Photo of Monica Chernoff, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90254, CA
Monica Chernoff
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS , AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
My specialities as a therapist are 1) children, adolescents, & their families and 2) student athletes. Many individuals within this population suffer with mood disorders, anxiety, school & sport performance stress, identity crisis, family conflict, and low self-esteem due to familial/societal expectations and competitive culture. As a child, teenager, or parent, managing all these life stressors can take a toll on our mental health. My hope as a therapist is to make clients feel safe to process these struggles, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and improve their social/ family connections around them.
My specialities as a therapist are 1) children, adolescents, & their families and 2) student athletes. Many individuals within this population suffer with mood disorders, anxiety, school & sport performance stress, identity crisis, family conflict, and low self-esteem due to familial/societal expectations and competitive culture. As a child, teenager, or parent, managing all these life stressors can take a toll on our mental health. My hope as a therapist is to make clients feel safe to process these struggles, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and improve their social/ family connections around them.
(424) 340-5636 View (424) 340-5636
Photo of Dr. Loree A. Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Dr. Loree A. Johnson, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I also use this understanding as part of my work with the reproductive health, infertility, and loss communities to treat distressing/traumatic experiences related to your family-building efforts.
I believe that our problems don't define us - how we handle them does. You may feel lost because life may not have unfolded as planned, which triggers anxiety, depression, or overwhelming grief. However, with a bit of time and self-reflection, it's entirely possible to build or rebuild a life that is different from what you envisioned. I believe we possess innate strengths derived from early life experiences that shaped us, and I see therapy as a collaborative space to build on those qualities so that you can live the life you dream of living.
I also use this understanding as part of my work with the reproductive health, infertility, and loss communities to treat distressing/traumatic experiences related to your family-building efforts.
I believe that our problems don't define us - how we handle them does. You may feel lost because life may not have unfolded as planned, which triggers anxiety, depression, or overwhelming grief. However, with a bit of time and self-reflection, it's entirely possible to build or rebuild a life that is different from what you envisioned. I believe we possess innate strengths derived from early life experiences that shaped us, and I see therapy as a collaborative space to build on those qualities so that you can live the life you dream of living.
(310) 807-2684 View (310) 807-2684
Photo of Gina Rossi Clinical Psychotherapist, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Gina Rossi Clinical Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
We have all experienced a shift in our "normal" lives; our usual way of being during the past few years. We are looking at our world, our society, our friends, family and ourselves and nothing is as it once was. During these extraordinary times, you may be questioning what life is about; the meaning of it all. You are not alone, my friends. Many of us are experiencing anxiety, as our once familiar "normal" has shifted to a new "normal". I understand this and you. We can work through this together.
We have all experienced a shift in our "normal" lives; our usual way of being during the past few years. We are looking at our world, our society, our friends, family and ourselves and nothing is as it once was. During these extraordinary times, you may be questioning what life is about; the meaning of it all. You are not alone, my friends. Many of us are experiencing anxiety, as our once familiar "normal" has shifted to a new "normal". I understand this and you. We can work through this together.
(424) 370-0596 View (424) 370-0596
Photo of Janine Olmos, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90254, CA
Janine Olmos
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
Are the daily tasks becoming overwhelming? Are you struggling with handling conflicts that arise in relationships? Would adding new tools to manage your stress, anxiety, depression and relationship conflicts make a change in your life? I am a compassionate and dedicated associate marriage and family therapist (AMFT) with specialization in anxiety, depression, life transitions, and couples therapy. My approach is grounded in a holistic perspective, understanding that each individual's experiences are multifaceted and interconnected. I believe in addressing not just the symptoms but the underlying causes of distress.
Are the daily tasks becoming overwhelming? Are you struggling with handling conflicts that arise in relationships? Would adding new tools to manage your stress, anxiety, depression and relationship conflicts make a change in your life? I am a compassionate and dedicated associate marriage and family therapist (AMFT) with specialization in anxiety, depression, life transitions, and couples therapy. My approach is grounded in a holistic perspective, understanding that each individual's experiences are multifaceted and interconnected. I believe in addressing not just the symptoms but the underlying causes of distress.
