Photo of Daniel E Healy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Daniel E Healy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60645  (Online Only)
I will be happy to talk with you to discuss if I could be the right therapist for you, your child, or other family member.
If something in your life is not going the way you want it to go, therapy can help to reduce stress, improve relationships, and offer new ways of understanding your previous and current circumstances. If you or someone close to you is experiencing symptoms of Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, anxiety, depression, difficulty with relationships, or general dissatisfaction, I am here to help.
I will be happy to talk with you to discuss if I could be the right therapist for you, your child, or other family member.
If something in your life is not going the way you want it to go, therapy can help to reduce stress, improve relationships, and offer new ways of understanding your previous and current circumstances. If you or someone close to you is experiencing symptoms of Adult Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, anxiety, depression, difficulty with relationships, or general dissatisfaction, I am here to help.
(872) 266-9276 View (872) 266-9276
Photo of Veronica Ursetto, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Veronica Ursetto
Counselor, LCPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
Have you ever noticed yourself shutting down or feeling overwhelmed in stressful situations? Or you might notice yourself focused on thinking about how to change things without anything actually changing. I enjoy helping adults, families, and children safely stay anchored in the here-and-now as they authentically reconnect to feelings, learning how to become more comfortable along the way. I appreciate hearing how you experience life and interact with others. For children, I create a safe, and non judgmental place through the use a play and family therapy to allow change to occur.
Have you ever noticed yourself shutting down or feeling overwhelmed in stressful situations? Or you might notice yourself focused on thinking about how to change things without anything actually changing. I enjoy helping adults, families, and children safely stay anchored in the here-and-now as they authentically reconnect to feelings, learning how to become more comfortable along the way. I appreciate hearing how you experience life and interact with others. For children, I create a safe, and non judgmental place through the use a play and family therapy to allow change to occur.
(773) 900-4314 View (773) 900-4314
Photo of Julleon Garrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Julleon Garrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than "illness."
My ideal client comes from many walks of life. They are children, teenagers, and adults and present with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, relationship and family problems, Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), school problems, and oppositional-defiant disorder. They all share a common need to be heard, empowered, and guided on the path of recovery. I provide evidence-based treatments tailored to the needs of my clients. I focus on strengths and capabilities rather than "illness."
(312) 262-2473 View (312) 262-2473
Danielle Sines
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60622
Danielle believes in working with each member of the family to create lasting change.
Home Remedy provides an alternative for families who are considering an out-of-home placement for their child. Home Remedy is designed exclusively for families who have exhausted all local treatment options. We provide intensive, in-home therapeutic services that strengthen families, empower parents, decrease difficult and negative behaviors of children, and improve family relationships. We are an effective alternative for families with struggling adolescents who are considering an out-of-home placement.
Danielle believes in working with each member of the family to create lasting change.
Home Remedy provides an alternative for families who are considering an out-of-home placement for their child. Home Remedy is designed exclusively for families who have exhausted all local treatment options. We provide intensive, in-home therapeutic services that strengthen families, empower parents, decrease difficult and negative behaviors of children, and improve family relationships. We are an effective alternative for families with struggling adolescents who are considering an out-of-home placement.
(773) 432-4725 View (773) 432-4725
Photo of Ahlam Malow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ahlam Malow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MLS, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60616  (Online Only)
I am a firm believer that it is okay not to be okay and it is okay to ask for help. I strive to break the stigma around mental health, substance abuse, and seeking mental health services especially within minority communities where seeing a therapy is not a norm. I strive to normalize mental illness and addiction as we have normalized physical health. On this mission, I have had the pleasure to provide therapeutic services to diverse populations, including adolescents, adults, and families, via individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy.
I am a firm believer that it is okay not to be okay and it is okay to ask for help. I strive to break the stigma around mental health, substance abuse, and seeking mental health services especially within minority communities where seeing a therapy is not a norm. I strive to normalize mental illness and addiction as we have normalized physical health. On this mission, I have had the pleasure to provide therapeutic services to diverse populations, including adolescents, adults, and families, via individual therapy, group therapy, and family therapy.
