Photo of Charity A Chaffee, Counselor in 02481, MA
Charity A Chaffee
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
I also enjoy family coaching, and offer an on call service for families.
I am not your typical therapist, and strive to always create that emotional connection that allows us to work through any issue as a team. Most of my clients have already tried traditional therapy, and haven't been able to engage in one way or the other. Many of my clients haven't felt heard or understood, and it is a goal of mine to make therapy accessible for all. My belief as a therapist is that everyone can benefit- and should benefit from the relationship they have with their therapist. My clients believe in person centered care- and feedback goes both ways. I provide a trauma informed environment where the client gets to lead.
I also enjoy family coaching, and offer an on call service for families.
I am not your typical therapist, and strive to always create that emotional connection that allows us to work through any issue as a team. Most of my clients have already tried traditional therapy, and haven't been able to engage in one way or the other. Many of my clients haven't felt heard or understood, and it is a goal of mine to make therapy accessible for all. My belief as a therapist is that everyone can benefit- and should benefit from the relationship they have with their therapist. My clients believe in person centered care- and feedback goes both ways. I provide a trauma informed environment where the client gets to lead.
(508) 714-7244 View (508) 714-7244
Photo of Dr. Tim Ridge, Psychologist in 02481, MA
Dr. Tim Ridge
Psychologist, PsyD, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
Are you dealing with anxiety, sadness, shame, grief, trauma or stuff you really want to let go of in your life? Or perhaps you are feeling a sense of not being good enough, struggling with confidence and self-criticism? Pain may show up as feeling numb or angry, withdrawing from school or work, family and friends. Hiding the stress doesn't help you feel better. My approach is collaborative and non-judgmental, focused on helping you deal with pain from the past and deal with present challenges with greater ease and confidence. If you'd like to feel better about yourself and your life, I can help you get there.
Are you dealing with anxiety, sadness, shame, grief, trauma or stuff you really want to let go of in your life? Or perhaps you are feeling a sense of not being good enough, struggling with confidence and self-criticism? Pain may show up as feeling numb or angry, withdrawing from school or work, family and friends. Hiding the stress doesn't help you feel better. My approach is collaborative and non-judgmental, focused on helping you deal with pain from the past and deal with present challenges with greater ease and confidence. If you'd like to feel better about yourself and your life, I can help you get there.
(781) 990-0825 View (781) 990-0825
Photo of Kimberly Snapper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02481, MA
Kimberly Snapper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
I'm a licensed clinical social worker and certified coach and believe that at our core, we are resilient and possess the strength and power needed to live our best lives. But sometimes we need help. Life may present us with curve balls and feel bumpy and hard at times. Whether you’re feeling stuck in your personal life or professionally, l am here to partner with you to find clarity and a sense of relief. My work draws on Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), trauma theory (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I'm a licensed clinical social worker and certified coach and believe that at our core, we are resilient and possess the strength and power needed to live our best lives. But sometimes we need help. Life may present us with curve balls and feel bumpy and hard at times. Whether you’re feeling stuck in your personal life or professionally, l am here to partner with you to find clarity and a sense of relief. My work draws on Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), trauma theory (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
(339) 201-6524 View (339) 201-6524
Photo of W Rachel Krenis, Counselor in 02481, MA
W Rachel Krenis
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
I am qualified and passionate about treating a variety of mental health concerns such as Anxiety and Depression, Family and Relationship Stress, Eating Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Grief and Life Transitional Support, Parenting Support, Women's Issues such as body image concerns, in addition to Substance Abuse Support.
Are you looking for culturally sensitive, creative therapy? I provide culturally sensitive support to individuals seeking virtual counseling for depression, anxiety, transitions, inner peace-finding, and life coaching and planning. I help my clients feel more comfortable within their own bodies and life. I specialize in women's issues, stress and relationship issues. I also support art therapy and helping clients create safe comfortable spaces for everyday living through home design planning. I also provide support to other mental health LMHC professionals who need supervision towards licensure.
I am qualified and passionate about treating a variety of mental health concerns such as Anxiety and Depression, Family and Relationship Stress, Eating Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Grief and Life Transitional Support, Parenting Support, Women's Issues such as body image concerns, in addition to Substance Abuse Support.
