Family Therapy in Marshall County, IL

Photo of Open Doors Community Counseling (Gateway), Counselor in Marshall County, IL
Open Doors Community Counseling (Gateway)
Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, LSW
Verified Verified
Henry, IL 61537
Taking the first step and reaching out for help can be the most difficult part of beginning professional counseling. Here at Open Doors we believe that an investment in yourself is always beneficial, and we hope to assist you on your journey of mental wellness. Open Doors Community Counseling is a program of Gateway Services, Inc. We opened our community counseling program in July 2017. We have three full-time clinicians who provide compassionate support and encouragement to help you meet your wellness goals.
Taking the first step and reaching out for help can be the most difficult part of beginning professional counseling. Here at Open Doors we believe that an investment in yourself is always beneficial, and we hope to assist you on your journey of mental wellness. Open Doors Community Counseling is a program of Gateway Services, Inc. We opened our community counseling program in July 2017. We have three full-time clinicians who provide compassionate support and encouragement to help you meet your wellness goals.
(815) 421-1282 View (815) 421-1282

Online Therapists

Photo of Jena Nicole Stombaugh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marshall County, IL
Jena Nicole Stombaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Geneva, IL 60134  (Online Only)
Additionally, I am trained to work with transitional anxiety, career support, family difficulties, parenting, personal development, and play therapy.
As your therapist, I will provide you with support, guidance, and a safe and trusting environment to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals. There is a basic set of expectations for both parties to work together in harmony to create healthy coping skills that will stay with you for years to come. I welcome any client, regardless of recent struggles, who are dedicated to working towards the next steps in their lives.
Additionally, I am trained to work with transitional anxiety, career support, family difficulties, parenting, personal development, and play therapy.
As your therapist, I will provide you with support, guidance, and a safe and trusting environment to explore your thoughts, feelings, and goals. There is a basic set of expectations for both parties to work together in harmony to create healthy coping skills that will stay with you for years to come. I welcome any client, regardless of recent struggles, who are dedicated to working towards the next steps in their lives.
(630) 524-8648 View (630) 524-8648
Photo of Ann Thorwall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marshall County, IL
Ann Thorwall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
I'm especially passionate about relationship work, and I have many clients who come individually and still see incredible change in their relationship with their partner, parent, friend, or family member.
My approach to therapy combines the empathy and support of traditional talk therapy with active, research- based methods to help you overcome life’s hurdles and transitions. My clients have had great success with these methods in transforming relationships, overcoming depression, conquering anxiety, and gaining mastery of personal and professional challenges. My approach is both collaborative and directive; it is structured but not rigid.
I'm especially passionate about relationship work, and I have many clients who come individually and still see incredible change in their relationship with their partner, parent, friend, or family member.
My approach to therapy combines the empathy and support of traditional talk therapy with active, research- based methods to help you overcome life’s hurdles and transitions. My clients have had great success with these methods in transforming relationships, overcoming depression, conquering anxiety, and gaining mastery of personal and professional challenges. My approach is both collaborative and directive; it is structured but not rigid.
(630) 755-6663 View (630) 755-6663
Photo of Kelly Voorhees, Counselor in Marshall County, IL
Kelly Voorhees
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60544
I have been working in the mental health and social service field for over 20 years. In that time, I have had the pleasure of working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I am passionate about helping others in finding peace and happiness within themselves and their relationships. I take a client centered approach and come from a place of compassion in building a strong trusting client-therapist relationship. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, challenges with life stressors, work and school issues, codependency, and family/relationship issues.
I have been working in the mental health and social service field for over 20 years. In that time, I have had the pleasure of working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I am passionate about helping others in finding peace and happiness within themselves and their relationships. I take a client centered approach and come from a place of compassion in building a strong trusting client-therapist relationship. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, challenges with life stressors, work and school issues, codependency, and family/relationship issues.
(815) 559-5098 View (815) 559-5098
Photo of Emily Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marshall County, IL
Emily Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Homer Glen, IL 60491  (Online Only)
Some of the main concerns I specialize in include anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) depression, family conflict, attachment, and relationship issues.
