Photo of Kenneth Perlmutter, Psychologist in 94901, CA
Kenneth Perlmutter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
I have worked more than 30 years w individuals & families with serious psychological and relational problems including the mood, behavior and substance problems that tear families apart. I help individuals and families navigate the perilous course of finding solutions while we work to improve serenity and sanity for all. Individual work is relational w/psychodynamic and a Real World approach. I have developed the “Stress-Induced Impaired Coping" model for family system distress and recovery. See my 2019 book: “Freedom From Family Dysfunction: A Guide for Families Battling Addiction or Mental Illness.” http://bit.ly/FreedomFamHC
I have worked more than 30 years w individuals & families with serious psychological and relational problems including the mood, behavior and substance problems that tear families apart. I help individuals and families navigate the perilous course of finding solutions while we work to improve serenity and sanity for all. Individual work is relational w/psychodynamic and a Real World approach. I have developed the “Stress-Induced Impaired Coping" model for family system distress and recovery. See my 2019 book: “Freedom From Family Dysfunction: A Guide for Families Battling Addiction or Mental Illness.” http://bit.ly/FreedomFamHC
(415) 787-4610 View (415) 787-4610
Photo of Family Matters Of Marin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94901, CA
Family Matters Of Marin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, PPS
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Family Matters Of Marin is a trauma informed group practice focused on supporting children and families. We help clients create more joy, love, and harmony in their lives. We are deeply interested in learning how our clients would like to change and grow, and supporting them in this process. We work collaboratively with clients to improve their relationships and resolve any trauma from their past that maybe holding them back from living the life they yearn for. We are experienced therapists who use a variety of therapeutic modalities to resolve issues that are hindering our client's ability to be their best selves.
Family Matters Of Marin is a trauma informed group practice focused on supporting children and families. We help clients create more joy, love, and harmony in their lives. We are deeply interested in learning how our clients would like to change and grow, and supporting them in this process. We work collaboratively with clients to improve their relationships and resolve any trauma from their past that maybe holding them back from living the life they yearn for. We are experienced therapists who use a variety of therapeutic modalities to resolve issues that are hindering our client's ability to be their best selves.
(415) 639-9164 View (415) 639-9164
Photo of Robin Joy Berenson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94901, CA
Robin Joy Berenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Providing individual, couples and family counseling.
I believe in storytelling, and that the act of telling one's own story can be one of the most therapeutic experiences possible. As a therapist, I am a skilled listener, able to help clients understand their own stories. My style is interpersonal, open, and communicative, recognizing that each person is inherently valuable, possessing an innate capacity for wisdom and wholeness. Please ask for me when you call.
Providing individual, couples and family counseling.
I believe in storytelling, and that the act of telling one's own story can be one of the most therapeutic experiences possible. As a therapist, I am a skilled listener, able to help clients understand their own stories. My style is interpersonal, open, and communicative, recognizing that each person is inherently valuable, possessing an innate capacity for wisdom and wholeness. Please ask for me when you call.
(415) 702-3420 x100 View (415) 702-3420 x100
Photo of Rachael Vaughan, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94901, CA
Rachael Vaughan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
I have an engaged, relational approach, grounded in modern research on the brain, trauma and attachment. I believe the goal of therapy is to realistically become who you truly are--not to fix you, or tell you how to be. I'm an eco-psychologist, a feminist therapist, and a Jungian. If you work with me, we'll look at your personal, family and cultural history, and the beliefs you hold about yourself and the world. Where we find traumas, disturbing memories, negative beliefs and uncomfortable feelings, we can use a variety of methods to loosen then, learn from them and heal them, including EMDR. I'm LGBTQII-positive.
I have an engaged, relational approach, grounded in modern research on the brain, trauma and attachment. I believe the goal of therapy is to realistically become who you truly are--not to fix you, or tell you how to be. I'm an eco-psychologist, a feminist therapist, and a Jungian. If you work with me, we'll look at your personal, family and cultural history, and the beliefs you hold about yourself and the world. Where we find traumas, disturbing memories, negative beliefs and uncomfortable feelings, we can use a variety of methods to loosen then, learn from them and heal them, including EMDR. I'm LGBTQII-positive.
