Photo of Bradley Starring, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20912, MD
Bradley Starring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20912
This includes Internal Family Systems (IFS) for inner exploration, Somatic Experiencing (SE) to understand the mind-body connection, and incorporating Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) to break through emotional barriers to facilitate lasting change.
Are you tired of suffering? I combine my knowledge of philosophy, psychology, and mindfulness to help my clients lead more peaceful and fulfilling lives. Together, we will embark on a journey into the depths of your inner world, whilst creating a compassionate and understanding environment. I specialize in supporting adults dealing with Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, ADHD, and other related areas.
This includes Internal Family Systems (IFS) for inner exploration, Somatic Experiencing (SE) to understand the mind-body connection, and incorporating Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) to break through emotional barriers to facilitate lasting change.
Are you tired of suffering? I combine my knowledge of philosophy, psychology, and mindfulness to help my clients lead more peaceful and fulfilling lives. Together, we will embark on a journey into the depths of your inner world, whilst creating a compassionate and understanding environment. I specialize in supporting adults dealing with Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Grief and Loss, ADHD, and other related areas.
(301) 485-4221 View (301) 485-4221
Photo of Christopher Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20912, MD
Christopher Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Takoma Park, MD 20912
I currently provide individual, couples, and family psychotherapy.
Welcome, I am a licensed therapist with extensive experience providing therapy services for the past 30 years. I have a dedicated interest in helping clients deal with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and other issues that oftentimes impact our ability to lead more fulfilling lives. Over the course of my career I've been able to help a wide range of clients make meaningful changes and develop greater insight into what are some of the underlying dynamics behind their challenges. I look forward to assisting you with achieving your goals and becoming more self-actualized on your unique life journey!
I currently provide individual, couples, and family psychotherapy.
Welcome, I am a licensed therapist with extensive experience providing therapy services for the past 30 years. I have a dedicated interest in helping clients deal with a range of issues including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and other issues that oftentimes impact our ability to lead more fulfilling lives. Over the course of my career I've been able to help a wide range of clients make meaningful changes and develop greater insight into what are some of the underlying dynamics behind their challenges. I look forward to assisting you with achieving your goals and becoming more self-actualized on your unique life journey!
(410) 983-3493 View (410) 983-3493
Photo of Tanya Lloyd, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20912, MD
Tanya Lloyd
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, ACS, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20912  (Online Only)
Welcome to Child and Family Creative Counseling! I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) and Board Approved clinical supervisor (ACS) dedicated to improving the mental health and well-being of individuals and families. I use an eclectic approach in working with children, adolescents, and adults to address psychological and behavioral concerns while meeting their developmental needs.
Welcome to Child and Family Creative Counseling! I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) and Board Approved clinical supervisor (ACS) dedicated to improving the mental health and well-being of individuals and families. I use an eclectic approach in working with children, adolescents, and adults to address psychological and behavioral concerns while meeting their developmental needs.
(301) 637-8379 View (301) 637-8379
Photo of Raphaelle Cuenod, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20912, MD
Raphaelle Cuenod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20912
I most often use Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy (PAP), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic Therapy, Mindfulness/Grounding Techniques, trauma informed yoga.
I am currently only accepting new clients for Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy (PAP) and couples therapy. Sometimes, life can become too overwhelming for us to work through it alone. Whether it be a life transition, tension in a relationship, or past trauma, therapy is a way for you to reconnect with your mind and body and allow you to regain control over your emotions, thoughts and feelings.
I most often use Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy (PAP), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic Therapy, Mindfulness/Grounding Techniques, trauma informed yoga.
I am currently only accepting new clients for Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy (PAP) and couples therapy. Sometimes, life can become too overwhelming for us to work through it alone. Whether it be a life transition, tension in a relationship, or past trauma, therapy is a way for you to reconnect with your mind and body and allow you to regain control over your emotions, thoughts and feelings.
(855) 759-0696 View (855) 759-0696
Photo of Tessa Wimberley, Psychologist in 20912, MD
Tessa Wimberley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20912
Waitlist for new clients
Some of my interests include trauma recovery, family of origin and relationship concerns, perfectionism, anxiety, loss and grief, life transitions, and identity development.
