Family Therapy in Belmont, Portland, OR

Photo of Italia Hensley : Congruent Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Belmont, Portland, OR
Italia Hensley : Congruent Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CNM-C
Verified Verified
Belmont, Portland, OR 97215  (Online Only)
Hello! In addition to counseling services, I am hiring to supervise Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselor Associates. You are in a relationship with your partner(s) or a part of a family unit. You have gotten to a place you never thought you could get to with yourself or loved one(s); you feel unheard, unloved, and undervalued, but you love them, and that is why you are here seeking me, a couple, polycule, and family therapist. I have been where you are now; it is overwhelming, painful, and discouraging. I am here to tell you this happens for so many people, and there is hope and a path to where you want to be.
Hello! In addition to counseling services, I am hiring to supervise Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselor Associates. You are in a relationship with your partner(s) or a part of a family unit. You have gotten to a place you never thought you could get to with yourself or loved one(s); you feel unheard, unloved, and undervalued, but you love them, and that is why you are here seeking me, a couple, polycule, and family therapist. I have been where you are now; it is overwhelming, painful, and discouraging. I am here to tell you this happens for so many people, and there is hope and a path to where you want to be.
(458) 204-0197 View (458) 204-0197
Photo of Alyssa Mackintosh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belmont, Portland, OR
Alyssa Mackintosh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Belmont, Portland, OR 97214
I look forward to working with you and your family.
Becoming a parent is life-changing in many ways. Some we can prepare for, but many we cannot. I have a special interest in working with mothers struggling with anxiety or depression related to pregnancy, adjustment to becoming a parent, traumatic birth experience, infant or child hospitalization, or having difficulty with breast or bottle feeding. I also have a passion for helping youth who have experienced trauma and can help decrease symptoms of depression, anxiety, behavior problems, sexualized behaviors, and trauma-related shame, while improving social competence and trust. I am trained in CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT, DBT and Mindfulness.
I look forward to working with you and your family.
Becoming a parent is life-changing in many ways. Some we can prepare for, but many we cannot. I have a special interest in working with mothers struggling with anxiety or depression related to pregnancy, adjustment to becoming a parent, traumatic birth experience, infant or child hospitalization, or having difficulty with breast or bottle feeding. I also have a passion for helping youth who have experienced trauma and can help decrease symptoms of depression, anxiety, behavior problems, sexualized behaviors, and trauma-related shame, while improving social competence and trust. I am trained in CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT, DBT and Mindfulness.
(503) 461-1295 View (503) 461-1295
Photo of Whitney Preece, Licensed Professional Counselor in Belmont, Portland, OR
Whitney Preece
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Belmont, Portland, OR 97215
Waitlist for new clients
You're your best expert; my role is as counselor and coach. Specialties include relationship and family issues, parenting, postpartum adjustment, fertility issues, perimenopause/menopause, depression/anxiety, codependency, grief, childhood trauma/loss, self esteem issues and life transitions. My goal is for you to leave therapy with a sense of relief from your struggles and tools to cope with what's to come.
You're your best expert; my role is as counselor and coach. Specialties include relationship and family issues, parenting, postpartum adjustment, fertility issues, perimenopause/menopause, depression/anxiety, codependency, grief, childhood trauma/loss, self esteem issues and life transitions. My goal is for you to leave therapy with a sense of relief from your struggles and tools to cope with what's to come.
(971) 236-5070 View (971) 236-5070
Photo of Sahar L. Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Belmont, Portland, OR
Sahar L. Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, QMHP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Belmont, Portland, OR 97215
My areas of focus are trauma, chronic mental illness or disability, minority stress, culturally specific therapy, identity and life purpose, and family & relationship therapy.
Feeling isolated, unsure of your purpose, stressed in your relationships, or ashamed or confused about your thoughts, actions or feelings? You are not alone. Mental health, relationship conflict, social/economic stressors, and life during COVID can all make it challenging to feel truly connected. But experiencing connection – whether with yourself, loved ones, pets, or the natural world – is the cornerstone to wellness, and it's worth the vulnerability it takes to get there. Together we'll explore how to support you in building connections and coping skills that nourish you and your relationships for the long term.
My areas of focus are trauma, chronic mental illness or disability, minority stress, culturally specific therapy, identity and life purpose, and family & relationship therapy.
