and the things we can not. We may often believe the negative thoughts we have (that we often make up) and act accordingly. You can change your life, your outlook and the way you think and feel about yourself and your relationships. I believe changes and growth occur when an individual is able to challenge their thoughts, examine their perspectives and learn how to be true to themselves.
(651) 560-3646 View (651) 560-3646
Photo of Linda Gensheimer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Linda Gensheimer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55410
Bringing Together Art and Science reflects my clinical practice with adults, adolescents and couples. It is grounded in attachment theory, developmental/complex trauma, cognitive behavioral theory, psychodynamic theory and cultural competency. My practice also integrates emerging neuroscience research about the brain and how childhood and family experiences, including trauma, affects the brain and becomes the blueprint for subsequent relationships throughout our lives. My practice also has a human and artistic element - everyone is unique and our work together reflects this.
Bringing Together Art and Science reflects my clinical practice with adults, adolescents and couples. It is grounded in attachment theory, developmental/complex trauma, cognitive behavioral theory, psychodynamic theory and cultural competency. My practice also integrates emerging neuroscience research about the brain and how childhood and family experiences, including trauma, affects the brain and becomes the blueprint for subsequent relationships throughout our lives. My practice also has a human and artistic element - everyone is unique and our work together reflects this.
(612) 223-6606 View (612) 223-6606
Photo of Brockman Schumacher Jr, Psychologist in Minneapolis, MN
Brockman Schumacher Jr
Psychologist, MS, LP
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55408
For more than 30 years I have counseled men, women, and teens addressing a crisis, a tragedy, something troubling they are struggling with now or from the past. My work with you will focus on developing your own skills to address current and past issues. Your work with me will be empowering and deliberate and will enable you to have a more fulfilling future. Our work together will include, but not necessarily be limited to consideration and assessments of how particular issues are affecting you and/or those you care about. You may bring a partner, friend, or family member to our sessions.
For more than 30 years I have counseled men, women, and teens addressing a crisis, a tragedy, something troubling they are struggling with now or from the past. My work with you will focus on developing your own skills to address current and past issues. Your work with me will be empowering and deliberate and will enable you to have a more fulfilling future. Our work together will include, but not necessarily be limited to consideration and assessments of how particular issues are affecting you and/or those you care about. You may bring a partner, friend, or family member to our sessions.
(952) 592-2982 View (952) 592-2982
Photo of Rashida K. Fisher, Counselor in Minneapolis, MN
Rashida K. Fisher
Counselor, PhD, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55411  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
There are times when the tasks of life seem insurmountable and too much to bear. I take a practical approach to counseling that is grounded in honesty, humor, non-judgment, and personal reflection. Sankofa means "It is not forbidden to go back and fetch what you forgot". Our past experiences, family history, and beliefs and values contribute to how we manage life's challenges. Looking to your past uncovers valuable lessons. I believe that positive change occurs through building on the individual's strength and focusing on the power of relationship, and past success as the primary source of healing and personal growth.
There are times when the tasks of life seem insurmountable and too much to bear. I take a practical approach to counseling that is grounded in honesty, humor, non-judgment, and personal reflection. Sankofa means "It is not forbidden to go back and fetch what you forgot". Our past experiences, family history, and beliefs and values contribute to how we manage life's challenges. Looking to your past uncovers valuable lessons. I believe that positive change occurs through building on the individual's strength and focusing on the power of relationship, and past success as the primary source of healing and personal growth.
(612) 662-0347 View (612) 662-0347
Photo of Lyndsey Fraser, Marriage & Family Therapist in Minneapolis, MN
Lyndsey Fraser
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55417
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a Certified Sex Therapist, and an International Enneagram Accredited Professional.
Illuminate your path, Awaken your life! Who you are at your core matters and deserves to be seen by the world. I am driven by a desire to make a difference in the lives of others and to positively impact the world. I actively seek to live a life guided by a sense of purpose and meaning. My goal is to help you do the same with a highly personalized approach that addresses your needs and meets your criteria for personal success. This includes finding and solidifying the essential relationships in your life! I also utilize the Enneagram in my practice as a way to help you have more generosity for yourself and other in your life.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, a Certified Sex Therapist, and an International Enneagram Accredited Professional.
Illuminate your path, Awaken your life! Who you are at your core matters and deserves to be seen by the world. I am driven by a desire to make a difference in the lives of others and to positively impact the world. I actively seek to live a life guided by a sense of purpose and meaning. My goal is to help you do the same with a highly personalized approach that addresses your needs and meets your criteria for personal success. This includes finding and solidifying the essential relationships in your life! I also utilize the Enneagram in my practice as a way to help you have more generosity for yourself and other in your life.
(651) 433-6342 View (651) 433-6342
Photo of Irene Greene in Minneapolis, MN
Irene Greene
MSEd
Verified Verified
Minneapolis, MN 55406  (Online Only)
I offer family conflict resolution, unconscious coupling, boundary coaching, coming out, and support groups.
Welcome. It Is Your Time to become more of the person you want to be. Set goals to address codependency, procrastination, the impacts of trauma, self-criticism, anxiety, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism. Increase your assertiveness, communication, and boundary-setting skills. Improve mindfulness and life-work balance. I will combine my compassion, openness, and attentiveness with my 29+ years of experience, training, and knowledge. I offer a space where oppression and injustice are understood as having a direct correlation to our health and well-being. A relaxed confidential space where you are welcome to be your whole self.
I offer family conflict resolution, unconscious coupling, boundary coaching, coming out, and support groups.
Welcome. It Is Your Time to become more of the person you want to be. Set goals to address codependency, procrastination, the impacts of trauma, self-criticism, anxiety, imposter syndrome, and perfectionism. Increase your assertiveness, communication, and boundary-setting skills. Improve mindfulness and life-work balance. I will combine my compassion, openness, and attentiveness with my 29+ years of experience, training, and knowledge. I offer a space where oppression and injustice are understood as having a direct correlation to our health and well-being. A relaxed confidential space where you are welcome to be your whole self.
(612) 808-0124 View (612) 808-0124

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.