Therapy can sometimes be a challenging first step for those currently going through a tough time. It can already be very difficult to try and cope with the day to day struggles as well as past traumas in life that opening up to a stranger may feel intimidating. It is my hope to allow my clients to not only feel safe to share their most unique selves within a therapeutic setting, but also to establish a warm and empathic relationship. As a therapist, I recognize the value of kindness and rapport in helping my clients heal. Feeling both seen and heard can truly make a difference in allowing personal growth to take place.
Some of the main concerns I specialize in include anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) depression, family conflict, attachment, and relationship issues.
Therapy can sometimes be a challenging first step for those currently going through a tough time. It can already be very difficult to try and cope with the day to day struggles as well as past traumas in life that opening up to a stranger may feel intimidating. It is my hope to allow my clients to not only feel safe to share their most unique selves within a therapeutic setting, but also to establish a warm and empathic relationship. As a therapist, I recognize the value of kindness and rapport in helping my clients heal. Feeling both seen and heard can truly make a difference in allowing personal growth to take place.
(872) 206-9652 x109 View (872) 206-9652 x109
Photo of Patricia M Cunningham, Counselor in Marshall County, IL
Patricia M Cunningham
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
I believe in the peaceful resolution of conflict, whether it is internal conflict caused by anxiety, depression, stress or just feeling stuck or external conflict with partners, children, family ,co-workers, or friends. Self-understanding and self-acceptance are key to personal health and creating healthy relationships. Knowing who we are and what we believe is the start. Being able to communicate that to others is essential to bringing peace into our lives.
I believe in the peaceful resolution of conflict, whether it is internal conflict caused by anxiety, depression, stress or just feeling stuck or external conflict with partners, children, family ,co-workers, or friends. Self-understanding and self-acceptance are key to personal health and creating healthy relationships. Knowing who we are and what we believe is the start. Being able to communicate that to others is essential to bringing peace into our lives.
(630) 599-8849 View (630) 599-8849
Photo of Brittany M. Frost, Pre-Licensed Professional in Marshall County, IL
Brittany M. Frost
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
I draw from various therapeutic techniques, including EMDR, EFT, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Polyvagal Theory, Attachment Theory, and Family Systems Therapy.
I am an empathetic therapist who counsels adults, teens, and primarily couples. My counseling style uses attachment-focused and trauma-informed approaches. I also have a clinical focus on sex therapy and relational intimacy. I am dedicated to helping my clients navigate their emotional and relational struggles related to everyday life. My therapeutic approach is grounded in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) and is influenced by parts work. I am a counselor with a master's degree in mental health counseling and a certificate in sex therapy.
I draw from various therapeutic techniques, including EMDR, EFT, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Polyvagal Theory, Attachment Theory, and Family Systems Therapy.
I am an empathetic therapist who counsels adults, teens, and primarily couples. My counseling style uses attachment-focused and trauma-informed approaches. I also have a clinical focus on sex therapy and relational intimacy. I am dedicated to helping my clients navigate their emotional and relational struggles related to everyday life. My therapeutic approach is grounded in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) and is influenced by parts work. I am a counselor with a master's degree in mental health counseling and a certificate in sex therapy.
(217) 269-8900 View (217) 269-8900
Photo of First Choice DUI & Counseling Services, Ltd., Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Marshall County, IL
First Choice DUI & Counseling Services, Ltd.
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
Hi my name is Bette Hunt owner of First Choice DUI & Counseling Services, Ltd. Are you experiencing difficulties with relationships, family conflicts, or intimacy problems? Do you struggle with depression or anxiety? Have you experienced trauma? Are you using alcohol or other drugs to help you through? You do not have to struggle alone. I can help. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I am committed to helping people make positive changes in their lives to improve their personal well-being. I work with individuals, couples, and families.