(424) 667-6239 View (424) 667-6239
Photo of Maria Isabel Novoa, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90254, CA
Maria Isabel Novoa
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
I provide therapy for children, teens, and adults in English or Spanish experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, workplace burnout, high stress, low self-esteem, and family communication problems. My approach to therapy combines Attachment Theory, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Play-Therapy, Strengths-Focused, and Values-Focused methods for a holistic therapy experience.
I provide therapy for children, teens, and adults in English or Spanish experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, workplace burnout, high stress, low self-esteem, and family communication problems. My approach to therapy combines Attachment Theory, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Play-Therapy, Strengths-Focused, and Values-Focused methods for a holistic therapy experience.
(310) 359-1016 View (310) 359-1016
Photo of Geraldine Medrano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90254, CA
Geraldine Medrano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
Relationships can be difficult to navigate, whether it is with family, colleagues, or friends. I have experience helping adults navigate complex relationships, that can often leave you feeling anxious, depressed, or exhausted. I have helped adults who have experienced childhood trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional abuse, and other Mental health conditions, learn coping strategies as adults.
Relationships can be difficult to navigate, whether it is with family, colleagues, or friends. I have experience helping adults navigate complex relationships, that can often leave you feeling anxious, depressed, or exhausted. I have helped adults who have experienced childhood trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional abuse, and other Mental health conditions, learn coping strategies as adults.
(909) 310-8037 View (909) 310-8037
Photo of Amanda Rosales, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 90254, CA
Amanda Rosales
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
As a first-generation Filipina American, I also aim to understand the impact of culture, family background, and upbringing on the lives of my clients.
Life is filled with many difficulties and unexpected events, and seeking therapy is a great start to help you navigate these challenges. I provide a safe, supportive, and empathetic therapeutic environment for my clients, helping them explore and process the struggles they encounter in life. Sometimes these struggles are accompanied by overwhelming thoughts and emotions, and I’m here to help my clients understand how they are impacted and what is best for them to move forward.
As a first-generation Filipina American, I also aim to understand the impact of culture, family background, and upbringing on the lives of my clients.
Life is filled with many difficulties and unexpected events, and seeking therapy is a great start to help you navigate these challenges. I provide a safe, supportive, and empathetic therapeutic environment for my clients, helping them explore and process the struggles they encounter in life. Sometimes these struggles are accompanied by overwhelming thoughts and emotions, and I’m here to help my clients understand how they are impacted and what is best for them to move forward.
(424) 391-8255 View (424) 391-8255
Photo of Anat Sideman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Anat Sideman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ESQ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Treatment specialization includes: Individual therapy - healing and growth; Couples therapy - Emotionally Focused Therapy; Family therapy - improving communication; Parenting support - raising children with special needs; Depression, Stress and Anxiety; Divorce - supporting clients through the process of separation and divorce.
We are all capable of greater joy and intimacy in our lives. Partnering with the right therapist can be an important step towards that personal growth. Whether you're struggling with marital issues, lack of intimacy, infidelity, parenting concerns, the grief over the loss of a loved one, or feelings of depression, anxiety or despair, you are not alone. My intention is to help you develop clarity about the nature of your experiences, awareness of your strengths and challenges and empowerment in your daily life. Through this process of exploration you can move towards an enhanced confidence and more gratifying, loving relationships.
Treatment specialization includes: Individual therapy - healing and growth; Couples therapy - Emotionally Focused Therapy; Family therapy - improving communication; Parenting support - raising children with special needs; Depression, Stress and Anxiety; Divorce - supporting clients through the process of separation and divorce.
We are all capable of greater joy and intimacy in our lives. Partnering with the right therapist can be an important step towards that personal growth. Whether you're struggling with marital issues, lack of intimacy, infidelity, parenting concerns, the grief over the loss of a loved one, or feelings of depression, anxiety or despair, you are not alone. My intention is to help you develop clarity about the nature of your experiences, awareness of your strengths and challenges and empowerment in your daily life. Through this process of exploration you can move towards an enhanced confidence and more gratifying, loving relationships.
