Photo of Assaf Jaffe, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Assaf Jaffe
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602  (Online Only)
IF you think solution focused individual, couples or family therapy can benefit you currently, I believe I am the ideal therapist for you.
Congratulations, starting the journey towards seeking help is one of the biggest step. My name is Assaf Jaffe and over the past 20 years it has been my privilege to walk alongside client working to make changes. Having trained in Holistic Therapy at Native American Health Center I have tremendous experience with trauma, anxiety, depression and treating addictive disorders.
IF you think solution focused individual, couples or family therapy can benefit you currently, I believe I am the ideal therapist for you.
Congratulations, starting the journey towards seeking help is one of the biggest step. My name is Assaf Jaffe and over the past 20 years it has been my privilege to walk alongside client working to make changes. Having trained in Holistic Therapy at Native American Health Center I have tremendous experience with trauma, anxiety, depression and treating addictive disorders.
(628) 225-4590 View (628) 225-4590
Photo of Katie Fenton-Strauss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Katie Fenton-Strauss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
Are you your own worst critic? When you are hard on yourself, it becomes challenging to find joy in your work and relationships. Finally putting an end to beating yourself up will free up energy for you to fulfill your goals. I use mindfulness and IFS (Internal Family Systems) strategies to help clients do deep and meaningful work in sessions. "I learned a long time ago the wisest thing I can do is be on my own side..." Maya Angelou When my clients are begin to truly be a friend to themselves, they notice positive changes in many aspects of their lives.
Are you your own worst critic? When you are hard on yourself, it becomes challenging to find joy in your work and relationships. Finally putting an end to beating yourself up will free up energy for you to fulfill your goals. I use mindfulness and IFS (Internal Family Systems) strategies to help clients do deep and meaningful work in sessions. "I learned a long time ago the wisest thing I can do is be on my own side..." Maya Angelou When my clients are begin to truly be a friend to themselves, they notice positive changes in many aspects of their lives.
(424) 352-7350 View (424) 352-7350
Photo of Claire Michele Neumann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Claire Michele Neumann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611
I have extensive experience in helping clients manage and explore depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, sexuality, gender identity and expression, challenging family dynamics, etc.
Welcome! I am a therapist and actor aiming to help you discover your most authentic self and deepest desires. I specialize in bringing the transformational power of theatre and improvisation into the therapeutic space, allowing you to safely explore deep pain and access profound joy. I aim to uplift and heal by employing joy, warmth, comedy, creative arts therapy, and an eclectic array of therapeutic modalities (CBT, mindfulness, ACT, REBT, psychodrama, psychoanalysis, Motivational Interviewing, etc.). I am incredibly patient, strengths-based, and adapt my modalities to the specific needs of each client's unique experience.
I have extensive experience in helping clients manage and explore depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, sexuality, gender identity and expression, challenging family dynamics, etc.
Welcome! I am a therapist and actor aiming to help you discover your most authentic self and deepest desires. I specialize in bringing the transformational power of theatre and improvisation into the therapeutic space, allowing you to safely explore deep pain and access profound joy. I aim to uplift and heal by employing joy, warmth, comedy, creative arts therapy, and an eclectic array of therapeutic modalities (CBT, mindfulness, ACT, REBT, psychodrama, psychoanalysis, Motivational Interviewing, etc.). I am incredibly patient, strengths-based, and adapt my modalities to the specific needs of each client's unique experience.
(510) 405-9955 View (510) 405-9955
Photo of Elizabeth Huck, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Oakland, CA
Elizabeth Huck
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, DBT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I also specialize in family/relationship issues, sexual abuse, religious trauma, dissociation, psychosis, and the physical symptoms of chronic nervous system dysregulation from trauma/ anxiety.
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
I also specialize in family/relationship issues, sexual abuse, religious trauma, dissociation, psychosis, and the physical symptoms of chronic nervous system dysregulation from trauma/ anxiety.