I offer compassionate counseling services that help you to access greater wellness in life. I enjoy supporting my clients in navigating a range of life stages and transitions. I believe deeply in the healing role of an authentic and warm therapeutic relationship. I have a passion for helping my clients to gain new levels of insight, collaborating around creative and compassionate ways to address personal and professional concerns, facilitating a safe space to explore important identities and cultural experiences, as well as supporting my clients' development of healthy relationships with others that can foster long-term growth.
Some of my interests include trauma recovery, family of origin and relationship concerns, perfectionism, anxiety, loss and grief, life transitions, and identity development.
I offer compassionate counseling services that help you to access greater wellness in life. I enjoy supporting my clients in navigating a range of life stages and transitions. I believe deeply in the healing role of an authentic and warm therapeutic relationship. I have a passion for helping my clients to gain new levels of insight, collaborating around creative and compassionate ways to address personal and professional concerns, facilitating a safe space to explore important identities and cultural experiences, as well as supporting my clients' development of healthy relationships with others that can foster long-term growth.
(240) 349-7384 View (240) 349-7384
Photo of Marina Kerlow, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 20912, MD
Marina Kerlow
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LGMFT
Verified Verified
Takoma Park, MD 20912  (Online Only)
I provide inclusive and affirming care to clients from diverse backgrounds and family structures.
Are you feeling stuck in old patterns and confusion? I can help you break old cycles that no longer serve you and develop more productive and healthier ways of being - whether that's individually or as a family. I provide therapy for improving relationships, healing from trauma, and exploring identity. I draw from my background working in research on child development and family resilience, evidence-based practices, my clinical expertise, and own lived experiences.
I provide inclusive and affirming care to clients from diverse backgrounds and family structures.
Are you feeling stuck in old patterns and confusion? I can help you break old cycles that no longer serve you and develop more productive and healthier ways of being - whether that's individually or as a family. I provide therapy for improving relationships, healing from trauma, and exploring identity. I draw from my background working in research on child development and family resilience, evidence-based practices, my clinical expertise, and own lived experiences.
(301) 804-2658 View (301) 804-2658
Photo of Amber Marcelin-Flynn in 20912, MD
Amber Marcelin-Flynn
MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20912
The warmth of genuine connection transcends the traditional therapist-client dynamic. As an experienced Mental Health Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist based in the DMV area with nearly a decade of dedicated practice, I offer a comprehensive range of competencies to support individuals on their journey toward healing and self-discovery. My expertise spans the following areas: Anxiety and Stress Management, Depression and Emotional Regulation, Self-Criticism and Inner Conflict Resolution, Suicidal Ideation and Crisis Intervention, Codependency and Boundary Setting, and Creativity and Authentic Connection.
The warmth of genuine connection transcends the traditional therapist-client dynamic. As an experienced Mental Health Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist based in the DMV area with nearly a decade of dedicated practice, I offer a comprehensive range of competencies to support individuals on their journey toward healing and self-discovery. My expertise spans the following areas: Anxiety and Stress Management, Depression and Emotional Regulation, Self-Criticism and Inner Conflict Resolution, Suicidal Ideation and Crisis Intervention, Codependency and Boundary Setting, and Creativity and Authentic Connection.
(301) 690-8957 View (301) 690-8957
Photo of Candice Peggs, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20912, MD
Candice Peggs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20912
Adult individual, couples, and family therapy.
Welcome! My job is to use my knowledge and skills to enhance what's already working for you. Areas of focus: Work stress, worries, sleep issues, health challenges, grief and loss, parenting support, guilt and shame, career and life transitions. My work emphasizes mind/body awareness to create health and healing. I've worked with clients who are completely new to therapy and those who have tried working with different therapists. My intention is to help you heal and rediscover your voice.
Adult individual, couples, and family therapy.
Welcome! My job is to use my knowledge and skills to enhance what's already working for you. Areas of focus: Work stress, worries, sleep issues, health challenges, grief and loss, parenting support, guilt and shame, career and life transitions. My work emphasizes mind/body awareness to create health and healing. I've worked with clients who are completely new to therapy and those who have tried working with different therapists. My intention is to help you heal and rediscover your voice.
(240) 213-9096 View (240) 213-9096
Photo of Paula Howie, Art Therapist in 20912, MD
Paula Howie
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Takoma Park, MD 20912
I am both an art therapist and licensed professional counselor in private practice in Washington, DC. I teach courses to graduate students in art therapy and counseling. Although I specialize in helping both children and adults with issues of trauma, family, and relationship, people bring a wide range of concerns from personal growth to serious mental illness. Before entering private practice, I directed an activities therapy department in an army medical center where military members and their families were hospitalized for personality and mental disorders. At this facility, I also worked with children and adolescents on a medical ward.