Hi my name is Bette Hunt owner of First Choice DUI & Counseling Services, Ltd. Are you experiencing difficulties with relationships, family conflicts, or intimacy problems? Do you struggle with depression or anxiety? Have you experienced trauma? Are you using alcohol or other drugs to help you through? You do not have to struggle alone. I can help. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I am committed to helping people make positive changes in their lives to improve their personal well-being. I work with individuals, couples, and families.
(331) 208-5417 View (331) 208-5417
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Marshall County, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, MAATC
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have been trained to work with a variety of issues-Depression, Anger, Anxiety (group and individual formats), Bipolar disorder, Trauma, Child and Adolescent work (males and females), Sexual Abuse, Play Therapy, Family therapy, Cultural issues (adapting to the western culture), and Gay/Lesbian family issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(708) 578-8666 View (708) 578-8666
Photo of BZA Behavioral Health - Schaumburg office, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marshall County, IL
BZA Behavioral Health - Schaumburg office
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Our services range from therapy for depression and anxiety to medication management, parenting support, family counseling and life coaching.
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
Our services range from therapy for depression and anxiety to medication management, parenting support, family counseling and life coaching.
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
(224) 505-8631 View (224) 505-8631
Photo of Judy Rudny LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marshall County, IL
Judy Rudny LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
Treatment Preferences ~Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) ~Family/Marital Therapy ~Coaching.
If you are feeling confused or frustrated, helpless, angry or isolated, schedule a time to talk with me about strategies that will empower you to work toward identified goals and bring balance back into your life. With certified professionalism, I will attentively listen to your specific situation and goals, and intelligently advise you along a path to an improved quality of life. Phone or FaceTime sessions available.
Treatment Preferences ~Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) ~Family/Marital Therapy ~Coaching.
If you are feeling confused or frustrated, helpless, angry or isolated, schedule a time to talk with me about strategies that will empower you to work toward identified goals and bring balance back into your life. With certified professionalism, I will attentively listen to your specific situation and goals, and intelligently advise you along a path to an improved quality of life. Phone or FaceTime sessions available.
(630) 733-1640 View (630) 733-1640
Photo of Kayla Button, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marshall County, IL
Kayla Button
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kankakee, IL 60901
"Today is the day to reach out and tomorrow is the day to feel better." If you're anything like me, then you know that half the battle is reaching out to "[Fill In The Blank]" in order for you to start feeling better about whatever the situation might be. You might fill in the blank with the Dentist, a friend with whom you had a falling out, a family member you forgot to say happy birthday to, etc. I'm the same way in so many situations but once I've made that appointment, talked to the friend, made it to the gym, etc... I feel so much better! I hope that today's the day you say... "I'm reaching out to better my self... for me!"
"Today is the day to reach out and tomorrow is the day to feel better." If you're anything like me, then you know that half the battle is reaching out to "[Fill In The Blank]" in order for you to start feeling better about whatever the situation might be. You might fill in the blank with the Dentist, a friend with whom you had a falling out, a family member you forgot to say happy birthday to, etc. I'm the same way in so many situations but once I've made that appointment, talked to the friend, made it to the gym, etc... I feel so much better! I hope that today's the day you say... "I'm reaching out to better my self... for me!"
(815) 916-6468 View (815) 916-6468
Photo of Michelle Stahley, Counselor in Marshall County, IL
Michelle Stahley
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
River Forest, IL 60305  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with adults & emerging adults regarding a variety of issues, including relationship & dating difficulties, life transitions, family of origin issues, and work/life balance difficulties.
Finding a therapist you feel connected to and understood by is the key to a successful therapy experience. I pride myself on being an authentic, non-judgmental therapist, who is down-to-Earth & not afraid to use humor or a gentle nudge in my approach. Therapy is a partnership and my style is active, collaborative, and empowering. We will focus on finding solutions together by utilizing your strengths and fostering insight in a relaxed and safe environment. I especially love working with & empowering introverts and Highly Sensitive People!
I have extensive experience working with adults & emerging adults regarding a variety of issues, including relationship & dating difficulties, life transitions, family of origin issues, and work/life balance difficulties.
