Photo of Amy L W Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Amy L W Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
In my practice, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I offer both short-term therapy and longer insight-oriented work. I utilize my years of experience, intuition, compassion, and humor to support my clients in addressing the issues that brought them into therapy. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, anger, abuse/trauma, parenting/divorce/blended family issues, foster care, as well as other social, emotional, and behavioral issues. Through my dynamic approach, I provide a safe and nurturing environment to explore and resolve various issues. I draw from the following theories and techniques: psychodynamic, client-centered, humanistic, play therapy, mindfulness, and somatic psychology.
In my practice, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I offer both short-term therapy and longer insight-oriented work. I utilize my years of experience, intuition, compassion, and humor to support my clients in addressing the issues that brought them into therapy. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, anger, abuse/trauma, parenting/divorce/blended family issues, foster care, as well as other social, emotional, and behavioral issues. Through my dynamic approach, I provide a safe and nurturing environment to explore and resolve various issues. I draw from the following theories and techniques: psychodynamic, client-centered, humanistic, play therapy, mindfulness, and somatic psychology.
(925) 259-3954 View (925) 259-3954
Photo of Jade DeFrates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Jade DeFrates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
We as people are are all broken on some level, but we don't need to stay that way. Depending upon the cards we've been dealt in life (what's been done to us, and what we've done to ourselves) fractures in our world view, relationships, and self concept arise. I work best with a client who comes willingly to counseling, is motivated for change, and is open minded to new perspectives of responding to their problems. Many clients comment on the speed with which we are able to resolve their individual concerns.
We as people are are all broken on some level, but we don't need to stay that way. Depending upon the cards we've been dealt in life (what's been done to us, and what we've done to ourselves) fractures in our world view, relationships, and self concept arise. I work best with a client who comes willingly to counseling, is motivated for change, and is open minded to new perspectives of responding to their problems. Many clients comment on the speed with which we are able to resolve their individual concerns.
(925) 230-0421 View (925) 230-0421
Photo of Lauren Dummit, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Lauren Dummit
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I am a CSAT specializing in trauma and addiction as well as sexuality and intimacy issues. My unique style treats emotional discomfort and pain as avenues for self-discovery and personal growth. As a somatic therapist, I believe true healing comes from creating alignment between body, mind, and soul. As you more skilled at navigating your inner obstacles, you will rediscover your capacity to find balance and live a life that is healthy, joyful, and free. I emphasize insight, self-awareness, and empowerment to help you grow, learn about the meaning behind your symptoms, and lead a more gratifying life.
I am a CSAT specializing in trauma and addiction as well as sexuality and intimacy issues. My unique style treats emotional discomfort and pain as avenues for self-discovery and personal growth. As a somatic therapist, I believe true healing comes from creating alignment between body, mind, and soul. As you more skilled at navigating your inner obstacles, you will rediscover your capacity to find balance and live a life that is healthy, joyful, and free. I emphasize insight, self-awareness, and empowerment to help you grow, learn about the meaning behind your symptoms, and lead a more gratifying life.
(310) 895-9316 View (310) 895-9316
Photo of The Bylund Clinic, Psychologist in Brentwood, CA
The Bylund Clinic
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Is your child is struggling with mental health? Is it effecting them in school (low grades, missing assignments, poor test performance)? Are you are scared about your child's future? Are you sad to see your child struggling with their mental health? As a parent you want your child to be happy and experience success. We believe every child deserves to feel a sense of wellbeing and reach their potential. And we are here to help.
Is your child is struggling with mental health? Is it effecting them in school (low grades, missing assignments, poor test performance)? Are you are scared about your child's future? Are you sad to see your child struggling with their mental health? As a parent you want your child to be happy and experience success. We believe every child deserves to feel a sense of wellbeing and reach their potential. And we are here to help.
(925) 705-4025 View (925) 705-4025
Photo of Pinnacle Mental Wellness Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Pinnacle Mental Wellness Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PPS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Pinnacle Mental Wellness Group is a counseling center where patients of all backgrounds, ages, orientations, genders, sizes, beliefs, and social status can come and feel accepted, without judgment or criticism. We have a number of caring and talented licensed therapists who will work with you to help you find your own unique path toward healing, hope and purpose. Please visit our website to read more about each therapist and choose one who is the best fit for you and your needs.