Are you looking for culturally sensitive, creative therapy? I provide culturally sensitive support to individuals seeking virtual counseling for depression, anxiety, transitions, inner peace-finding, and life coaching and planning. I help my clients feel more comfortable within their own bodies and life. I specialize in women's issues, stress and relationship issues. I also support art therapy and helping clients create safe comfortable spaces for everyday living through home design planning. I also provide support to other mental health LMHC professionals who need supervision towards licensure.
(774) 479-4199 View (774) 479-4199
Photo of Lisa Bearak Shuman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02481, MA
Lisa Bearak Shuman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, BCD, QCSW, ACC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
I provide clients with a safe, supportive & respectful therapy/coaching experience. I’m there to listen. They can share “stories, past, present, life stresses/transition, mental health issues, family/couples goals” etc. I build upon clients strengths as we work together to achieve their goals. As a therapist & life coach I strive to provide my clients with a positive experience. Treatment concludes with them feeling better about themselves & having met "their goals”. The passion I felt when chose this field, early on in high school, still remains:). Through challenging times I’m grateful to be here, to help those in need.
I provide clients with a safe, supportive & respectful therapy/coaching experience. I’m there to listen. They can share “stories, past, present, life stresses/transition, mental health issues, family/couples goals” etc. I build upon clients strengths as we work together to achieve their goals. As a therapist & life coach I strive to provide my clients with a positive experience. Treatment concludes with them feeling better about themselves & having met "their goals”. The passion I felt when chose this field, early on in high school, still remains:). Through challenging times I’m grateful to be here, to help those in need.
(857) 342-3268 View (857) 342-3268
Photo of Alison McGrath, Psychologist in 02481, MA
Alison McGrath
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
I have experience working with individuals on a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, marital discord, family conflict, work and academic difficulties, grief and loss, trauma, and life transitions.
I believe psychotherapy is most effective when individuals feel genuinely connected to their therapist. I offer a safe, trusting, and supportive environment that enables individuals to develop the understanding and skills needed to make positive changes in their lives. Whether seeking therapy for symptom alleviation, a desire for greater self-understanding, or to cope with a particular crisis, good psychotherapy facilitates personal growth and learning in order to help individuals lead more fulfilling and enjoyable lives.
I have experience working with individuals on a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, relationship problems, marital discord, family conflict, work and academic difficulties, grief and loss, trauma, and life transitions.
I believe psychotherapy is most effective when individuals feel genuinely connected to their therapist. I offer a safe, trusting, and supportive environment that enables individuals to develop the understanding and skills needed to make positive changes in their lives. Whether seeking therapy for symptom alleviation, a desire for greater self-understanding, or to cope with a particular crisis, good psychotherapy facilitates personal growth and learning in order to help individuals lead more fulfilling and enjoyable lives.
(617) 934-5589 View (617) 934-5589
Photo of Carolyn McLoughlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02481, MA
Carolyn McLoughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
I specialize in treating adolescents struggling with managing academic, relational and family stressors.
I help adolescents, college students, adults and couples who are stuck in unsatisfying patterns of thinking and behavior create lasting change to grow and fulfill their full potential. I am a licensed clinical social worker, a psychoanalyst, a faculty member of the Massachusetts Institute for Psychoanalysis, and a former supervisor at Children's Hospital Boston and the Boston Institute for Psychotherapy. I have a flexible approach to psychotherapy and include both an appreciation for how past experiences shape the present while also incorporating coping strategies to manage and change every day life in the short-term.
I specialize in treating adolescents struggling with managing academic, relational and family stressors.
I help adolescents, college students, adults and couples who are stuck in unsatisfying patterns of thinking and behavior create lasting change to grow and fulfill their full potential. I am a licensed clinical social worker, a psychoanalyst, a faculty member of the Massachusetts Institute for Psychoanalysis, and a former supervisor at Children's Hospital Boston and the Boston Institute for Psychotherapy. I have a flexible approach to psychotherapy and include both an appreciation for how past experiences shape the present while also incorporating coping strategies to manage and change every day life in the short-term.
(617) 682-9042 View (617) 682-9042
Photo of Alicia Almonte, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02481, MA
Alicia Almonte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Update 10/30: Short Waitlist - I am a licensed psychotherapist working with adults and teenagers. Some of my common clients may come with issues related to anxiety, trauma, depression, grief, family conflict, life transitions, or ADHD. I value the importance of diversity, and I appreciate how the intersectionality of identities can impact lived experiences. My goal is to help you engage and enhance your capacity for introspection and self-awareness to better understand your past, present, and future, in a relaxed and comfortable therapeutic setting.
