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 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 Liadainn (Lia) Gilmore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27707, NC
Liadainn (Lia) Gilmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I also work well with individuals who want to explore themselves and improve their relationships with family, work and their significant others.
Welcome. I am a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in helping people of all ages, nationalities, races, gender expressions and sexual identities. My clients find me easy to talk to and my style is warm, non-judgmental and relational. I have a particular expertise in helping couples with issues such as infidelity, arguments, lack of communication and connection and dwindling sexual expression. For this work I draw on Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy by Susan Johnson see "Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love." I also use the work of the Gottman Institute, Harville Hendrix and Stan Tatkin.
I also work well with individuals who want to explore themselves and improve their relationships with family, work and their significant others.
Welcome. I am a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in helping people of all ages, nationalities, races, gender expressions and sexual identities. My clients find me easy to talk to and my style is warm, non-judgmental and relational. I have a particular expertise in helping couples with issues such as infidelity, arguments, lack of communication and connection and dwindling sexual expression. For this work I draw on Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy by Susan Johnson see "Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love." I also use the work of the Gottman Institute, Harville Hendrix and Stan Tatkin.
(919) 709-0332 View (919) 709-0332
Photo of Pope Behavioral Health and Wellness, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 27707, NC
Pope Behavioral Health and Wellness, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
If you and your family are ready to take the next step to positive growth and change, I welcome you to contact me for a free phone consultation.
Are you or your child struggling to manage stress in the home or school setting? I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, specializing in working with youth and adults. I have experience working with youth dealing with issues, such as anxiety, depression, autism, defiant behaviors, adjustment, school issues, and family conflict since 2007. I work with children and families to identify goals for personal success and work collaboratively to assist them in reaching those goals. I welcome clients of all ages, and I also enjoy working with adults struggling with anxiety and depression to assist them in making personal growth.
If you and your family are ready to take the next step to positive growth and change, I welcome you to contact me for a free phone consultation.
Are you or your child struggling to manage stress in the home or school setting? I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, specializing in working with youth and adults. I have experience working with youth dealing with issues, such as anxiety, depression, autism, defiant behaviors, adjustment, school issues, and family conflict since 2007. I work with children and families to identify goals for personal success and work collaboratively to assist them in reaching those goals. I welcome clients of all ages, and I also enjoy working with adults struggling with anxiety and depression to assist them in making personal growth.
(919) 999-7457 View (919) 999-7457
Photo of Alan W. Harper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 27707, NC
Alan W. Harper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Sometimes life is hard and you need help coping. Sometimes you get angry and you're not sure why or how to control it. Sometimes bad things happen and you can't get over it the way your friends and family expect you to. Maybe you don't really know what's going on, but you recognize that something isn't right. I want to help you figure out what isn't working in your life and get you to where you want to be.
Sometimes life is hard and you need help coping. Sometimes you get angry and you're not sure why or how to control it. Sometimes bad things happen and you can't get over it the way your friends and family expect you to. Maybe you don't really know what's going on, but you recognize that something isn't right. I want to help you figure out what isn't working in your life and get you to where you want to be.
(919) 267-2262 View (919) 267-2262
Photo of Karen Kuebler, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 27707, NC
Karen Kuebler
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I have a particular interest in helping children and adolescents discover creative outlets that help them express and contain overwhelming emotions in order to improve communication within their family.
Finding balance in an evolving world full of social and emotional obstacles can be exhausting. Through traditional talk therapy or art therapy interventions, we’ll work together to regain your emotional equilibrium and practice strategies to ease discomfort in social settings. My approach to therapy with children, adolescents and adults is warm, creative, and direct. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Board Certified Art Therapist, I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image and self worth, grief and loss, and navigating life transitions.
I have a particular interest in helping children and adolescents discover creative outlets that help them express and contain overwhelming emotions in order to improve communication within their family.
Finding balance in an evolving world full of social and emotional obstacles can be exhausting. Through traditional talk therapy or art therapy interventions, we’ll work together to regain your emotional equilibrium and practice strategies to ease discomfort in social settings. My approach to therapy with children, adolescents and adults is warm, creative, and direct. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and a Board Certified Art Therapist, I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, depression, eating disorders, body image and self worth, grief and loss, and navigating life transitions.