(415) 799-3702 View (415) 799-3702
Tracey Herman Broome
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience, I provide psychotherapy for children, teens, adults, and families in Marin and San Francisco. My professional focus is helping my clients find the right theapeutic tools so that they can move beyond destructive thinking and feeling patterns, have new insight and healing regarding past traumas, and face their life challenges with confidence.
As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of clinical experience, I provide psychotherapy for children, teens, adults, and families in Marin and San Francisco. My professional focus is helping my clients find the right theapeutic tools so that they can move beyond destructive thinking and feeling patterns, have new insight and healing regarding past traumas, and face their life challenges with confidence.
(415) 488-8278 View (415) 488-8278
Photo of Lelah Joy Nichol, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94901, CA
Lelah Joy Nichol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, L, C, S, W
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
Hello and welcome! I am glad you found me. I have 22 years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have a strong background and interest in helping people improve their relationships with themselves and their family members. I enjoy working with parents who are looking to improve their connection and relationship to their children of any age. I work with mother's from pregnancy and post partum through empty nesting. I work with adults with a focus on improving their relationship with parts of themselves to increase self compassion and reduce self criticism.
Hello and welcome! I am glad you found me. I have 22 years experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I have a strong background and interest in helping people improve their relationships with themselves and their family members. I enjoy working with parents who are looking to improve their connection and relationship to their children of any age. I work with mother's from pregnancy and post partum through empty nesting. I work with adults with a focus on improving their relationship with parts of themselves to increase self compassion and reduce self criticism.
(415) 367-0439 View (415) 367-0439
Photo of Dr. Jessica (Jesse) Aldrich Strassman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94901, CA
Dr. Jessica (Jesse) Aldrich Strassman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Depending on the treatment goals, I may work alone with the child, with the child and parents together or separately, or with the entire family.
Are you concerned or confused by your child, teen or young adult's behavior? Are you worried that your child is under stress? Do you feel like you are not a good parent for your child? It is very difficult to parent a child who is struggling with challenging feelings and behaviors. I provide therapeutic support to kids who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, adoption issues, learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, academic or social issues, or major life changes. I offer support for parents.
Depending on the treatment goals, I may work alone with the child, with the child and parents together or separately, or with the entire family.
Are you concerned or confused by your child, teen or young adult's behavior? Are you worried that your child is under stress? Do you feel like you are not a good parent for your child? It is very difficult to parent a child who is struggling with challenging feelings and behaviors. I provide therapeutic support to kids who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, adoption issues, learning disabilities, behavioral challenges, academic or social issues, or major life changes. I offer support for parents.
(415) 360-1273 View (415) 360-1273
Photo of David Noble Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94901, CA
David Noble Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901
My practice utilizes a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Regulation and Competency (ARC), Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), Family Systems Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Music Therapy.
I specialize in working with adolescent males who are experiencing externalizing behaviors (e.g. oppositional defiance, aggression, truancy, delinquency, etc.). In addition, I have extensive experience working with families struggling with attachment, attunement, and communication issues. I also work with couples dealing with relational problems and life transitions.
My practice utilizes a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Regulation and Competency (ARC), Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), Family Systems Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Music Therapy.
I specialize in working with adolescent males who are experiencing externalizing behaviors (e.g. oppositional defiance, aggression, truancy, delinquency, etc.). In addition, I have extensive experience working with families struggling with attachment, attunement, and communication issues. I also work with couples dealing with relational problems and life transitions.
(415) 851-2360 View (415) 851-2360
Photo of Gretchen Kishbaugh, Psychologist in 94901, CA
Gretchen Kishbaugh
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
My approach is influenced by a number of schools of thought: humanistic, psychoanalytic, Jungian, cognitive-behavioral, family systems, Buddhist psychology/mindfulness, somatic awareness.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults, providing individual, couples, and family therapy, play therapy, and parenting consultation. If you're looking for a safe and supportive place in which to explore your concerns, I offer careful listening and collaborative engagement in the service of working toward your goals. People seek psychotherapy for many reasons. Some want help with specific problems such as depression, relationship conflict, or concern about a child. Others feel stuck in problematic patterns that cause emotional distress, interfere with their ability to connect with others, or hinder their ability to find fulfillment in life.
