Photo of Kypris Aster Drake (She They), MS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kypris Aster Drake (She They)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Kypris and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California (SixGateways.
I understand how sad and scary it can feel when you're struggling in a relationship. I help LGBTQ and CNM people heal issues with relationships, sexuality, and negative life patterns. Together we’ll make a plan to move forward improving your relationships, which involves a combination of learning to feel and understand your emotions, and using mindfulness to help you soothe yourself if the emotions get too big to manage in the moment. For CNM people, we’ll talk a lot about what these relationships can be like and figure out what does and doesn’t work for you. We’ll work as a team!
Hi! I'm Kypris and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California (SixGateways.
I understand how sad and scary it can feel when you're struggling in a relationship. I help LGBTQ and CNM people heal issues with relationships, sexuality, and negative life patterns. Together we’ll make a plan to move forward improving your relationships, which involves a combination of learning to feel and understand your emotions, and using mindfulness to help you soothe yourself if the emotions get too big to manage in the moment. For CNM people, we’ll talk a lot about what these relationships can be like and figure out what does and doesn’t work for you. We’ll work as a team!
(442) 276-5238 View (442) 276-5238
Photo of Áurea Oliveira, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Áurea Oliveira
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104
Relational issues arise when we stop feeling security and trust in our relationships, and feel emotionally disconnected and unable to communicate our needs clearly to one another. As a marriage and family therapist, I am guided by the idea that the more effectively dependent we are on each other, the more independent, courageous and adventurous we become. I also believe that the quality of our relationships can deeply impact our mental and physical wellness in general. Humans are bonding, relational beings who need to feel secure and loved in their close relationships. We need to know that we matter to our loved ones.
Relational issues arise when we stop feeling security and trust in our relationships, and feel emotionally disconnected and unable to communicate our needs clearly to one another. As a marriage and family therapist, I am guided by the idea that the more effectively dependent we are on each other, the more independent, courageous and adventurous we become. I also believe that the quality of our relationships can deeply impact our mental and physical wellness in general. Humans are bonding, relational beings who need to feel secure and loved in their close relationships. We need to know that we matter to our loved ones.
(619) 329-8243 View (619) 329-8243
Photo of Olga Castillo, LCP, Psychologist
Olga Castillo
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104
I utilize a family systems conceptual framework and at the same time utilize a cognitive behavioral approach to guide my interventions.
Hi, my name is Olga Gabriela Martinez. I received my education and training from Azusa Pacific University. I obtained a master's degree in Family Counseling and a Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology. I am fluent in Spanish and have worked extensively with many cultural backgrounds. My work includes working with individuals, couples, and families. My areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, and trauma-related struggles. I have a special interest in women's issues and have worked extensively with women and men of different backgrounds. I am a Christian and have a special interest in the integration of faith in my treatment.
I utilize a family systems conceptual framework and at the same time utilize a cognitive behavioral approach to guide my interventions.
Hi, my name is Olga Gabriela Martinez. I received my education and training from Azusa Pacific University. I obtained a master's degree in Family Counseling and a Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology. I am fluent in Spanish and have worked extensively with many cultural backgrounds. My work includes working with individuals, couples, and families. My areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, and trauma-related struggles. I have a special interest in women's issues and have worked extensively with women and men of different backgrounds. I am a Christian and have a special interest in the integration of faith in my treatment.
(323) 616-1431 View (323) 616-1431
Photo of Sol Durso, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sol Durso
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104
In addition to providing therapy, I am an Adjunct Faculty at the USD Marriage and Family therapy program since 2012 where I teach classes as well as provide Clinical Supervision to master level students in English and Spanish.
My treatment approach is collaborative working with clients to discover the most helpful ways to talk about and solve their problems. I employ a Narrative and Solution Focus approach where the client is the expert on their experiences and my role is to guide through questions, suggestions and specific practices. The goal is to support you as you reconnect to your values, skills and preferences in life including people you consider family and community. We will decide if individual, couples or family therapy is best for you. You can invite others to treatment. I also collaborate with other professionals to support you and your family.
In addition to providing therapy, I am an Adjunct Faculty at the USD Marriage and Family therapy program since 2012 where I teach classes as well as provide Clinical Supervision to master level students in English and Spanish.
