Therapists in Downtown, Sarasota, FL

Photo of Stephanie Strahlman, Counselor in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Stephanie Strahlman
Counselor, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34236
Looking for an experienced and helpful child therapist? If you are wrestling with family power struggles, postpartum depression, disruptive behavior at school; or seeing your child consumed with excessive worry, eating problems, fearfulness, or sadness; I can help you imagine a more joyful, fulfilling and less stressful family life. I am a licensed counselor specializing in early childhood and parent-child relationships. As a Registered Play Therapist, my specialties include Trauma, Adoption, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Parent/Child Relationships, Sibling Rivalry, Body Image, Death, Divorce/Blended Families, Self-Esteem,& School Issues.
Looking for an experienced and helpful child therapist? If you are wrestling with family power struggles, postpartum depression, disruptive behavior at school; or seeing your child consumed with excessive worry, eating problems, fearfulness, or sadness; I can help you imagine a more joyful, fulfilling and less stressful family life. I am a licensed counselor specializing in early childhood and parent-child relationships. As a Registered Play Therapist, my specialties include Trauma, Adoption, Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Parent/Child Relationships, Sibling Rivalry, Body Image, Death, Divorce/Blended Families, Self-Esteem,& School Issues.
(941) 300-0244 View (941) 300-0244
Photo of Behavioral Teaching Solutions LLC in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Behavioral Teaching Solutions LLC
BCBA, LBA, QBA
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34236  (Online Only)
I work collaboratively with the family to create a more consistent and effective implementation.
As a licensed and certified behavioral health consultant, I'm here to support you on your journey to improved productivity and overall well-being. Living with intellectual disabilities or behavioral health issues can be challenging, but you're not alone. My compassionate approach to counseling focuses on meeting your unique needs and preferences. Together, we'll develop a personalized behavioral plan to support you in reaching your goals and improving your daily life. My ultimate goal is to empower and support you in achieving your best possible life. Let's work together in a safe and supportive space to achieve this shared goal.
I work collaboratively with the family to create a more consistent and effective implementation.
As a licensed and certified behavioral health consultant, I'm here to support you on your journey to improved productivity and overall well-being. Living with intellectual disabilities or behavioral health issues can be challenging, but you're not alone. My compassionate approach to counseling focuses on meeting your unique needs and preferences. Together, we'll develop a personalized behavioral plan to support you in reaching your goals and improving your daily life. My ultimate goal is to empower and support you in achieving your best possible life. Let's work together in a safe and supportive space to achieve this shared goal.
(941) 267-0439 View (941) 267-0439
Photo of Dr. Emily Deming, Psychologist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Dr. Emily Deming
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34236  (Online Only)
Hello! I am Dr. Emily Deming. I am a queer psychologist who is passionate about making therapy a space to not only reflect but also to learn. I have first hand experience with supporting a neurodivergent partner and integrating into a multiracial family. I believe that therapy is a learning process and I strive to make sure that my clients leave our sessions with a toolkit they can handle life’s ups and downs with. As the expert on your life, your child, or your family, my clients are an essential part of developing individualized treatment plans focused on their needs and goals.
Hello! I am Dr. Emily Deming. I am a queer psychologist who is passionate about making therapy a space to not only reflect but also to learn. I have first hand experience with supporting a neurodivergent partner and integrating into a multiracial family. I believe that therapy is a learning process and I strive to make sure that my clients leave our sessions with a toolkit they can handle life’s ups and downs with. As the expert on your life, your child, or your family, my clients are an essential part of developing individualized treatment plans focused on their needs and goals.
(727) 626-0608 View (727) 626-0608
Photo of Kimberley E May, Counselor in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Kimberley E May
Counselor, LMHC, CAP, CEAP, SAP, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34230
Counseling Services: Individual, Family, Couples Therapy, Child & Teen Therapy, DUI evaluations, substance abuse evaluations, DOT SAP services, Family Repair, High-conflict divorce, Co-Parenting Counseling Parenting Plan Support Reunification Therapy Blended Families.
I am a Licensed therapist, Certified Addictions Professional, Substance Abuse Professional, Certified Employee Assistance Professional as well as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have worked and practiced in the Tampa area for over 20 years. I provide individual, couples and family counseling. My treatment specialization includes: *PTSD *Children *Therapy for Depression and Anxiety *Couples Counseling *Family "Repair" *Parenting Support *Grief Counseling * *Addiction & Recovery *DUI evaluations *DOT SAP evaluation * I am EMDR trained. Counseling Services: Individual, Family, Couples Therapy, Child & Teen Therapy, PTSD
Counseling Services: Individual, Family, Couples Therapy, Child & Teen Therapy, DUI evaluations, substance abuse evaluations, DOT SAP services, Family Repair, High-conflict divorce, Co-Parenting Counseling Parenting Plan Support Reunification Therapy Blended Families.