Update 10/30: Short Waitlist - I am a licensed psychotherapist working with adults and teenagers. Some of my common clients may come with issues related to anxiety, trauma, depression, grief, family conflict, life transitions, or ADHD. I value the importance of diversity, and I appreciate how the intersectionality of identities can impact lived experiences. My goal is to help you engage and enhance your capacity for introspection and self-awareness to better understand your past, present, and future, in a relaxed and comfortable therapeutic setting.
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Photo of Brennan Lerner, Pre-Licensed Professional in 02481, MA
Brennan Lerner
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
As a trauma-informed psychotherapist, I appreciate how core wounds, and the emotional distress surrounding them, can show up in adulthood and prevent us from living our happiest lives. My focus is on helping individuals to realize their power to feel safe in regulating emotions. In my work, I utilize approaches such as CBT (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), and SE (Somatic Experiencing), and enjoy the practice of destigmatizing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, thereby assisting my clients in developing self-compassion, a key ingredient for growth and change.
As a trauma-informed psychotherapist, I appreciate how core wounds, and the emotional distress surrounding them, can show up in adulthood and prevent us from living our happiest lives. My focus is on helping individuals to realize their power to feel safe in regulating emotions. In my work, I utilize approaches such as CBT (Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), IFS (Internal Family Systems), and SE (Somatic Experiencing), and enjoy the practice of destigmatizing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, thereby assisting my clients in developing self-compassion, a key ingredient for growth and change.
(978) 523-2643 View (978) 523-2643
Photo of Sophia Fleming, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02481, MA
Sophia Fleming
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Wellesley Hills, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Sophia often incorporates therapy stemming from cognitive behavioral, attachment, family systems, humanistic, psychodynamic, and trauma theories.
Sophia Fleming, LCSW, SEP offers virtual counseling sessions for adults throughout Massachusetts who are yearning to experience more peace and more joy in their lives. Typically, when one seeks counseling, he or she feels "stuck". Sophia has a knack for guiding clients to untangle the pieces. Sophia has had the honor of working and training at The Meadows, a world-renowned treatment center, and has received training from world-renowned therapists Pia Mellody on codependency, love addiction/ love avoidance, and inner child work, Claudia Black focusing on couples therapy, and Peter Levine developer of Somatic Experiencing.
Sophia often incorporates therapy stemming from cognitive behavioral, attachment, family systems, humanistic, psychodynamic, and trauma theories.
Sophia Fleming, LCSW, SEP offers virtual counseling sessions for adults throughout Massachusetts who are yearning to experience more peace and more joy in their lives. Typically, when one seeks counseling, he or she feels "stuck". Sophia has a knack for guiding clients to untangle the pieces. Sophia has had the honor of working and training at The Meadows, a world-renowned treatment center, and has received training from world-renowned therapists Pia Mellody on codependency, love addiction/ love avoidance, and inner child work, Claudia Black focusing on couples therapy, and Peter Levine developer of Somatic Experiencing.
(857) 425-8416 View (857) 425-8416
Photo of Maggie Jarmolowski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02481, MA
Maggie Jarmolowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
I am trained in psychodymanic, cognitive behavioral, trauma-focused treatment, including Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, but above all I strive to cultivate "a good fit" with my clients.
"Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" (-Mary Oliver) Hello! I've had the privilege of providing psychotherapy to clients in the Boston/Cambridge area for more than 17 years. In my practice I establish a caring, safe environment where clients can feel comfortable exploring their concerns. Whether you are new to therapy or have found therapy to be helpful in the past, I use a collaborative process that respects your comfort level and your goals for treatment.
I am trained in psychodymanic, cognitive behavioral, trauma-focused treatment, including Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, but above all I strive to cultivate "a good fit" with my clients.
"Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" (-Mary Oliver) Hello! I've had the privilege of providing psychotherapy to clients in the Boston/Cambridge area for more than 17 years. In my practice I establish a caring, safe environment where clients can feel comfortable exploring their concerns. Whether you are new to therapy or have found therapy to be helpful in the past, I use a collaborative process that respects your comfort level and your goals for treatment.