My treatment approach is collaborative working with clients to discover the most helpful ways to talk about and solve their problems. I employ a Narrative and Solution Focus approach where the client is the expert on their experiences and my role is to guide through questions, suggestions and specific practices. The goal is to support you as you reconnect to your values, skills and preferences in life including people you consider family and community. We will decide if individual, couples or family therapy is best for you. You can invite others to treatment. I also collaborate with other professionals to support you and your family.
(619) 663-5910 View (619) 663-5910
Photo of Jennifer Rickard, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Rickard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104  (Online Only)
In my practice, my specialties include relational and family issues, personal growth, health and wellness, anxiety, stress and mood management, LGBTQ+ affirming therapy.
Are you seeking support in moving through a life or relational challenge? Sometimes we all need support in finding creative solutions or building strong relationships. As a couple and family therapist, I have a strong conviction in the healing power of healthy relationships.  Connecting to your authentic self and fostering wellness in all relationships in your life is a primary focus of my work.  I provide individual, couple and family psychotherapy for youth and adults of all family and relationship constellations, and I create a supportive space in which to explore gender, sexuality, sexual expression and relationship styles.
In my practice, my specialties include relational and family issues, personal growth, health and wellness, anxiety, stress and mood management, LGBTQ+ affirming therapy.
Are you seeking support in moving through a life or relational challenge? Sometimes we all need support in finding creative solutions or building strong relationships. As a couple and family therapist, I have a strong conviction in the healing power of healthy relationships.  Connecting to your authentic self and fostering wellness in all relationships in your life is a primary focus of my work.  I provide individual, couple and family psychotherapy for youth and adults of all family and relationship constellations, and I create a supportive space in which to explore gender, sexuality, sexual expression and relationship styles.
(619) 457-6022 View (619) 457-6022
Photo of Rachael Hatton, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachael Hatton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104  (Online Only)
I also provide family members of those individuals who are suffering with the education they will need to better understand these disorders in order to help support those they care about.
As a therapist, my goal is to provide the most effective treatment for individuals with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Hoarding, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling), and Excoriation (Dermatillomania - Skin Picking). I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), specifically Exposure & Response Prevention to help those suffering with OCD, Hoarding, BDD, and Habit Reversal Therapy to help those with pulling, picking, and Tics, as these evidence based treatments have proven to be the most effective. I believe with the right tools and support, people can learn to address these struggles and thrive.
I also provide family members of those individuals who are suffering with the education they will need to better understand these disorders in order to help support those they care about.
As a therapist, my goal is to provide the most effective treatment for individuals with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Hoarding, Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), Trichotillomania (Hair Pulling), and Excoriation (Dermatillomania - Skin Picking). I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), specifically Exposure & Response Prevention to help those suffering with OCD, Hoarding, BDD, and Habit Reversal Therapy to help those with pulling, picking, and Tics, as these evidence based treatments have proven to be the most effective. I believe with the right tools and support, people can learn to address these struggles and thrive.
(858) 703-7620 View (858) 703-7620
Photo of Nancy Fader - Nancy Fader, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Fader
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104  (Online Only)
Areas of Specialty-Eating Disorders, Body Image, PTSD, Trauma, Relationship/Marriage Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Post-partum Depression, Discrimination, Motherhood, Divorce, Parent Teen Interaction Issues, Family Conflict.
I became a therapist because I felt called to help others resolve their emotional pain and suffering, and to regain their mental health and well-being. I strive to provide empathy, active listening, validation, and connection with my clients, while helping them to uncover and cultivate their strengths. I have been drawn to vulnerable populations and passionate about my work, I take pride in providing culturally competent therapy to San Diego's diverse communities.
Areas of Specialty-Eating Disorders, Body Image, PTSD, Trauma, Relationship/Marriage Issues, Depression, Anxiety, Post-partum Depression, Discrimination, Motherhood, Divorce, Parent Teen Interaction Issues, Family Conflict.
I became a therapist because I felt called to help others resolve their emotional pain and suffering, and to regain their mental health and well-being. I strive to provide empathy, active listening, validation, and connection with my clients, while helping them to uncover and cultivate their strengths. I have been drawn to vulnerable populations and passionate about my work, I take pride in providing culturally competent therapy to San Diego's diverse communities.