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(415) 704-6912 View (415) 704-6912
Photo of Jackie Brookman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jackie Brookman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
If your life feels diminished by chronic anxiety, panic, depression and just feeling out of place, I can help you. As a seasoned therapist, I will collaborate with you to shift from a life of limitations to one of choice and options. Using an integrative approach of IFS (Internal Family Systems), Somatic-Attachment and Relational Psychotherapy, our work will help you change your personal narrative to be aligned to who you want to be in the world in the present. You'll gain confidence and skills to support your emotional regulation and comfort in living in the present.
If your life feels diminished by chronic anxiety, panic, depression and just feeling out of place, I can help you. As a seasoned therapist, I will collaborate with you to shift from a life of limitations to one of choice and options. Using an integrative approach of IFS (Internal Family Systems), Somatic-Attachment and Relational Psychotherapy, our work will help you change your personal narrative to be aligned to who you want to be in the world in the present. You'll gain confidence and skills to support your emotional regulation and comfort in living in the present.
(510) 269-2469 View (510) 269-2469
Photo of Andrew Hudson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oakland, CA
Andrew Hudson
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
I grew up in a family with 4 other siblings and have experience working in hospitals, non-profit organizations, and residential treatment facilities.
My approach to therapy is person centered and I use validation as my foundation. I hold the assumption that we are all trying our best and that there is always room to learn, grow, and practice acceptance. In sessions together you can expect to connect with how you are currently experiencing emotions, to work through problematic thoughts beliefs or assumptions, and to explore situations and relationships and how exactly they may be having an impact on you. My goal as a therapist is to provide a space where you can connect and feel understood as well as challenged in a way that is helpful for you.
I grew up in a family with 4 other siblings and have experience working in hospitals, non-profit organizations, and residential treatment facilities.
My approach to therapy is person centered and I use validation as my foundation. I hold the assumption that we are all trying our best and that there is always room to learn, grow, and practice acceptance. In sessions together you can expect to connect with how you are currently experiencing emotions, to work through problematic thoughts beliefs or assumptions, and to explore situations and relationships and how exactly they may be having an impact on you. My goal as a therapist is to provide a space where you can connect and feel understood as well as challenged in a way that is helpful for you.
(415) 991-3933 View (415) 991-3933
Photo of Jocelyn Lam, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jocelyn Lam
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
I use family systems techniques to heal your inner child, and psychodynamic techniques to uncover patterns that are not serving you.
I work with folks in the intersection of being neurodivergent, BIPOC, and queer to navigate the oppressive structures that prevent us from expressing ourselves authentically. Together we can process intergenerational trauma to truly meet your needs. My areas of focus include conscious parenting, eating disorders, and postpartum/perinatal mental health. In our therapeutic relationship, genuine, empathetic care and connection come first. I understand that healing is not only individual but also systemic.
I use family systems techniques to heal your inner child, and psychodynamic techniques to uncover patterns that are not serving you.
I work with folks in the intersection of being neurodivergent, BIPOC, and queer to navigate the oppressive structures that prevent us from expressing ourselves authentically. Together we can process intergenerational trauma to truly meet your needs. My areas of focus include conscious parenting, eating disorders, and postpartum/perinatal mental health. In our therapeutic relationship, genuine, empathetic care and connection come first. I understand that healing is not only individual but also systemic.
(650) 249-7703 View (650) 249-7703
Photo of Suzette Yap Brillantes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Suzette Yap Brillantes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Are you grappling with heightened feelings of anxiety and depression as a parent or caregiver? Recognize that unresolved issues such, as generational trauma; and relational challenges may be impacting your ability to be fully present for your family.
Are you grappling with heightened feelings of anxiety and depression as a parent or caregiver? Recognize that unresolved issues such, as generational trauma; and relational challenges may be impacting your ability to be fully present for your family.