(617) 858-6840 View (617) 858-6840
Photo of Thomas William Stewart, Marriage & Family Therapist in 02481, MA
Thomas William Stewart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Highly trained therapist supporting children, couples and families experiencing a wide array of challenges including, but not limited to, learning disabilities, depression, anxiety, ADHD, parenting challenges, navigating the special education process, ableism, LGBTQIA issues, abuse, alcohol and substance abuse. Qualified as an expert witness. Trained therapists and graduate students in family therapy theory and practice. Recently years focus and committment has been on supporting children, couples and families with learning challenges and worked supporting the creation of MA Dyslexia screening legislation.
Highly trained therapist supporting children, couples and families experiencing a wide array of challenges including, but not limited to, learning disabilities, depression, anxiety, ADHD, parenting challenges, navigating the special education process, ableism, LGBTQIA issues, abuse, alcohol and substance abuse. Qualified as an expert witness. Trained therapists and graduate students in family therapy theory and practice. Recently years focus and committment has been on supporting children, couples and families with learning challenges and worked supporting the creation of MA Dyslexia screening legislation.
(978) 575-8522 View (978) 575-8522
Photo of Shiri Kessel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02481, MA
Shiri Kessel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Sometimes life throws us curveballs, and we might feel stressed, overloaded, or struggle to make decisions. You might be struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, unhealthy relationship patterns, major life decisions, professional and academic performance, or parenting issues. These challenges might be keeping you up at night or are interfering with your peace of mind. As a therapist, my primary goal is to provide a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental environment for my clients, to explore their thoughts and feelings.
Sometimes life throws us curveballs, and we might feel stressed, overloaded, or struggle to make decisions. You might be struggling with anxiety, stress, depression, low self-esteem, unhealthy relationship patterns, major life decisions, professional and academic performance, or parenting issues. These challenges might be keeping you up at night or are interfering with your peace of mind. As a therapist, my primary goal is to provide a safe, confidential, and nonjudgmental environment for my clients, to explore their thoughts and feelings.
(857) 453-8522 View (857) 453-8522
Photo of Sheila DeMelle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02481, MA
Sheila DeMelle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
Waitlist for new clients
Do you want to find a therapist who is attentive, respectful, empathic and effective? Are you struggling with feelings of deep sadness or anxiety? Do you find certain issues in your life overwhelming? I will provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for you to talk comfortably about your problems, challenges, hopes and goals. I enjoy developing warm and trusting relationships with my clients, and believe that you deserve to be happier.
Do you want to find a therapist who is attentive, respectful, empathic and effective? Are you struggling with feelings of deep sadness or anxiety? Do you find certain issues in your life overwhelming? I will provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for you to talk comfortably about your problems, challenges, hopes and goals. I enjoy developing warm and trusting relationships with my clients, and believe that you deserve to be happier.
(617) 383-9942 View (617) 383-9942
Photo of Leonard Joel Sommer, Psychologist in 02481, MA
Leonard Joel Sommer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
Psychotherapy, as I define it to my patients and students, is the collaborative inquiry between patient and therapist into the patient's patterns of interaction and patterns of expectation. This kind of study leads to greater personal and interpersonal freedom, which allows for the reduction or the elimination of symptoms. Psychotherapy can be of brief duration or an extended enterprise focusing on long term difficulties. The decision on which form of psychotherapy to undertake is usually based on an evaluation of 1 to 3 sessions, where a treatment plan is developed. I am interactive in my approach.
Psychotherapy, as I define it to my patients and students, is the collaborative inquiry between patient and therapist into the patient's patterns of interaction and patterns of expectation. This kind of study leads to greater personal and interpersonal freedom, which allows for the reduction or the elimination of symptoms. Psychotherapy can be of brief duration or an extended enterprise focusing on long term difficulties. The decision on which form of psychotherapy to undertake is usually based on an evaluation of 1 to 3 sessions, where a treatment plan is developed. I am interactive in my approach.
(781) 854-3895 x2 View (781) 854-3895 x2
Photo of Dr. Magdalena J Fosse, Psychologist in 02481, MA
Dr. Magdalena J Fosse
Psychologist, MA, MS, PsyD, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481
Step into a world where expertise meets compassion, where questions about sexuality, intimacy, and identity find their answers. In my practice, I blend the wisdom of a clinical psychologist, a certified sex therapist, and a couples counselor, crafting a space where monogamous or nonmonogamous individuals of all genders and orientations can explore their deepest desires and challenges. Whether you're wrestling with issues of trauma, betrayal, or the complexities of eroticism, I'm here to guide you. I'm also an author, consultant, and educator committed to sharing insights and empowering others to cultivate fulfilling relationships.