(619) 383-1609 View (619) 383-1609
Photo of Stacey Callis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacey Callis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104
I typically work with children, adolescents, and families to treat behavioral problems, anger management, impulsivity, hyperactivity, anxiety, depression, peer issues, family issues, and trauma.
My name is Stacey Callis and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working in the field of social work for over 20 years. I specialize in treatments for children, adolescents, and families. My services include a collaborative approach with my clients in order to gain a better understanding of their maladaptive behavior and thought patterns.
I typically work with children, adolescents, and families to treat behavioral problems, anger management, impulsivity, hyperactivity, anxiety, depression, peer issues, family issues, and trauma.
My name is Stacey Callis and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working in the field of social work for over 20 years. I specialize in treatments for children, adolescents, and families. My services include a collaborative approach with my clients in order to gain a better understanding of their maladaptive behavior and thought patterns.
(650) 910-7734 View (650) 910-7734
Photo of Anna Sarao, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Anna Sarao
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104
When I think about why and who I am able to help - it's because I have survived over and over again. From the family trauma that started my therapy journey to horrific life events, life transitions, grief/loss, identity crisis, relationship abuse, overcoming narcissists, ...and at the same time losing and then repairing my faith in God. If you are still reading and connect to some of what I've written, then I know your pain and that you just want it to stop. You want to heal and move forward. Because somewhere deep down - you know it's possible.
When I think about why and who I am able to help - it's because I have survived over and over again. From the family trauma that started my therapy journey to horrific life events, life transitions, grief/loss, identity crisis, relationship abuse, overcoming narcissists, ...and at the same time losing and then repairing my faith in God. If you are still reading and connect to some of what I've written, then I know your pain and that you just want it to stop. You want to heal and move forward. Because somewhere deep down - you know it's possible.
(619) 853-0971 View (619) 853-0971
Photo of Kelly Hutton - Kelly Hutton, Grief Therapist , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Hutton, Grief Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104
I offer couples, individual (adult and teen) and family therapy.
Welcome! I imagine you have found my profile because you are going through grief, illness or tragedy. I am glad you are here taking the first steps towards support. I specialize in working with grief, loss, end of life issues and chronic illness. Grief therapy can look many different ways, and I tailor the experience of therapy to my clients unique needs. My top priority is that you feel safe in therapy and have space to feel and express your grief openly. I use many modalities to assist my clients in working through grief, including EMDR therapy (eye movement therapy) which is an evidence based treatment for trauma and grief.
I offer couples, individual (adult and teen) and family therapy.
Welcome! I imagine you have found my profile because you are going through grief, illness or tragedy. I am glad you are here taking the first steps towards support. I specialize in working with grief, loss, end of life issues and chronic illness. Grief therapy can look many different ways, and I tailor the experience of therapy to my clients unique needs. My top priority is that you feel safe in therapy and have space to feel and express your grief openly. I use many modalities to assist my clients in working through grief, including EMDR therapy (eye movement therapy) which is an evidence based treatment for trauma and grief.
(619) 745-1989 View (619) 745-1989
Photo of Lauren Goebel - Lauren Goebel ADHD Therapist, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lauren Goebel ADHD Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104
They are often identified as the problem at school or in their family systems at a young age.
Welcome to my page! I work with ADHD, specifically late diagnosis. I myself was late diagnosed, and I have a passion for helping others navigate the emotional experience of understanding this part of yourself. ADHD doesn't just show up in academic settings, it shows up in how we are in relationships, how we communicate, regulate our emotions, and how we perceive sensory input. Our neurotype is the lens that we see the world from, and understanding your neurotype can be incredibly empowering. I come from a neurodiversity affirming lens which means all brains are different, and no brains are disordered.
They are often identified as the problem at school or in their family systems at a young age.
Welcome to my page! I work with ADHD, specifically late diagnosis. I myself was late diagnosed, and I have a passion for helping others navigate the emotional experience of understanding this part of yourself. ADHD doesn't just show up in academic settings, it shows up in how we are in relationships, how we communicate, regulate our emotions, and how we perceive sensory input. Our neurotype is the lens that we see the world from, and understanding your neurotype can be incredibly empowering. I come from a neurodiversity affirming lens which means all brains are different, and no brains are disordered.
(619) 503-3622 View (619) 503-3622
Photo of Ana Batan, LMFT, 106483, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ana Batan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, 106483
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104  (Online Only)
My focus is creating a warm, trusting, and safe environment to explore your current barriers or struggles so you can achieve self-empowerment and the ability to function within the family unit.
