Photo of Christine Pavey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27707, NC
Christine Pavey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Using tools and perspectives from object relations theory, internal family systems therapy, ACT, and DBT we can help you to grow.
As a psychodynamic and attachment oriented therapist, I believe that the foundation of therapeutic treatment is a safe and supportive relationship between therapist and client. The process of treatment often uses the therapeutic relationship itself to uncover relational patterns from earlier in life that may be causing pain or dysfunction in the present day. By identifying the historical antecedent to a seemingly confusing or inappropriate emotional response, client and therapist are able to disrupt maladaptive patterns and choose new, more values congruent responses.
Using tools and perspectives from object relations theory, internal family systems therapy, ACT, and DBT we can help you to grow.
As a psychodynamic and attachment oriented therapist, I believe that the foundation of therapeutic treatment is a safe and supportive relationship between therapist and client. The process of treatment often uses the therapeutic relationship itself to uncover relational patterns from earlier in life that may be causing pain or dysfunction in the present day. By identifying the historical antecedent to a seemingly confusing or inappropriate emotional response, client and therapist are able to disrupt maladaptive patterns and choose new, more values congruent responses.
(919) 323-3120 x27 View (919) 323-3120 x27
Photo of Blue Rose Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27707, NC
Blue Rose Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CSI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
I have a personal and family history that have made me sensitive to traumas and the results of poor decision making.
My "best" successes came from people who finally gave up on what wasn't working for them anymore and came in with an open mind. This worked with issues of anxiety and depression, habits that people didn't want to continue doing, relationships that felt broken, and coping mechanisms that used to work but then began to create more problems. I thoroughly enjoy working with people who are ready to get their lives back on track.
I have a personal and family history that have made me sensitive to traumas and the results of poor decision making.
My "best" successes came from people who finally gave up on what wasn't working for them anymore and came in with an open mind. This worked with issues of anxiety and depression, habits that people didn't want to continue doing, relationships that felt broken, and coping mechanisms that used to work but then began to create more problems. I thoroughly enjoy working with people who are ready to get their lives back on track.
(984) 459-7498 View (984) 459-7498
Photo of Ashley Cooke Knight, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27707, NC
Ashley Cooke Knight
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Waitlist for new clients
Life happens, and sometimes it can hit hard. Sometimes thing get too difficult. We change jobs, find new relationships, have changes to our family dynamics, move to a new city, or never feel like we really nipped that one situation in the bud. Sometimes we just need an extra pair of ears. It would be a pleasure to walk with you through your journey to redefining a new you. I have experience joining adolescents, adults, and families through their life journeys. I am an advocate of focusing on the full mind, body, and soul throughout your new life journey.
Life happens, and sometimes it can hit hard. Sometimes thing get too difficult. We change jobs, find new relationships, have changes to our family dynamics, move to a new city, or never feel like we really nipped that one situation in the bud. Sometimes we just need an extra pair of ears. It would be a pleasure to walk with you through your journey to redefining a new you. I have experience joining adolescents, adults, and families through their life journeys. I am an advocate of focusing on the full mind, body, and soul throughout your new life journey.
(919) 648-0636 View (919) 648-0636
Photo of Kelly Smedley in 27707, NC
Kelly Smedley
MSN, RN, PMHCNS, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
I am NOT able to accept new clients at this time. Are you not feeling like yourself since having your baby? Are you irritable, sad, anxious or feeling overwhelmed and guilty? Are you a mom of older kids and struggling with your moods and finding satisfaction in your relationship, family life, or career? Being a mom is exhausting, demanding, and sometimes emotionally confusing! Not sure why you are feeling a certain way? I can help you sort it all out. I specialize in treating mothers suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, infertility and loss, as well as moms struggling with guilt, shame, and anger.
I am NOT able to accept new clients at this time. Are you not feeling like yourself since having your baby? Are you irritable, sad, anxious or feeling overwhelmed and guilty? Are you a mom of older kids and struggling with your moods and finding satisfaction in your relationship, family life, or career? Being a mom is exhausting, demanding, and sometimes emotionally confusing! Not sure why you are feeling a certain way? I can help you sort it all out. I specialize in treating mothers suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, infertility and loss, as well as moms struggling with guilt, shame, and anger.
(919) 635-1925 View (919) 635-1925
Photo of Remisha Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27707, NC
Remisha Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I specialize in helping individuals with anxiety, depression, self esteem, family conflict etc.