(310) 846-8402 View (310) 846-8402
Photo of Leah Niehaus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90254, CA
Leah Niehaus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Much of my professional experience has been working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. I enjoy helping each family member find their voice and improve their communication and functioning as a family. I aim to help them to lift their depression and anxiety, communicate better in their relationships, and figure out who they are and what they stand for. In addition to individual and family therapy, we also offer numerous group therapies. I also provide Clinical Supervision to pre-licensed therapists and Associate positions.
Much of my professional experience has been working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. I enjoy helping each family member find their voice and improve their communication and functioning as a family. I aim to help them to lift their depression and anxiety, communicate better in their relationships, and figure out who they are and what they stand for. In addition to individual and family therapy, we also offer numerous group therapies. I also provide Clinical Supervision to pre-licensed therapists and Associate positions.
(310) 997-4280 View (310) 997-4280
Photo of David Argueta, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
David Argueta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Life stressors can make us feel overwhelmed, lost, and unable to focus on our goals. Allow me to walk with you on a journey of healing, empowerment, and self-improvement. My therapeutic approach is warm, engaging, creative, and inclusive of all people. I am a Bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I graduated from Pepperdine university and have a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with and emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. My passion is to help connect others to themselves, families, and loved ones. Together we will discover your inner tools and overcome challenges.
Life stressors can make us feel overwhelmed, lost, and unable to focus on our goals. Allow me to walk with you on a journey of healing, empowerment, and self-improvement. My therapeutic approach is warm, engaging, creative, and inclusive of all people. I am a Bilingual Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I graduated from Pepperdine university and have a master’s degree in Clinical Psychology with and emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy. My passion is to help connect others to themselves, families, and loved ones. Together we will discover your inner tools and overcome challenges.
(310) 620-1425 View (310) 620-1425
Photo of Kelly Anderson-Bohlinger, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Kelly Anderson-Bohlinger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CCPS, EMDR, PhD Stu
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Through my work and training as a former Superior Court Mediator with Family Court Services, I possess a unique set of skills that can assist you in reducing much of the anxiety related to divorce and custody issues.
I maintain a private practice in Hermosa Beach, CA. As an interactive, solution-focused therapist my therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client with compassion and understanding. I specialize in marital and partner relationships. Pre-marital, Sex Addiction and Partners of SA's, Betrayal Trauma, Infidelity, Gottman's Couples & Discernment and Individual therapy with a focus on relationships. Groups for Divorce Betrayal Trauma.
Through my work and training as a former Superior Court Mediator with Family Court Services, I possess a unique set of skills that can assist you in reducing much of the anxiety related to divorce and custody issues.
I maintain a private practice in Hermosa Beach, CA. As an interactive, solution-focused therapist my therapeutic approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges. I integrate complementary methodologies and techniques to offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each client with compassion and understanding. I specialize in marital and partner relationships. Pre-marital, Sex Addiction and Partners of SA's, Betrayal Trauma, Infidelity, Gottman's Couples & Discernment and Individual therapy with a focus on relationships. Groups for Divorce Betrayal Trauma.
(424) 371-8306 View (424) 371-8306
Photo of Jackie Smuckler, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Jackie Smuckler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
My professional experience includes working with adolescents, adults and couples dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, chronic illness, PTSD, family conflict, relationship issues, women's issues, life transition and pet loss grief.
Life is hard sometimes and it's OK to need help along the way! Therapy is a great place to get the unbiased support you need. So many people live their lives feeling effects of depression, anxiousness or loneliness, feeling stuck, lost, or that something just isn't sitting right. Those feelings don't have to be carried around with you every day.
My professional experience includes working with adolescents, adults and couples dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, chronic illness, PTSD, family conflict, relationship issues, women's issues, life transition and pet loss grief.