Pinnacle Mental Wellness Group is a counseling center where patients of all backgrounds, ages, orientations, genders, sizes, beliefs, and social status can come and feel accepted, without judgment or criticism. We have a number of caring and talented licensed therapists who will work with you to help you find your own unique path toward healing, hope and purpose. Please visit our website to read more about each therapist and choose one who is the best fit for you and your needs.
(925) 900-5586 View (925) 900-5586

Online Therapists

Photo of The Attach Place, Neurofeedback, KAP, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
The Attach Place, Neurofeedback, KAP
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95826
If you are struggling with childhood trauma, relationship challenges, or family issues, we are here for you.
NEW! We are now providing Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy! Our mission: We provide expert attachment-based, trauma-informed services to those seeking emotional healing and wellness, lasting relationships, and loving family lives. "Love Matters" in every relationship. We practice therapy that way, too. At the center, we provide attachment therapies to treat individuals, couples, children, and families, with a specialty focus on adoption, relationships, and trauma recovery. We practice Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Flash Tech, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Theraplay, Dyadic Psychotherapy, Therapeutic Parenting, and Neurofeedback.
If you are struggling with childhood trauma, relationship challenges, or family issues, we are here for you.
NEW! We are now providing Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy! Our mission: We provide expert attachment-based, trauma-informed services to those seeking emotional healing and wellness, lasting relationships, and loving family lives. "Love Matters" in every relationship. We practice therapy that way, too. At the center, we provide attachment therapies to treat individuals, couples, children, and families, with a specialty focus on adoption, relationships, and trauma recovery. We practice Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Flash Tech, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Theraplay, Dyadic Psychotherapy, Therapeutic Parenting, and Neurofeedback.
(916) 269-3522 View (916) 269-3522
Photo of Maryam Goudarzi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Maryam Goudarzi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
Maryam Goudarzi has over ten years of clinical experience in the mental health field. Her areas of focus include Anxiety, depression, stress, Attention deficits (ADD/ADHD), PTSD, issues of loss and grief, serious mental health disorders, substance abuse/ dependence, and relationship and family issues. She treats children, adolescents, and adults in individual, couple, and family therapy. In addition, she has over five years of neuroscience experience, as she is trained and specializes in Neurofeedback with a variety of therapeutic approaches.
Maryam Goudarzi has over ten years of clinical experience in the mental health field. Her areas of focus include Anxiety, depression, stress, Attention deficits (ADD/ADHD), PTSD, issues of loss and grief, serious mental health disorders, substance abuse/ dependence, and relationship and family issues. She treats children, adolescents, and adults in individual, couple, and family therapy. In addition, she has over five years of neuroscience experience, as she is trained and specializes in Neurofeedback with a variety of therapeutic approaches.
(951) 470-2889 View (951) 470-2889
Photo of Charles I Flores, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Brentwood, CA
Charles I Flores
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCC, LAADC-S, MAC, Q-SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
I use Lazarus' multimodal approach, Wilber’s integral theory, Gorski/CBT, transpersonal/Buddhist psychology, family systems, EMDR, biofeedback and other technologies that may aid in Recovery.
For 25 years, I have assisted people with a variety of addictions, from the exogenous abuse of drugs and alcohol, to the ones that stem from the chemicals already inside the brain, such as sex and love addiction, abandonment patterns, sexual compulsions, gambling, internet, and workaholism. Unlike most psychotherapists, I’m a Board Certified Addiction Specialist, well versed in both abstinence and harm reduction strategies. Unlike most addiction professionals, I am also psychotherapist who also treats the anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues that often manifest after being uncovered through recovery.
I use Lazarus' multimodal approach, Wilber’s integral theory, Gorski/CBT, transpersonal/Buddhist psychology, family systems, EMDR, biofeedback and other technologies that may aid in Recovery.