(312) 598-0763 View (312) 598-0763
Photo of Casey Merrill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Casey Merrill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
My passion is working with youth and young adults, especially those experiencing life transitions, family and relationship conflict, anxiety, and depression.
I understand how overwhelming the process of finding a therapist can be. I understand the discouragement felt when your therapist isn’t the right fit. My approach to therapy is down to earth and humanistic. I recognize that everyone is having their own authentic and imperfect experience which cannot be judged, and the way I treat every client mirrors that. My core belief is that everyone deserves to be heard.
My passion is working with youth and young adults, especially those experiencing life transitions, family and relationship conflict, anxiety, and depression.
I understand how overwhelming the process of finding a therapist can be. I understand the discouragement felt when your therapist isn’t the right fit. My approach to therapy is down to earth and humanistic. I recognize that everyone is having their own authentic and imperfect experience which cannot be judged, and the way I treat every client mirrors that. My core belief is that everyone deserves to be heard.
(312) 728-7337 View (312) 728-7337
Photo of Neha Chandani, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Neha Chandani
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
My specialties include working with perfectionism, neurodiversity, ADHD, life transitions, BIPOC mental health, LGBTQ+ mental health, family of origin, and relationship dynamics.
As a collaborative counselor, I create a therapeutic relationship that is genuine, warm, and non-judgmental. My approach is centered on considering the client as expert while working to help you reach stability, manage your challenges, and reach your goals. Coming from a cultural background where mental health is often stigmatized, I understand that seeking support can be difficult and therefore I aim to create a welcoming space for you ... a space of empowerment, improvement, and healing.
My specialties include working with perfectionism, neurodiversity, ADHD, life transitions, BIPOC mental health, LGBTQ+ mental health, family of origin, and relationship dynamics.
As a collaborative counselor, I create a therapeutic relationship that is genuine, warm, and non-judgmental. My approach is centered on considering the client as expert while working to help you reach stability, manage your challenges, and reach your goals. Coming from a cultural background where mental health is often stigmatized, I understand that seeking support can be difficult and therefore I aim to create a welcoming space for you ... a space of empowerment, improvement, and healing.
(872) 246-7981 View (872) 246-7981
Photo of Hillary Jennings, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Hillary Jennings
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
As a marriage and family therapist, I work with both individuals and couples.
We live in a culture where we deal with daily stress and sometimes trauma based on our marginalized identities, whether they be race, gender, sexual orientation, class, or ability level. Combine that with the ongoing effects of the pandemic and the stress of the constant negative news feed, and it becomes easy to feel overwhelmed and lose our balance. Having been in practice for 18 years and tuned into the ways in which our culture affects us all, I'm here to help. Reaching out to a therapist can be scary. I work to create an open, judgement-free environment where we will work on your problems collaboratively.
As a marriage and family therapist, I work with both individuals and couples.
We live in a culture where we deal with daily stress and sometimes trauma based on our marginalized identities, whether they be race, gender, sexual orientation, class, or ability level. Combine that with the ongoing effects of the pandemic and the stress of the constant negative news feed, and it becomes easy to feel overwhelmed and lose our balance. Having been in practice for 18 years and tuned into the ways in which our culture affects us all, I'm here to help. Reaching out to a therapist can be scary. I work to create an open, judgement-free environment where we will work on your problems collaboratively.
(312) 647-2033 View (312) 647-2033
Photo of Tamara Rostein, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Tamara Rostein
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Rostein uses a combination of theoretical models which include psychodynamic and play therapy, relational techniques, and family systems approaches with developmental and trauma-informed lenses.
Dr. Rostein is a bi-cultural and bi-racial post-doctoral fellow working with children ages 0-18, with a variety of behavioral and emotional issues. Dr. Rostein provides services in both English and Spanish, and specializes in working with infants to young adults and families who have experienced complex trauma including abuse, neglect, and attachment ruptures. Dr. Rostein is rostered in Child-Parent Psychotherapy, a model for children (0-5) who have experienced trauma. Dr. Rostein works with individuals demonstrating symptoms associated with autism, intellectual disabilities, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem issues.
Rostein uses a combination of theoretical models which include psychodynamic and play therapy, relational techniques, and family systems approaches with developmental and trauma-informed lenses.
