Photo of Reuben Houser, Counselor in 55105, MN
Reuben Houser
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Faith, race, culture, family dynamics, gender norms, sexuality, politics, careers and finances are just some of the subjects couples need to navigate.
I help men and the conflict-avoidant transform their relationships. My clients feel so angry they could explode or so defeated they are shutting down completely. In relationships they often hear themselves saying things like: “I don’t know how it got here,” “Things weren’t perfect but I didn’t think it was this bad,” and “I’ve tried so hard but nothing seems to work.” Their inner messages often sound like: “I just feel numb,” “I get so afraid to do anything, whatever I do will be wrong,” and “I can never get it right, so I just give up and be quiet.”
Faith, race, culture, family dynamics, gender norms, sexuality, politics, careers and finances are just some of the subjects couples need to navigate.
I help men and the conflict-avoidant transform their relationships. My clients feel so angry they could explode or so defeated they are shutting down completely. In relationships they often hear themselves saying things like: “I don’t know how it got here,” “Things weren’t perfect but I didn’t think it was this bad,” and “I’ve tried so hard but nothing seems to work.” Their inner messages often sound like: “I just feel numb,” “I get so afraid to do anything, whatever I do will be wrong,” and “I can never get it right, so I just give up and be quiet.”
(651) 240-6430 View (651) 240-6430
Photo of Sarah Nides, Counselor in 55105, MN
Sarah Nides
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Sarah has experience providing group, individual, and family therapy. She has worked with most ages in a variety of settings including schools, daycares, homes, and day treatment centers. Sarah believes in the value of each individual’s unique strengths and aims to guide her clients towards healing through creativity. Sarah’s approach is gentle and informative while offering a safe, warm, and encouraging environment. She hopes that her clients will feel heard, as she seeks to understand their concerns and find ways to guide them towards their therapy goals.
Sarah has experience providing group, individual, and family therapy. She has worked with most ages in a variety of settings including schools, daycares, homes, and day treatment centers. Sarah believes in the value of each individual’s unique strengths and aims to guide her clients towards healing through creativity. Sarah’s approach is gentle and informative while offering a safe, warm, and encouraging environment. She hopes that her clients will feel heard, as she seeks to understand their concerns and find ways to guide them towards their therapy goals.
(612) 712-5960 View (612) 712-5960
Photo of Down to Earth Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 55105, MN
Down to Earth Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Our therapists each have different areas of expertise- Some of our areas of expertise are in couple/family counseling, adjusting to parenthood, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR & ART, Play Therapy, Somatic work, and holistic mental health.
We have current openings! Our therapists see children as young as 3 and adults as old as one can be. We are a group of therapists who value authenticity, social justice, and relationships. At Down to Earth Therapy we are committed to not only listening, but to actively partnering with you and helping you make the changes you, your partnership, and/or your family desire. We celebrate clients of all class, sexuality, ethnicity, race, gender identity, and spiritual belief. We work with people ages 3-100.
Our therapists each have different areas of expertise- Some of our areas of expertise are in couple/family counseling, adjusting to parenthood, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR & ART, Play Therapy, Somatic work, and holistic mental health.
We have current openings! Our therapists see children as young as 3 and adults as old as one can be. We are a group of therapists who value authenticity, social justice, and relationships. At Down to Earth Therapy we are committed to not only listening, but to actively partnering with you and helping you make the changes you, your partnership, and/or your family desire. We celebrate clients of all class, sexuality, ethnicity, race, gender identity, and spiritual belief. We work with people ages 3-100.
(651) 376-2749 View (651) 376-2749
Photo of Libby Luecke, Marriage & Family Therapist in 55105, MN
Libby Luecke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families to find hope in their struggles and freedom from emotional pain. I work from a systems approach and have a strong desire to help clients discover and engage in healthy relationships with themselves and others. I find fulfillment in working with clients to understand the interconnectedness between our individual selves and the people around us.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families to find hope in their struggles and freedom from emotional pain. I work from a systems approach and have a strong desire to help clients discover and engage in healthy relationships with themselves and others. I find fulfillment in working with clients to understand the interconnectedness between our individual selves and the people around us.
(612) 261-1575 View (612) 261-1575
Photo of Luke Campbell, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 55105, MN
Luke Campbell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105  (Online Only)
While stress is a normal part of life, you don't have to accept the harm it has on you, your relationships, or your family.