For 25 years, I have assisted people with a variety of addictions, from the exogenous abuse of drugs and alcohol, to the ones that stem from the chemicals already inside the brain, such as sex and love addiction, abandonment patterns, sexual compulsions, gambling, internet, and workaholism. Unlike most psychotherapists, I’m a Board Certified Addiction Specialist, well versed in both abstinence and harm reduction strategies. Unlike most addiction professionals, I am also psychotherapist who also treats the anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues that often manifest after being uncovered through recovery.
(415) 992-8260 View (415) 992-8260
Photo of Diana Marchetti Barrett, Psychologist in Brentwood, CA
Diana Marchetti Barrett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Palo Alto, CA 94306
I love what I do & I am excited to come to work! I handle each case the way I would want my own children or my family members to be treated.
I am a licensed psychologist trained in the assessment, diagnosis, & treatment of learning, autism spectrum, mood, and ADHD, across the lifespan (3-72 years old)! Myself & my team are excited to offer remote services for assessment, therapy, & interventions. People often seek my services secondary to unanswered questions regarding their struggles at school, home, work, or socially. Some clients have had previous evaluations which have failed to address pressing concerns. I pride myself in getting to the root of the struggles (beyond diagnosis) so that the appropriate recommendations can be made.
I love what I do & I am excited to come to work! I handle each case the way I would want my own children or my family members to be treated.
I am a licensed psychologist trained in the assessment, diagnosis, & treatment of learning, autism spectrum, mood, and ADHD, across the lifespan (3-72 years old)! Myself & my team are excited to offer remote services for assessment, therapy, & interventions. People often seek my services secondary to unanswered questions regarding their struggles at school, home, work, or socially. Some clients have had previous evaluations which have failed to address pressing concerns. I pride myself in getting to the root of the struggles (beyond diagnosis) so that the appropriate recommendations can be made.
(650) 227-3219 View (650) 227-3219
Photo of Amir Ramezani, Psychologist in Brentwood, CA
Amir Ramezani
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95814  (Online Only)
com/health for more information about individual, family, classes/educational, and assessment services.
As James Baldwin famously said, "not everything that has been faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed unless faced", I also offer you the following poem: "When we feel safe, anything is possible. We become unstoppable. Because we have a firm ground to launch and a safe ground to land. We can then stand. Voice ourselves, show ourselves. Life becomes a dance."
com/health for more information about individual, family, classes/educational, and assessment services.
As James Baldwin famously said, "not everything that has been faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed unless faced", I also offer you the following poem: "When we feel safe, anything is possible. We become unstoppable. Because we have a firm ground to launch and a safe ground to land. We can then stand. Voice ourselves, show ourselves. Life becomes a dance."
(916) 963-9398 View (916) 963-9398
Photo of Danielle Olson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Brentwood, CA
Danielle Olson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Auburn, CA 95603
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Olesen & Associates.
I will hold a non-judgmental, safe space where you will be seen, heard, and valued. Emotions and life can be extremely hard to handle alone. I hope I can help you unravel all of the complexities life has to offer while looking into one’s thought patterns, beliefs, and relationships. I wants to help individuals, youth, families, and couples get to know more about themselves on a deeper level, as well as help individuals heal and grow.
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist at Olesen & Associates.
I will hold a non-judgmental, safe space where you will be seen, heard, and valued. Emotions and life can be extremely hard to handle alone. I hope I can help you unravel all of the complexities life has to offer while looking into one’s thought patterns, beliefs, and relationships. I wants to help individuals, youth, families, and couples get to know more about themselves on a deeper level, as well as help individuals heal and grow.
(916) 665-0154 View (916) 665-0154
Photo of CK Olivieri Blackmore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
CK Olivieri Blackmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
(518) 269-5458 View (518) 269-5458
Photo of Kristine Straub Drawsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Kristine Straub Drawsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95405
I use a trauma focused, Internal Family System approach, to assist individuals and families to rediscover the peace and regulation necessary for relationships to form and sustain.
Relationship is regulation dependent. Do you suffer from chronic dysregulation? Do you need support with healthy, connected relationship? I can help you find the peace that you long for. I can assist you in giving and receiving the love that gets pushed away, due to dysregulation and pain. I am adopted. I am an adoptive parent, as well as a step parent. I both live and work with intensive treatment special needs children and families. Childhood developmental complex trauma hits hard; relationships need regulated individuals to be safe and enjoyable. Learning to calm down, be mindful, and enjoy life takes practice and skill.