Everyone thinks you have it all together but in reality, you’re exhausted. Life is weighing you down and you desire peace & balance within but it seems unobtainable. The fear of judgment forces you to suppress your feelings. It seems like there's no one you can trust and feel vulnerable with and share your deepest thoughts and fears out loud. You manage to push through every day and find yourself feeling tired, alone, and frustrated because no one understands and shows up for you when you need it the most. It's time for a change, but figuring out where to start is a challenge for you.
I specialize in helping individuals with anxiety, depression, self esteem, family conflict etc.
Everyone thinks you have it all together but in reality, you’re exhausted. Life is weighing you down and you desire peace & balance within but it seems unobtainable. The fear of judgment forces you to suppress your feelings. It seems like there's no one you can trust and feel vulnerable with and share your deepest thoughts and fears out loud. You manage to push through every day and find yourself feeling tired, alone, and frustrated because no one understands and shows up for you when you need it the most. It's time for a change, but figuring out where to start is a challenge for you.
(919) 918-0982 View (919) 918-0982
Photo of James McCracken, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27707, NC
James McCracken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Waitlist for new clients
I have earned certifications in AEDP, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Discernment Counseling, and have trained and integrate aspects of various CBTs, psychoanalysis, post-modern therapies, and couple & family therapies.
I work with couples, families and individuals who are seeking support and guidance with relationship distress, premarital, discernment, infidelity recovery, divorce recovery and co-parenting counseling needs. I privilege individual healing and growth within a framework for healthy relationships (“Humanistic-Relational” approach). For over 20 years, I have helped clients heal from relationship distress, trauma & PTSD, depression and addictions, and grow into better relationships with themselves and each other. Additionally, I enjoy providing therapy and consultation to therapists with similar interests.
I have earned certifications in AEDP, Emotionally Focused Therapy and Discernment Counseling, and have trained and integrate aspects of various CBTs, psychoanalysis, post-modern therapies, and couple & family therapies.
I work with couples, families and individuals who are seeking support and guidance with relationship distress, premarital, discernment, infidelity recovery, divorce recovery and co-parenting counseling needs. I privilege individual healing and growth within a framework for healthy relationships (“Humanistic-Relational” approach). For over 20 years, I have helped clients heal from relationship distress, trauma & PTSD, depression and addictions, and grow into better relationships with themselves and each other. Additionally, I enjoy providing therapy and consultation to therapists with similar interests.
(919) 883-5637 x101 View (919) 883-5637 x101
Photo of Tavi Hawn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27707, NC
Tavi Hawn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
Whether you're seeking someone knowledgeable about gender identity, family building, mixed race identities, narcissistic abuse recovery, trauma recovery, anxiety, incorporating your cultural practices into therapy, I'm here for it! Energy work, nature, and walk therapy too.
Gen Xers, ya'll doing okay? People raising kids, what about you? Parents of trans, nonbinary, and gender expansive young or older people, how are you holding up? Those of you trying to recover from narcissistic abuse, domestic abuse or IPV, those of you trying to recover from any form of trauma, those of you who feel anxious as hell, I want to help ease the stress, fear, and pain. I've got over 15 years of clinical experience and a whole lotta life experience at this point that informs my work. While what we face is nothing new, it's also true that this is a really hard time for so many reasons. Let's start by validating that.
Whether you're seeking someone knowledgeable about gender identity, family building, mixed race identities, narcissistic abuse recovery, trauma recovery, anxiety, incorporating your cultural practices into therapy, I'm here for it! Energy work, nature, and walk therapy too.
Gen Xers, ya'll doing okay? People raising kids, what about you? Parents of trans, nonbinary, and gender expansive young or older people, how are you holding up? Those of you trying to recover from narcissistic abuse, domestic abuse or IPV, those of you trying to recover from any form of trauma, those of you who feel anxious as hell, I want to help ease the stress, fear, and pain. I've got over 15 years of clinical experience and a whole lotta life experience at this point that informs my work. While what we face is nothing new, it's also true that this is a really hard time for so many reasons. Let's start by validating that.
(919) 689-4065 View (919) 689-4065
Photo of Gage Howe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27707, NC
Gage Howe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
Accepting New Clients - I work with people navigating issues of Anxiety, OCD, Life Transitions, Depression, Trauma, Identity, Self-esteem, and Relationships. I will work with you to emphasize acceptance, mindfulness, self-compassion, and using values to move toward a healthier well-being. I have experience working in outpatient community mental health, hospital, college, and the private practice settings. My self interests include backpacking, playing music, burritos, naps, documentaries, procrastination, attending concerts, gardening, and time with family and friends.