(919) 670-5541 View (919) 670-5541
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 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
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 Sozo Life And Wellness Center, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 27707, NC
Sozo Life And Wellness Center, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Each of us at some point in our lives face painful life situations and challenges, some of which we can navigate alone, but others requiring help. Sometimes family and friends can provide that support but many times having a non-biased perspective is more appropriate and effective. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I use appropriate psychological methods used within the field of mental health professionals and add the insights of Biblical Truth to help those who are hurting and facing such situations effectively overcome them and move forward to experience a more purposeful and satisfying and life.
Each of us at some point in our lives face painful life situations and challenges, some of which we can navigate alone, but others requiring help. Sometimes family and friends can provide that support but many times having a non-biased perspective is more appropriate and effective. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I use appropriate psychological methods used within the field of mental health professionals and add the insights of Biblical Truth to help those who are hurting and facing such situations effectively overcome them and move forward to experience a more purposeful and satisfying and life.
(919) 799-2640 View (919) 799-2640
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 LeAnn Meckley, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in 27707, NC
LeAnn Meckley
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
Therapy is an opportunity to help people diminish pain, cope with challenges, and gain support through adverse experiences. Additionally, it challenges personal growth through insight development, compassion and attentiveness. I have 14 years of experience in a variety of therapeutic settings that have equipped me especially in areas of relational dynamics, leadership and identity development. I often work with individuals struggling to align their beliefs and values with the people around them; whether that's the family, workplace or a faith institution.
Therapy is an opportunity to help people diminish pain, cope with challenges, and gain support through adverse experiences. Additionally, it challenges personal growth through insight development, compassion and attentiveness. I have 14 years of experience in a variety of therapeutic settings that have equipped me especially in areas of relational dynamics, leadership and identity development. I often work with individuals struggling to align their beliefs and values with the people around them; whether that's the family, workplace or a faith institution.
(919) 246-5472 View (919) 246-5472
Photo of Ashley R Kolbe, Marriage & Family Therapist in 27707, NC
Ashley R Kolbe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist trained to work within the context of the family system to create lasting change.
I strive to provide competent, compassionate and client-centered therapy services to assist and support individuals, couples, and families in processing past issues, managing daily stress, and working to make positive choices in the future. I specialize in working with children and adolescents who are experiencing anxiety, depression and behavioral challenges. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I value working with the entire family. I incorporate parents and caregivers into my work with children to ensure that the entire family system feels supported and can work towards improved family dynamics and relationships.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist trained to work within the context of the family system to create lasting change.
I strive to provide competent, compassionate and client-centered therapy services to assist and support individuals, couples, and families in processing past issues, managing daily stress, and working to make positive choices in the future. I specialize in working with children and adolescents who are experiencing anxiety, depression and behavioral challenges. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I value working with the entire family. I incorporate parents and caregivers into my work with children to ensure that the entire family system feels supported and can work towards improved family dynamics and relationships.
(919) 301-9943 View (919) 301-9943
Photo of The Armstrong Center for Hope, Psychologist in 27707, NC
The Armstrong Center for Hope
Psychologist, PhD, MTS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
We enjoy working with clients who seek to engage their spiritual questions and challenges in the midst of the therapeutic journey. Our clients come from a variety of life histories and family backgrounds, but share in common a desire to discover a more hopeful perspective on life, while exercising specific skills and practices to make hope concrete on a daily basis. Our therapists are accustomed to mutual collaboration to serve the needs of children, adolescents, and their families in one setting.
We enjoy working with clients who seek to engage their spiritual questions and challenges in the midst of the therapeutic journey. Our clients come from a variety of life histories and family backgrounds, but share in common a desire to discover a more hopeful perspective on life, while exercising specific skills and practices to make hope concrete on a daily basis. Our therapists are accustomed to mutual collaboration to serve the needs of children, adolescents, and their families in one setting.
(984) 207-3778 View (984) 207-3778
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 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 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 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 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

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.