Family Therapy in Sherman Oaks, CA

Photo of Tracy Maxwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Tracy Maxwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Growing up is never easy. Even with a loving and supportive family, children and teens will encounter varying challenges through out their lives. They may not possess the skills to navigate and understand their emotional lives. With over twelve years of experience working with children, teens, and families, I specialize in helping to identify the purpose and reduction of challenging behaviors, help children to examine their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, and practice effective strategies.
Growing up is never easy. Even with a loving and supportive family, children and teens will encounter varying challenges through out their lives. They may not possess the skills to navigate and understand their emotional lives. With over twelve years of experience working with children, teens, and families, I specialize in helping to identify the purpose and reduction of challenging behaviors, help children to examine their thoughts, feelings, and emotions, and practice effective strategies.
(424) 238-3934 View (424) 238-3934
Photo of Shelly K Stee, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Shelly K Stee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Areas of specialization include divorce and blended families, child and adolescent therapy, parenting, grief and loss, family and life transitions, stress management and anxiety reduction, men and women in midlife and spirituality.
My approach to therapy is grounded in Post Modern Narrative Theory, which emphasizes client strengths in the collaborative creation of a client's preferred life. I am passionate about creating hope and collaborating with clients to effectuate change. I work with individuals, couples and families.
Areas of specialization include divorce and blended families, child and adolescent therapy, parenting, grief and loss, family and life transitions, stress management and anxiety reduction, men and women in midlife and spirituality.
My approach to therapy is grounded in Post Modern Narrative Theory, which emphasizes client strengths in the collaborative creation of a client's preferred life. I am passionate about creating hope and collaborating with clients to effectuate change. I work with individuals, couples and families.
(310) 846-8126 View (310) 846-8126
Photo of Norma Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Norma Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
Hola! I am happy you are here, ready to invest in your healing journey. Whether you’re starting therapy for the first time or the fourth time, finding a relateable and culturally affirming therapist is important for the therapeutic relationship. As a First Gen Latina & daughter of immigrants, I have a deep understanding of the challenges we face and invite conversations about cultura, family, and Spanglish in our sessions. Whether you’re navigating past traumas, coping with stress and anxiety, navigating relationships, or seeking to reconnect with your body and emotions, I am here to supporting you on your journey to wholeness.
Hola! I am happy you are here, ready to invest in your healing journey. Whether you’re starting therapy for the first time or the fourth time, finding a relateable and culturally affirming therapist is important for the therapeutic relationship. As a First Gen Latina & daughter of immigrants, I have a deep understanding of the challenges we face and invite conversations about cultura, family, and Spanglish in our sessions. Whether you’re navigating past traumas, coping with stress and anxiety, navigating relationships, or seeking to reconnect with your body and emotions, I am here to supporting you on your journey to wholeness.
(747) 207-3390 View (747) 207-3390
Photo of Narda Torrealba-Derouin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Narda Torrealba-Derouin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
My counseling style is collaborative integrating attachment-based and family systems with a solution-focused approach.
Have you been struggling with an ongoing theme that interferes with your ability to establish or maintain healthy relationships? Are you overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety or deep sadness? Has a sudden event left you feeling hopeless and fearful? My belief is that people are genuinely good and resourceful. Through thoughtful questioning and exploration, I help you to identify the origins and meanings of the issues that have led you to seek therapy. Together, we find ways to access the tools, strengths, and resources needed to promote wellness in your life.
My counseling style is collaborative integrating attachment-based and family systems with a solution-focused approach.
Have you been struggling with an ongoing theme that interferes with your ability to establish or maintain healthy relationships? Are you overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety or deep sadness? Has a sudden event left you feeling hopeless and fearful? My belief is that people are genuinely good and resourceful. Through thoughtful questioning and exploration, I help you to identify the origins and meanings of the issues that have led you to seek therapy. Together, we find ways to access the tools, strengths, and resources needed to promote wellness in your life.
(323) 894-7868 View (323) 894-7868
Photo of Anne Levin Marsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Anne Levin Marsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I provide supportive and compassionate therapy to children, teens, adults, and families. Clients come to me for help with ordinary life challenges, depression, anxiety, grief, divorce, coparenting, relationship problems, parenting struggles, and more. Each person has unique needs, and we will come up with the best plan for you, your child, or your family.