Accepting New Clients - I work with people navigating issues of Anxiety, OCD, Life Transitions, Depression, Trauma, Identity, Self-esteem, and Relationships. I will work with you to emphasize acceptance, mindfulness, self-compassion, and using values to move toward a healthier well-being. I have experience working in outpatient community mental health, hospital, college, and the private practice settings. My self interests include backpacking, playing music, burritos, naps, documentaries, procrastination, attending concerts, gardening, and time with family and friends.
(336) 530-5695 View (336) 530-5695
Photo of Yolonda Bledsoe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27707, NC
Yolonda Bledsoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
Are you frustrated with family, friends, love life, or lack thereof? Are you struggling to create and/or maintain friendships? We aren't always able to choose the challenges we face in life, and, as a result, we may feel overwhelmed and powerless to change them. If you are struggling with communication in your relationships or have trouble creating and/or maintaining boundaries, I can help. Let's explore these challenges together, work on new ways to approach them, and examine how you can learn from these challenges to support improved relationships and decrease frustration.
Are you frustrated with family, friends, love life, or lack thereof? Are you struggling to create and/or maintain friendships? We aren't always able to choose the challenges we face in life, and, as a result, we may feel overwhelmed and powerless to change them. If you are struggling with communication in your relationships or have trouble creating and/or maintaining boundaries, I can help. Let's explore these challenges together, work on new ways to approach them, and examine how you can learn from these challenges to support improved relationships and decrease frustration.
(919) 695-3576 View (919) 695-3576
Photo of Carolyn R Craft, Counselor in 27707, NC
Carolyn R Craft
Counselor, PsyD, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
When your thoughts or actions do not match your feelings, or you find that certain relationships are a problem, it could be time to explore what hidden patterns might be impacting your life. Because you are always in relationship to those in your world, whether family, work, or with a significant other; it is important to find ways to calm overwhelming emotions, overcome negative feelings, develop effective communication skills and discover the real issues in your life. In a non-invasive therapy environment, together we will build permanent resources to support you in being who you truly want to be.
When your thoughts or actions do not match your feelings, or you find that certain relationships are a problem, it could be time to explore what hidden patterns might be impacting your life. Because you are always in relationship to those in your world, whether family, work, or with a significant other; it is important to find ways to calm overwhelming emotions, overcome negative feelings, develop effective communication skills and discover the real issues in your life. In a non-invasive therapy environment, together we will build permanent resources to support you in being who you truly want to be.
(919) 429-7932 View (919) 429-7932
Photo of Relationship Counseling Center, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 27707, NC
Relationship Counseling Center, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
Services offered include individual, parenting, family, and Christian Counseling.
Life often presents challenges and difficulties in areas of parenting, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, anger or in relationships. You may be experiencing uncontrollable thoughts or memories. Life may seem unmanageable. You may feel uninterested in things you used to enjoy and disconnected from people. You may be experiencing increased anxiety. Relationships may feel strained and not what they used to be. You may just feel like you would benefit from talking about your concerns with a professional. You may need help regaining a sense of hope for your life and coming to know the immense worth and value you have as a person.
Services offered include individual, parenting, family, and Christian Counseling.
Life often presents challenges and difficulties in areas of parenting, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, trauma, anger or in relationships. You may be experiencing uncontrollable thoughts or memories. Life may seem unmanageable. You may feel uninterested in things you used to enjoy and disconnected from people. You may be experiencing increased anxiety. Relationships may feel strained and not what they used to be. You may just feel like you would benefit from talking about your concerns with a professional. You may need help regaining a sense of hope for your life and coming to know the immense worth and value you have as a person.
(919) 800-0840 View (919) 800-0840
Photo of Carolina Sexual Wellness Center, Psychologist in 27707, NC
Carolina Sexual Wellness Center
Psychologist, PsyD, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
We offer individual, couples, family, and group therapy for a wide range of concerns.
At Carolina Sexual Wellness Center, we strive to provide a supportive and safe environment where clients can resolve issues related to sex, sexuality and gender. Examples of areas we specialize in include but are not limited to sexual dysfunction, compulsive or impulsive sexual behavior (also known as "sex addiction"), couples and relationship issues surrounding sexuality, sexual identity development, gender orientation concerns, and sexual behaviors or fantasies that may be considered problematic. Although many people with sexual problems feel alone, it is important to know you are not.
We offer individual, couples, family, and group therapy for a wide range of concerns.