I am a Licensed therapist, Certified Addictions Professional, Substance Abuse Professional, Certified Employee Assistance Professional as well as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I have worked and practiced in the Tampa area for over 20 years. I provide individual, couples and family counseling. My treatment specialization includes: *PTSD *Children *Therapy for Depression and Anxiety *Couples Counseling *Family "Repair" *Parenting Support *Grief Counseling * *Addiction & Recovery *DUI evaluations *DOT SAP evaluation * I am EMDR trained. Counseling Services: Individual, Family, Couples Therapy, Child & Teen Therapy, PTSD
(813) 579-2530 View (813) 579-2530
Dr. Emily Roff at Autism Family Coach
EdD, CCC-SLP
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34230  (Online Only)
If a family has concerns about the possibility of their child having autism, needs guidance after a recent diagnosis, or is looking for additional help and advice for a difficult autism-related chapter in their child's life, please reach out to Dr.
Dr. Emily Roff at Autism Family Coach helps families with a child, or loved one, with autism, across the life span. She provides guidance, coaching, training and advocacy for families navigating the complex world of autism. Families who may especially benefit are those who have concerns of early signs of autism; who need guidance on how to get an autism diagnosis; and/or who have a recent diagnosis and are looking for next steps, resources, and home- and school-based strategies. Additionally, families with other developmental disabilities may also benefit from working with Dr. Roff when strategizing IEP & school-based issues.
If a family has concerns about the possibility of their child having autism, needs guidance after a recent diagnosis, or is looking for additional help and advice for a difficult autism-related chapter in their child's life, please reach out to Dr.
Dr. Emily Roff at Autism Family Coach helps families with a child, or loved one, with autism, across the life span. She provides guidance, coaching, training and advocacy for families navigating the complex world of autism. Families who may especially benefit are those who have concerns of early signs of autism; who need guidance on how to get an autism diagnosis; and/or who have a recent diagnosis and are looking for next steps, resources, and home- and school-based strategies. Additionally, families with other developmental disabilities may also benefit from working with Dr. Roff when strategizing IEP & school-based issues.
(941) 559-8189 View (941) 559-8189
Photo of Tanya Ruiz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Tanya Ruiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, Therapy, QS-CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34230  (Online Only)
I offer individual, family, and couples therapy .
Accepting New Clients -Treating Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar or troubled relationships. Together we will unstuck life by finding the balance you are looking for. You deserve to be heard. Life can be overwhelming. It is time to take care of YOU. I am glad you are taking the first steps to feel better and resolve the concerns that have been bothering you and keeping you away from living the meaningful happier life you want to live. Perhaps you've been struggling with depression, anxiety, grief or troubled marital relationships? Maybe you've had a crisis and need help to get back on track, let's start to rebuild you back up.
I offer individual, family, and couples therapy .
Accepting New Clients -Treating Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Bipolar or troubled relationships. Together we will unstuck life by finding the balance you are looking for. You deserve to be heard. Life can be overwhelming. It is time to take care of YOU. I am glad you are taking the first steps to feel better and resolve the concerns that have been bothering you and keeping you away from living the meaningful happier life you want to live. Perhaps you've been struggling with depression, anxiety, grief or troubled marital relationships? Maybe you've had a crisis and need help to get back on track, let's start to rebuild you back up.
(321) 607-3562 View (321) 607-3562
Photo of Madison Ahles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Madison Ahles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34236
It’s hard to imagine a more accurate stereotype than the image of an unhappy adult reclined on a chaise lounge while venting about an unhappy childhood. Though the stereotype might be overly simplified, the reality is your childhood and adolescent years go on to color the rest of your life, shaping your personality, relationships, goals, and opinions. The importance of these years is what drew me to the field. From my very first placement as a graduate school intern, I was especially drawn towards the prospect of helping children and young adults navigate their way through a time that can feel like a rollercoaster.
It’s hard to imagine a more accurate stereotype than the image of an unhappy adult reclined on a chaise lounge while venting about an unhappy childhood. Though the stereotype might be overly simplified, the reality is your childhood and adolescent years go on to color the rest of your life, shaping your personality, relationships, goals, and opinions. The importance of these years is what drew me to the field. From my very first placement as a graduate school intern, I was especially drawn towards the prospect of helping children and young adults navigate their way through a time that can feel like a rollercoaster.