Life is hard sometimes and it's OK to need help along the way! Therapy is a great place to get the unbiased support you need. So many people live their lives feeling effects of depression, anxiousness or loneliness, feeling stuck, lost, or that something just isn't sitting right. Those feelings don't have to be carried around with you every day.
(310) 734-4150 View (310) 734-4150
Photo of Kayleigh Soto, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Kayleigh Soto
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Kayleigh is dual licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist and Professional Clinical Counselor.
NOT ACCEPTING CLIENTS At THIS TIME. We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
Kayleigh is dual licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist and Professional Clinical Counselor.
NOT ACCEPTING CLIENTS At THIS TIME. We know asking for help is not an easy thing to do. We also know that finding a provider you trust to help you navigate mental health care can be a challenge. That's why we're here and we're doing things differently. As a patient at Bonmente, you enjoy comprehensive treatments customized specifically for your unique circumstances, convenient telemedicine appointments that allow you to see your provider from the comfort of home, an online patient portal that lets you communicate directly with your provider, and a highly trained support team that makes becoming a patient as simple as it should be.
(424) 622-9054 View (424) 622-9054
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 90254, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254  (Online Only)
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-0951 View (562) 268-0951
Photo of Sepideh H Bassi, Psychologist in 90254, CA
Sepideh H Bassi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
My specialties include individual and family issues, acculturation issues, adolescent issues, parenting skills, anger management training, mood disorders and anxiety disorders.
Congratulations on taking an important step toward living a healthier and happier life. I believe everyone has the potential to achieve all they desire but sometimes different situations prevent us from accomplishing our goals. Experiencing many challenges and overcoming obstacles have taught me that life is a complicated yet fascinating adventure and having the right tools along the way could ease the journey. In my practice I provide support and guidance to my clients and help them learn new strategies to overcome hurdles, achieve their goals, and find their paths.
My specialties include individual and family issues, acculturation issues, adolescent issues, parenting skills, anger management training, mood disorders and anxiety disorders.
Congratulations on taking an important step toward living a healthier and happier life. I believe everyone has the potential to achieve all they desire but sometimes different situations prevent us from accomplishing our goals. Experiencing many challenges and overcoming obstacles have taught me that life is a complicated yet fascinating adventure and having the right tools along the way could ease the journey. In my practice I provide support and guidance to my clients and help them learn new strategies to overcome hurdles, achieve their goals, and find their paths.
(310) 945-2391 View (310) 945-2391
Photo of Jane Amling-Heiken, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Jane Amling-Heiken
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, RN
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
In psychotherapy, my hope is to help you learn to manage your life with less stress, anxiety & depression; learn to relax & discover your own unique transformation; quiet your mind & learn to enjoy each day of your life. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & a mindfulness based approach, I work with individuals (adults and adolescents) and couples addressing depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, substance abuse, divorce & major life transitions. My experience includes working in an adult & family clinic, a substance abuse clinic, as a clinical manager in a Fresno based adult/child clinic and in my private practice. I have completed Gottman Couples Training Levels I, II and III.
In psychotherapy, my hope is to help you learn to manage your life with less stress, anxiety & depression; learn to relax & discover your own unique transformation; quiet your mind & learn to enjoy each day of your life. Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & a mindfulness based approach, I work with individuals (adults and adolescents) and couples addressing depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, substance abuse, divorce & major life transitions. My experience includes working in an adult & family clinic, a substance abuse clinic, as a clinical manager in a Fresno based adult/child clinic and in my private practice. I have completed Gottman Couples Training Levels I, II and III.
(310) 589-3613 View (310) 589-3613
Photo of Kate Mosier, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Kate Mosier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
My practice includes individual therapy for children and adolescents, family therapy and parenting skills training.
Does your child have frequent angry outbursts, problems getting along with peers, anxiety and worry, or difficulty focusing in school? Are you feeling overwhelmed with family problems and do not know how to fix what is wrong? Have you recently had baby and are struggling with depression, anxiety or just having difficulty adjusting to parenthood?
My practice includes individual therapy for children and adolescents, family therapy and parenting skills training.