Dr. Rostein is a bi-cultural and bi-racial post-doctoral fellow working with children ages 0-18, with a variety of behavioral and emotional issues. Dr. Rostein provides services in both English and Spanish, and specializes in working with infants to young adults and families who have experienced complex trauma including abuse, neglect, and attachment ruptures. Dr. Rostein is rostered in Child-Parent Psychotherapy, a model for children (0-5) who have experienced trauma. Dr. Rostein works with individuals demonstrating symptoms associated with autism, intellectual disabilities, depression, anxiety, and self-esteem issues.
(773) 692-6695 x2025 View (773) 692-6695 x2025
Photo of Mary-Bianca Fuller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Mary-Bianca Fuller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
My therapeutic approach is rooted in a holistic understanding of neurobiology, blending principles from Polyvagal Theory and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Prioritizing curiosity, compassion, and empowerment, I recognize the profound impact of a strong therapeutic alliance on the healing process. Specializing in an integrated approach, I harmonize IFS with Polyvagal-informed techniques, guiding clients in exploring their internal dynamics and regulating their nervous systems to manage stress, trauma, & cultivate enriching connections. Guided by values of holistic healing and empowerment, I create a non-judgmental space for clients.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in a holistic understanding of neurobiology, blending principles from Polyvagal Theory and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Prioritizing curiosity, compassion, and empowerment, I recognize the profound impact of a strong therapeutic alliance on the healing process. Specializing in an integrated approach, I harmonize IFS with Polyvagal-informed techniques, guiding clients in exploring their internal dynamics and regulating their nervous systems to manage stress, trauma, & cultivate enriching connections. Guided by values of holistic healing and empowerment, I create a non-judgmental space for clients.
(872) 276-8623 View (872) 276-8623
Photo of Trilogy Behavioral Healthcare, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Trilogy Behavioral Healthcare
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCPC, LMFT, LPHA, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60659
Please reach out if you or a family member are experiencing stressful relationships, mood swings, psychosis, difficulty at work or school responsibilities, or struggling with drug or alcohol use.
Trilogy has been a pillar in the mental health community since 1971 and is proud to announce the opening of two new locations specializing in therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Our experienced therapists offer a safe, supportive environment and evidence based treatments such as Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), First Episode Psychosis, Play- and Expressive-Based Therapies. Trilogy is trauma focused and a LGBTQ+ affirming organization. Find out more at our website http://tts.trilogyinc.org/
Please reach out if you or a family member are experiencing stressful relationships, mood swings, psychosis, difficulty at work or school responsibilities, or struggling with drug or alcohol use.
Trilogy has been a pillar in the mental health community since 1971 and is proud to announce the opening of two new locations specializing in therapy for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Our experienced therapists offer a safe, supportive environment and evidence based treatments such as Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), First Episode Psychosis, Play- and Expressive-Based Therapies. Trilogy is trauma focused and a LGBTQ+ affirming organization. Find out more at our website http://tts.trilogyinc.org/
(312) 764-1017 View (312) 764-1017
Photo of Kathy Bingham, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Kathy Bingham
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
My professional experience as a developmental psychologist and family therapist also inform my practice.
Are you feeling down, or experiencing negative thoughts? Do you struggle to find a sense of calm? Therapy can help. Are you dealing with relationship difficulties, struggles to balance career and personal life, grief, loss or trauma, adapting to health problems, or searching for personal meaning in life? Sorting out and talking through these issues, along with developing adaptive coping strategies can make a positive difference. As the therapeutic process develops, you may also explore your personal history in relation to current stressors, and develop a greater sense of self understanding and discover ways you want to tweak some "old ways of doing things."
My professional experience as a developmental psychologist and family therapist also inform my practice.
Are you feeling down, or experiencing negative thoughts? Do you struggle to find a sense of calm? Therapy can help. Are you dealing with relationship difficulties, struggles to balance career and personal life, grief, loss or trauma, adapting to health problems, or searching for personal meaning in life? Sorting out and talking through these issues, along with developing adaptive coping strategies can make a positive difference. As the therapeutic process develops, you may also explore your personal history in relation to current stressors, and develop a greater sense of self understanding and discover ways you want to tweak some "old ways of doing things."