(941) 205-7181 View (941) 205-7181
Photo of Family Tree Behavioral Care, LLC in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Family Tree Behavioral Care, LLC
PhD, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34236
As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (BCBA-D), I provide applied behavior analysis services with an emphasis on functional analyses and function-based treatments to all ages. I specialize in treating problem behaviors (e.g., aggression, property destruction, pica, tantrums, elopement, noncompliance). I also provide skill development (e.g., social, communication, play, academic, vocational, and daily living skills). I work with all abilities and disabilities, including gifted children who struggle with social and communication skills and those with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Disabilities, Intellectual Disabilities. I provide extensive caregiver training and home services.
As a Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral (BCBA-D), I provide applied behavior analysis services with an emphasis on functional analyses and function-based treatments to all ages. I specialize in treating problem behaviors (e.g., aggression, property destruction, pica, tantrums, elopement, noncompliance). I also provide skill development (e.g., social, communication, play, academic, vocational, and daily living skills). I work with all abilities and disabilities, including gifted children who struggle with social and communication skills and those with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Developmental Disabilities, Intellectual Disabilities. I provide extensive caregiver training and home services.
(941) 404-3721 View (941) 404-3721
Photo of Nesreen Alsoraimi, Psychologist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Nesreen Alsoraimi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34230  (Online Only)
At the core of healing and growth is a solid and caring relationship with oneself and others. I aim to foster this while addressing your specific needs. I honor each individual I meet with and take a uniquely tailored and collaborative approach to therapy. Pursuing your goals with creativity, compassion and humor can help make the "work" of therapy flow more naturally and comfortably. I can help you gain insight in addressing various aspects of your individualized healing process holistically, which may include expressive art therapy, nature therapy, relational-cultural therapy as well as more traditional approaches.
At the core of healing and growth is a solid and caring relationship with oneself and others. I aim to foster this while addressing your specific needs. I honor each individual I meet with and take a uniquely tailored and collaborative approach to therapy. Pursuing your goals with creativity, compassion and humor can help make the "work" of therapy flow more naturally and comfortably. I can help you gain insight in addressing various aspects of your individualized healing process holistically, which may include expressive art therapy, nature therapy, relational-cultural therapy as well as more traditional approaches.
(858) 212-0929 View (858) 212-0929
Photo of Evolve Psych Group, PLLC in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Evolve Psych Group, PLLC
LCMHCQS
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34230
At Evolve, we have an engaged style of therapy that doesn’t let you “monologue” the session. We believe in the power of venting, and while listening is at the core of any therapeutic relationship, we are also trained to challenge those thoughts and feelings that are not serving you well. Many of our clients have had previous experiences that left them with that “been there, done that” type of feeling. That is why they came to us. We support you every step of the way, but we also challenge you and lead you to live the life you deserve. Your journey starts here.
At Evolve, we have an engaged style of therapy that doesn’t let you “monologue” the session. We believe in the power of venting, and while listening is at the core of any therapeutic relationship, we are also trained to challenge those thoughts and feelings that are not serving you well. Many of our clients have had previous experiences that left them with that “been there, done that” type of feeling. That is why they came to us. We support you every step of the way, but we also challenge you and lead you to live the life you deserve. Your journey starts here.
(704) 842-9734 View (704) 842-9734
Photo of Christin LaRue, Counselor in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Christin LaRue
Counselor, lmhc-WA
Verified Verified
Downtown, Sarasota, FL 34230
Relationships are what bring us joy in our lives, but sometimes despite our best efforts we come upon a stumbling block. We find ourselves struggling or unable to connect to those we love and sometimes even to ourselves. Maybe issues from past relationships get in the way, maybe there is a trauma to the relationship (such as illness, job loss, or simply entering a new stage of life such as parenthood or midlife). There may have been an infidelity, loss of job, or emotional issues such as depression / anxiety. Often we just feel a lack of connection we once had.
Relationships are what bring us joy in our lives, but sometimes despite our best efforts we come upon a stumbling block. We find ourselves struggling or unable to connect to those we love and sometimes even to ourselves. Maybe issues from past relationships get in the way, maybe there is a trauma to the relationship (such as illness, job loss, or simply entering a new stage of life such as parenthood or midlife). There may have been an infidelity, loss of job, or emotional issues such as depression / anxiety. Often we just feel a lack of connection we once had.