My approach is influenced by a number of schools of thought: humanistic, psychoanalytic, Jungian, cognitive-behavioral, family systems, Buddhist psychology/mindfulness, somatic awareness.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults, providing individual, couples, and family therapy, play therapy, and parenting consultation. If you're looking for a safe and supportive place in which to explore your concerns, I offer careful listening and collaborative engagement in the service of working toward your goals. People seek psychotherapy for many reasons. Some want help with specific problems such as depression, relationship conflict, or concern about a child. Others feel stuck in problematic patterns that cause emotional distress, interfere with their ability to connect with others, or hinder their ability to find fulfillment in life.
(707) 518-6142 View (707) 518-6142
Photo of Jean Hayes, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94901, CA
Jean Hayes
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
Working as a couples and family, therapist for my entire professional career since 1973, I have successfully treated a multitude of individuals with relationship, substance abuse, eating, and depression issues.
I successfully treat relationship breakdowns, alcohol, drug, eating problems, depression, dual-diagnosis, anxiety, trauma, bariatric surgery patients. Individuals and couples address how the misuse of substances impacts their lives in negative and unproductive ways. We seek solutions together to more satisfying lifestyles and relationships. I work with couples and individuals having difficulties in relationships, wanting to resolve problems rather than separating or divorcing as their only solution. I work to separate past hurts from present reality. As an Equine Therapist, I use horses and exotic farm animals as requested.
Working as a couples and family, therapist for my entire professional career since 1973, I have successfully treated a multitude of individuals with relationship, substance abuse, eating, and depression issues.
I successfully treat relationship breakdowns, alcohol, drug, eating problems, depression, dual-diagnosis, anxiety, trauma, bariatric surgery patients. Individuals and couples address how the misuse of substances impacts their lives in negative and unproductive ways. We seek solutions together to more satisfying lifestyles and relationships. I work with couples and individuals having difficulties in relationships, wanting to resolve problems rather than separating or divorcing as their only solution. I work to separate past hurts from present reality. As an Equine Therapist, I use horses and exotic farm animals as requested.
(415) 574-0967 View (415) 574-0967
Photo of Sarah Alexander, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94901, CA
Sarah Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
My approach is sensitive, attuned to you as an individual, couple, family, and community.
I hold a deeply calm, present, and nurturing space for your brightest dreams and your darkest wounds. Whatever your concerns, you will feel sincerely heard, held, and guided in a safe and constructive way. You will be supported in discovering and reclaiming hidden or submerged parts of your fullest self, as well as the positive and promising reasons behind the challenges that you face. Together, we will creatively explore new and vital directions for you, internally and dynamically, into the world. My commitment is for your purpose to become more grounded, more meaningful, more genuinely alive.
My approach is sensitive, attuned to you as an individual, couple, family, and community.
I hold a deeply calm, present, and nurturing space for your brightest dreams and your darkest wounds. Whatever your concerns, you will feel sincerely heard, held, and guided in a safe and constructive way. You will be supported in discovering and reclaiming hidden or submerged parts of your fullest self, as well as the positive and promising reasons behind the challenges that you face. Together, we will creatively explore new and vital directions for you, internally and dynamically, into the world. My commitment is for your purpose to become more grounded, more meaningful, more genuinely alive.
(415) 801-0119 View (415) 801-0119
Photo of Teressa Armstrong, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94901, CA
Teressa Armstrong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Everyone runs into trouble at some point in their life. When they do, they often benefit from talking to someone who isn't primarily their friend or member of their family, someone who is empathic, curious, non-judgmental, and relentlessly focused on helping you feel better. Therapy isn't a one-size-fits-all enterprise, but has to tailored to what you need. Whether it's about simply feeling less anxious or depressed, or mastering an inhibition or block you've had all your life, therapy can get you back on the track you once were on or want to be on.
Everyone runs into trouble at some point in their life. When they do, they often benefit from talking to someone who isn't primarily their friend or member of their family, someone who is empathic, curious, non-judgmental, and relentlessly focused on helping you feel better. Therapy isn't a one-size-fits-all enterprise, but has to tailored to what you need. Whether it's about simply feeling less anxious or depressed, or mastering an inhibition or block you've had all your life, therapy can get you back on the track you once were on or want to be on.
(415) 630-4514 View (415) 630-4514
Photo of Mark Hirschfield, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94901, CA
Mark Hirschfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I have worked in the fields of individual, couple, family and group counseling, crisis prevention, child advocacy and shyness research since 1993.