Feeling isolated, unsure of your purpose, stressed in your relationships, or ashamed or confused about your thoughts, actions or feelings? You are not alone. Mental health, relationship conflict, social/economic stressors, and life during COVID can all make it challenging to feel truly connected. But experiencing connection – whether with yourself, loved ones, pets, or the natural world – is the cornerstone to wellness, and it's worth the vulnerability it takes to get there. Together we'll explore how to support you in building connections and coping skills that nourish you and your relationships for the long term.
(503) 300-5274 View (503) 300-5274
Photo of Gayle M. Waitches, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Belmont, Portland, OR
Gayle M. Waitches
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, LPC, NCC, DO
Verified Verified
Belmont, Portland, OR 97215
I am both a physician and a marriage, couple and family therapist intern. My training gives me a unique awareness of the interconnectedness of neuroscience and the tender yet resilient human psyche.
I am both a physician and a marriage, couple and family therapist intern. My training gives me a unique awareness of the interconnectedness of neuroscience and the tender yet resilient human psyche.
(503) 705-8489 View (503) 705-8489
Photo of Kathy Ruberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belmont, Portland, OR
Kathy Ruberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belmont, Portland, OR 97215
I work from a family system orientation and utilize some cognitive behavioral techniques that address negative beliefs that interfere in lives.
Looking to make changes can be challenging! I believe we all have the capacity to change in a safe and helpful space. My passion is assisting individuals in making changes that work for them. I have over 30 years of experience challenging myself in learning with every person I meet, continuing education and implementing what works for each individual. I employ a non-judgmental approach with support and encouragement along the way. If this sounds like something you are looking for, you can contact me and consult about an appointment,
I work from a family system orientation and utilize some cognitive behavioral techniques that address negative beliefs that interfere in lives.
Looking to make changes can be challenging! I believe we all have the capacity to change in a safe and helpful space. My passion is assisting individuals in making changes that work for them. I have over 30 years of experience challenging myself in learning with every person I meet, continuing education and implementing what works for each individual. I employ a non-judgmental approach with support and encouragement along the way. If this sounds like something you are looking for, you can contact me and consult about an appointment,
(503) 486-4225 View (503) 486-4225
Photo of Kendre Berger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belmont, Portland, OR
Kendre Berger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belmont, Portland, OR 97214
My primary modalities in therapy include Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), play therapy, sensorimotor psychotherapy, Trauma Focused/Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT + CBT), behavioral therapy, family therapy and art therapy.
I work with children (0-18) and families who are trying to navigate the unexpected and hard to discuss challenges that life throws at you. My treatment approach focuses on helping children better understand their experiences, current circumstances, and what is to come while also nurturing their attachment relationship(s) to their caregiver(s). Through this relational process we will work together collaboratively to identify areas for growth and gain tools necessary for success. My specialties include working with families impacted by intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD), chronic illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief.
My primary modalities in therapy include Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), play therapy, sensorimotor psychotherapy, Trauma Focused/Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT + CBT), behavioral therapy, family therapy and art therapy.
I work with children (0-18) and families who are trying to navigate the unexpected and hard to discuss challenges that life throws at you. My treatment approach focuses on helping children better understand their experiences, current circumstances, and what is to come while also nurturing their attachment relationship(s) to their caregiver(s). Through this relational process we will work together collaboratively to identify areas for growth and gain tools necessary for success. My specialties include working with families impacted by intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD), chronic illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief.
(503) 406-3710 View (503) 406-3710
Photo of Dr. Justin Bush, Psychologist in Belmont, Portland, OR
Dr. Justin Bush
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Belmont, Portland, OR 97215  (Online Only)
Hello! I help parents and children, teenagers, and young adults. And yes, I am accepting new clients for video appointments and use an online calendar. As a licensed psychologist, I have the necessary training and experience to provide family therapy, adolescent treatment, and counseling for parents to improve their positive parenting skills. My expertise lies in cognitive-behavioral treatment and mindfulness-based and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) & DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy)- informed approaches. Collaboratively, we will work as a team to enhance your mental health, livelihood, and overall well-being.
Hello! I help parents and children, teenagers, and young adults. And yes, I am accepting new clients for video appointments and use an online calendar. As a licensed psychologist, I have the necessary training and experience to provide family therapy, adolescent treatment, and counseling for parents to improve their positive parenting skills. My expertise lies in cognitive-behavioral treatment and mindfulness-based and ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) & DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy)- informed approaches. Collaboratively, we will work as a team to enhance your mental health, livelihood, and overall well-being.