(727) 335-6839 View (727) 335-6839

Online Therapists

Photo of Taryn Darley, Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Taryn Darley
Registered Clinical Social Worker Intern, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34231
Welcome! I specialize in providing therapeutic support to children and adolescents as they navigate the ups and downs of growing up. My approach is all about creating a safe, nurturing, and playful environment where kids can express themselves freely and explore their thoughts and feelings. As a child therapist, I understand the unique challenges that young people face today. Whether it's coping with big emotions, navigating friendships, or dealing with family changes, I'm here to help.
Welcome! I specialize in providing therapeutic support to children and adolescents as they navigate the ups and downs of growing up. My approach is all about creating a safe, nurturing, and playful environment where kids can express themselves freely and explore their thoughts and feelings. As a child therapist, I understand the unique challenges that young people face today. Whether it's coping with big emotions, navigating friendships, or dealing with family changes, I'm here to help.
(941) 347-0846 View (941) 347-0846
Photo of Katherine Gibson, Psychologist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Katherine Gibson
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34233
I am a licensed psychologist who owns a private practice with several clinicians. Our specialty is providing evidence-based treatments and testing services to children and teens. We have great passion for helping children, teens & their families struggling with a variety of issues including anxiety, behavior problems, mood disorders, OCD, PANS/PANDAS, selective mutism, and trauma. We view each family as unique, aiming to identify the most effective treatment available for each situation, providing a supportive relationship and actively working together to reach your goals. Parents are an integral part of the treatment process.
I am a licensed psychologist who owns a private practice with several clinicians. Our specialty is providing evidence-based treatments and testing services to children and teens. We have great passion for helping children, teens & their families struggling with a variety of issues including anxiety, behavior problems, mood disorders, OCD, PANS/PANDAS, selective mutism, and trauma. We view each family as unique, aiming to identify the most effective treatment available for each situation, providing a supportive relationship and actively working together to reach your goals. Parents are an integral part of the treatment process.
(941) 357-4090 View (941) 357-4090
Photo of Spencer Thorpe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Spencer Thorpe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RBT
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34233
Hello, my name is Spencer Thorpe and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Registered Behavior Technician. I have received my undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Tampa, and my Master of Social Work from the University of South Florida. I have a mastery of assessment through behavioral observation as well as systems theory. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral, Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Solutions Focused and Family Systems interventions. I rely on evidenced based techniques to maximize effectiveness of therapy. I strive to improve quality of life for my clients and families.
Hello, my name is Spencer Thorpe and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Registered Behavior Technician. I have received my undergraduate degree in Psychology from the University of Tampa, and my Master of Social Work from the University of South Florida. I have a mastery of assessment through behavioral observation as well as systems theory. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral, Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, Solutions Focused and Family Systems interventions. I rely on evidenced based techniques to maximize effectiveness of therapy. I strive to improve quality of life for my clients and families.
(941) 300-5495 View (941) 300-5495
Photo of Reflections Counseling & Coaching in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Reflections Counseling & Coaching
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34240
At Reflections, we love helping people to find peace and joy again, and to experience their personal, family, and financial dreams coming true as well. We help our clients to deal with problematic thoughts and behaviors and life stress in general also. We work from a Christian framework and we "dig" only as deeply as needed to correct the problem(s). Our coaches specifically focus on meeting your goals for a promising future! In addition to our in-person work, we also offer online courses that individuals can take in the privacy of their own home!
At Reflections, we love helping people to find peace and joy again, and to experience their personal, family, and financial dreams coming true as well. We help our clients to deal with problematic thoughts and behaviors and life stress in general also. We work from a Christian framework and we "dig" only as deeply as needed to correct the problem(s). Our coaches specifically focus on meeting your goals for a promising future! In addition to our in-person work, we also offer online courses that individuals can take in the privacy of their own home!
(941) 254-2624 View (941) 254-2624
Photo of Tara Motzenbecker in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Tara Motzenbecker
LMHC, RPT, NCSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34233
I specialize in OCD, Trauma, Anxiety, Selective Mutism, child behavioral issues and gifted testing. I am a Registered Play Therapist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Licensed School Psychologist, EMDR Certified Therapist and a certified PCIT Therapist. When working with adults, I meet you where you are at. I focus my work with children on play-based, EMDR and cognitive behavioral strategies with a strong understanding of how children process and communicate. The family is always an integral part of therapy with children so I love bringing in parents and siblings in order to create a better future for the whole family.
