Photo of Rakhee Alston, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Rakhee Alston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
Together I can help you and your family achieve your goals and live a happier life.
Feeling hopeless? As a bilingual therapist (English/Spanish), I work with individuals who are troubled by relationship discord, trauma, depression and loss, or anxiety. Therapy is a journey toward growth, personal fulfillment and greater understanding of ourselves and those around us. My work involves helping individuals who are dealing with life's challenging issues. I also work closely with parents to help them gain tools they need to feel confident and successful.
Together I can help you and your family achieve your goals and live a happier life.
Feeling hopeless? As a bilingual therapist (English/Spanish), I work with individuals who are troubled by relationship discord, trauma, depression and loss, or anxiety. Therapy is a journey toward growth, personal fulfillment and greater understanding of ourselves and those around us. My work involves helping individuals who are dealing with life's challenging issues. I also work closely with parents to help them gain tools they need to feel confident and successful.
(818) 214-8261 View (818) 214-8261
Photo of Azize Coskun, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Azize Coskun
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I know it is not easy to reach out and open up about personal, family and relationship issues, but I will help to make this as easy as possible.
For over 26 years I have been working with some of the most difficult and challenging life dynamics that individuals, families and relationships encounter. I also work with adolescents and the Juvenile Justice System closely. My experience includes locked and unlocked settings, public and private sectors, community treatment facilities, inpatient psychiatric, juvenile hall, probation mental health camp, group home's, private practice as well as in home counseling to probation youth. My background in law enforcement enhances my expertise in Juvenile Justice issues for teen and adult legal issues.
I know it is not easy to reach out and open up about personal, family and relationship issues, but I will help to make this as easy as possible.
For over 26 years I have been working with some of the most difficult and challenging life dynamics that individuals, families and relationships encounter. I also work with adolescents and the Juvenile Justice System closely. My experience includes locked and unlocked settings, public and private sectors, community treatment facilities, inpatient psychiatric, juvenile hall, probation mental health camp, group home's, private practice as well as in home counseling to probation youth. My background in law enforcement enhances my expertise in Juvenile Justice issues for teen and adult legal issues.
(310) 773-5160 View (310) 773-5160
Photo of Stephanie Kavoulakos, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Stephanie Kavoulakos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Reaching out to a therapist can be a difficult step to take. I know the profound pain that can come with dealing with mental health challenges, including addiction...yours, or as a family member affected by another person's addictive behaviors. I understand how traumatic growing up with an alcoholic/addicted or a dysfunctional parent can be, or being involved in an unhealthy relationship. These experiences can lead to devastating feelings - shame, abandonment, depression, anxiety, isolation, anger, and much more. I invite you to share your feelings in a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel understood & heard.
Reaching out to a therapist can be a difficult step to take. I know the profound pain that can come with dealing with mental health challenges, including addiction...yours, or as a family member affected by another person's addictive behaviors. I understand how traumatic growing up with an alcoholic/addicted or a dysfunctional parent can be, or being involved in an unhealthy relationship. These experiences can lead to devastating feelings - shame, abandonment, depression, anxiety, isolation, anger, and much more. I invite you to share your feelings in a safe and nonjudgmental space where you can feel understood & heard.
(747) 207-4590 View (747) 207-4590
Photo of Natalie Mark, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Natalie Mark
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I have extensive experience working with behavioral issues, psychosis, substance abuse, relationships/family conflict, personality disorders, life transitions, depression, and anxiety and trauma-related disorders.
Welcome! First of all, it takes a ton of courage to come to therapy and ask for help, so kudos to you for taking this first step! I have in person and virtual openings for clients in California. I use an eclectic approach to treatment supporting clients who feel “stuck” or “lost” in life. I often use humor in my sessions, because life is hard, and sometimes the most therapeutic thing you can do is laugh! We will work collaboratively to create a safe and comfortable space to understand patterns of behavior that could be negatively impacting your well-being, and work together to help you become the best version of you.
I have extensive experience working with behavioral issues, psychosis, substance abuse, relationships/family conflict, personality disorders, life transitions, depression, and anxiety and trauma-related disorders.