I have extensive experience in working with adults, couples, children, and families who have suffered a traumatic event, dealing with anxiety and or depression, relationship issues, stress, mood issues, or any other areas/issues that disrupt your daily life. If you are at a point where you, or someone you know, may benefit from having a non-biased, nonjudgmental therapist with fresh views and guidance, feel free to contact me. I believe treatment should be a collaboration that includes your values, the latest research, and my long-term experience in the field. I am committed to helping you make lasting changes in your lives.
My focus is creating a warm, trusting, and safe environment to explore your current barriers or struggles so you can achieve self-empowerment and the ability to function within the family unit.
I have extensive experience in working with adults, couples, children, and families who have suffered a traumatic event, dealing with anxiety and or depression, relationship issues, stress, mood issues, or any other areas/issues that disrupt your daily life. If you are at a point where you, or someone you know, may benefit from having a non-biased, nonjudgmental therapist with fresh views and guidance, feel free to contact me. I believe treatment should be a collaboration that includes your values, the latest research, and my long-term experience in the field. I am committed to helping you make lasting changes in your lives.
(657) 201-4447 View (657) 201-4447
Photo of Nikki Amaro, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nikki Amaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104
I specialize in areas of identifying and healing from trauma, LGBTQ identities, gender transition, mental illness, and family conflict.
I am accepting new clients! I work with adults of any age and walk of life. I am trained and experienced in providing EMDR treatment for symptoms related to adverse life experiences. I have expertise in working with LGBTQIA+ populations and in particular, those navigating issues related to gender identity. My clinical focus revolves around bolstering clients' existing strengths, support networks, personal growth, and resiliency. My background allows me to provide mental health services in a connective way while being both innovative and flexible in my work.
I specialize in areas of identifying and healing from trauma, LGBTQ identities, gender transition, mental illness, and family conflict.
I am accepting new clients! I work with adults of any age and walk of life. I am trained and experienced in providing EMDR treatment for symptoms related to adverse life experiences. I have expertise in working with LGBTQIA+ populations and in particular, those navigating issues related to gender identity. My clinical focus revolves around bolstering clients' existing strengths, support networks, personal growth, and resiliency. My background allows me to provide mental health services in a connective way while being both innovative and flexible in my work.
(619) 345-7023 View (619) 345-7023
Photo of Dr. Sarah E Nunnink, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Sarah E Nunnink
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104
Do you find yourself struggling with your emotions? Does it seem like you are overwhelmed by your feelings, or instead that you have to keep a tight lid on your emotions so as not to do damage to your relationships, career and family life? I work well with people who are struggling with feelings of being "stuck" in their lives and with their emotions, and who wonder if there's more to life in terms of vitality and aliveness. I'll aim to help you increase your emotional intelligence so that your emotions work for rather than against you.
Do you find yourself struggling with your emotions? Does it seem like you are overwhelmed by your feelings, or instead that you have to keep a tight lid on your emotions so as not to do damage to your relationships, career and family life? I work well with people who are struggling with feelings of being "stuck" in their lives and with their emotions, and who wonder if there's more to life in terms of vitality and aliveness. I'll aim to help you increase your emotional intelligence so that your emotions work for rather than against you.
(619) 382-3036 View (619) 382-3036
Photo of Ariel Fletcher, LMFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ariel Fletcher
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92104  (Online Only)
In my decade of experience, I have been trained in CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Attachment, and EMDR.
In our work together, my essential goal is that you feel heard, respected, and understood. I find that one of the most important predictors of effective therapy starts with the relationship between client and therapist. I consider my role as your therapist an honor. I aim to create a comfortable, inviting, and safe space for you to share, and for us to work collectively. I feel your voice is just as, if not more, valuable than mine. With over 16 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, I am confident that working collaboratively, you will find our time together beneficial.
In my decade of experience, I have been trained in CBT, DBT, Family Systems, Attachment, and EMDR.
In our work together, my essential goal is that you feel heard, respected, and understood. I find that one of the most important predictors of effective therapy starts with the relationship between client and therapist. I consider my role as your therapist an honor. I aim to create a comfortable, inviting, and safe space for you to share, and for us to work collectively. I feel your voice is just as, if not more, valuable than mine. With over 16 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, I am confident that working collaboratively, you will find our time together beneficial.