At Carolina Sexual Wellness Center, we strive to provide a supportive and safe environment where clients can resolve issues related to sex, sexuality and gender. Examples of areas we specialize in include but are not limited to sexual dysfunction, compulsive or impulsive sexual behavior (also known as "sex addiction"), couples and relationship issues surrounding sexuality, sexual identity development, gender orientation concerns, and sexual behaviors or fantasies that may be considered problematic. Although many people with sexual problems feel alone, it is important to know you are not.
(919) 751-4363 View (919) 751-4363
Photo of Emily Trapp, Marriage & Family Therapist in 27707, NC
Emily Trapp
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
As a systems trained therapist, I specialize in helping bring an understanding to how relationships have an impact on one's journey to wellness. I work well with people who are exploring the dynamics of their personal and professional relationships, including friends, intimate partners and family. I am passionate about helping my clients explore and understand the interpersonal connections in their lives. We will work together to identify patterns so you can develop a greater understanding of the dynamics that exist in your relationships with others.
As a systems trained therapist, I specialize in helping bring an understanding to how relationships have an impact on one's journey to wellness. I work well with people who are exploring the dynamics of their personal and professional relationships, including friends, intimate partners and family. I am passionate about helping my clients explore and understand the interpersonal connections in their lives. We will work together to identify patterns so you can develop a greater understanding of the dynamics that exist in your relationships with others.
(919) 804-0818 View (919) 804-0818
Photo of Keshawna Solomon, Psychological Associate in 27707, NC
Keshawna Solomon
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
We offer a range of services in order to address individual and family needs.
I believe in meeting my clients where they are and assisting them in moving towards their goals. I take a holistic treatment approach that considers the mind, body, and environment as well as emotional well being to achieve healthy functioning. Empathy, respect, and authenticity are at the foundation of my interactions with clients. I have effectively worked with adults, adolescents, and children in overcoming emotional and behavioral obstacles through the use of CBT, solution-focused strategies, play therapy, and skills training.
We offer a range of services in order to address individual and family needs.
I believe in meeting my clients where they are and assisting them in moving towards their goals. I take a holistic treatment approach that considers the mind, body, and environment as well as emotional well being to achieve healthy functioning. Empathy, respect, and authenticity are at the foundation of my interactions with clients. I have effectively worked with adults, adolescents, and children in overcoming emotional and behavioral obstacles through the use of CBT, solution-focused strategies, play therapy, and skills training.
(919) 344-0971 View (919) 344-0971
Photo of Shannon Lomasney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27707, NC
Shannon Lomasney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
I’m passionate about working with adults (24+) that are navigating difficult life transitions, trauma, complex trauma, attachment wounds, relationship issues, identity development, low self-esteem, anxiety, family conflict, depression, and overwhelming stress. I work through a LGBTQIA+-affirming, trauma-informed, and social justice-oriented lens in order to cultivate a safe, collaborative space where folks can show up wholly and reconnect to their authentic, intuitive selves. I utilize a compassionate and curious approach to empower folks to uncover and utilize their own unique innate strengths and resiliency.
I’m passionate about working with adults (24+) that are navigating difficult life transitions, trauma, complex trauma, attachment wounds, relationship issues, identity development, low self-esteem, anxiety, family conflict, depression, and overwhelming stress. I work through a LGBTQIA+-affirming, trauma-informed, and social justice-oriented lens in order to cultivate a safe, collaborative space where folks can show up wholly and reconnect to their authentic, intuitive selves. I utilize a compassionate and curious approach to empower folks to uncover and utilize their own unique innate strengths and resiliency.
(984) 237-8087 View (984) 237-8087
Photo of Deepa Bhatt-Mackin, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 27707, NC
Deepa Bhatt-Mackin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
As a licensed clinical mental health counselor, I offer telehealth sessions for adolescents, families, and adults. For children under 13, I offer parenting support, consultation, and parent-child sessions. I assist clients with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, neurodivergence (Giftedness/LD/ADHD/2e), relationship problems, and identity development. My extensive training includes a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as psychodynamic, attachment-based, Internal Family Systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused. I also provide ADHD and executive functioning skills coaching.
As a licensed clinical mental health counselor, I offer telehealth sessions for adolescents, families, and adults. For children under 13, I offer parenting support, consultation, and parent-child sessions. I assist clients with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, neurodivergence (Giftedness/LD/ADHD/2e), relationship problems, and identity development. My extensive training includes a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as psychodynamic, attachment-based, Internal Family Systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused. I also provide ADHD and executive functioning skills coaching.
(919) 343-0027 View (919) 343-0027
Photo of Meagan Thomas, Counselor in 27707, NC
Meagan Thomas
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
I believe that family systems play an important role in the client’s life, and in relationships.