I provide supportive and compassionate therapy to children, teens, adults, and families. Clients come to me for help with ordinary life challenges, depression, anxiety, grief, divorce, coparenting, relationship problems, parenting struggles, and more. Each person has unique needs, and we will come up with the best plan for you, your child, or your family.
(747) 234-2951 View (747) 234-2951
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Kates Ramlo, Psychologist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Dr. Jennifer Kates Ramlo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I am extremely passionate about my work, I grew up in a family of psychoanalysts, so my life has been immersed in the workings of the mind.
I have been working in the field of psychology for 25 years. My personal nature combined with superior training allows me to help people manage the complicated array of emotions that naturally occur among all of us. My post-doctoral training strengthened my ability to work effectively with children and their families, in addition to helping couples and parents. I will help you understand yourself, your relationships, so that you will be able to manage your feelings as opposed to experiencing that your feelings hold you hostage. It is then that you will feel more alive and more connected to yourself and your surroundings.
I am extremely passionate about my work, I grew up in a family of psychoanalysts, so my life has been immersed in the workings of the mind.
I have been working in the field of psychology for 25 years. My personal nature combined with superior training allows me to help people manage the complicated array of emotions that naturally occur among all of us. My post-doctoral training strengthened my ability to work effectively with children and their families, in addition to helping couples and parents. I will help you understand yourself, your relationships, so that you will be able to manage your feelings as opposed to experiencing that your feelings hold you hostage. It is then that you will feel more alive and more connected to yourself and your surroundings.
(747) 204-3410 View (747) 204-3410
Photo of Shanequa Black, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Shanequa Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I’m comfortable working with those from all backgrounds, and I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, life changes, grief, low self-esteem, women’s issues, family conflicts, and other issues.
As a mental health therapist, I’ve noticed a stigma surrounding therapy in certain communities rooted in fears of therapist misunderstandings, judgment, or being told what to do. I am committed to breaking this stigma by creating a safe place where people can feel comfortable sharing whatever they’d like. My philosophy in life and treatment is to provide empathy, compassion, and support to individuals during challenging times. I want my clients to know they have a safe and nonjudgmental place to explore and understand their feelings. Through this mutual trust and respect, we will work to help you become the best version of yourself.
I’m comfortable working with those from all backgrounds, and I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, life changes, grief, low self-esteem, women’s issues, family conflicts, and other issues.
As a mental health therapist, I’ve noticed a stigma surrounding therapy in certain communities rooted in fears of therapist misunderstandings, judgment, or being told what to do. I am committed to breaking this stigma by creating a safe place where people can feel comfortable sharing whatever they’d like. My philosophy in life and treatment is to provide empathy, compassion, and support to individuals during challenging times. I want my clients to know they have a safe and nonjudgmental place to explore and understand their feelings. Through this mutual trust and respect, we will work to help you become the best version of yourself.
(747) 236-6250 View (747) 236-6250
Photo of Natalie Mark, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Natalie Mark
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I have extensive experience working with behavioral issues, psychosis, substance abuse, relationships/family conflict, personality disorders, life transitions, depression, and anxiety and trauma-related disorders.
Welcome! First of all, it takes a ton of courage to come to therapy and ask for help, so kudos to you for taking this first step! I have in person and virtual openings for clients in California. I use an eclectic approach to treatment supporting clients who feel “stuck” or “lost” in life. I often use humor in my sessions, because life is hard, and sometimes the most therapeutic thing you can do is laugh! We will work collaboratively to create a safe and comfortable space to understand patterns of behavior that could be negatively impacting your well-being, and work together to help you become the best version of you.
I have extensive experience working with behavioral issues, psychosis, substance abuse, relationships/family conflict, personality disorders, life transitions, depression, and anxiety and trauma-related disorders.
Welcome! First of all, it takes a ton of courage to come to therapy and ask for help, so kudos to you for taking this first step! I have in person and virtual openings for clients in California. I use an eclectic approach to treatment supporting clients who feel “stuck” or “lost” in life. I often use humor in my sessions, because life is hard, and sometimes the most therapeutic thing you can do is laugh! We will work collaboratively to create a safe and comfortable space to understand patterns of behavior that could be negatively impacting your well-being, and work together to help you become the best version of you.