Welcome! First of all, it takes a ton of courage to come to therapy and ask for help, so kudos to you for taking this first step! I have in person and virtual openings for clients in California. I use an eclectic approach to treatment supporting clients who feel “stuck” or “lost” in life. I often use humor in my sessions, because life is hard, and sometimes the most therapeutic thing you can do is laugh! We will work collaboratively to create a safe and comfortable space to understand patterns of behavior that could be negatively impacting your well-being, and work together to help you become the best version of you.
(818) 647-9958 View (818) 647-9958
Photo of Marie Ritz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91403, CA
Marie Ritz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I provide individual, couples and family therapy.
Finding the right therapist can be challenging. If you are seeking a safe and nurturing environment where your desired goals and potential can be achieved, I can assist you. Helping my clients create a more fulfilling well balanced life is my role as a therapist. I am aware of how difficult it is to be honest about feelings, past trauma, fears and anxiety. As such, I am nonjudgmental, nurturing and provide unconditional support to everyone I work with.
I provide individual, couples and family therapy.
Finding the right therapist can be challenging. If you are seeking a safe and nurturing environment where your desired goals and potential can be achieved, I can assist you. Helping my clients create a more fulfilling well balanced life is my role as a therapist. I am aware of how difficult it is to be honest about feelings, past trauma, fears and anxiety. As such, I am nonjudgmental, nurturing and provide unconditional support to everyone I work with.
(818) 741-3338 View (818) 741-3338
Photo of Mary Espinoza, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Mary Espinoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
My counseling approach is to help individuals reach their personal goals and desires in life within a safe and trusting environment. With more than 25 years experience as a Marriage and Family counselor my areas of expertise include: individuals, couples/relationship issues, family and blended family issues, as well as conjoint and adolescent counseling, specializing in cross-cultural counseling, substance abuse, domestic violence, victims of crime, and post-traumatic stress disorders. By making positive changes in your life, I believe clients can reach their goals and experience a better quality of life.
My counseling approach is to help individuals reach their personal goals and desires in life within a safe and trusting environment. With more than 25 years experience as a Marriage and Family counselor my areas of expertise include: individuals, couples/relationship issues, family and blended family issues, as well as conjoint and adolescent counseling, specializing in cross-cultural counseling, substance abuse, domestic violence, victims of crime, and post-traumatic stress disorders. By making positive changes in your life, I believe clients can reach their goals and experience a better quality of life.
(424) 254-1343 View (424) 254-1343
Photo of Audra Potz, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Audra Potz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Are you struggling through a tough transition in your life? Do you feel alone, confused, or defeated? Maybe you have recently lost a loved one, or are grieving your own illness. Maybe you feel depressed or anxious because of a major life change or lack of change, feeling stuck in your situation. Whether you are family, couple or individual searching for a trusted person to listen and guide you, I am here to help you develop your inner strength and reach your full potential.
Are you struggling through a tough transition in your life? Do you feel alone, confused, or defeated? Maybe you have recently lost a loved one, or are grieving your own illness. Maybe you feel depressed or anxious because of a major life change or lack of change, feeling stuck in your situation. Whether you are family, couple or individual searching for a trusted person to listen and guide you, I am here to help you develop your inner strength and reach your full potential.
(323) 761-2271 View (323) 761-2271
Photo of Sareh Hamzavi, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Sareh Hamzavi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I invite you to share your story in a safe and non-judgmental environment so that you, your family or child can feel empowered to be your authentic selves at every moment in your life.
Initial encounters with anyone involve presenting stories of who we are. However, sometimes life makes it difficult to really tell our true stories. My goal is to help individuals achieve their highest potential and live a fulfilling life by telling their authentic stories. My practice focuses on tailoring therapy to each client rather than tailoring my clients to the therapy. I am a licensed psychotherapist, providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. I have training in various treatment approaches including, but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and strength-based techniques.
I invite you to share your story in a safe and non-judgmental environment so that you, your family or child can feel empowered to be your authentic selves at every moment in your life.
Initial encounters with anyone involve presenting stories of who we are. However, sometimes life makes it difficult to really tell our true stories. My goal is to help individuals achieve their highest potential and live a fulfilling life by telling their authentic stories. My practice focuses on tailoring therapy to each client rather than tailoring my clients to the therapy. I am a licensed psychotherapist, providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. I have training in various treatment approaches including, but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and strength-based techniques.