(510) 949-5510 View (510) 949-5510
Photo of Marissza Cavin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Marissza Cavin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I work with those struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, and relational issues. I use a variety of approaches to build understanding of your inner dialogue, your values, and how to create more fulfillment in your life. While working with couples, I support building trust through assertion practice, role playing, shifting toward appreciation, and improving communication techniques especially when in conflict.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience working with individuals, couples, families, and groups. I work with those struggling with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use, and relational issues. I use a variety of approaches to build understanding of your inner dialogue, your values, and how to create more fulfillment in your life. While working with couples, I support building trust through assertion practice, role playing, shifting toward appreciation, and improving communication techniques especially when in conflict.
(510) 480-3987 View (510) 480-3987
Photo of Ariel Escobedo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Ariel Escobedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
These include Internal Family Systems Therapy, Brief Strategic Family Therapy, the Gottman Method, Couples Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care.
As a dedicated bilingual (English/Spanish) speaking mental health practitioner, I am deeply committed to facilitating the emotional healing journey for adults. My approach is inherently collaborative, emphasizing a partnership with individuals, families, and couples who entrust their care to me. By combining these diverse psychotherapy techniques, I aim to foster a nurturing and empathetic space that supports clients in navigating their emotional landscapes.
These include Internal Family Systems Therapy, Brief Strategic Family Therapy, the Gottman Method, Couples Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Care.
As a dedicated bilingual (English/Spanish) speaking mental health practitioner, I am deeply committed to facilitating the emotional healing journey for adults. My approach is inherently collaborative, emphasizing a partnership with individuals, families, and couples who entrust their care to me. By combining these diverse psychotherapy techniques, I aim to foster a nurturing and empathetic space that supports clients in navigating their emotional landscapes.
(510) 880-1338 View (510) 880-1338
Photo of Octave - Oakland Clinic, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Octave - Oakland Clinic
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, PsyD, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
Octave is a modern practice creating a new standard for mental health care that’s both high-quality and accessible. With in-person and virtual clinics in California, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Washington D.C., we partner with you to develop personalized plans that can include individual, couples, and family therapy to best suit your needs. Grounded in science, our approach enables you to experience profound change that is just as measurable as it is meaningful. Learn more at www.findoctave.com
(415) 687-2932 View (415) 687-2932
Photo of Lynn Ellen Marcus, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Lynn Ellen Marcus
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602  (Online Only)
I'm particularly interested in providing psychoeducation, support and family psychotherapy with the parents, siblings, adult children and close family friends of adults who experience psychiatric and/or substance abuse symptoms. They have often neglected their own needs in the wake of the intense focus they have placed on their troubled loved ones, and they may be overwhelmed and confused by the symptoms, medications, diagnoses, systems of care and treatment options available. We can start with three to five sessions to review symptoms, medications, and the general understandings that the family has already gained.
I'm particularly interested in providing psychoeducation, support and family psychotherapy with the parents, siblings, adult children and close family friends of adults who experience psychiatric and/or substance abuse symptoms. They have often neglected their own needs in the wake of the intense focus they have placed on their troubled loved ones, and they may be overwhelmed and confused by the symptoms, medications, diagnoses, systems of care and treatment options available. We can start with three to five sessions to review symptoms, medications, and the general understandings that the family has already gained.
(510) 632-2244 View (510) 632-2244
Photo of Janine Sandler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Janine Sandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
Due to many years of work and specialized training in early childhood mental health I am uniquely qualified to work with adults around issues of attachment, childhood trauma, immigration trauma and difficult family dynamics.
Change, healing and growth are no small tasks. I know this first hand and am here to help others find their own success overcoming the pain and obstacles they encounter throughout life. I work collaboratively with individuals to identify sources of stress, discover unsuccessful patterns, embrace difficult feelings and develop both internal and external resources for getting to where they want to go. I hope to foster greater self-awareness, acceptance and compassion in all of my clients. I work most frequently with adults struggling with depression, general anxiety, social anxiety, trauma, grief/loss and life transitions.
Due to many years of work and specialized training in early childhood mental health I am uniquely qualified to work with adults around issues of attachment, childhood trauma, immigration trauma and difficult family dynamics.