(619) 824-6036 View (619) 824-6036
Photo of Darcie Brown, JD, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Darcie Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104  (Online Only)
Seeking therapy might feel like a huge leap of faith, and you might not even be sure if you’re ready. I get it. It’s really hard to get started, especially if you were taught to believe that therapy is “only for when things get really bad.” Let’s normalize going to therapy…for whatever reason you’d like: a break-up, a question about what’s next in your life, a vague feeling of something being off, a loss of any kind, a recent life change, family stuff, feeling down, feeling anxious, a concern about a relationship…the list goes on. No matter how big or small what you’re going through feels, I’m here to support you through it.
Seeking therapy might feel like a huge leap of faith, and you might not even be sure if you’re ready. I get it. It’s really hard to get started, especially if you were taught to believe that therapy is “only for when things get really bad.” Let’s normalize going to therapy…for whatever reason you’d like: a break-up, a question about what’s next in your life, a vague feeling of something being off, a loss of any kind, a recent life change, family stuff, feeling down, feeling anxious, a concern about a relationship…the list goes on. No matter how big or small what you’re going through feels, I’m here to support you through it.
(619) 332-4946 View (619) 332-4946
Photo of Jessica Adler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Adler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Art Therapist who is interested in helping people grow, learn, and heal. I am especially passionate about working with children, adolescents, young adults, and new parents/caregivers as they navigate the challenges that can come with entering a new phase of life.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Registered Art Therapist who is interested in helping people grow, learn, and heal. I am especially passionate about working with children, adolescents, young adults, and new parents/caregivers as they navigate the challenges that can come with entering a new phase of life.
(619) 304-1939 View (619) 304-1939
Photo of Daniel Powell, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel Powell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I'm comfortable working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, bi-polar, substance abuse, psychosis, autism spectrum disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder. I implement individual evidenced based interventions designed to positive behavior change. I enjoy working with couples, families, parent training, adults and adolescents.
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. I'm comfortable working with individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, bi-polar, substance abuse, psychosis, autism spectrum disorders and obsessive compulsive disorder. I implement individual evidenced based interventions designed to positive behavior change. I enjoy working with couples, families, parent training, adults and adolescents.
(619) 305-0826 View (619) 305-0826
Photo of Keley Heckman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keley Heckman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104  (Online Only)
She uses Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, and EMDR approaches.
Are you exhausted from being hyper-independent, a perfectionist, workaholic, and feeling like you can’t rely on anyone else? I work with high achievers who are battling feelings of inadequacy, anxiety and overthinking. I use EMDR and IFS approaches to help you address anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment and relationship issues. Are you ready to take control of your life, uncover self-love, live authentically and find balance? As a survivor of the Las Vegas shooting I know first hand what it takes to heal through unthinkable events. Trauma does not need to be a life sentence and healing is absolutely possible.
She uses Internal Family Systems, mindfulness, and EMDR approaches.
Are you exhausted from being hyper-independent, a perfectionist, workaholic, and feeling like you can’t rely on anyone else? I work with high achievers who are battling feelings of inadequacy, anxiety and overthinking. I use EMDR and IFS approaches to help you address anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment and relationship issues. Are you ready to take control of your life, uncover self-love, live authentically and find balance? As a survivor of the Las Vegas shooting I know first hand what it takes to heal through unthinkable events. Trauma does not need to be a life sentence and healing is absolutely possible.
(619) 304-3114 View (619) 304-3114
Photo of Dianna Gonzalez, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dianna Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92104
Trauma is an event that has a strong emotional response to experiences, such as grief and loss, accidents, assault, natural disaster, violence or long-term abuse. It can leave you feeling shocked, overwhelmed, disoriented and hopeless. As a Marriage Family and Child Therapists I can guide you to manage your feelings and cope with behaviors following a traumatic event.
Trauma is an event that has a strong emotional response to experiences, such as grief and loss, accidents, assault, natural disaster, violence or long-term abuse. It can leave you feeling shocked, overwhelmed, disoriented and hopeless. As a Marriage Family and Child Therapists I can guide you to manage your feelings and cope with behaviors following a traumatic event.
(619) 612-0824 View (619) 612-0824
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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.