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Photo of Abigail Percifield, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Abigail Percifield
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping people sense into what is beneath the surface to better understand what is driving the problems they haven’t been able to solve. Perhaps you've been unable to make progress on a goal, feel stuck in unfulfilling relationships, or can recognize recurring patterns in your life. You may be trying to disrupt intergenerational cycles of abuse of simply wanting to connect more deeply with your family and loved ones. I work with people who are establishing healthier behaviors in their life, coping with grief or trauma, exploring changes during the perinatal period, or seeking more fulfillment in their relationships.
I specialize in helping people sense into what is beneath the surface to better understand what is driving the problems they haven’t been able to solve. Perhaps you've been unable to make progress on a goal, feel stuck in unfulfilling relationships, or can recognize recurring patterns in your life. You may be trying to disrupt intergenerational cycles of abuse of simply wanting to connect more deeply with your family and loved ones. I work with people who are establishing healthier behaviors in their life, coping with grief or trauma, exploring changes during the perinatal period, or seeking more fulfillment in their relationships.
(312) 535-7291 View (312) 535-7291
Photo of Dr. Rebecca Bergen, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Dr. Rebecca Bergen
Psychologist, PhD, LCP, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I also have special training in providing couples, marriage, and family therapy.
Explore. Understand. Grow. These three words best explain my approach to therapy. Through the establishment of a trusted therapeutic relationship, together, we will embark on the process of psychological change. We will explore what is preventing you from reaching your full potential. You will develop a greater understanding of yourself, which will facilitate your growth into the person you want to become. I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering counseling to adults, adolescents, children, and families. I have extensive experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, eating disorders, parenting issues, behavioral problems and career concerns.
I also have special training in providing couples, marriage, and family therapy.
Explore. Understand. Grow. These three words best explain my approach to therapy. Through the establishment of a trusted therapeutic relationship, together, we will embark on the process of psychological change. We will explore what is preventing you from reaching your full potential. You will develop a greater understanding of yourself, which will facilitate your growth into the person you want to become. I am a licensed clinical psychologist offering counseling to adults, adolescents, children, and families. I have extensive experience treating clients with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, eating disorders, parenting issues, behavioral problems and career concerns.
(773) 877-3250 View (773) 877-3250
Photo of Julie Wallace Zimmerman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Julie Wallace Zimmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
Psychodynamic theory focuses on "family of origin" issues, and cognitive-behavioral theory examines ones "core beliefs.
I seek to set my clients at ease in a comfortable setting so that they can tell their story in a nurturing and non-judgmental setting. Only then can we begin to focus on what they want to accomplish: setting realistic goals for both personal and professional success. I believe that this is done best with a sense of humor, as laughter is the best medicine! I show my clients that therapy can be as fun and as productive as they want it to be, where your thoughts and feelings are taken very seriously, and where what you put in is what you get out!
Psychodynamic theory focuses on "family of origin" issues, and cognitive-behavioral theory examines ones "core beliefs.
I seek to set my clients at ease in a comfortable setting so that they can tell their story in a nurturing and non-judgmental setting. Only then can we begin to focus on what they want to accomplish: setting realistic goals for both personal and professional success. I believe that this is done best with a sense of humor, as laughter is the best medicine! I show my clients that therapy can be as fun and as productive as they want it to be, where your thoughts and feelings are taken very seriously, and where what you put in is what you get out!
(773) 683-3462 View (773) 683-3462
Photo of Mike Connell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Mike Connell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I graduated from Adler University with a master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and hold a license as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois and Oregon. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, and children on a wide range of issues. These include anxiety, depression, communication, conflict resolution, emotional regulation, Autism spectrum disorder, trauma, and life transitions. My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that true change occurs by focusing our energy on building the new rather than fighting the old.
I graduated from Adler University with a master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and hold a license as a Marriage and Family Therapist in Illinois and Oregon. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, and children on a wide range of issues. These include anxiety, depression, communication, conflict resolution, emotional regulation, Autism spectrum disorder, trauma, and life transitions. My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that true change occurs by focusing our energy on building the new rather than fighting the old.