How is your relationship with stress? Have you reached the point where stress is no longer just a thought, but has evolved into a physical state of discomfort and overall exhaustion? Stress comes to us when we are required to adjust to the competing demands and challenges present in our relationships, families, work, parenting, finances, and health. We all experience stress to varying degrees, and, if left unchecked, we be left feeling restless, overwhelmed, frustrated, and unsure about the future.
While stress is a normal part of life, you don't have to accept the harm it has on you, your relationships, or your family.
How is your relationship with stress? Have you reached the point where stress is no longer just a thought, but has evolved into a physical state of discomfort and overall exhaustion? Stress comes to us when we are required to adjust to the competing demands and challenges present in our relationships, families, work, parenting, finances, and health. We all experience stress to varying degrees, and, if left unchecked, we be left feeling restless, overwhelmed, frustrated, and unsure about the future.
(651) 661-1588 View (651) 661-1588
Photo of Holly Tofanelli, Marriage & Family Therapist in 55105, MN
Holly Tofanelli
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105  (Online Only)
Holly holds a master's degree from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. She welcomes working with adults, teens, couples, and families regarding relationship conflicts, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, substance abuse, communication, addictive behaviors, aggression, GLBT issues, parenting and emotional dysregulation. As a group facilitator, Holly is both dynamic and engaging. She is trained in Brainspotting, EMDR, Gottman method, as as well as Aggression Replacement Training. Holly has also worked with Alzheimer's/Dementia, and family caregivers at the University of Minnesota and Fairview Hospital.
Holly holds a master's degree from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. She welcomes working with adults, teens, couples, and families regarding relationship conflicts, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, substance abuse, communication, addictive behaviors, aggression, GLBT issues, parenting and emotional dysregulation. As a group facilitator, Holly is both dynamic and engaging. She is trained in Brainspotting, EMDR, Gottman method, as as well as Aggression Replacement Training. Holly has also worked with Alzheimer's/Dementia, and family caregivers at the University of Minnesota and Fairview Hospital.
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Photo of Corinne Ann Sundell, Marriage & Family Therapist in 55105, MN
Corinne Ann Sundell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
My training is in marriage and family therapy, with additional instruction in play, Narrative and geek therapy.
Because I believe we grow and learn throughout our life, I delight in working with all people. I see therapy as a supportive environment created for the purpose of encouraging one another in times of need, as well as joy. I have specialized experience working with children and families, empowering each during tough transitions such as toddlerhood and adolescence, while collaborating during unexpected and challenging issues like ADHD, anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma and more. I utilize play, narrative, feminist, and mindfulness therapies to encourage hope and develop authentic connections with each person I see.
My training is in marriage and family therapy, with additional instruction in play, Narrative and geek therapy.
Because I believe we grow and learn throughout our life, I delight in working with all people. I see therapy as a supportive environment created for the purpose of encouraging one another in times of need, as well as joy. I have specialized experience working with children and families, empowering each during tough transitions such as toddlerhood and adolescence, while collaborating during unexpected and challenging issues like ADHD, anxiety, depression, abuse, trauma and more. I utilize play, narrative, feminist, and mindfulness therapies to encourage hope and develop authentic connections with each person I see.
(651) 401-8497 View (651) 401-8497
Photo of Anna Savelsberg, Marriage & Family Therapist in 55105, MN
Anna Savelsberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105  (Online Only)
I offer individual, couples and family therapy.
Are you tired of feeling lost, stuck and overwhelmed? If you're ready to invest in yourself and make the courageous choice to reach out for support, you’ve come to the right place. As a systemic therapist, I will guide you in discovering your strengths and help you find meaning and joy in your life. We will work together to tackle the issues that are getting in the way of you living the life you want. I believe your problems don't exist in isolation, and I am experienced in zooming out and seeing the context. So if you are ready to take a look at the big picture and make some lasting changes, I’m your person! Let’s get started!
I offer individual, couples and family therapy.
Are you tired of feeling lost, stuck and overwhelmed? If you're ready to invest in yourself and make the courageous choice to reach out for support, you’ve come to the right place. As a systemic therapist, I will guide you in discovering your strengths and help you find meaning and joy in your life. We will work together to tackle the issues that are getting in the way of you living the life you want. I believe your problems don't exist in isolation, and I am experienced in zooming out and seeing the context. So if you are ready to take a look at the big picture and make some lasting changes, I’m your person! Let’s get started!