(818) 647-9958 View (818) 647-9958
Photo of Alexa Brand, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Alexa Brand
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
I integrate an intersectional, multicultural feminist approach with family systems therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, mindful self-compassion, brainspotting, somatic embodiment, and internal family systems.
You deserve an affirming space for all of your parts to be embraced. I work with survivors of acute and complex trauma who tend to be perfectionists and struggle with self-criticalness. I specifically specialize in working with marginalized populations, with a majority of my clients being women, LGBTQ+, and trans/non-binary. Many of my clients internalize the stigma and shame conditioned by our society's oppressive norms and politics. I help my clients find self-compassion, embrace their authenticity, and process their trauma from an intersectional, warm approach that always emphasizes fostering safety rather than "fixing."
I integrate an intersectional, multicultural feminist approach with family systems therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, mindful self-compassion, brainspotting, somatic embodiment, and internal family systems.
You deserve an affirming space for all of your parts to be embraced. I work with survivors of acute and complex trauma who tend to be perfectionists and struggle with self-criticalness. I specifically specialize in working with marginalized populations, with a majority of my clients being women, LGBTQ+, and trans/non-binary. Many of my clients internalize the stigma and shame conditioned by our society's oppressive norms and politics. I help my clients find self-compassion, embrace their authenticity, and process their trauma from an intersectional, warm approach that always emphasizes fostering safety rather than "fixing."
(818) 464-4860 View (818) 464-4860
Photo of Claudia A Domnicz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Claudia A Domnicz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples and families with a variety of issues. My areas of speciality include anxiety, depression, relationship issues , women's issues, career issues, and life transitions. Treatment may be brief to address a current problem or long term to work through lifelong patterns and gain insight . My style is holistic including working together and assisting you in finding hope and resolution to your problem.I can help you develop communication skills with your partner or family members , improve self-esteem , cope with losses and strengthen relationships . I provide a non judgemental and supportive environment .
I work with individuals, couples and families with a variety of issues. My areas of speciality include anxiety, depression, relationship issues , women's issues, career issues, and life transitions. Treatment may be brief to address a current problem or long term to work through lifelong patterns and gain insight . My style is holistic including working together and assisting you in finding hope and resolution to your problem.I can help you develop communication skills with your partner or family members , improve self-esteem , cope with losses and strengthen relationships . I provide a non judgemental and supportive environment .
(818) 754-8270 View (818) 754-8270
Photo of Dr. Kelly A Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Dr. Kelly A Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
In addition to individual and couples/family therapy, I specialize in the treatment of Therapists, Psychologists, and Physicians who desire mental health treatment.
Welcome! I want you to know that engaging in counseling is not an admission of failure. On the contrary, it is a bold statement of growth and strength. I specialize in Borderline Personality Disorder, Couples and Marital Counseling, and Trauma. Most of my clients find me easy to talk to and appreciate my practical and relational approach to treatment. Call for a free consultation - ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I accept Private Payors, Cigna, Blue Shield of California, Magellan, United Healthcare, and Optum Health Insurance.
In addition to individual and couples/family therapy, I specialize in the treatment of Therapists, Psychologists, and Physicians who desire mental health treatment.
Welcome! I want you to know that engaging in counseling is not an admission of failure. On the contrary, it is a bold statement of growth and strength. I specialize in Borderline Personality Disorder, Couples and Marital Counseling, and Trauma. Most of my clients find me easy to talk to and appreciate my practical and relational approach to treatment. Call for a free consultation - ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I accept Private Payors, Cigna, Blue Shield of California, Magellan, United Healthcare, and Optum Health Insurance.
(818) 287-0456 View (818) 287-0456
Photo of Jordan Held, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Jordan Held
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423
Therapy is for everyone at any point. If you, your child or family is in need of support, reach out and Jordan can help with the rest. Jordan is trained in EMDR, Narrative Exposure Therapy and DBT, with expertise working with highly acute adolescent populations, complex family structures and teens discharging treatment. Jordan is an expert working with LGBTQ+ individuals , providing guidance and compassion no matter where you are on your journey. President & Founder of Relentless Pursuit Therapy & Consulting, Jordan is available for trainings, consultations and speaking engagements. Out of state coaching is also available.