I am both an art therapist and licensed professional counselor in private practice in Washington, DC. I teach courses to graduate students in art therapy and counseling. Although I specialize in helping both children and adults with issues of trauma, family, and relationship, people bring a wide range of concerns from personal growth to serious mental illness. Before entering private practice, I directed an activities therapy department in an army medical center where military members and their families were hospitalized for personality and mental disorders. At this facility, I also worked with children and adolescents on a medical ward.
(240) 949-6779 View (240) 949-6779
Photo of Jessica Rotem, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20912, MD
Jessica Rotem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20912
I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy, whether it is for personal growth, social and family relationships, work issues, or addressing a specific challenge.
I have been honored to work with families, young children, and adults for nearly ten years. In my practice I lean on the tenets of trauma-informed practices, the neuroscience of connection, and attachment research. As a result of our work together, I have witnessed clients’ immense personal growth, improvements in social and family relationships, decreases in work issues, and a healthy integration of tools learned in therapy. I believe that through our work together, we can unearth the keys to you having more ease in your day-to-day and shift away from unhelpful patterns of thoughts and actions.
I believe that everyone can benefit from therapy, whether it is for personal growth, social and family relationships, work issues, or addressing a specific challenge.
I have been honored to work with families, young children, and adults for nearly ten years. In my practice I lean on the tenets of trauma-informed practices, the neuroscience of connection, and attachment research. As a result of our work together, I have witnessed clients’ immense personal growth, improvements in social and family relationships, decreases in work issues, and a healthy integration of tools learned in therapy. I believe that through our work together, we can unearth the keys to you having more ease in your day-to-day and shift away from unhelpful patterns of thoughts and actions.
(301) 381-1773 View (301) 381-1773
Photo of Hugh K Marr, Psychologist in 20912, MD
Hugh K Marr
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Takoma Park, MD 20912  (Online Only)
Before entering private practice, I worked in all phases of community mental health (outpatient adult and child services, family therapy, alcohol treatment, emergency services coordinator, etc.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice formerly (pre-covid) in Old Town, Alexandria, VA; all sessions are now via secure telehealth. I provide consultation and supervision to other mental health professionals; and I consult to healthcare facilities. I have taught courses in trauma therapy, family therapy, and substance abuse counseling to graduate students in psychology and counseling. Although I specialize in helping people with issues of trauma, substance use, and relationship, people bring a wide range of concerns from personal growth to serious mental illness. I help people understand and change their life stories.
Before entering private practice, I worked in all phases of community mental health (outpatient adult and child services, family therapy, alcohol treatment, emergency services coordinator, etc.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice formerly (pre-covid) in Old Town, Alexandria, VA; all sessions are now via secure telehealth. I provide consultation and supervision to other mental health professionals; and I consult to healthcare facilities. I have taught courses in trauma therapy, family therapy, and substance abuse counseling to graduate students in psychology and counseling. Although I specialize in helping people with issues of trauma, substance use, and relationship, people bring a wide range of concerns from personal growth to serious mental illness. I help people understand and change their life stories.
(703) 468-8284 View (703) 468-8284
Photo of Jacqueline Wallen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20912, MD
Jacqueline Wallen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Takoma Park, MD 20912  (Online Only)
I am also an Associate Professor Emerita in the Department of Family Science, School of Public Health, at the University of Maryland in College Park.
My clients are adults, usually midlife or older. They come to me for help with a variety of issues, including: life transitions, parenting, caregiving, or relationship difficulties, mental distress such as depression or anxiety, alcohol or drug problems, or a desire to resolve past traumas. I am comfortable and experienced with clients who want to strengthen their own spiritual resources in therapy and welcome diversity of all kinds.
I am also an Associate Professor Emerita in the Department of Family Science, School of Public Health, at the University of Maryland in College Park.
My clients are adults, usually midlife or older. They come to me for help with a variety of issues, including: life transitions, parenting, caregiving, or relationship difficulties, mental distress such as depression or anxiety, alcohol or drug problems, or a desire to resolve past traumas. I am comfortable and experienced with clients who want to strengthen their own spiritual resources in therapy and welcome diversity of all kinds.