(312) 779-0403 View (312) 779-0403
Photo of Maribel Ruiz Eggleston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Maribel Ruiz Eggleston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
I am a bilingual therapist providing psychotherapy to children, families, adolescents & adults. My approach combines directness, honesty, compassion & genuineness which I use to address a broad range of challenges & help clients find the strength to change. I have experience working with families & individuals who experience depression, relationship & family issues, mood, anxiety & adjustment disorders & behavioral concerns. We will work together to emphasize, develop & grow your self-determination & strengths in order to empower you to make better decisions & provide you with hope & motivation.
I am a bilingual therapist providing psychotherapy to children, families, adolescents & adults. My approach combines directness, honesty, compassion & genuineness which I use to address a broad range of challenges & help clients find the strength to change. I have experience working with families & individuals who experience depression, relationship & family issues, mood, anxiety & adjustment disorders & behavioral concerns. We will work together to emphasize, develop & grow your self-determination & strengths in order to empower you to make better decisions & provide you with hope & motivation.
(312) 516-2314 View (312) 516-2314
Photo of Elizabeth Scholom, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Elizabeth Scholom
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Often in times of stress, we don’t even realize how much emotional energy we are using just to get through the day. Whether you’re finding yourself feeling overwhelmed, stressed, in pain, alone, facing difficulties with family members, or experiencing recurring issues in close relationships, being able to talk about it can bring relief and even be life changing. Having a safe, nonjudgmental therapeutic space to address difficult, painful, or overwhelming feelings or problems can equip you to manage the adverse periods that life brings, feel better, and experience more satisfaction in your relationships and within yourself.
Often in times of stress, we don’t even realize how much emotional energy we are using just to get through the day. Whether you’re finding yourself feeling overwhelmed, stressed, in pain, alone, facing difficulties with family members, or experiencing recurring issues in close relationships, being able to talk about it can bring relief and even be life changing. Having a safe, nonjudgmental therapeutic space to address difficult, painful, or overwhelming feelings or problems can equip you to manage the adverse periods that life brings, feel better, and experience more satisfaction in your relationships and within yourself.
(312) 667-2599 View (312) 667-2599
Photo of Gary Chung, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Gary Chung
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608
With over 5 years of clinical experience, my work focuses on meeting clients where they are at and providing a safe space for growth, acceptance, and healing. I have worked with children, family, and adults. I believe in being a supportive role in helping my clients reach their goals within their specific context. Often times, I see clients that wish to seek therapy to better themselves and grow their self-awareness in order to build skills to resolve the challenges they face. My belief is that clients can benefit from an unbiased perspective and I can provide this space for individuals to grow at their own pace.
With over 5 years of clinical experience, my work focuses on meeting clients where they are at and providing a safe space for growth, acceptance, and healing. I have worked with children, family, and adults. I believe in being a supportive role in helping my clients reach their goals within their specific context. Often times, I see clients that wish to seek therapy to better themselves and grow their self-awareness in order to build skills to resolve the challenges they face. My belief is that clients can benefit from an unbiased perspective and I can provide this space for individuals to grow at their own pace.
(773) 207-4246 View (773) 207-4246
Photo of Leslie Damaso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Leslie Damaso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
Leslie has experience integrating multiple modalities in treatment including, Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavior, Internal Family Systems and Person Centered approaches.
Leslie’s ideal client is someone who is ready to take the first step towards self-improvement and personal growth. Leslie’s therapeutic practice focuses on helping individuals develop healthy ways to process depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and life transitions. Leslie engages clients through an empathetic and relational approach to help individuals achieve a balanced and healthy life for themselves.
Leslie has experience integrating multiple modalities in treatment including, Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavior, Internal Family Systems and Person Centered approaches.
Leslie’s ideal client is someone who is ready to take the first step towards self-improvement and personal growth. Leslie’s therapeutic practice focuses on helping individuals develop healthy ways to process depression, stress, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties and life transitions. Leslie engages clients through an empathetic and relational approach to help individuals achieve a balanced and healthy life for themselves.
(312) 561-9486 View (312) 561-9486
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.