Does your child have frequent angry outbursts, problems getting along with peers, anxiety and worry, or difficulty focusing in school? Are you feeling overwhelmed with family problems and do not know how to fix what is wrong? Have you recently had baby and are struggling with depression, anxiety or just having difficulty adjusting to parenthood?
(310) 784-5566 View (310) 784-5566
Photo of Shari Giti, Psychologist in 90254, CA
Shari Giti
Psychologist, PsyD, MM, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
Dr. Shari Giti is a child & adolescent psychologist and the Clinical Director of South Bay Child and Family Therapy--a comprehensive psychological practice in Hermosa Beach and Torrance/Palos Verdes. At SBCFT, Dr. Giti provides child, teen, and family therapy. She also specializes in psychological, educational, and AD/HD, assessment services. In addition to training and experience in child therapy, Dr. Giti completed a prestigious fellowship in Child/Adolescent Assessment and Diagnostics. She works hand-in-hand with educators, physicians and other treatment team members to ensure the highest quality care for her patients.
Dr. Shari Giti is a child & adolescent psychologist and the Clinical Director of South Bay Child and Family Therapy--a comprehensive psychological practice in Hermosa Beach and Torrance/Palos Verdes. At SBCFT, Dr. Giti provides child, teen, and family therapy. She also specializes in psychological, educational, and AD/HD, assessment services. In addition to training and experience in child therapy, Dr. Giti completed a prestigious fellowship in Child/Adolescent Assessment and Diagnostics. She works hand-in-hand with educators, physicians and other treatment team members to ensure the highest quality care for her patients.
(424) 321-6796 View (424) 321-6796
Photo of Evelyn Jacobson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Evelyn Jacobson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
My areas of specialization include parenting support, family therapy, depression, anxiety, and stage of life issues with teens and adults.
I strive to create safe space where clients can feel comfortable examining their strengths and challenges. I see myself as a guide on this journey of self-discovery, and I believe it's important to look together at the multiple contexts that affect us as individuals, from our family backgrounds to the meanings that we attach to our experiences in order to find our authenticity. I use an individualized approach grounded in family systems to guide clients on their journeys of self-exploration, weaving mindfulness and cognitive behavioral techniques into sessions.
My areas of specialization include parenting support, family therapy, depression, anxiety, and stage of life issues with teens and adults.
I strive to create safe space where clients can feel comfortable examining their strengths and challenges. I see myself as a guide on this journey of self-discovery, and I believe it's important to look together at the multiple contexts that affect us as individuals, from our family backgrounds to the meanings that we attach to our experiences in order to find our authenticity. I use an individualized approach grounded in family systems to guide clients on their journeys of self-exploration, weaving mindfulness and cognitive behavioral techniques into sessions.
(855) 849-5322 View (855) 849-5322
Photo of Melissa Kay, Marriage & Family Therapist in 90254, CA
Melissa Kay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
"I CAN HELP YOU FIND HAPPINESS AND CREATE THE LIFE YOU WANT" Your thoughts and feelings determine what your life is about and I can help guide you towards the manifestation of your dreams and happiness in all areas of your life, such as relationships, marriage, family, healthy body, career, success, etc. I have a unique approach that includes Holistic Counseling, Spirituality, the "Law of Attraction" and Mind-Body-Spirit Healing. I am very intuitive and a healer and I have had great success helping people thrive and live the life they want. I love the work I do and feel called to help you.
"I CAN HELP YOU FIND HAPPINESS AND CREATE THE LIFE YOU WANT" Your thoughts and feelings determine what your life is about and I can help guide you towards the manifestation of your dreams and happiness in all areas of your life, such as relationships, marriage, family, healthy body, career, success, etc. I have a unique approach that includes Holistic Counseling, Spirituality, the "Law of Attraction" and Mind-Body-Spirit Healing. I am very intuitive and a healer and I have had great success helping people thrive and live the life they want. I love the work I do and feel called to help you.
(310) 683-5422 View (310) 683-5422
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.