(747) 207-4318 View (747) 207-4318
Photo of East West Holistic Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
East West Holistic Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RYT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
Have you experienced trauma from a relationship with a narcissistic partner or family member? Are you struggling to have healthy relationships and establish boundaries after narcissistic abuse? Do you find it challenging to have healthy self-esteem and self-compassion after experiencing gaslighting and coercive control? Narcissistic abuse recovery is a complex and sensitive journey that requires specialized support from someone who has experience and expertise. My approach encompasses a deep understanding of the psychological trauma inflicted by narcissists and prioritizes empowering clients to reclaim their inner strength.
Have you experienced trauma from a relationship with a narcissistic partner or family member? Are you struggling to have healthy relationships and establish boundaries after narcissistic abuse? Do you find it challenging to have healthy self-esteem and self-compassion after experiencing gaslighting and coercive control? Narcissistic abuse recovery is a complex and sensitive journey that requires specialized support from someone who has experience and expertise. My approach encompasses a deep understanding of the psychological trauma inflicted by narcissists and prioritizes empowering clients to reclaim their inner strength.
(747) 232-5209 View (747) 232-5209
Photo of Sandra Shahrokh, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Sandra Shahrokh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I am level 1 certified in Internal Family Systems and incorporate techniques that support you in understanding what is driving your behaviors and skills to utilize to combat distress in the moment.
I am passionate about working with individuals struggling with the effects of childhood trauma, anxiety, perfectionism, and substance use issues. You deserve support along your healing journey and my job is to help bring awareness to unhelpful patterns in your life that may be negatively impacting the way you view yourself, relationships, and other areas of your life. I take a trauma-informed and somatic-based approach to help my clients get to the root of their issues for long-term healing.
I am level 1 certified in Internal Family Systems and incorporate techniques that support you in understanding what is driving your behaviors and skills to utilize to combat distress in the moment.
I am passionate about working with individuals struggling with the effects of childhood trauma, anxiety, perfectionism, and substance use issues. You deserve support along your healing journey and my job is to help bring awareness to unhelpful patterns in your life that may be negatively impacting the way you view yourself, relationships, and other areas of your life. I take a trauma-informed and somatic-based approach to help my clients get to the root of their issues for long-term healing.
(747) 269-1571 View (747) 269-1571
Photo of Shanequa Black, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91403, CA
Shanequa Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I’m comfortable working with those from all backgrounds, and I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, life changes, grief, low self-esteem, women’s issues, family conflicts, and other issues.
As a mental health therapist, I’ve noticed a stigma surrounding therapy in certain communities rooted in fears of therapist misunderstandings, judgment, or being told what to do. I am committed to breaking this stigma by creating a safe place where people can feel comfortable sharing whatever they’d like. My philosophy in life and treatment is to provide empathy, compassion, and support to individuals during challenging times. I want my clients to know they have a safe and nonjudgmental place to explore and understand their feelings. Through this mutual trust and respect, we will work to help you become the best version of yourself.
I’m comfortable working with those from all backgrounds, and I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, life changes, grief, low self-esteem, women’s issues, family conflicts, and other issues.
As a mental health therapist, I’ve noticed a stigma surrounding therapy in certain communities rooted in fears of therapist misunderstandings, judgment, or being told what to do. I am committed to breaking this stigma by creating a safe place where people can feel comfortable sharing whatever they’d like. My philosophy in life and treatment is to provide empathy, compassion, and support to individuals during challenging times. I want my clients to know they have a safe and nonjudgmental place to explore and understand their feelings. Through this mutual trust and respect, we will work to help you become the best version of yourself.
(747) 236-6250 View (747) 236-6250
Photo of Nassim Sanani, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Nassim Sanani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Waitlist for new clients
Helping cultivate the ability to say what you need to say to partners, children, friends and family with love and empathy, so that you can be heard.
As individuals, we are so unique. We all come from very distinct backgrounds and life experiences, both of which impact our decisions, choices, desires and fears. These considerations all play a role in the struggles and pain we face. Looking at these areas of our lives and trying to understand their influence can be overwhelming and scary. For this reason I strive to create a safe, warm and non-judgmental environment where, together, we can explore collaboratively. This time together will allow you the space needed to evaluate your experiences and understand how they affect you and your relationships.