Therapy is for everyone at any point. If you, your child or family is in need of support, reach out and Jordan can help with the rest. Jordan is trained in EMDR, Narrative Exposure Therapy and DBT, with expertise working with highly acute adolescent populations, complex family structures and teens discharging treatment. Jordan is an expert working with LGBTQ+ individuals , providing guidance and compassion no matter where you are on your journey. President & Founder of Relentless Pursuit Therapy & Consulting, Jordan is available for trainings, consultations and speaking engagements. Out of state coaching is also available.
(323) 622-7566 View (323) 622-7566
Photo of Alex Shelling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Alex Shelling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) at Apex Group Therapy. I received my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University. I have extensive experience working in Community-Based, Residential, and School Mental Health Settings. I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, young adults and families in assisting them in developing and utilizing the necessary coping skills to manage and care for themselves and feel empowered in their life choices while addressing systematic barriers and historical traumas.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) at Apex Group Therapy. I received my Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology from Argosy University. I have extensive experience working in Community-Based, Residential, and School Mental Health Settings. I have a passion for working with children, adolescents, young adults and families in assisting them in developing and utilizing the necessary coping skills to manage and care for themselves and feel empowered in their life choices while addressing systematic barriers and historical traumas.
(747) 205-4041 View (747) 205-4041
Photo of Lesley Lasker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Lesley Lasker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
My Associates are skilled therapists who have completed a Masters Program in Marriage and Family Therapy and are obtaining the required hours of therapeutic services under the supervision of a Licensed Therapist.
I realize how difficult choosing a therapist can be. As in life, there are many choices and factors weighing heavily on your decision. I offer my clients a relationship where you can safely explore the struggles and issues that are affecting the most important aspects of your life; your relationships, your career and yourself. My style is straightforward and direct while maintaining compassion and respect for my clients. I provide solace, a calming voice and peace when you may need it most.
My Associates are skilled therapists who have completed a Masters Program in Marriage and Family Therapy and are obtaining the required hours of therapeutic services under the supervision of a Licensed Therapist.
I realize how difficult choosing a therapist can be. As in life, there are many choices and factors weighing heavily on your decision. I offer my clients a relationship where you can safely explore the struggles and issues that are affecting the most important aspects of your life; your relationships, your career and yourself. My style is straightforward and direct while maintaining compassion and respect for my clients. I provide solace, a calming voice and peace when you may need it most.
(818) 850-3788 View (818) 850-3788
Photo of Hillside Wellness Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Hillside Wellness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
At Hillside Wellness Center we are dedicated to provide affordable inclusive mental health services to individuals, couples, and families who reside in Sherman Oaks and the surrounding areas. We offer Individual therapy ; Family Therapy; Couples therapy; and Groups.
At Hillside Wellness Center we are dedicated to provide affordable inclusive mental health services to individuals, couples, and families who reside in Sherman Oaks and the surrounding areas. We offer Individual therapy ; Family Therapy; Couples therapy; and Groups.
(818) 532-5195 View (818) 532-5195
Photo of Lauren Burt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Lauren Burt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I can help clients navigate difficulties in their relationships with family members, significant others, and friends.
I have worked with teens in schools, treatment centers, and in private practice to provide understanding support and care during many individuals’ hardest, human experiences. Through the use of cognitive behavioral techniques, I have seen clients increase self-esteem, increase functionality, and decrease their sadness and anxiety.
I can help clients navigate difficulties in their relationships with family members, significant others, and friends.
I have worked with teens in schools, treatment centers, and in private practice to provide understanding support and care during many individuals’ hardest, human experiences. Through the use of cognitive behavioral techniques, I have seen clients increase self-esteem, increase functionality, and decrease their sadness and anxiety.
(747) 252-5433 View (747) 252-5433
Photo of Azize Coskun, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Azize Coskun
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I know it is not easy to reach out and open up about personal, family and relationship issues, but I will help to make this as easy as possible.
For over 26 years I have been working with some of the most difficult and challenging life dynamics that individuals, families and relationships encounter. I also work with adolescents and the Juvenile Justice System closely. My experience includes locked and unlocked settings, public and private sectors, community treatment facilities, inpatient psychiatric, juvenile hall, probation mental health camp, group home's, private practice as well as in home counseling to probation youth. My background in law enforcement enhances my expertise in Juvenile Justice issues for teen and adult legal issues.
I know it is not easy to reach out and open up about personal, family and relationship issues, but I will help to make this as easy as possible.
For over 26 years I have been working with some of the most difficult and challenging life dynamics that individuals, families and relationships encounter. I also work with adolescents and the Juvenile Justice System closely. My experience includes locked and unlocked settings, public and private sectors, community treatment facilities, inpatient psychiatric, juvenile hall, probation mental health camp, group home's, private practice as well as in home counseling to probation youth. My background in law enforcement enhances my expertise in Juvenile Justice issues for teen and adult legal issues.
(310) 773-5160 View (310) 773-5160
Photo of Mary Espinoza, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Mary Espinoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
My counseling approach is to help individuals reach their personal goals and desires in life within a safe and trusting environment. With more than 25 years experience as a Marriage and Family counselor my areas of expertise include: individuals, couples/relationship issues, family and blended family issues, as well as conjoint and adolescent counseling, specializing in cross-cultural counseling, substance abuse, domestic violence, victims of crime, and post-traumatic stress disorders. By making positive changes in your life, I believe clients can reach their goals and experience a better quality of life.
My counseling approach is to help individuals reach their personal goals and desires in life within a safe and trusting environment. With more than 25 years experience as a Marriage and Family counselor my areas of expertise include: individuals, couples/relationship issues, family and blended family issues, as well as conjoint and adolescent counseling, specializing in cross-cultural counseling, substance abuse, domestic violence, victims of crime, and post-traumatic stress disorders. By making positive changes in your life, I believe clients can reach their goals and experience a better quality of life.
(424) 254-1343 View (424) 254-1343
Photo of Pnina Gersten, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Pnina Gersten
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423  (Online Only)
My specialty is working with Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, panic disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD), Agoraphobia, Eating Disorders, Addiction and Substance Abuse, Family Conflict, Grief and Marriage Issues.
Unfortunately, life is not fair all the time. My goal is to help you navigate your journey and help you feel safe in the process. I work with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan and children over 11 years old. I hope to facilitate change through dialogue and support to help define life’s purpose and our choices to achieve the goals, purpose, authenticity, and self-esteem we long for and deserve using Gestalt, interpersonal, and existential theories.
My specialty is working with Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, panic disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD), Agoraphobia, Eating Disorders, Addiction and Substance Abuse, Family Conflict, Grief and Marriage Issues.
Unfortunately, life is not fair all the time. My goal is to help you navigate your journey and help you feel safe in the process. I work with individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan and children over 11 years old. I hope to facilitate change through dialogue and support to help define life’s purpose and our choices to achieve the goals, purpose, authenticity, and self-esteem we long for and deserve using Gestalt, interpersonal, and existential theories.
(213) 722-3763 View (213) 722-3763
Photo of Nassim Sanani, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sherman Oaks, CA
Nassim Sanani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Waitlist for new clients
Helping cultivate the ability to say what you need to say to partners, children, friends and family with love and empathy, so that you can be heard.
As individuals, we are so unique. We all come from very distinct backgrounds and life experiences, both of which impact our decisions, choices, desires and fears. These considerations all play a role in the struggles and pain we face. Looking at these areas of our lives and trying to understand their influence can be overwhelming and scary. For this reason I strive to create a safe, warm and non-judgmental environment where, together, we can explore collaboratively. This time together will allow you the space needed to evaluate your experiences and understand how they affect you and your relationships.
Helping cultivate the ability to say what you need to say to partners, children, friends and family with love and empathy, so that you can be heard.
As individuals, we are so unique. We all come from very distinct backgrounds and life experiences, both of which impact our decisions, choices, desires and fears. These considerations all play a role in the struggles and pain we face. Looking at these areas of our lives and trying to understand their influence can be overwhelming and scary. For this reason I strive to create a safe, warm and non-judgmental environment where, together, we can explore collaboratively. This time together will allow you the space needed to evaluate your experiences and understand how they affect you and your relationships.
(818) 465-9772 View (818) 465-9772

See more therapy options for Sherman Oaks


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.