Step into a world where expertise meets compassion, where questions about sexuality, intimacy, and identity find their answers. In my practice, I blend the wisdom of a clinical psychologist, a certified sex therapist, and a couples counselor, crafting a space where monogamous or nonmonogamous individuals of all genders and orientations can explore their deepest desires and challenges. Whether you're wrestling with issues of trauma, betrayal, or the complexities of eroticism, I'm here to guide you. I'm also an author, consultant, and educator committed to sharing insights and empowering others to cultivate fulfilling relationships.
(857) 362-0937 View (857) 362-0937
Photo of Laura Curtiss Feder, Psychologist in 02481, MA
Laura Curtiss Feder
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Change is hard. People often seek psychotherapy around change. They want to change. People in their life want them to change. Or some life change is affecting them in a meaningful way. Often, it's a combination. By working together I can help you in this challenge. I frequently work with adolescents and adults struggling with addiction in themselves or in their families. Many of my patients are addressing anxiety, depression, questions or challenges regarding their sexual orientation, infertility, life transitions, traumatic experiences or eating disorders and other compulsive behaviors. A lot of my patients are college or graduate students.
Change is hard. People often seek psychotherapy around change. They want to change. People in their life want them to change. Or some life change is affecting them in a meaningful way. Often, it's a combination. By working together I can help you in this challenge. I frequently work with adolescents and adults struggling with addiction in themselves or in their families. Many of my patients are addressing anxiety, depression, questions or challenges regarding their sexual orientation, infertility, life transitions, traumatic experiences or eating disorders and other compulsive behaviors. A lot of my patients are college or graduate students.
(508) 466-6390 View (508) 466-6390
Photo of Sharon Whitworth, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02481, MA
Sharon Whitworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481
The decision to begin therapy, with all of it’s exciting possibilities for growth, is often made during a complicated or difficult time. I approach therapy from a solution focused lens. We will work together to help you take control of your life, by understanding the patterns that have been developed to manage uncomfortable feelings that have been firmly rooted from the past. We will work together to recognize your strengths, develop self-esteem, and strengthen relationships. Through a combination of psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies we will create change.
The decision to begin therapy, with all of it’s exciting possibilities for growth, is often made during a complicated or difficult time. I approach therapy from a solution focused lens. We will work together to help you take control of your life, by understanding the patterns that have been developed to manage uncomfortable feelings that have been firmly rooted from the past. We will work together to recognize your strengths, develop self-esteem, and strengthen relationships. Through a combination of psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral therapies we will create change.
(781) 527-5078 View (781) 527-5078
Photo of Sarah E Hines, Psychologist in 02481, MA
Sarah E Hines
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02481  (Online Only)
Dr. Sarah E. Hines is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with emerging adults, adolescents, and adults. Her warm and collaborative approach integrates a variety of therapeutic modalities including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic, Humanistic, ACT, and Emotion-Focused Therapy to meet each individual's needs. Her work involves helping clients to develop a cohesive sense of self and create a life worth living through partnership, curiosity, understanding, and perseverance.
Dr. Sarah E. Hines is a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in working with emerging adults, adolescents, and adults. Her warm and collaborative approach integrates a variety of therapeutic modalities including CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic, Humanistic, ACT, and Emotion-Focused Therapy to meet each individual's needs. Her work involves helping clients to develop a cohesive sense of self and create a life worth living through partnership, curiosity, understanding, and perseverance.
(781) 488-5095 View (781) 488-5095
Photo of Shepard Therapy Associates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 02481, MA
Shepard Therapy Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02481
Welcome to our practice! Our passion is helping others improve the quality of their lives. We have specialized training to help folks suffering from PTSD, as well as depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and grief/loss. Clients describe us as compassionate, nonjudgmental, gentle, and direct.
Welcome to our practice! Our passion is helping others improve the quality of their lives. We have specialized training to help folks suffering from PTSD, as well as depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and grief/loss. Clients describe us as compassionate, nonjudgmental, gentle, and direct.
(508) 219-6538 View (508) 219-6538
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.