(971) 351-2916 View (971) 351-2916
Photo of Cara Zeisloft, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belmont, Portland, OR
Cara Zeisloft
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belmont, Portland, OR 97215
Areas of specialty include family-of-origin dynamics, depression, relationship difficulties, and issues around sexuality and gender.
I offer a space for you to find, voice, and consider your most honest feelings. Connecting to your true self can help with a wide variety of issues, including difficulty in relationships, conflicts with others, or simply the feeling that your life isn't going the direction you want. I will help you take a clear look at the issues, the feelings you're having, and how you want to respond. My style is straightforward, active, and warm, and I encourage our thinking creatively together about your situation. I will openly share my thoughts and ideas with you, and I will focus on making sure our collaboration is working for you.
Areas of specialty include family-of-origin dynamics, depression, relationship difficulties, and issues around sexuality and gender.
I offer a space for you to find, voice, and consider your most honest feelings. Connecting to your true self can help with a wide variety of issues, including difficulty in relationships, conflicts with others, or simply the feeling that your life isn't going the direction you want. I will help you take a clear look at the issues, the feelings you're having, and how you want to respond. My style is straightforward, active, and warm, and I encourage our thinking creatively together about your situation. I will openly share my thoughts and ideas with you, and I will focus on making sure our collaboration is working for you.
(510) 594-4331 View (510) 594-4331
Photo of Lashanda McGowan (Accepting New Clients), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belmont, Portland, OR
Lashanda McGowan (Accepting New Clients)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSWA
Verified Verified
Belmont, Portland, OR 97215
I utilize a variety of approaches including Internal Family Systems, Trauma Focused, Narrative, and CBT.
I work with those who have the odds stacked against them, those who have experienced abuse, lack of acceptance and discrimination. Whether that has been complex trauma, systemic oppression, racial, generational, or religious trauma. I can relate to the experiences of marginalized people with real lived experience. I provide a space that is judgement free, compassionate, and honest where we co-create a path forward. I will be there walking alongside you every step of the way, in your corner, as we figure out this path together.
I utilize a variety of approaches including Internal Family Systems, Trauma Focused, Narrative, and CBT.
I work with those who have the odds stacked against them, those who have experienced abuse, lack of acceptance and discrimination. Whether that has been complex trauma, systemic oppression, racial, generational, or religious trauma. I can relate to the experiences of marginalized people with real lived experience. I provide a space that is judgement free, compassionate, and honest where we co-create a path forward. I will be there walking alongside you every step of the way, in your corner, as we figure out this path together.
(503) 461-6857 View (503) 461-6857
Photo of Greg Robillard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Belmont, Portland, OR
Greg Robillard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Belmont, Portland, OR 97215
How can you learn to let go? People suffer because of things have happened to them: a bad relationship, family issues, transitions to a new life stage, early childhood trauma. Sometimes it feels like those past injuries hold you in place, make it so you’re barely treading water. These injuries cause anxiety and depression, addiction, nightmares, isolation, a lack of connection.
How can you learn to let go? People suffer because of things have happened to them: a bad relationship, family issues, transitions to a new life stage, early childhood trauma. Sometimes it feels like those past injuries hold you in place, make it so you’re barely treading water. These injuries cause anxiety and depression, addiction, nightmares, isolation, a lack of connection.
(503) 563-0810 View (503) 563-0810
Photo of Jezaiah Valencia, Pre-Licensed Professional in Belmont, Portland, OR
Jezaiah Valencia
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Belmont, Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
My approach with individuals consists of Person-Centered therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Attachment theory using a strengths-based perspective.
I believe that each individual has the potential to reach life satisfaction through self-exploration in therapy. As your therapist, I aspire to help you discover your strengths and navigate challenges within yourself and interpersonal relationships to achieve the fulfillment that everyone strives for. My hope is to support and encourage you towards learning the different parts of who you are and within your relationships so you may feel empowered throughout your life.
My approach with individuals consists of Person-Centered therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Attachment theory using a strengths-based perspective.
I believe that each individual has the potential to reach life satisfaction through self-exploration in therapy. As your therapist, I aspire to help you discover your strengths and navigate challenges within yourself and interpersonal relationships to achieve the fulfillment that everyone strives for. My hope is to support and encourage you towards learning the different parts of who you are and within your relationships so you may feel empowered throughout your life.
(503) 739-9138 View (503) 739-9138
Photo of Family Roots Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Belmont, Portland, OR
Family Roots Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Belmont, Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
We believe in supporting the entire family in therapy, whether all members attend sessions or not.