(651) 372-1593 View (651) 372-1593
Photo of Ann E Boekhoff, Psychologist in 55105, MN
Ann E Boekhoff
Psychologist, MA, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I have been practicing as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Psychologist for over thirty years. I understand that therapy can seem mysterious and intimidating. I also know that life is filled with challenges and that relationships are very demanding and difficult to navigate. Psychotherapy can be one way of addressing whatever unique distress you may be experiencing. Together we will work to clear away the limitations of thinking and experience that are holding you back from your own wholeness- your own sense of being fully alive and engaged in your life.
I have been practicing as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Psychologist for over thirty years. I understand that therapy can seem mysterious and intimidating. I also know that life is filled with challenges and that relationships are very demanding and difficult to navigate. Psychotherapy can be one way of addressing whatever unique distress you may be experiencing. Together we will work to clear away the limitations of thinking and experience that are holding you back from your own wholeness- your own sense of being fully alive and engaged in your life.
(651) 560-3591 View (651) 560-3591
Photo of Charlie Miller, Counselor in 55105, MN
Charlie Miller
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
My primary specializations are in trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, male-related issues, and family connection.
Having challenges with mental health can be overwhelming, lonely, and distressing. My goal is to welcome you and/or your loved ones to a comfortable space where we can explore these difficulties. I come with an accepting trauma-informed mindset to encourage learning, growth, and perseverance. Let me join you in finding your strengths and resilience.
My primary specializations are in trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, male-related issues, and family connection.
Having challenges with mental health can be overwhelming, lonely, and distressing. My goal is to welcome you and/or your loved ones to a comfortable space where we can explore these difficulties. I come with an accepting trauma-informed mindset to encourage learning, growth, and perseverance. Let me join you in finding your strengths and resilience.
(651) 877-8458 View (651) 877-8458
Photo of Hannah Stevens Nauman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 55105, MN
Hannah Stevens Nauman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I use Internal Family Systems, Emotion Focused Therapy, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my work.
I work with couples who have been feeling stuck in the same patterns, disconnected from each other, and have difficulty communicating. Together, we will work towards creating a more fulfilling and attuned relationship. I also work with individuals who are looking for relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, or are searching for ways to cope with challenging life transitions.
I use Internal Family Systems, Emotion Focused Therapy, and Gottman Method Couples Therapy in my work.
I work with couples who have been feeling stuck in the same patterns, disconnected from each other, and have difficulty communicating. Together, we will work towards creating a more fulfilling and attuned relationship. I also work with individuals who are looking for relief from anxiety, depression, trauma, or are searching for ways to cope with challenging life transitions.
(612) 808-5421 View (612) 808-5421
Photo of Jay Hunter, Marriage & Family Therapist in 55105, MN
Jay Hunter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I am an approved Minnesota Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Supervisor, and am available to provide supervision to students and clinicians.
It's our reality that human beings struggle at times along the road of life. I have had the opportunity to work with individuals, couples and families get over and through these life obstacles. I have been honored and amazed to witness people conquer fears, addictions and harmful experiences that have left them tired and gasping on that road, and once again pick themselves up and journey onwards.
I am an approved Minnesota Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Supervisor, and am available to provide supervision to students and clinicians.
It's our reality that human beings struggle at times along the road of life. I have had the opportunity to work with individuals, couples and families get over and through these life obstacles. I have been honored and amazed to witness people conquer fears, addictions and harmful experiences that have left them tired and gasping on that road, and once again pick themselves up and journey onwards.
(651) 968-2500 View (651) 968-2500
Photo of FamilyMeans, Marriage & Family Therapist in 55105, MN
FamilyMeans
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LICSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
FamilyMeans offers: Child and Adolescent Therapy (5-18); Adult Therapy (18+); Family or Couples Counseling; Grief & Loss Therapy (at our Center for Grief & Loss); Telehealth therapy via smartphone or computer.
FamilyMeans Counseling & Therapy programs have been providing care to adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples for many years. Our counselors are highly trained and experienced in their areas of expertise and truly enjoy helping people through the struggles they bring to counseling. Counselors provide a safe and open environment to make changes within areas of concern. Counseling experiences are unique to each person as are their situations. There is no “one fits all” in counseling and our skilled clinicians work with you to reach your goals.
FamilyMeans offers: Child and Adolescent Therapy (5-18); Adult Therapy (18+); Family or Couples Counseling; Grief & Loss Therapy (at our Center for Grief & Loss); Telehealth therapy via smartphone or computer.
FamilyMeans Counseling & Therapy programs have been providing care to adults, adolescents, children, families, and couples for many years. Our counselors are highly trained and experienced in their areas of expertise and truly enjoy helping people through the struggles they bring to counseling. Counselors provide a safe and open environment to make changes within areas of concern. Counseling experiences are unique to each person as are their situations. There is no “one fits all” in counseling and our skilled clinicians work with you to reach your goals.