It can be hard to talk to someone about personal concerns, especially those related to sex and relationships. As a clinician at Carolina Sexual Wellness Center, my goal is to promote healthy sexuality while providing a safe and accepting space to explore what that means for you. I strive to help clients feel as comfortable as possible so we can work together regarding any challenges they may face. I am committed to creating an open, honest, and safe environment to discuss difficult issues. I believe therapy should be a place free of judgement where clients can be their authentic selves.
I believe that family systems play an important role in the client’s life, and in relationships.
It can be hard to talk to someone about personal concerns, especially those related to sex and relationships. As a clinician at Carolina Sexual Wellness Center, my goal is to promote healthy sexuality while providing a safe and accepting space to explore what that means for you. I strive to help clients feel as comfortable as possible so we can work together regarding any challenges they may face. I am committed to creating an open, honest, and safe environment to discuss difficult issues. I believe therapy should be a place free of judgement where clients can be their authentic selves.
(919) 276-8065 View (919) 276-8065
Photo of Shelly Harris, Marriage & Family Therapist in 27707, NC
Shelly Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with a heart for the lost and hurting. I specialize in helping Adolescents, Adults and their families navigate the challenges of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, panic disorder, family stress, overwhelming academic pressures, low self-esteem, racial, sexuality, and gender issues (LGBTQ+). I help people of all ages take charge of their mental health symptoms and navigate the challenges of life. I help people find their way back to happy, guide them in healing their broken hearts, and above all honor who my clients are and the abilities they have, to live the lives they desire.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with a heart for the lost and hurting. I specialize in helping Adolescents, Adults and their families navigate the challenges of Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, panic disorder, family stress, overwhelming academic pressures, low self-esteem, racial, sexuality, and gender issues (LGBTQ+). I help people of all ages take charge of their mental health symptoms and navigate the challenges of life. I help people find their way back to happy, guide them in healing their broken hearts, and above all honor who my clients are and the abilities they have, to live the lives they desire.
(408) 317-1662 View (408) 317-1662
Photo of Healing Arts Collaborative in 27707, NC
Healing Arts Collaborative
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Through individual therapy, relationship & family therapy, and group therapy, we work together with our clients to challenge oppressive systems by radically naming our experiences and embodying our innate power.
Welcome to Healing Arts Collaborative! We are a community-driven therapy and healing arts practice based on Eno, Tutelo, Saponi, Occaneechi, Shakori, Cheraw, Tuscarora, and Lumbee ancestral land (so-called Durham, North Carolina). We are mental healthcare workers committed to providing safe, affirming, and culturally responsive healthcare for our 2SLGBTQI+ community.
Through individual therapy, relationship & family therapy, and group therapy, we work together with our clients to challenge oppressive systems by radically naming our experiences and embodying our innate power.
Welcome to Healing Arts Collaborative! We are a community-driven therapy and healing arts practice based on Eno, Tutelo, Saponi, Occaneechi, Shakori, Cheraw, Tuscarora, and Lumbee ancestral land (so-called Durham, North Carolina). We are mental healthcare workers committed to providing safe, affirming, and culturally responsive healthcare for our 2SLGBTQI+ community.
(919) 918-0262 View (919) 918-0262
Photo of David Young Oh, Counselor in 27707, NC
David Young Oh
Counselor, LCMHC, MS, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I also have research experience in issues from family and social oppression to race, gender and intersectional identities.
I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor specializing in the treatment of anxiety or worry, low self esteem and relationship difficulties. I also enjoy working with issues related to identity, acculturation and life adjustments. More generally, I provide psychotherapy to those who are dissatisfied with themselves, their relationships or their career and who aspire to lead a more meaningful and fulfilling life. Psychotherapy leads to better self-knowledge, to making healthier life choices and to greater self acceptance and confidence, while reducing uncomfortable symptoms that interfere in daily living.
I also have research experience in issues from family and social oppression to race, gender and intersectional identities.
I am a licensed clinical mental health counselor specializing in the treatment of anxiety or worry, low self esteem and relationship difficulties. I also enjoy working with issues related to identity, acculturation and life adjustments. More generally, I provide psychotherapy to those who are dissatisfied with themselves, their relationships or their career and who aspire to lead a more meaningful and fulfilling life. Psychotherapy leads to better self-knowledge, to making healthier life choices and to greater self acceptance and confidence, while reducing uncomfortable symptoms that interfere in daily living.
(984) 224-7352 View (984) 224-7352
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.