Helping cultivate the ability to say what you need to say to partners, children, friends and family with love and empathy, so that you can be heard.
As individuals, we are so unique. We all come from very distinct backgrounds and life experiences, both of which impact our decisions, choices, desires and fears. These considerations all play a role in the struggles and pain we face. Looking at these areas of our lives and trying to understand their influence can be overwhelming and scary. For this reason I strive to create a safe, warm and non-judgmental environment where, together, we can explore collaboratively. This time together will allow you the space needed to evaluate your experiences and understand how they affect you and your relationships.
(818) 465-9772 View (818) 465-9772
Photo of April Blair, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
April Blair
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I provide psychotherapy to clients who want lasting change in their primary relationships as well as overall personal growth. This includes parents trying to navigate the sometimes difficult task of parenting. Each individual, couple or family that I work with is unique and I value the process of getting to know my clients as the people they truly are. Some issues I treat are interpersonal conflict, trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment issues, addictions (including those in recovery), and difficulties with boundaries and trust.
I provide psychotherapy to clients who want lasting change in their primary relationships as well as overall personal growth. This includes parents trying to navigate the sometimes difficult task of parenting. Each individual, couple or family that I work with is unique and I value the process of getting to know my clients as the people they truly are. Some issues I treat are interpersonal conflict, trauma, depression, anxiety, attachment issues, addictions (including those in recovery), and difficulties with boundaries and trust.
(818) 650-4153 View (818) 650-4153
Photo of Paola Barba, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Paola Barba
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I will collaborate with you to establish the goals you want to work on including self-esteem, coping skills, domestic violence, women’s issues, family conflict, parenting, peer relations, and behavioral issues to name a few.
Your past does not define who you are, nor do your mistakes. Everyone deserves second chances at life and in treatment. I work extensively with children, teens, and families to treat a variety of disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar, autism, and ADHD to name a few. With over seven years of experience in the mental health field, my practice uses a tailored approach to meet each individual client's needs by utilizing a variety of therapeutic modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, positive psychology, client centered, and solution-focused techniques among others.
I will collaborate with you to establish the goals you want to work on including self-esteem, coping skills, domestic violence, women’s issues, family conflict, parenting, peer relations, and behavioral issues to name a few.
Your past does not define who you are, nor do your mistakes. Everyone deserves second chances at life and in treatment. I work extensively with children, teens, and families to treat a variety of disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar, autism, and ADHD to name a few. With over seven years of experience in the mental health field, my practice uses a tailored approach to meet each individual client's needs by utilizing a variety of therapeutic modalities including CBT, DBT, ACT, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, positive psychology, client centered, and solution-focused techniques among others.
(747) 205-0794 View (747) 205-0794
Photo of Mohammed Sufiyan Kagzi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91403, CA
Mohammed Sufiyan Kagzi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I have a deep understanding of the many factors that contribute to a person's mental health, such as unique life experiences, cultural values, and family dynamics.
I am a licensed psychotherapist with extensive experience working with teenagers, young adults, and families. Using an integrative therapeutic approach including CBT, DBT, trauma-informed, and other modalities, I treat a wide range of mental health issues, including Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, and other issues. As a therapist, I am committed to providing a safe, caring, and accepting environment that encourages healing and growth.
I have a deep understanding of the many factors that contribute to a person's mental health, such as unique life experiences, cultural values, and family dynamics.
I am a licensed psychotherapist with extensive experience working with teenagers, young adults, and families. Using an integrative therapeutic approach including CBT, DBT, trauma-informed, and other modalities, I treat a wide range of mental health issues, including Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, and other issues. As a therapist, I am committed to providing a safe, caring, and accepting environment that encourages healing and growth.
(747) 269-6681 View (747) 269-6681
Photo of Judy Sharp, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Judy Sharp
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
The irony is this--if you don't go in, you can't find out." I love this quote from a Richard Stine greeting card. It's such a succinct description of the therapeutic process. I believe people are relational by nature and our earliest experiences of home, family and friends influence the expectations we bring to future relationships. Our experiences shape us but don't define us. Telling our stories helps us clarify what we want to keep and to change, a choice we didn't have as children. While change can be challenging, it can open up a whole new world of possibility.