I specialize in OCD, Trauma, Anxiety, Selective Mutism, child behavioral issues and gifted testing. I am a Registered Play Therapist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Licensed School Psychologist, EMDR Certified Therapist and a certified PCIT Therapist. When working with adults, I meet you where you are at. I focus my work with children on play-based, EMDR and cognitive behavioral strategies with a strong understanding of how children process and communicate. The family is always an integral part of therapy with children so I love bringing in parents and siblings in order to create a better future for the whole family.
(941) 212-0422 View (941) 212-0422
Photo of Belle Heneberger, Counselor in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Belle Heneberger
Counselor, RN, MEd, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34239
Issues often addressed with clients include assertive communication, anxiety, depression, anger management, stress, self-esteem, parenting, couples/family conflict and child behavioral problems.
Eliminate conflict, anxiety and depression more quickly when you engage your subconscious mind in the process of positive and rapid change. Activate new ways of thinking and coping to get more of what you want in life! Learn how previous experiences have influenced your choices until now, and begin to make the changes you want immediately. My approach is caring and supportive. As you clarify your goals and move towards attaining them, you will become more aware of your own strengths and options moving forward.
Issues often addressed with clients include assertive communication, anxiety, depression, anger management, stress, self-esteem, parenting, couples/family conflict and child behavioral problems.
Eliminate conflict, anxiety and depression more quickly when you engage your subconscious mind in the process of positive and rapid change. Activate new ways of thinking and coping to get more of what you want in life! Learn how previous experiences have influenced your choices until now, and begin to make the changes you want immediately. My approach is caring and supportive. As you clarify your goals and move towards attaining them, you will become more aware of your own strengths and options moving forward.
(941) 479-0968 View (941) 479-0968
Photo of Healing Transitions Creative Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Healing Transitions Creative Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34231  (Online Only)
I also have extensive experience as a family therapist, working with the unique dynamics of each family.
Transitions in life can be challenging for children, adolescents, and adults. My goal is to assist each client to achieve their highest potential. My role may change from being a catalyst for change, to conducting a thorough assessment. Evaluations may assist clients to identify problems that may be interfering with their everyday lives and personal relationships. I utilize my knowledge and education along with many years of experience in counseling in diverse settings and with all age groups. My focus of counseling is to build a safe, trusting relationship with each client with acceptance and without judgment to promote positive change.
I also have extensive experience as a family therapist, working with the unique dynamics of each family.
Transitions in life can be challenging for children, adolescents, and adults. My goal is to assist each client to achieve their highest potential. My role may change from being a catalyst for change, to conducting a thorough assessment. Evaluations may assist clients to identify problems that may be interfering with their everyday lives and personal relationships. I utilize my knowledge and education along with many years of experience in counseling in diverse settings and with all age groups. My focus of counseling is to build a safe, trusting relationship with each client with acceptance and without judgment to promote positive change.
(941) 336-7626 View (941) 336-7626
Photo of Rachel Funnell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Rachel Funnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sarasota, FL 34233  (Online Only)
If you always do what you have always done then you will always get what you have always gotten. Are you tired of always getting the same result in relationships or with family members or with your kids? If so, then it's time to do something different. Take a chance in therapy with me. I am a strength-based, solution focused, marriage and family therapist with a solid CBT foundation that desires to help you and your partner, your family and/or your children find a different way of handling life's challenges.
If you always do what you have always done then you will always get what you have always gotten. Are you tired of always getting the same result in relationships or with family members or with your kids? If so, then it's time to do something different. Take a chance in therapy with me. I am a strength-based, solution focused, marriage and family therapist with a solid CBT foundation that desires to help you and your partner, your family and/or your children find a different way of handling life's challenges.
(941) 357-4090 View (941) 357-4090
Photo of Forty Carrots Family Center, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Downtown, Sarasota, FL
Forty Carrots Family Center
Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
Sarasota, FL 34239
Forty Carrots Family Center provides mental health services for the entire family. Our individual and family offerings are devoted to promoting healthy family relationships. We offer general and specialized therapeutic services to meet your family's needs, including Individual and family therapy, play therapy, infant mental health, maternal wellness, and trauma - focused treatment. Forty Carrots therapists are committed to working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with different concerns.
Forty Carrots Family Center provides mental health services for the entire family. Our individual and family offerings are devoted to promoting healthy family relationships. We offer general and specialized therapeutic services to meet your family's needs, including Individual and family therapy, play therapy, infant mental health, maternal wellness, and trauma - focused treatment. Forty Carrots therapists are committed to working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with different concerns.
(941) 203-1021 View (941) 203-1021

See more therapy options for Downtown, Sarasota

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.