We help new parents, young children, and teens to create healthier relationships and work together to navigate family conflict, life stressors, and adjustment to change. Do your child's emotions and outbursts seem out of control and too much to handle? Does your teen seem anxious, depressed, or withdrawn? Are you and your partner arguing constantly about parenting? Feeling sad and hopeless, or not bonding with your baby or child like you thought you would? We can help.
We believe in supporting the entire family in therapy, whether all members attend sessions or not.
We help new parents, young children, and teens to create healthier relationships and work together to navigate family conflict, life stressors, and adjustment to change. Do your child's emotions and outbursts seem out of control and too much to handle? Does your teen seem anxious, depressed, or withdrawn? Are you and your partner arguing constantly about parenting? Feeling sad and hopeless, or not bonding with your baby or child like you thought you would? We can help.
(971) 274-5503 View (971) 274-5503
Photo of Shannon Quinn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Belmont, Portland, OR
Shannon Quinn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Belmont, Portland, OR 97215
Whether you would like to improve your relationships with partners, friends, or family, explore feelings of grief in your own way without pressure to "get back to normal already," or find that sense of self and purpose that you might be missing, I provide a safe and confidential environment to process thoughts and feelings and gain insight, feedback and understanding.
Whether you would like to improve your relationships with partners, friends, or family, explore feelings of grief in your own way without pressure to "get back to normal already," or find that sense of self and purpose that you might be missing, I provide a safe and confidential environment to process thoughts and feelings and gain insight, feedback and understanding.
(503) 766-3982 View (503) 766-3982
Photo of Amber Valenkamph, Psychologist in Belmont, Portland, OR
Amber Valenkamph
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Belmont, Portland, OR 97215
Whether you are engaging in individual, family, relationship, or group therapy, Dr.
Psychotherapy is often described as ‘the treatment of mental disorders,’ but that is only one of many reasons a person may seek services. Psychologists have the unique knowledge & expertise to draw connections between past relational patterns, individual brain chemistry, heritability of symptoms, emotional awareness, & thought processes/behaviors that perpetuate impairments in functioning. Psychotherapy isn’t a matter of asking a question & receiving advice - but rather learning the skills to make sense of life & building the confidence to take control of it.
Whether you are engaging in individual, family, relationship, or group therapy, Dr.
Psychotherapy is often described as ‘the treatment of mental disorders,’ but that is only one of many reasons a person may seek services. Psychologists have the unique knowledge & expertise to draw connections between past relational patterns, individual brain chemistry, heritability of symptoms, emotional awareness, & thought processes/behaviors that perpetuate impairments in functioning. Psychotherapy isn’t a matter of asking a question & receiving advice - but rather learning the skills to make sense of life & building the confidence to take control of it.
(458) 206-5212 View (458) 206-5212
Photo of Nate Wilson-Traisman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Belmont, Portland, OR
Nate Wilson-Traisman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belmont, Portland, OR 97215
I bring 10 years of experience as a family systems therapist to my work, and have extensive training in models of individual and family therapy.
I love working with adolescents, adult individuals, and families. I enjoy helping teens and families navigate the changes of adolescence, while working to engage parents around their teenager's change process. While adolescence can challenge families, it's also a developmental phase filled with exciting and inspiring change. My work with adults often focuses on relationship issues, anxiety, stress management, and issues related to emotional expression. I work well with adults who are motivated to change behavior, and are wanting some extra help. My clients appreciate my grounded presence, and my strengths-based approach.
I bring 10 years of experience as a family systems therapist to my work, and have extensive training in models of individual and family therapy.
I love working with adolescents, adult individuals, and families. I enjoy helping teens and families navigate the changes of adolescence, while working to engage parents around their teenager's change process. While adolescence can challenge families, it's also a developmental phase filled with exciting and inspiring change. My work with adults often focuses on relationship issues, anxiety, stress management, and issues related to emotional expression. I work well with adults who are motivated to change behavior, and are wanting some extra help. My clients appreciate my grounded presence, and my strengths-based approach.
(503) 549-4841 View (503) 549-4841
Photo of Heidi Swartzmiller, Marriage & Family Therapist in Belmont, Portland, OR
Heidi Swartzmiller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belmont, Portland, OR 97215
I have a Master’s Degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy from Lewis and Clark with a focus on International Families and Sex Therapy.
Welcome! I enjoy working with individuals and couples, and walking alongside them in their healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative experience between the family and therapist, that each client has the resiliency and resources they need already within, and that it is our job to uncover them. My work with clients considers biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing relational distress, sex concerns, infertility/pregnancy issues, transracial/transnational family dynamics, processing trauma, religion and spirituality, body-image concerns, or low self esteem.