Change, healing and growth are no small tasks. I know this first hand and am here to help others find their own success overcoming the pain and obstacles they encounter throughout life. I work collaboratively with individuals to identify sources of stress, discover unsuccessful patterns, embrace difficult feelings and develop both internal and external resources for getting to where they want to go. I hope to foster greater self-awareness, acceptance and compassion in all of my clients. I work most frequently with adults struggling with depression, general anxiety, social anxiety, trauma, grief/loss and life transitions.
(510) 306-7192 View (510) 306-7192
Photo of Nekolas Milton, Psychological Associate in Oakland, CA
Nekolas Milton
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
Hello my name is Dr. Nekolas “Neko” Milton, I am a Registered Psychological Associate. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I operate from a client-centered, humanistic approach, focusing on aspects of existentialism, mindfulness, family-systems, multiculturalism, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while keeping careful consideration of cultural concerns and practices. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma-related diagnoses, and incorporate evidenced-based practices to address maladaptive patterns and behaviors.
Hello my name is Dr. Nekolas “Neko” Milton, I am a Registered Psychological Associate. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I operate from a client-centered, humanistic approach, focusing on aspects of existentialism, mindfulness, family-systems, multiculturalism, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while keeping careful consideration of cultural concerns and practices. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma-related diagnoses, and incorporate evidenced-based practices to address maladaptive patterns and behaviors.
(415) 851-8356 View (415) 851-8356
Photo of Michaela Thompson - Be You Therapy and Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Michaela Thompson - Be You Therapy and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
My ideal client is one who is ready and willing to become the best version of themselves. I am a down to earth psychotherapist, that will meet YOU where you are! I work with individual adults ages 18 and up, who have issues with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, pregnancy, post-partum, mood disorders, trauma, family conflict, relationships and stress. I can also support those who have challenges with adjusting to new situations, and career stress.
My ideal client is one who is ready and willing to become the best version of themselves. I am a down to earth psychotherapist, that will meet YOU where you are! I work with individual adults ages 18 and up, who have issues with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, pregnancy, post-partum, mood disorders, trauma, family conflict, relationships and stress. I can also support those who have challenges with adjusting to new situations, and career stress.
(510) 617-1638 View (510) 617-1638
Photo of Jenna Robinson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Jenna Robinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Are you looking to heal from trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, experiences with abuse and family violence? Or years of navigating systemic oppression? Are you motivated to develop into your most joyful and resilient self? Let me help you metabolize pain into triumph. I’ve been helping individuals, families and groups transcend trauma, abuse and grief for over 10 years in California and Hawai’i. I have a liberatory and integrative approach that is authentic, collaborative, warm, creative and joyful.
Are you looking to heal from trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, experiences with abuse and family violence? Or years of navigating systemic oppression? Are you motivated to develop into your most joyful and resilient self? Let me help you metabolize pain into triumph. I’ve been helping individuals, families and groups transcend trauma, abuse and grief for over 10 years in California and Hawai’i. I have a liberatory and integrative approach that is authentic, collaborative, warm, creative and joyful.
(510) 901-5693 View (510) 901-5693
Photo of Victoria Alberini, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Victoria Alberini
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Though some of us are lucky enough to lean on our friends and family to help us through hard times, sometimes an objective third party who has training in processing emotions and cognitions can help us navigate our worlds with more clarity and resolve.
In 2015, I left my job at Google to pursue a career that better catered to my lifelong passion for human interaction and relationships. My background in tech tailors my practice to those working in Silicon Valley, but my clients yield from all walks of life. I specialize in working with couples, adult individuals, those who have experienced trauma, those struggling with questions about their career and work life, mothers, women, pregnancy, and postpartum clients. To learn more about me, please visit victoriaalberini.com.
Though some of us are lucky enough to lean on our friends and family to help us through hard times, sometimes an objective third party who has training in processing emotions and cognitions can help us navigate our worlds with more clarity and resolve.