(651) 641-0177 View (651) 641-0177
Photo of LynLake Centers for Wellbeing, Psychologist in 55105, MN
LynLake Centers for Wellbeing
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Our clinical and therapeutic expertise covers a vast array of needs and focuses, including trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sex therapy, grief, codependency, addiction, LGBTQIA+ concerns, pre- and post-natal, relationship and family concerns, EMDR, DBT, art therapy, narrative therapy, somatic-focused therapy, mindfulness, and many others.
At LynLake Centers for WellBeing, we believe all people deserve to lead empowered, creative, authentic lives. We’re here for you, no matter where you’re at. We’re a large, diverse group of experienced psychotherapists, counselors, dietitians, psychiatric nurse practitioners, acupuncturists, neuro/psychological testing psychologists, yoga therapists, wellness coaches, trauma specialists, and more. We are united by our passion for helping to create a healthy, resilient, and fulfilled community. We offer both online and in-person services at over a dozen locations throughout the Twin Cities. We are accepting new clients of all ages!
Our clinical and therapeutic expertise covers a vast array of needs and focuses, including trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, sex therapy, grief, codependency, addiction, LGBTQIA+ concerns, pre- and post-natal, relationship and family concerns, EMDR, DBT, art therapy, narrative therapy, somatic-focused therapy, mindfulness, and many others.
At LynLake Centers for WellBeing, we believe all people deserve to lead empowered, creative, authentic lives. We’re here for you, no matter where you’re at. We’re a large, diverse group of experienced psychotherapists, counselors, dietitians, psychiatric nurse practitioners, acupuncturists, neuro/psychological testing psychologists, yoga therapists, wellness coaches, trauma specialists, and more. We are united by our passion for helping to create a healthy, resilient, and fulfilled community. We offer both online and in-person services at over a dozen locations throughout the Twin Cities. We are accepting new clients of all ages!
(952) 800-3161 View (952) 800-3161
Photo of Nicole Benson, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in 55105, MN
Nicole Benson
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
As a couples therapist, I believe we all long for connection. It is primal and in our DNA. However, in order to feel a connection, we need to feel a sense of safety first. I am passionate about working with couples who are experiencing a lack of connection and are seeking help with hopes of increasing the effectiveness of their communication, boundaries, and connection. Another passion of mine is helping couples navigate family conflicts. Family conflicts are not easy and they tend to disrupt the whole family system. I am currently accepting new clients for couples or family therapy. I offer sliding scale fees for couples as well.
As a couples therapist, I believe we all long for connection. It is primal and in our DNA. However, in order to feel a connection, we need to feel a sense of safety first. I am passionate about working with couples who are experiencing a lack of connection and are seeking help with hopes of increasing the effectiveness of their communication, boundaries, and connection. Another passion of mine is helping couples navigate family conflicts. Family conflicts are not easy and they tend to disrupt the whole family system. I am currently accepting new clients for couples or family therapy. I offer sliding scale fees for couples as well.
(612) 888-8134 View (612) 888-8134
Photo of Karen Knab, Marriage & Family Therapist in 55105, MN
Karen Knab
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105  (Online Only)
I utilize family systems theory, attachment theory, and trauma-informed care.
Do you struggle with perfectionism, a lot of internal pressure, and responsibility? Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and struggling in certain areas of your life? Do you have a hard time expressing yourself and being heard in relationships? I specialize in helping clients who are struggling with relationships of all kinds - family, workplace, romantic - and want to feel less stress and tension, and more harmony in their interpersonal relationships.
I utilize family systems theory, attachment theory, and trauma-informed care.
Do you struggle with perfectionism, a lot of internal pressure, and responsibility? Are you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and struggling in certain areas of your life? Do you have a hard time expressing yourself and being heard in relationships? I specialize in helping clients who are struggling with relationships of all kinds - family, workplace, romantic - and want to feel less stress and tension, and more harmony in their interpersonal relationships.
(651) 661-3471 View (651) 661-3471
Photo of Tiffany Ogden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 55105, MN
Tiffany Ogden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
What would you say if I told you that you could hope again? That your relationships with your spouse, your family, and your friends could be improved? That you don't need to be controlled by your fears and that you could find relief from worry? Taking the first steps to explore these challenges can be the most difficult. I understand how fear and doubt can keep you from finding the courage to seek healing. I am willing to walk by your side as you face the concerns that have kept you from enjoying your life to its fullest.