Finding a therapist you feel connected to and understood by is the key to a successful therapy experience. I pride myself on being an authentic, non-judgmental therapist, who is down-to-Earth & not afraid to use humor or a gentle nudge in my approach. Therapy is a partnership and my style is active, collaborative, and empowering. We will focus on finding solutions together by utilizing your strengths and fostering insight in a relaxed and safe environment. I especially love working with & empowering introverts and Highly Sensitive People!
View
Photo of Melissa Baranowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Marshall County, IL
Melissa Baranowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mokena, IL 60448
I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults with a variety of issues, including mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, PTSD, stress, eating disorders, marriage/couples/relationship issues, family conflict, among others.
Do you sometimes feel like you’re disconnected, or feel like you don’t belong? Are you finding yourself overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety? Or perhaps relationship struggles or past traumas are not allowing you to live the life you want. You are not alone. Therapy is a powerful medium that can provide many tools and strategies to help you navigate all of these challenges and more. I pride myself on being open and accepting of everyone and have been fortunate to work with clients from all walks of life.
I have extensive experience working with adolescents and adults with a variety of issues, including mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, PTSD, stress, eating disorders, marriage/couples/relationship issues, family conflict, among others.
Do you sometimes feel like you’re disconnected, or feel like you don’t belong? Are you finding yourself overwhelmed by feelings of anxiety? Or perhaps relationship struggles or past traumas are not allowing you to live the life you want. You are not alone. Therapy is a powerful medium that can provide many tools and strategies to help you navigate all of these challenges and more. I pride myself on being open and accepting of everyone and have been fortunate to work with clients from all walks of life.
(708) 419-3644 View (708) 419-3644
Photo of Richard C Park, Marriage & Family Therapist in Marshall County, IL
Richard C Park
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60523
I’m also adjunct faculty supervisor at The Family Institute at Northwestern University.
“Dig within. Within is the wellspring of Good; and it is always ready to bubble up, if you just dig.” Marcus Aurelius. I've been fortunate enough to witness the ability that psychotherapy has to reflect a clear and uplifting view of your true self. Our emotions are deep, complex, and often misunderstood. By safely building meaningful context around your emotions, thoughts, and experiences, you understand yourself more clearly. This understanding leads to a freedom to pursue a life and future that makes you truly happy.
I’m also adjunct faculty supervisor at The Family Institute at Northwestern University.
“Dig within. Within is the wellspring of Good; and it is always ready to bubble up, if you just dig.” Marcus Aurelius. I've been fortunate enough to witness the ability that psychotherapy has to reflect a clear and uplifting view of your true self. Our emotions are deep, complex, and often misunderstood. By safely building meaningful context around your emotions, thoughts, and experiences, you understand yourself more clearly. This understanding leads to a freedom to pursue a life and future that makes you truly happy.
(847) 565-2139 View (847) 565-2139
Photo of Dean Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marshall County, IL
Dean Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61822
In addition to the specific clinical services I provide, I utilize my legal background combined with my clinical background in order to aide in the mediation of conflicts related to divorce, family issues, and custody.
My overall goal is to guide my clients to experience improved mental health and the empowerment needed to continue and maintain the improvements they attain. I do consider myself a generalist and am comfortable with most populations. I have experience working in outpatient settings, residential treatment centers, and inpatient psychiatric settings. My specialties include depression, anxiety, bi-polar and relationship issues, as well as numerous other issues affecting emotional and social well being. I strongly believe in therapy that is strength-based and tailored to the individual client's needs.
In addition to the specific clinical services I provide, I utilize my legal background combined with my clinical background in order to aide in the mediation of conflicts related to divorce, family issues, and custody.
My overall goal is to guide my clients to experience improved mental health and the empowerment needed to continue and maintain the improvements they attain. I do consider myself a generalist and am comfortable with most populations. I have experience working in outpatient settings, residential treatment centers, and inpatient psychiatric settings. My specialties include depression, anxiety, bi-polar and relationship issues, as well as numerous other issues affecting emotional and social well being. I strongly believe in therapy that is strength-based and tailored to the individual client's needs.