I have a Master’s Degree in Marriage, Couples, and Family Therapy from Lewis and Clark with a focus on International Families and Sex Therapy.
Welcome! I enjoy working with individuals and couples, and walking alongside them in their healing. I believe therapy is a collaborative experience between the family and therapist, that each client has the resiliency and resources they need already within, and that it is our job to uncover them. My work with clients considers biological, psychological, social, and spiritual factors. I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing relational distress, sex concerns, infertility/pregnancy issues, transracial/transnational family dynamics, processing trauma, religion and spirituality, body-image concerns, or low self esteem.
(503) 966-8786 View (503) 966-8786
Photo of Percy Hawkes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Belmont, Portland, OR
Percy Hawkes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Belmont, Portland, OR 97215
In addition to marriage & family therapy, I'm trained in Sex Therapy, Attachment, EMDR (trauma work), Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples, the Mythopoetic men's movement, Sensate Focus & Surrogate Partner Therapy.
Get better, heal, and integrate. My role is to help you become your fullest version of yourself. My ideal clients are ready to look at new ways of encountering old problems. I enjoy working with many identities, including my own LGBTQIA+ and Latinx communities. Relationships, sexuality, identity, trauma, anxiety, kink, and neurodiversity are recurrent therapy themes. At times in our lives it is key to have the competent support of an advocate to walk through tough life experiences. I see individuals, relationships, and groups.
In addition to marriage & family therapy, I'm trained in Sex Therapy, Attachment, EMDR (trauma work), Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples, the Mythopoetic men's movement, Sensate Focus & Surrogate Partner Therapy.
Get better, heal, and integrate. My role is to help you become your fullest version of yourself. My ideal clients are ready to look at new ways of encountering old problems. I enjoy working with many identities, including my own LGBTQIA+ and Latinx communities. Relationships, sexuality, identity, trauma, anxiety, kink, and neurodiversity are recurrent therapy themes. At times in our lives it is key to have the competent support of an advocate to walk through tough life experiences. I see individuals, relationships, and groups.
(503) 461-8651 View (503) 461-8651
Photo of Dr. Shelby Reep, Psychologist in Belmont, Portland, OR
Dr. Shelby Reep
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Belmont, Portland, OR 97215
Dr. Shelby is passionate about entering into the depths of religious and relational trauma, anxiety, perfectionism & burn-out, body image, existential dread, grief, and chronic suffering. She prioritizes balancing compassion and challenge in therapy to unlock patterns of how we relate to ourselves, to others, and to the world around us. Her approach is typically a good fit for those interested in developing a longer term treatment with an interest in depth work, value a direct approach, and for those wanting "more." She addresses wants and needs, personal values, and increasing agency, compassion, and radical acceptance.
Dr. Shelby is passionate about entering into the depths of religious and relational trauma, anxiety, perfectionism & burn-out, body image, existential dread, grief, and chronic suffering. She prioritizes balancing compassion and challenge in therapy to unlock patterns of how we relate to ourselves, to others, and to the world around us. Her approach is typically a good fit for those interested in developing a longer term treatment with an interest in depth work, value a direct approach, and for those wanting "more." She addresses wants and needs, personal values, and increasing agency, compassion, and radical acceptance.
(503) 683-8027 View (503) 683-8027
Photo of Courtney Burns, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Belmont, Portland, OR
Courtney Burns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belmont, Portland, OR 97215
I am full at this time and not able to accecpt new clients. My clients struggle just like you. Despite being smart, kind and empathetic achievers they still feel worried and disconnected. And they are ready to get to the root of it! When they first come to therapy they feel stressed and frustrated by their unrealized hopes. Knowing full well life will never be perfect, but they want it be eaiser than this! Things have happened in their life that have been hard. So hard that it has led them to worry when the other shoe is going to drop.
I am full at this time and not able to accecpt new clients. My clients struggle just like you. Despite being smart, kind and empathetic achievers they still feel worried and disconnected. And they are ready to get to the root of it! When they first come to therapy they feel stressed and frustrated by their unrealized hopes. Knowing full well life will never be perfect, but they want it be eaiser than this! Things have happened in their life that have been hard. So hard that it has led them to worry when the other shoe is going to drop.
(971) 715-0951 View (971) 715-0951

See more therapy options for Belmont, Portland


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.