What would you say if I told you that you could hope again? That your relationships with your spouse, your family, and your friends could be improved? That you don't need to be controlled by your fears and that you could find relief from worry? Taking the first steps to explore these challenges can be the most difficult. I understand how fear and doubt can keep you from finding the courage to seek healing. I am willing to walk by your side as you face the concerns that have kept you from enjoying your life to its fullest.
(651) 964-1880 View (651) 964-1880
Photo of Stacey L. Stillmunkes, Marriage & Family Therapist in 55105, MN
Stacey L. Stillmunkes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105  (Online Only)
Besides the every-day life struggles, I have worked extensively with people who have been affected mentally, emotionally, and behaviorally by depression, anxiety, relationship/family conflicts, life transitions, divorce, parenting issues, financial strain, work stress, work-life imbalance, homelessness, domestic violence, emotional and sexual trauma, addictions, grief and loss, and family of origin issues.
I truly believe that all human beings have the ability to be mentally well; however, I recognize there are life experiences that can affect the human spirit deeply, guiding you to believe you are damaged, unlovable, or mentally unwell. It is my passion to guide people back to seeing themselves and life through a more positive lens where hope can be awakened and where peace, security, contentment, and joy can be found. I believe all people are affected by life's hardships differently, however we all have one thing in common: the ability to be well.
Besides the every-day life struggles, I have worked extensively with people who have been affected mentally, emotionally, and behaviorally by depression, anxiety, relationship/family conflicts, life transitions, divorce, parenting issues, financial strain, work stress, work-life imbalance, homelessness, domestic violence, emotional and sexual trauma, addictions, grief and loss, and family of origin issues.
I truly believe that all human beings have the ability to be mentally well; however, I recognize there are life experiences that can affect the human spirit deeply, guiding you to believe you are damaged, unlovable, or mentally unwell. It is my passion to guide people back to seeing themselves and life through a more positive lens where hope can be awakened and where peace, security, contentment, and joy can be found. I believe all people are affected by life's hardships differently, however we all have one thing in common: the ability to be well.
(651) 583-5907 View (651) 583-5907
Photo of Megan Sigmon-Olsen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 55105, MN
Megan Sigmon-Olsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I have extensive experience providing teen & family therapy.
I have the awesome privilege of getting to work with teens, families, adults and therapists all day long. I often meet teens who are uncomfortable with the idea of going to therapy. If your teen works with me, I will work closely with them to ensure that therapy with me isn't uncomfortable. I read teens well & will work hard to help your teen have a positive therapy experience. Teens are accepted in my practice for who they are in the world & they have told me that this acceptance is helpful to them during a time of intense growth & change.
I have extensive experience providing teen & family therapy.
I have the awesome privilege of getting to work with teens, families, adults and therapists all day long. I often meet teens who are uncomfortable with the idea of going to therapy. If your teen works with me, I will work closely with them to ensure that therapy with me isn't uncomfortable. I read teens well & will work hard to help your teen have a positive therapy experience. Teens are accepted in my practice for who they are in the world & they have told me that this acceptance is helpful to them during a time of intense growth & change.
(763) 244-1949 View (763) 244-1949
Photo of Jeff Hupf, Marriage & Family Therapist in 55105, MN
Jeff Hupf
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105
I am one of the few therapists (less than 12%) to specialize in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Therapists can't be good at everything. That's why I devote the vast majority of my practice to couples. Relationships are hard and we can find ourselves acting in ways that surprise even ourselves when things go wrong. So, you won't find me occupying the moral high ground, playing therapy tricks on you, or judging you. I'm marriage and relationship friendly, so I won't push you toward a crisis, a divorce or a break-up. As it is 50% of marriages end in divorce and upwards of 65% of second marriages end in a break-up, so if you have hopes and dreams for making things work, I'll be behind you 100%.
I am one of the few therapists (less than 12%) to specialize in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Therapists can't be good at everything. That's why I devote the vast majority of my practice to couples. Relationships are hard and we can find ourselves acting in ways that surprise even ourselves when things go wrong. So, you won't find me occupying the moral high ground, playing therapy tricks on you, or judging you. I'm marriage and relationship friendly, so I won't push you toward a crisis, a divorce or a break-up. As it is 50% of marriages end in divorce and upwards of 65% of second marriages end in a break-up, so if you have hopes and dreams for making things work, I'll be behind you 100%.
(651) 504-3464 View (651) 504-3464
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.