(301) 476-1480 View (301) 476-1480
Photo of Ronnie Biemans, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 20912, MD
Ronnie Biemans
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20912
I bring as well, wisdom developed over 25 years of clinical work and training as a counselor and family therapist.
My approach is particularly suited to those individuals who are struggling with emotional distress and anxiety, school difficulties and overwork. Students, caregivers, new parents, pregnant or postpartum women, infertile couples, parents of children with special needs, and those dealing with chronic illness have found my approach very helpful. Join with me to restore and renew your emotional health. Together we will explore your strengths and challenges and develop a plan just right for you, with strategies proven to ensure stress and anxiety reduction, mood regulation, improved sleep, fulfilling relationships and balanced living.
I bring as well, wisdom developed over 25 years of clinical work and training as a counselor and family therapist.
My approach is particularly suited to those individuals who are struggling with emotional distress and anxiety, school difficulties and overwork. Students, caregivers, new parents, pregnant or postpartum women, infertile couples, parents of children with special needs, and those dealing with chronic illness have found my approach very helpful. Join with me to restore and renew your emotional health. Together we will explore your strengths and challenges and develop a plan just right for you, with strategies proven to ensure stress and anxiety reduction, mood regulation, improved sleep, fulfilling relationships and balanced living.
(240) 772-5451 View (240) 772-5451
Photo of Daniel Abzug, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20912, MD
Daniel Abzug
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20912
With extensive experience facilitating individual, family, and group therapy with adolescents and adults in multiple settings, I have developed a unique passion for working with a wide variety of populations and age-groups.
Many of us don't know where to begin at the moment we realize we need help or simply become interested in exploring our lives and relationships. We may hear about many different treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, EMDR, etc.) and feel confused about what "type" of therapist we should meet with. I simplify all of this by being straight-forward, down-to-earth, and adept at helping you use the best and most effective components of every modality available. Within our first meeting you will have a better understanding of yourself and what you want to manifest in your life.
With extensive experience facilitating individual, family, and group therapy with adolescents and adults in multiple settings, I have developed a unique passion for working with a wide variety of populations and age-groups.
Many of us don't know where to begin at the moment we realize we need help or simply become interested in exploring our lives and relationships. We may hear about many different treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, EMDR, etc.) and feel confused about what "type" of therapist we should meet with. I simplify all of this by being straight-forward, down-to-earth, and adept at helping you use the best and most effective components of every modality available. Within our first meeting you will have a better understanding of yourself and what you want to manifest in your life.
(301) 683-5318 View (301) 683-5318
Photo of Dr. Jon Thomas, Counselor in 20912, MD
Dr. Jon Thomas
Counselor, EdD, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20912  (Online Only)
Research shows that teachers, doctors, nurses, counselors, social workers, pastors, and CEOs face unique challenges that can leave them drained of the energy they need to be effective on the job and in personal and family relationships.
I have been working with individuals, couples, and families in the Maryland area for 20 years, During my time here I have had the privileged to serve as a college chaplain, youth pastor, university professor, and mental health clinic director. At present I divide my time between serving mental health and substance abuse clinics as a clinical supervisor and consultant and running a thriving private practice. I specialize in helping other professionals fight off burnout and establish an effective work/life balance. This become increasingly important with the additional stress Covid-19 has placed on all of us.
Research shows that teachers, doctors, nurses, counselors, social workers, pastors, and CEOs face unique challenges that can leave them drained of the energy they need to be effective on the job and in personal and family relationships.
I have been working with individuals, couples, and families in the Maryland area for 20 years, During my time here I have had the privileged to serve as a college chaplain, youth pastor, university professor, and mental health clinic director. At present I divide my time between serving mental health and substance abuse clinics as a clinical supervisor and consultant and running a thriving private practice. I specialize in helping other professionals fight off burnout and establish an effective work/life balance. This become increasingly important with the additional stress Covid-19 has placed on all of us.
(301) 710-9984 View (301) 710-9984
Photo of Capable Family Coaching, Psychologist in 20912, MD
Capable Family Coaching
Psychologist, MS
Not Verified Not Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20912
Jennifer Paget, MS, will partner with you to develop parenting practices that fit both your child's abilities and the needs of your family.