I use a trauma focused, Internal Family System approach, to assist individuals and families to rediscover the peace and regulation necessary for relationships to form and sustain.
Relationship is regulation dependent. Do you suffer from chronic dysregulation? Do you need support with healthy, connected relationship? I can help you find the peace that you long for. I can assist you in giving and receiving the love that gets pushed away, due to dysregulation and pain. I am adopted. I am an adoptive parent, as well as a step parent. I both live and work with intensive treatment special needs children and families. Childhood developmental complex trauma hits hard; relationships need regulated individuals to be safe and enjoyable. Learning to calm down, be mindful, and enjoy life takes practice and skill.
(707) 210-1802 View (707) 210-1802
Photo of Kate Brennan , Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Kate Brennan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
San Anselmo, CA 94960  (Online Only)
In addition to my training as a marriage and family therapist, I have a doctorate in counseling and am certified in Somatic Experiencing and EMDR which are both gentle and simple techniques used in the resolution of stress, anxiety and trauma.
If you overwhelmed, run down, irritable, sad or depressed, you are not alone. At times we find ourselves worn down by the weight of everything. Somatic Experiencing and EMDR, when used in combination with psychotherapy can help you to restore your resiliency and capacity and support you to feel like your self once again.
In addition to my training as a marriage and family therapist, I have a doctorate in counseling and am certified in Somatic Experiencing and EMDR which are both gentle and simple techniques used in the resolution of stress, anxiety and trauma.
If you overwhelmed, run down, irritable, sad or depressed, you are not alone. At times we find ourselves worn down by the weight of everything. Somatic Experiencing and EMDR, when used in combination with psychotherapy can help you to restore your resiliency and capacity and support you to feel like your self once again.
(415) 723-4252 View (415) 723-4252
Photo of Helene E Goble, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Helene E Goble, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmichael, CA 95608
Some see ADHD as a disorder that wrecks family life.
Helping people struggling with ADHD and trauma is my passion. I see ADHD as a different way to see and learn, not necessarily a "disorder." I enjoy working with clients who are ready to find ways to increase their quality of life. Another focus of treatment is exploring unresolved trauma that impacts functioning. It's amazing how processing these events changes the way you react to stress. The difference is processing from the mid brain. Brainspotting is used to accomplish this necessary part of healing. It literally speeds up therapy. Let's talk and decide if it can help.
Some see ADHD as a disorder that wrecks family life.
Helping people struggling with ADHD and trauma is my passion. I see ADHD as a different way to see and learn, not necessarily a "disorder." I enjoy working with clients who are ready to find ways to increase their quality of life. Another focus of treatment is exploring unresolved trauma that impacts functioning. It's amazing how processing these events changes the way you react to stress. The difference is processing from the mid brain. Brainspotting is used to accomplish this necessary part of healing. It literally speeds up therapy. Let's talk and decide if it can help.
(916) 472-0858 View (916) 472-0858
Photo of Regina Isabel K'burg, Psychologist in Brentwood, CA
Regina Isabel K'burg
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Elk Grove, CA 95624
In addition to being a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, she is also a Licensed Clinical Psychology, and is the Executive Director at Hope for Healthy Families Counseling Center, the founder of The Center for Integrative Healing.
As a therapist, Isabel is proactive, transparent, and honest. Currently, she is working towards certification in sex therapy and has completed her certification as a sex addiction therapist. She utilizes an integrative approach tailored to individual client’s needs. Her reflective therapeutic style emphasizes the unique strengths of individuals and their ability to create change. In Isabel’s career, she has experience working in inpatient, forensic, school based, and community outpatient settings. Isabel’s work also includes the supervision and training of MA and doctorate level clinicians. She is a CAMFT certified supervisor.
In addition to being a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, she is also a Licensed Clinical Psychology, and is the Executive Director at Hope for Healthy Families Counseling Center, the founder of The Center for Integrative Healing.