Hello! I work with individuals who wish to create lasting, positive changes in their lives and relationships. I offer safe, compassionate and supportive counseling in an atmosphere that deepens understanding, promotes healing, and releases potential. Unresolved emotional issues can stifle creativity, confidence, ambition, and our ability for good relationships. Trauma and loss can cause sadness, depression and pain that inhibit and block. My personal style is interactive, empathic, non-judgmental and respectful of individual values and choices.
I have worked in the fields of individual, couple, family and group counseling, crisis prevention, child advocacy and shyness research since 1993.
Hello! I work with individuals who wish to create lasting, positive changes in their lives and relationships. I offer safe, compassionate and supportive counseling in an atmosphere that deepens understanding, promotes healing, and releases potential. Unresolved emotional issues can stifle creativity, confidence, ambition, and our ability for good relationships. Trauma and loss can cause sadness, depression and pain that inhibit and block. My personal style is interactive, empathic, non-judgmental and respectful of individual values and choices.
(415) 326-1276 View (415) 326-1276
Photo of Marek Ondera, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94901, CA
Marek Ondera
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) with experience providing a wide range of treatments and have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in multiple clinical settings. I work primarily with individuals and families. I have considerable experience working with Children, Adolescents, and their families from various cultural and socio-economic backgrounds in an outpatient setting as well as various acute/intensive settings (i.e.: residential group home, hospital diversion, partial hospitalization, crisis unit, non-public schools). I've also provided psychotherapy and clinical assessment services to adults in the outpatient and community mental health settings.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) with experience providing a wide range of treatments and have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in multiple clinical settings. I work primarily with individuals and families. I have considerable experience working with Children, Adolescents, and their families from various cultural and socio-economic backgrounds in an outpatient setting as well as various acute/intensive settings (i.e.: residential group home, hospital diversion, partial hospitalization, crisis unit, non-public schools). I've also provided psychotherapy and clinical assessment services to adults in the outpatient and community mental health settings.
(415) 891-4502 View (415) 891-4502
Photo of Bay Area Oppositional and Conduct Clinic, Psychologist in 94901, CA
Bay Area Oppositional and Conduct Clinic
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Psychological Assessment, Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, Parent Support Group, Parent/Teacher Workshop, Medication Treatment, Working with Team of Therapists, and Educational Consultation.
he Bay Area Oppositional and Conduct Clinic empowers parents and caretakers to help their children become better behaved, happier at home, and more successful in school. We specialize in children and adolescents who, despite being in loving circumstances, do not respond to regular discipline and rules. As professionals, we are intensely aware of how stressful oppositional and conduct problems are for families. Our clinicians tailor the therapy to work at a comfortable pace and practice with a sensitivity to the other demands in life.
Psychological Assessment, Individual Therapy, Family Therapy, Parent Support Group, Parent/Teacher Workshop, Medication Treatment, Working with Team of Therapists, and Educational Consultation.
he Bay Area Oppositional and Conduct Clinic empowers parents and caretakers to help their children become better behaved, happier at home, and more successful in school. We specialize in children and adolescents who, despite being in loving circumstances, do not respond to regular discipline and rules. As professionals, we are intensely aware of how stressful oppositional and conduct problems are for families. Our clinicians tailor the therapy to work at a comfortable pace and practice with a sensitivity to the other demands in life.
(415) 594-4914 View (415) 594-4914
Photo of Esther Ehrensaft, Psychologist in 94901, CA
Esther Ehrensaft
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
Most people seek out a psychologist when they have truly done their best to resolve their difficulties on their own. When you can't see your own emotional blind spots, feeling stuck and distressed can ripple through many areas of your life. Perhaps this is your first time seeking out a therapist, or perhaps you are returning to psychotherapy for a fresh perspective. As a psychologist with over 17 years of experience, I have a seasoned understanding of what leads people to hit roadblocks in their lives, in areas including work, school, marriage, parenting, family, and intimate relationships.
Most people seek out a psychologist when they have truly done their best to resolve their difficulties on their own. When you can't see your own emotional blind spots, feeling stuck and distressed can ripple through many areas of your life. Perhaps this is your first time seeking out a therapist, or perhaps you are returning to psychotherapy for a fresh perspective. As a psychologist with over 17 years of experience, I have a seasoned understanding of what leads people to hit roadblocks in their lives, in areas including work, school, marriage, parenting, family, and intimate relationships.
