Photo of Doug Schrepferman, Counselor in 98026, WA
Doug Schrepferman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
The human condition is a complex one. Life’s complexities can create barriers from living to our fullest potential. Many of us encounter struggles with inner anxieties, self-criticism, avoidance, or fears of failure. We judge who we are based on how we are perceived by others, neglecting what we value within ourselves. In moments, we may feel like we have to hide parts of ourselves from others or busy ourselves to divert our attention from the challenges that life continually throws at our feet.
The human condition is a complex one. Life’s complexities can create barriers from living to our fullest potential. Many of us encounter struggles with inner anxieties, self-criticism, avoidance, or fears of failure. We judge who we are based on how we are perceived by others, neglecting what we value within ourselves. In moments, we may feel like we have to hide parts of ourselves from others or busy ourselves to divert our attention from the challenges that life continually throws at our feet.
(206) 429-6317 View (206) 429-6317
Photo of Jasmine Gao, Counselor in 98026, WA
Jasmine Gao
Counselor, MDiv, MSEd, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Jasmine is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, supervised by Barry Levit. Over the past 10 years, Jasmine has worked as a mental health counselor in many different settings including public and private schools, a community counseling center, church, and private practice. She provides services to individuals (ages 10 and up), couples, and families.
Jasmine is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, supervised by Barry Levit. Over the past 10 years, Jasmine has worked as a mental health counselor in many different settings including public and private schools, a community counseling center, church, and private practice. She provides services to individuals (ages 10 and up), couples, and families.
(425) 470-6946 View (425) 470-6946
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.