In 2015, I left my job at Google to pursue a career that better catered to my lifelong passion for human interaction and relationships. My background in tech tailors my practice to those working in Silicon Valley, but my clients yield from all walks of life. I specialize in working with couples, adult individuals, those who have experienced trauma, those struggling with questions about their career and work life, mothers, women, pregnancy, and postpartum clients. To learn more about me, please visit victoriaalberini.com.
(415) 594-4144 View (415) 594-4144
Photo of Dina Altshuler, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Dina Altshuler
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94611
I work with children, teens, and adults who are coming in for attachment/relationship issues, depression, work/life stress, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, life transitions, parenting education and support.
I know that coming to therapy can be challenging and I am committed to creating a warm, empathic, and safe space for our time together. I tailor the treatment to meet your individual needs and goals. My priority is to meet you where you are in order to help you on your journey to a more authentic and fulfilling life. I have an integrative style, drawing on psychodynamic, systems, and attachment theories which allows us to look at the root of issues that you may be struggling with. I also draw on cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness and meditation practices to help deal with symptoms by improving coping and self-care.
I work with children, teens, and adults who are coming in for attachment/relationship issues, depression, work/life stress, anxiety, trauma, family conflict, life transitions, parenting education and support.
I know that coming to therapy can be challenging and I am committed to creating a warm, empathic, and safe space for our time together. I tailor the treatment to meet your individual needs and goals. My priority is to meet you where you are in order to help you on your journey to a more authentic and fulfilling life. I have an integrative style, drawing on psychodynamic, systems, and attachment theories which allows us to look at the root of issues that you may be struggling with. I also draw on cognitive behavioral techniques, mindfulness and meditation practices to help deal with symptoms by improving coping and self-care.
(510) 756-4517 View (510) 756-4517
Photo of Joanna Jaroszewska, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Joanna Jaroszewska
Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94618
My passion is helping anyone toward getting ‘unstuck’ and reconnecting with their lives and loved ones. I provide therapy for children, teens and adults navigating anxiety, OCD, selective mutism, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress, and peer issues, as well as ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnoses. I especially love working with teens and their families as they adapt to change; whether it’s better understanding and celebrating a teen’s gender identity, knowing how to discuss family separation, or finding healthy ways to cope with an unexpected loss.
My passion is helping anyone toward getting ‘unstuck’ and reconnecting with their lives and loved ones. I provide therapy for children, teens and adults navigating anxiety, OCD, selective mutism, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress, and peer issues, as well as ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder diagnoses. I especially love working with teens and their families as they adapt to change; whether it’s better understanding and celebrating a teen’s gender identity, knowing how to discuss family separation, or finding healthy ways to cope with an unexpected loss.
(510) 779-9754 View (510) 779-9754
Photo of Barbara Moura, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Barbara Moura
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
Finally, being an immigrant myself and having a bicultural family, I have a passion for working with individuals and families dealing with biculturalism, acculturation, and assimilation.
Sometimes the coping strategies that we use no longer work for us. And the usual support systems we turn to, are at times just not enough. Therapy can be an added support to help us figure out new strategies to cope with the challenges and times of transition in our lives. I provide a calm and reflective space, where together we will reach a deeper understanding of what holds you back and what changes you need to make to live your life more fully. Some areas of specialization include women's issues, perinatal and postnatal disorders, early parenting and cancer.
Finally, being an immigrant myself and having a bicultural family, I have a passion for working with individuals and families dealing with biculturalism, acculturation, and assimilation.
Sometimes the coping strategies that we use no longer work for us. And the usual support systems we turn to, are at times just not enough. Therapy can be an added support to help us figure out new strategies to cope with the challenges and times of transition in our lives. I provide a calm and reflective space, where together we will reach a deeper understanding of what holds you back and what changes you need to make to live your life more fully. Some areas of specialization include women's issues, perinatal and postnatal disorders, early parenting and cancer.
(510) 257-9374 View (510) 257-9374
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.