(415) 578-7673 View (415) 578-7673
Photo of Renee Spencer, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94901, CA
Renee Spencer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping both individuals and couples successfully navigate the inevitable challenges of long term relationships and family life.
You may be educated, even outwardly successful, but struggle to feel good about yourself, have difficulties with close relationships or just want more out of life. I believe it's human to struggle and that we all can benefit from self exploration. You stand to gain, and so does your partner, children, friends, even co-workers when you're bringing more of your best self to the game. My style is active and I bring humor and compassion to help you develop solutions as well as grow from your struggles. A seasoned therapist, my approach is flexible and practical, tailored to meet your needs. I'm LGBTQIA sensitive and welcoming.
I enjoy helping both individuals and couples successfully navigate the inevitable challenges of long term relationships and family life.
You may be educated, even outwardly successful, but struggle to feel good about yourself, have difficulties with close relationships or just want more out of life. I believe it's human to struggle and that we all can benefit from self exploration. You stand to gain, and so does your partner, children, friends, even co-workers when you're bringing more of your best self to the game. My style is active and I bring humor and compassion to help you develop solutions as well as grow from your struggles. A seasoned therapist, my approach is flexible and practical, tailored to meet your needs. I'm LGBTQIA sensitive and welcoming.
(415) 429-3431 View (415) 429-3431
Photo of Randa Saleh, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94901, CA
Randa Saleh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
My name is Randa Saleh, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with clients of all ages and different walks of life. My focus areas of practice are trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, family conflicts, and personal life transitions. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for individuals of all ages. I consider their age, cultural upbringing, diagnosis, and what they want to work on in therapy. I typically work with adults.
My name is Randa Saleh, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist located in Southern California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with clients of all ages and different walks of life. My focus areas of practice are trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, family conflicts, and personal life transitions. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit for individuals of all ages. I consider their age, cultural upbringing, diagnosis, and what they want to work on in therapy. I typically work with adults.
(951) 944-0171 View (951) 944-0171
Photo of Nina Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94901, CA
Nina Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I have designed a practice that recognizes diverse paths to family.
Adoption Collective is committed to providing ethical and competent specialized services for all members of the adoption constellation. Nina Anderson, LCSW offers Counseling, Education, and Consultation Services in the area of Adoption and Family Formation. As the founder of Adoption Collective, Nina recognized the need for personalized support for those involved in the adoption process. Nina provides counseling to pre-adoptive and adoptive parents, expectant/birth parents, and adoptees, and supports Post Adoption Contact Relationships.
I have designed a practice that recognizes diverse paths to family.
Adoption Collective is committed to providing ethical and competent specialized services for all members of the adoption constellation. Nina Anderson, LCSW offers Counseling, Education, and Consultation Services in the area of Adoption and Family Formation. As the founder of Adoption Collective, Nina recognized the need for personalized support for those involved in the adoption process. Nina provides counseling to pre-adoptive and adoptive parents, expectant/birth parents, and adoptees, and supports Post Adoption Contact Relationships.
(415) 993-6226 View (415) 993-6226
Photo of Gautama (Glenn) Katzman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94901, CA
Gautama (Glenn) Katzman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMF
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
When we can skillfully relate to our inner experience/ emotions, we suffer less. I help people: Develop skills to be more adept at coping with the sufferings that are a part of everyone's life. Learn the inner and outer skills for healthier & happier Relationships. Heal Unresolved Issues/Trauma. Healing Trauma is a specialty. With the right approaches (I use EMDR & TAT) it is much faster and easier. I specialize in Trauma, Abuse (Sexual, Emotional, Physical), Relationship Issues. ( Individual & Couples Counseling), Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Death, Dying, Grief & Loss, Spiritual Growth/Evolution, Completely LGBTQ Friendly.
When we can skillfully relate to our inner experience/ emotions, we suffer less. I help people: Develop skills to be more adept at coping with the sufferings that are a part of everyone's life. Learn the inner and outer skills for healthier & happier Relationships. Heal Unresolved Issues/Trauma. Healing Trauma is a specialty. With the right approaches (I use EMDR & TAT) it is much faster and easier. I specialize in Trauma, Abuse (Sexual, Emotional, Physical), Relationship Issues. ( Individual & Couples Counseling), Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Death, Dying, Grief & Loss, Spiritual Growth/Evolution, Completely LGBTQ Friendly.
(505) 557-1305 View (505) 557-1305
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.