Family Therapy in North Bethesda, MD

Photo of Toni A. Cortellessa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Toni A. Cortellessa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Toni is a highly skilled therapist who has been practicing for over 30 years. She practices individual, couple and family therapy with adolescents and adults. Toni is committed to advanced training as well as teaching. She has served as a faculty member for Georgetown School of Medicine, Washington Center for Psychoanalysis and the Washington School of Psychiatry. Toni has also been trained as a Collaborative Divorce Coach as well as a Parent Coordinator. In addition, she provides supervision to other therapists. Her empathy and commitment to her work led to her being included in WASHINGTONIAN MAGAZINE "TOP COUPLE THERAPISTS" in 2012.,
Toni is a highly skilled therapist who has been practicing for over 30 years. She practices individual, couple and family therapy with adolescents and adults. Toni is committed to advanced training as well as teaching. She has served as a faculty member for Georgetown School of Medicine, