Family Therapy in Parker, CO

Photo of Whitney Cavanah, Counselor in Parker, CO
Whitney Cavanah
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Parker, CO 80134  (Online Only)
No single approach is the right one for every individual, thus, Whitney has been trained in and uses a range of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, The Gottman Method, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Somatic Experiencing, Trauma Informed Care, and Gestalt Play Therapy.
Whitney Cavanah, MA, LPCC has a thriving interest in helping people reach their health and healing goals. Using a whole person approach to her work, Whitney fully attends to each clients' needs, beautifully interweaving clear presence with clinical skill. It is Whitney's great passion to bring healing to people who have been through a traumatic/stressful experience, struggle with mental health, or are going through a difficult transition in life. She helps clients, who include children, adults, and families find healthy perceptions of themselves to strengthen their relationships and discover their inner wisdom.
No single approach is the right one for every individual, thus, Whitney has been trained in and uses a range of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, The Gottman Method, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Somatic Experiencing, Trauma Informed Care, and Gestalt Play Therapy.
Whitney Cavanah, MA, LPCC has a thriving interest in helping people reach their health and healing goals. Using a whole person approach to her work, Whitney fully attends to each clients' needs, beautifully interweaving clear presence with clinical skill. It is Whitney's great passion to bring healing to people who have been through a traumatic/stressful experience, struggle with mental health, or are going through a difficult transition in life. She helps clients, who include children, adults, and families find healthy perceptions of themselves to strengthen their relationships and discover their inner wisdom.
(303) 732-8026 View (303) 732-8026
Photo of Beth Marie Parks, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parker, CO
Beth Marie Parks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT, CLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parker, CO 80138
My second Master's degree is in Marriage, Family, Child therapy.
For me, working with teens and their families, along with couples and individuals, is my vocation rather than my profession. I help families and teens make sense of the struggles faced by kids and their parents today. I help couples rebuild strong bonds. I guide individuals into a heightened awareness of themselves and their world. Another professional/personal passion is Cancer. In this domain, it really takes one to know one (and their caretakers). Guiding either the patient or caretaker is a new mission for me. I work closely with the sentiments in Dr. Kelly Turner's books - Radical Remission and Radical Hope.
My second Master's degree is in Marriage, Family, Child therapy.
For me, working with teens and their families, along with couples and individuals, is my vocation rather than my profession. I help families and teens make sense of the struggles faced by kids and their parents today. I help couples rebuild strong bonds. I guide individuals into a heightened awareness of themselves and their world. Another professional/personal passion is Cancer. In this domain, it really takes one to know one (and their caretakers). Guiding either the patient or caretaker is a new mission for me. I work closely with the sentiments in Dr. Kelly Turner's books - Radical Remission and Radical Hope.
(303) 578-3618 View (303) 578-3618
Photo of Kristel Strother, Counselor in Parker, CO
Kristel Strother
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Parker, CO 80134
Are you struggling in your relationship? Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or triggered? Maybe there are some decisions that have been really tough to make lately. I am passionate about helping couples and individuals lead more fulfilling lives. I utilize cutting-edge and research-based interventions to guide clients who struggle with their inner-being (depression and anxiety), their relationships (family of origins, their partners, etc.), and those who lack career satisfaction or purpose. Do you desire stronger and deeper connection in your relationships? You are not alone in this journey.
Are you struggling in your relationship? Are you feeling anxious, depressed, or triggered? Maybe there are some decisions that have been really tough to make lately. I am passionate about helping couples and individuals lead more fulfilling lives. I utilize cutting-edge and research-based interventions to guide clients who struggle with their inner-being (depression and anxiety), their relationships (family of origins, their partners, etc.), and those who lack career satisfaction or purpose. Do you desire stronger and deeper connection in your relationships? You are not alone in this journey.
(720) 868-9847 View (720) 868-9847
Photo of James Purviance, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parker, CO
James Purviance
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parker, CO 80138  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
***Moving to exclusively Teletherapy after May 2024*** Does communication with your partner frustrate both of you and create friction? Is your family having difficulties adjusting to life altering issues or transitions? Are medical problems with a family member causing stress within the home? Is your family in the process of separation or divorce and family members having difficulty transitioning? Let me help you through your hardships. I currently work with couples seeking help with their relationships, help with adults, adolescents, children and families dealing with stage of life adjustments and transitions.
***Moving to exclusively Teletherapy after May 2024*** Does communication with your partner frustrate both of you and create friction? Is your family having difficulties adjusting to life altering issues or transitions? Are medical problems with a family member causing stress within the home? Is your family in the process of separation or divorce and family members having difficulty transitioning? Let me help you through your hardships. I currently work with couples seeking help with their relationships, help with adults, adolescents, children and families dealing with stage of life adjustments and transitions.
(720) 669-7468 View (720) 669-7468
Photo of Dr Harry M Chiang, LLC, Psychologist in Parker, CO
Dr Harry M Chiang, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Parker, CO 80134
It would truly be an honor to use my collective expertise in psychology, education, and family matters/community to help you and/or your loved ones.
Welcome! I would love the opportunity to work for you as your psychologist. I am currently accepting clients for weekday, weekend, and evening appointments, so you don't have to miss work/school to receive the highest quality care. In response to the coronavirus outbreak, I am offering Telehealth that is HIPAA compliant in the safety and comfort of your own home. A good psychologist is a master in both the art and science of clinical psychology. Rest assured that your concerns and needs become mine. I will tirelessly work to teach the fundamental principles of psychology by conducting individual, couples, and/or group therapy.
It would truly be an honor to use my collective expertise in psychology, education, and family matters/community to help you and/or your loved ones.
Welcome! I would love the opportunity to work for you as your psychologist. I am currently accepting clients for weekday, weekend, and evening appointments, so you don't have to miss work/school to receive the highest quality care. In response to the coronavirus outbreak, I am offering Telehealth that is HIPAA compliant in the safety and comfort of your own home. A good psychologist is a master in both the art and science of clinical psychology. Rest assured that your concerns and needs become mine. I will tirelessly work to teach the fundamental principles of psychology by conducting individual, couples, and/or group therapy.
(720) 408-2368 View (720) 408-2368
Photo of Southeast Counseling Center in Parker, CO
Southeast Counseling Center
Verified Verified
Parker, CO 80134
Southeast Counseling Center provides professional mental health and family counseling to individuals, couples, and families of all ages.
We exist to invest in you, so that you are empowered to cultivate wholeness and hope. At Southeast Counseling Center, our team of seasoned professional counselors believe in the ever-continuing growth and development of all people toward the best versions of themselves--in a safe, confidential, and caring environment. Sometimes when we are most vulnerable and in the greatest need, we can feel the most lonely and misunderstood. You know your pain better than anyone, and we look forward to joining you in the midst of it.
Southeast Counseling Center provides professional mental health and family counseling to individuals, couples, and families of all ages.
We exist to invest in you, so that you are empowered to cultivate wholeness and hope. At Southeast Counseling Center, our team of seasoned professional counselors believe in the ever-continuing growth and development of all people toward the best versions of themselves--in a safe, confidential, and caring environment. Sometimes when we are most vulnerable and in the greatest need, we can feel the most lonely and misunderstood. You know your pain better than anyone, and we look forward to joining you in the midst of it.
(833) 635-8299 View (833) 635-8299
Photo of Dalliance Sexual Wellness Collective, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parker, CO
Dalliance Sexual Wellness Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Parker, CO 80138
Our therapeutic approaches include attachment, internal family systems, trauma-informed training, with an emphasis on emotions, body mindfulness and a focus on pleasure.
Dalliance views sexuality as being an inherent, essential and beneficial dimension of being human and values the connection between vulnerable conversation and physical exploration. We believe our role as clinicians and healers is to help clients explore healthy sexual attitudes and values to create lives full of connection and pleasure. Our clinicians challenge society’s current ideas of what sex is and help individuals and relationships explore what works for them and create their own sexual confidence and lifestyle. We value sexual health esteem, promote healing conversation and encourage healthier intimacy.
Our therapeutic approaches include attachment, internal family systems, trauma-informed training, with an emphasis on emotions, body mindfulness and a focus on pleasure.
Dalliance views sexuality as being an inherent, essential and beneficial dimension of being human and values the connection between vulnerable conversation and physical exploration. We believe our role as clinicians and healers is to help clients explore healthy sexual attitudes and values to create lives full of connection and pleasure. Our clinicians challenge society’s current ideas of what sex is and help individuals and relationships explore what works for them and create their own sexual confidence and lifestyle. We value sexual health esteem, promote healing conversation and encourage healthier intimacy.
(720) 927-8501 View (720) 927-8501
Photo of Courtney Beeler, Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate in Parker, CO
Courtney Beeler
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MFTC
Verified Verified
Parker, CO 80134
It would be my pleasure to come alongside you to improve your family's functioning and communication.
Parenting... one of the greatest joys but also one of the hardest jobs. It doesn’t always seem like a joy and some days you’re left feeling stuck, not sure what to do. You want to raise your kids right but you wonder if you are. You feel like you have nothing left in the tank and feel lost on what to do next. You’ve tried everything! Many parents share these feelings and frustrations at some point through their children’s lives. If this is you, you are not alone!
It would be my pleasure to come alongside you to improve your family's functioning and communication.
Parenting... one of the greatest joys but also one of the hardest jobs. It doesn’t always seem like a joy and some days you’re left feeling stuck, not sure what to do. You want to raise your kids right but you wonder if you are. You feel like you have nothing left in the tank and feel lost on what to do next. You’ve tried everything! Many parents share these feelings and frustrations at some point through their children’s lives. If this is you, you are not alone!
(720) 674-7266 View (720) 674-7266
Photo of Michelle Lynn Shewmake, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Parker, CO
Michelle Lynn Shewmake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MS, ADDC
Verified Verified
Parker, CO 80134
My passion is helping your child, tween or teen use their strengths to work through problems that are preventing them from being their best selves. I am available for youth facing a variety of issues, including bullying, family issues (ie, sibling issues, divorce, blended families, domestic violence), mental health conditions (ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, self-harm, suicidality), trauma, grief, substance abuse/use, peer/relational issues, or academic struggles. Further, Michelle is an ally to LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse youth. Learn more about Michelle at www.bluefeathercounselor.com
My passion is helping your child, tween or teen use their strengths to work through problems that are preventing them from being their best selves. I am available for youth facing a variety of issues, including bullying, family issues (ie, sibling issues, divorce, blended families, domestic violence), mental health conditions (ADHD, depression, anxiety, mood dysregulation, self-harm, suicidality), trauma, grief, substance abuse/use, peer/relational issues, or academic struggles. Further, Michelle is an ally to LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse youth. Learn more about Michelle at www.bluefeathercounselor.com
(720) 730-4868 View (720) 730-4868
Photo of Mark Taylor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Parker, CO
Mark Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Parker, CO 80138
I treat adults and adolescents with behavioral, mental health, substance abuse, family, and interpersonal issues.
Hello and welcome! I work with adults who want to make improvements in their lives. I have extensive training and experience treating people who have substance use disorders, traumas and post traumatic stress, and in working with veterans and military families. I am solution-oriented and strive to help my clients find ways to improve their condition and resolve nagging difficulties. I have an eclectic approach to treatment and use cognitive and behavioral therapies, motivational interviewing, communication theory, systems theory, and neuro-linguistic programming.
I treat adults and adolescents with behavioral, mental health, substance abuse, family, and interpersonal issues.
Hello and welcome! I work with adults who want to make improvements in their lives. I have extensive training and experience treating people who have substance use disorders, traumas and post traumatic stress, and in working with veterans and military families. I am solution-oriented and strive to help my clients find ways to improve their condition and resolve nagging difficulties. I have an eclectic approach to treatment and use cognitive and behavioral therapies, motivational interviewing, communication theory, systems theory, and neuro-linguistic programming.
(720) 640-4760 View (720) 640-4760
Photo of Centered Mind Counseling , Licensed Professional Counselor in Parker, CO
Centered Mind Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Parker, CO 80138  (Online Only)
When dealing with life's struggles, whether it's our relationships, parenting issues, family conflict, our own emotions, goals that we can't seem to reach, or the fact that we feel stuck because we keep repeating the same patterns in our lives and can't seem to move forward, we all want someone to listen to us, understand us, and help us move forward.
Feeling a little lost and unsure about how to handle things in your life? We all feel like this at one time or another in our lives and it is helpful to have someone support you while trying to figure things out. Often a person will seek out counseling when personal attempts to solve a problem have not worked. At different times we experience unresolved situations that affect our sense of calm, clarity and balance.
When dealing with life's struggles, whether it's our relationships, parenting issues, family conflict, our own emotions, goals that we can't seem to reach, or the fact that we feel stuck because we keep repeating the same patterns in our lives and can't seem to move forward, we all want someone to listen to us, understand us, and help us move forward.
Feeling a little lost and unsure about how to handle things in your life? We all feel like this at one time or another in our lives and it is helpful to have someone support you while trying to figure things out. Often a person will seek out counseling when personal attempts to solve a problem have not worked. At different times we experience unresolved situations that affect our sense of calm, clarity and balance.
(720) 408-2686 View (720) 408-2686
Photo of Deb Mastin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Parker, CO
Deb Mastin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Parker, CO 80138
I will work collaboratively with families to uncover the emotions underlying these behaviors developing a treatment plan to decrease maladaptive behaviors and increase skills to achieve greater success within their family/life.
Making the decision to see a therapist is a big one, my goal is to make sure that this decision is a worthwhile one. My straightforward and direct approach coupled with over 25 years of social work practice allows me to form positive working relationships with most. This relationship is the building block for work around a multitude of issues impacting or blocking your ability to function successfully within your life.
I will work collaboratively with families to uncover the emotions underlying these behaviors developing a treatment plan to decrease maladaptive behaviors and increase skills to achieve greater success within their family/life.
Making the decision to see a therapist is a big one, my goal is to make sure that this decision is a worthwhile one. My straightforward and direct approach coupled with over 25 years of social work practice allows me to form positive working relationships with most. This relationship is the building block for work around a multitude of issues impacting or blocking your ability to function successfully within your life.
(720) 513-2759 View (720) 513-2759
Photo of Dr. Laura A. Mohr, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parker, CO
Dr. Laura A. Mohr
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Parker, CO 80138
I provide counseling to individuals, couples and families to help alleviate struggles in their daily lives. I can help you better manage your life, children, parents and all your relationships. I am a trained Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) with 20+ years of clinical experience and 15+ years in higher education. In addition to my current private practice, I teach MFT doctoral students about how to do couple and family therapy. My clinical style is direct and collaborative; I am confident that we can work together to achieve your goals and help you develop insights and skills to take with you beyond our counseling.
I provide counseling to individuals, couples and families to help alleviate struggles in their daily lives. I can help you better manage your life, children, parents and all your relationships. I am a trained Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) with 20+ years of clinical experience and 15+ years in higher education. In addition to my current private practice, I teach MFT doctoral students about how to do couple and family therapy. My clinical style is direct and collaborative; I am confident that we can work together to achieve your goals and help you develop insights and skills to take with you beyond our counseling.
(720) 575-0581 View (720) 575-0581
Photo of Ashley Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Parker, CO
Ashley Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFTC
Verified Verified
Parker, CO 80138  (Online Only)
The clients that I typically work with come from diverse backgrounds and present with an array of concerns, including but certainly not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, relational dynamics, infidelity, parenting changes, nontraditional family styles, LGBTQ+ identities, kink, polyamory, non-monogamous relationships, marginalized populations, underserved populations, and the list continues. No matter what brings you to therapy, if this is your first or fourth time, I believe healing is always possible, and you can enact change in your life.
The clients that I typically work with come from diverse backgrounds and present with an array of concerns, including but certainly not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, relational dynamics, infidelity, parenting changes, nontraditional family styles, LGBTQ+ identities, kink, polyamory, non-monogamous relationships, marginalized populations, underserved populations, and the list continues. No matter what brings you to therapy, if this is your first or fourth time, I believe healing is always possible, and you can enact change in your life.
(720) 902-9914 View (720) 902-9914
Photo of Shannon Pannell, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Parker, CO
Shannon Pannell
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Parker, CO 80134
What clients have to say: "Shannon is our trusted coach in helping us resolve issues within our family.
Shannon Pannell is a nationally certified licensed professional counselor candidate who is a Foundational Theraplay Practitioner. This means she is qualified to work with parents, families, and individuals through transitions, grief, anxiety/depression, and adoption/foster care attachment needs. She approaches therapy with a creative and educationally grounded approach.
What clients have to say: "Shannon is our trusted coach in helping us resolve issues within our family.
Shannon Pannell is a nationally certified licensed professional counselor candidate who is a Foundational Theraplay Practitioner. This means she is qualified to work with parents, families, and individuals through transitions, grief, anxiety/depression, and adoption/foster care attachment needs. She approaches therapy with a creative and educationally grounded approach.
(720) 778-3439 View (720) 778-3439
Photo of Alan Hieu Hoa Hale, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parker, CO
Alan Hieu Hoa Hale
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPCC, MFTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parker, CO 80134  (Online Only)
As a queer BIPOC individual, my passion is working with other individuals, relationships, and family systems of the queer (LGBTQIA+) and or BIPOC community. If you grew up in a culture that viewed mental health as taboo, you may be feeling alone and hopeless. Know that you are not alone in your journey. I believe that people and relationships can thrive if given the proper support, nourishment, and environment. We are all given the same tools, but how helpful can it be if we were never taught how to use them? With some direction, non-judgement, and unconditional positive regard I believe people are capable of incredible things
As a queer BIPOC individual, my passion is working with other individuals, relationships, and family systems of the queer (LGBTQIA+) and or BIPOC community. If you grew up in a culture that viewed mental health as taboo, you may be feeling alone and hopeless. Know that you are not alone in your journey. I believe that people and relationships can thrive if given the proper support, nourishment, and environment. We are all given the same tools, but how helpful can it be if we were never taught how to use them? With some direction, non-judgement, and unconditional positive regard I believe people are capable of incredible things
(303) 997-1547 View (303) 997-1547
Photo of Barbara L. Riste - Parker Counseling, Inc., Licensed Professional Counselor in Parker, CO
Barbara L. Riste - Parker Counseling, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MBA, LPC
Verified Verified
Parker, CO 80138
I am traditionally trained as a marriage and family therapist, but I also apply a holistic approach by viewing people individually and systemically.
I believe the therapeutic process is much more beneficial and efficient when the process is viewed as a collaboration. You and your life experiences can be your best teacher and I utilize the lessons you have learned to facilitate change and propel you to a better life. The following are some of the life transitions and challenges I have considerable experience in with adults, adolescents and children: anxiety, anger management, bipolar disorder, blended/extended family challenges, depression, divorce/relationship loss, marriage and pre-marital, stress management and unemployment workplace issues.
I am traditionally trained as a marriage and family therapist, but I also apply a holistic approach by viewing people individually and systemically.
I believe the therapeutic process is much more beneficial and efficient when the process is viewed as a collaboration. You and your life experiences can be your best teacher and I utilize the lessons you have learned to facilitate change and propel you to a better life. The following are some of the life transitions and challenges I have considerable experience in with adults, adolescents and children: anxiety, anger management, bipolar disorder, blended/extended family challenges, depression, divorce/relationship loss, marriage and pre-marital, stress management and unemployment workplace issues.
(720) 961-2738 View (720) 961-2738
Photo of Renee Struck, Marriage & Family Therapist in Parker, CO
Renee Struck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFTC, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parker, CO 80138
I have extensive training with systems work, couples and family therapy, and the Gottman technique.
Experiencing trauma and severe life stressors as an individual, or in your family system, can feel like our world is crumbling around us. Since therapy is not a one-size-fits all process, I strive to bring compassion, authenticity, collaboration and warmth to our counseling sessions together. When you choose to work with me you can expect me to meet you where you are. I want to empower you to reduce feelings of overwhelm and grief, and come up with coping skills that work in your real life.
I have extensive training with systems work, couples and family therapy, and the Gottman technique.
Experiencing trauma and severe life stressors as an individual, or in your family system, can feel like our world is crumbling around us. Since therapy is not a one-size-fits all process, I strive to bring compassion, authenticity, collaboration and warmth to our counseling sessions together. When you choose to work with me you can expect me to meet you where you are. I want to empower you to reduce feelings of overwhelm and grief, and come up with coping skills that work in your real life.
(303) 951-7972 View (303) 951-7972
Photo of Ashley Moore (E-M-D-R Trained), Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate in Parker, CO
Ashley Moore (E-M-D-R Trained)
Marriage and Family Therapist Candidate, MA, MFTC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Parker, CO 80138
Schedule instantly through my website! Link in bio. Hello, I'm Ashley! I graduated from CU-Denver with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. I then went on to earn a MS in Psychology from the University of Phoenix. I spent four years working in mental health in varying capacities before completing a MA in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northcentral University. Since graduating, I have completed additional training and courses - I am EMDR trained, a Board Certified Clinical Sexologist. I am now a Clinical Sexology Ph.D. Candidate with a specialization in kink-conscious therapy. I focus on identity development and authentic acceptance.
Schedule instantly through my website! Link in bio. Hello, I'm Ashley! I graduated from CU-Denver with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. I then went on to earn a MS in Psychology from the University of Phoenix. I spent four years working in mental health in varying capacities before completing a MA in Marriage and Family Therapy from Northcentral University. Since graduating, I have completed additional training and courses - I am EMDR trained, a Board Certified Clinical Sexologist. I am now a Clinical Sexology Ph.D. Candidate with a specialization in kink-conscious therapy. I focus on identity development and authentic acceptance.
(855) 437-1181 View (855) 437-1181
Photo of Heather Dawn Westbarn, Counselor in Parker, CO
Heather Dawn Westbarn
Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Parker, CO 80138
I look forward to helping you and your family reach their goals whether it is in the playroom with your child, expressive arts, EMDR or traditional talk therapy.
Does your sadness or worry keep you from living the life you want? Are your children struggling with their emotions or behaviors? Healing and growth are possible. My goal as a therapist is to help you or your child heal from past wounds, to live fully in the present and work toward the life you want for yourself or your child. I work closely with my clients to help build a supportive relationship and safe space to promote healing. You don't have to do this alone.
I look forward to helping you and your family reach their goals whether it is in the playroom with your child, expressive arts, EMDR or traditional talk therapy.
Does your sadness or worry keep you from living the life you want? Are your children struggling with their emotions or behaviors? Healing and growth are possible. My goal as a therapist is to help you or your child heal from past wounds, to live fully in the present and work toward the life you want for yourself or your child. I work closely with my clients to help build a supportive relationship and safe space to promote healing. You don't have to do this alone.
(720) 903-4381 View (720) 903-4381
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.