As a therapist, Isabel is proactive, transparent, and honest. Currently, she is working towards certification in sex therapy and has completed her certification as a sex addiction therapist. She utilizes an integrative approach tailored to individual client’s needs. Her reflective therapeutic style emphasizes the unique strengths of individuals and their ability to create change. In Isabel’s career, she has experience working in inpatient, forensic, school based, and community outpatient settings. Isabel’s work also includes the supervision and training of MA and doctorate level clinicians. She is a CAMFT certified supervisor.
(916) 435-6087 View (916) 435-6087
Photo of Alisa Vincent Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Alisa Vincent Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Emeryville, CA 94662  (Online Only)
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#100343).
I have a virtual private practice in California where I work with teens, and adults. I consider therapy a relationship we co-create specifically to suit your needs; one to help you feel safe, heard, and respected. I have a relational style, meaning you will receive feedback from me, and never feel like you're talking to a blank wall. We all share an intrinsic longing for hope, wholeness, empowerment, and meaning. It's my privilege to help clients nourish that longing into a drive; to help them gain a sense of mastery and direction in their own lives.
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (#100343).
I have a virtual private practice in California where I work with teens, and adults. I consider therapy a relationship we co-create specifically to suit your needs; one to help you feel safe, heard, and respected. I have a relational style, meaning you will receive feedback from me, and never feel like you're talking to a blank wall. We all share an intrinsic longing for hope, wholeness, empowerment, and meaning. It's my privilege to help clients nourish that longing into a drive; to help them gain a sense of mastery and direction in their own lives.
(510) 974-7870 View (510) 974-7870
Photo of Briana Barrera, Pre-Licensed Professional in Brentwood, CA
Briana Barrera
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
Briana is extremely compassionate, attuned, non-judgmental, and deeply cares about her clients. She is an advanced practitioner in CBT, DBT, and EMDR Phase I-III. She most recently worked as a psychotherapist at Mental Health America Los Angeles Wellness Center (MHALA) and was widely loved by her clients. Briana has worked with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, family crisis, and relationship conflicts.
(310) 807-2734 View (310) 807-2734
Photo of Kathleen Ekins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Kathleen Ekins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Leandro, CA 94577
I also work a lot with Cognitive Behavioral therapy; However, I have been trained in Seeking Safety, Narrative therapy, sand tray therapy, and family systems.
Kathleen Acosta Ekins, LCSW. I have been doing therapy with children, families, and adults for over 20 years. I work with clients who are experiencing childhood trauma, adult anxiety, depression, PTSD, life transitions, and grief. I use talk therapy as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I use talk therapy (psychodynamic therapy) as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I have been trained in many different approaches; trauma-informed therapy is one of the main modalities I use.
I also work a lot with Cognitive Behavioral therapy; However, I have been trained in Seeking Safety, Narrative therapy, sand tray therapy, and family systems.
Kathleen Acosta Ekins, LCSW. I have been doing therapy with children, families, and adults for over 20 years. I work with clients who are experiencing childhood trauma, adult anxiety, depression, PTSD, life transitions, and grief. I use talk therapy as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I use talk therapy (psychodynamic therapy) as the main way I work with adults, with children I use play therapy and talk therapy. I have been trained in many different approaches; trauma-informed therapy is one of the main modalities I use.
(805) 263-1373 View (805) 263-1373
Photo of Family Tree Wellness, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Family Tree Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008
Family Tree Wellness offers counseling, education and support for new moms and for people experiencing fertility challenges, pregnancy or postpartum suffering, birth trauma or loss. Family Tree Wellness is a group psychotherapy practice where moms and babies (and dads!) are welcome, and where the struggles of reproduction and postpartum transitions are understood and deeply cared for. We are knowledgable about matrescence and can help hold and support new and struggling families without judgment. You don't need to do this alone.
Family Tree Wellness offers counseling, education and support for new moms and for people experiencing fertility challenges, pregnancy or postpartum suffering, birth trauma or loss. Family Tree Wellness is a group psychotherapy practice where moms and babies (and dads!) are welcome, and where the struggles of reproduction and postpartum transitions are understood and deeply cared for. We are knowledgable about matrescence and can help hold and support new and struggling families without judgment. You don't need to do this alone.
(408) 402-4097 View (408) 402-4097
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.