The irony is this--if you don't go in, you can't find out." I love this quote from a Richard Stine greeting card. It's such a succinct description of the therapeutic process. I believe people are relational by nature and our earliest experiences of home, family and friends influence the expectations we bring to future relationships. Our experiences shape us but don't define us. Telling our stories helps us clarify what we want to keep and to change, a choice we didn't have as children. While change can be challenging, it can open up a whole new world of possibility.
(818) 963-9056 View (818) 963-9056
Photo of Jaelline Jaffe, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Jaelline Jaffe
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You may be feeling stuck, discouraged, angry or depressed about your life or relationships. Maybe there's a medical condition with emotional effects on you or others. Your family life or parenting situation may be difficult. Maybe you're having trouble with co-workers or siblings. Or you may have just lost your way and don't know where you are going or how to get there ... wherever "there" might be. Whether you believe we choose our own circumstances, that there is a "master plan," or that sometimes SHTUFF happens, you still have reactions, feelings, and decisions to make about "what next?" I can help.
You may be feeling stuck, discouraged, angry or depressed about your life or relationships. Maybe there's a medical condition with emotional effects on you or others. Your family life or parenting situation may be difficult. Maybe you're having trouble with co-workers or siblings. Or you may have just lost your way and don't know where you are going or how to get there ... wherever "there" might be. Whether you believe we choose our own circumstances, that there is a "master plan," or that sometimes SHTUFF happens, you still have reactions, feelings, and decisions to make about "what next?" I can help.
(818) 946-0116 View (818) 946-0116
Photo of Lauren Burt, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Lauren Burt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I can help clients navigate difficulties in their relationships with family members, significant others, and friends.
I have worked with teens in schools, treatment centers, and in private practice to provide understanding support and care during many individuals’ hardest, human experiences. Through the use of cognitive behavioral techniques, I have seen clients increase self-esteem, increase functionality, and decrease their sadness and anxiety.
I can help clients navigate difficulties in their relationships with family members, significant others, and friends.
I have worked with teens in schools, treatment centers, and in private practice to provide understanding support and care during many individuals’ hardest, human experiences. Through the use of cognitive behavioral techniques, I have seen clients increase self-esteem, increase functionality, and decrease their sadness and anxiety.
(747) 252-5433 View (747) 252-5433
Photo of Amanda Sisco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91403, CA
Amanda Sisco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
When it comes to dealing with pain or struggle in your life, you are not alone. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, family issues, anger or the lingering impacts of trauma, it’s never too late to make a significant change to your mental wellbeing. I provide therapy for people of all ages to help them cope with life stress, break free from negative patterns of thinking and acting, and become the best possible versions of themselves. Utilizing various therapeutic techniques—CBT, Mindfulness, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and others—I will work with you to better understand your issues and help you reach your goal.
When it comes to dealing with pain or struggle in your life, you are not alone. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, family issues, anger or the lingering impacts of trauma, it’s never too late to make a significant change to your mental wellbeing. I provide therapy for people of all ages to help them cope with life stress, break free from negative patterns of thinking and acting, and become the best possible versions of themselves. Utilizing various therapeutic techniques—CBT, Mindfulness, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and others—I will work with you to better understand your issues and help you reach your goal.
(747) 281-3792 View (747) 281-3792
Photo of Lindsay Burke, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Lindsay Burke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, BI
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Hi! I’m Lindsay and I’m the founder of LIFT Therapy, a licensed therapist, coach, a martial artist, wife, and parent. I help individuals with their most intimate relationships- with partners, family members and close friends. I also support those in tricky dynamics with narcissistic, exploitive and manipulative personalities. In my experience working with deeply traumatized and emotionally disturbed adults and children, I found my passion for addressing generational trauma by helping adults heal early childhood trauma and by teaching a new generation of parents how to raise children using an attachment-based lens.
Hi! I’m Lindsay and I’m the founder of LIFT Therapy, a licensed therapist, coach, a martial artist, wife, and parent. I help individuals with their most intimate relationships- with partners, family members and close friends. I also support those in tricky dynamics with narcissistic, exploitive and manipulative personalities. In my experience working with deeply traumatized and emotionally disturbed adults and children, I found my passion for addressing generational trauma by helping adults heal early childhood trauma and by teaching a new generation of parents how to raise children using an attachment-based lens.
(323) 870-9342 View (323) 870-9342

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.