Every day is filled with parenting battles that leave you exhausted and guilt-ridden, having lost your temper too many times. You ache for a more peaceful home and a loving relationship with your child or teen, but you don’t know how to get there. General advice and tips sound good on paper but they are not working with your child, and you don’t know why. Your energy and resilience are taking a serious hit. Worst of all, you are afraid that your child will be emotionally harmed by all the turmoil that goes on from day to day.
Jennifer Paget, MS, will partner with you to develop parenting practices that fit both your child's abilities and the needs of your family.
Every day is filled with parenting battles that leave you exhausted and guilt-ridden, having lost your temper too many times. You ache for a more peaceful home and a loving relationship with your child or teen, but you don’t know how to get there. General advice and tips sound good on paper but they are not working with your child, and you don’t know why. Your energy and resilience are taking a serious hit. Worst of all, you are afraid that your child will be emotionally harmed by all the turmoil that goes on from day to day.
(267) 376-7438 View (267) 376-7438
Photo of Lenore M. Pomerance, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20912, MD
Lenore M. Pomerance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CGP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Takoma Park, MD 20912
We come to therapy to change our lives which can only be done by changing ourselves. I believe the most effective changes occur when we can experience and examine our behavior in relation to others. In individual therapy you and I will not only identify and try to understnad how your life experiences have shaped your behavior, but how you and I experience that behavior in our relationship. When I work with couples, I focus on your dynamics of intimacy, power imbalances, money, sexuality, and the impact of family and friends on your couple.
We come to therapy to change our lives which can only be done by changing ourselves. I believe the most effective changes occur when we can experience and examine our behavior in relation to others. In individual therapy you and I will not only identify and try to understnad how your life experiences have shaped your behavior, but how you and I experience that behavior in our relationship. When I work with couples, I focus on your dynamics of intimacy, power imbalances, money, sexuality, and the impact of family and friends on your couple.
View
Photo of Sheryl J Frank, Psychologist in 20912, MD
Sheryl J Frank
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20912
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with learning challenges, ADHD, stressful family dynamics, depression, and anxiety. For many children and adolescents, there are struggles with behavioral and emotional regulation that are making life difficult for them and their families. Through dialogue and/or play, we develop innovative and creative strategies to help with self-regulation. For adult clients, through developing understanding of ADHD, depression and/or anxiety, I help clients make changes in their thoughts, feelings, and actions that lead to alleviation and reduction of symptoms.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults who are struggling with learning challenges, ADHD, stressful family dynamics, depression, and anxiety. For many children and adolescents, there are struggles with behavioral and emotional regulation that are making life difficult for them and their families. Through dialogue and/or play, we develop innovative and creative strategies to help with self-regulation. For adult clients, through developing understanding of ADHD, depression and/or anxiety, I help clients make changes in their thoughts, feelings, and actions that lead to alleviation and reduction of symptoms.
(301) 825-5033 View (301) 825-5033
Photo of Janeen Cross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20912, MD
Janeen Cross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MBA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20912  (Online Only)
This group practice provides treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, grief, health related challenges and other disorders. We are a diverse group of clinicians providing client-focused, family-centered, and trauma-informed care. This practice also provides mental health first aid certification for organizations and groups.
This group practice provides treatment for depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, grief, health related challenges and other disorders. We are a diverse group of clinicians providing client-focused, family-centered, and trauma-informed care. This practice also provides mental health first aid certification for organizations and groups.
(240) 774-2713 View (240) 774-2713
Photo of Clare Savage Bolek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 20912, MD
Clare Savage Bolek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20912
Life can be rough sometimes and asking for help is often the most difficult thing to do. I understand how difficult it is to ask for help and recognize the strength it takes to ask for it. I am a clinical social worker who can help break down the walls of confusion, fear, anxiety and anger to overcome life's daunting issues. I have 9 years of experience working with children, adolescents and families in a variety of settings. I have also worked helping people adjust to life's transitions- death of a family member, job change and relationship issues.
Life can be rough sometimes and asking for help is often the most difficult thing to do. I understand how difficult it is to ask for help and recognize the strength it takes to ask for it. I am a clinical social worker who can help break down the walls of confusion, fear, anxiety and anger to overcome life's daunting issues. I have 9 years of experience working with children, adolescents and families in a variety of settings. I have also worked helping people adjust to life's transitions- death of a family member, job change and relationship issues.
(301) 684-5473 View (301) 684-5473
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.