(217) 383-0437 View (217) 383-0437
Photo of Neelma Zafar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marshall County, IL
Neelma Zafar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Savoy, IL 61874  (Online Only)
I do family therapy sessions.
I meet the clients where they are and get to know them and their strengths. My approach is trauma-focused and evidence-based therapy but I believe in empowering the clients.
I do family therapy sessions.
I meet the clients where they are and get to know them and their strengths. My approach is trauma-focused and evidence-based therapy but I believe in empowering the clients.
(217) 393-8655 View (217) 393-8655
Photo of Amber Dowers, Counselor in Marshall County, IL
Amber Dowers
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Mahomet, IL 61853
Whichever way life's twists and turns take you, I am here to provide stability, safety, and a comforting platform from which to work through these sometimes life-changing, overwhelming events. I am a therapist that has been in practice in this community for over 10 years. I especially enjoy working with children, teens, and their families to promote better communication, support from past traumas, self-esteem, or functioning within the family. My focus with couples is also on communication-from evaluating and understanding communication styles to utilizing communication to improve functioning for the entire family.
Whichever way life's twists and turns take you, I am here to provide stability, safety, and a comforting platform from which to work through these sometimes life-changing, overwhelming events. I am a therapist that has been in practice in this community for over 10 years. I especially enjoy working with children, teens, and their families to promote better communication, support from past traumas, self-esteem, or functioning within the family. My focus with couples is also on communication-from evaluating and understanding communication styles to utilizing communication to improve functioning for the entire family.
(217) 764-8383 View (217) 764-8383
Photo of Julie Gerut, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Marshall County, IL
Julie Gerut
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301
I help individuals and couples develop clear strategies to reduce feelings of anxiety, depression and loneliness. Those coping with marital or relationship difficulties, career transitions and parenting issues find my gentle directness helpful in improving the quality of their lives. In a calm, neutral environment, I offer clients the opportunity to understand themselves in a manner that leads to more satisfying family, marital and work relationships. I utilize family systems and cognitive behavioral therapy to help individuals and couples improve their communication skills and navigate the uncertain waters of change.
I help individuals and couples develop clear strategies to reduce feelings of anxiety, depression and loneliness. Those coping with marital or relationship difficulties, career transitions and parenting issues find my gentle directness helpful in improving the quality of their lives. In a calm, neutral environment, I offer clients the opportunity to understand themselves in a manner that leads to more satisfying family, marital and work relationships. I utilize family systems and cognitive behavioral therapy to help individuals and couples improve their communication skills and navigate the uncertain waters of change.
(312) 789-5420 View (312) 789-5420
Photo of Alex E McKibbin MS LCPC, Counselor in Marshall County, IL
Alex E McKibbin MS LCPC
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LSOTP, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60544
Relationship Issues, Couples Counseling and Family therapy are available at my office.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults who are comfortable with a one on one approach to counseling. Working with children in therapy always involves working with the parents. As with adolescents, providing them with a sense of privacy and trust is something I try to develop from the very beginning. For adults, privacy, confidentiality, and respect occur in a atmosphere of warmth and patience. If you are dealing with Attention Deficit Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Panic attacks, Bipolar Disorder, or Post Traumatic Stress, I am sure you will find the relief you are looking for at my office.
Relationship Issues, Couples Counseling and Family therapy are available at my office.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults who are comfortable with a one on one approach to counseling. Working with children in therapy always involves working with the parents. As with adolescents, providing them with a sense of privacy and trust is something I try to develop from the very beginning. For adults, privacy, confidentiality, and respect occur in a atmosphere of warmth and patience. If you are dealing with Attention Deficit Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Panic attacks, Bipolar Disorder, or Post Traumatic Stress, I am sure you will find the relief you are looking for at my office.
(331) 244-5638 View (331) 244-5638
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.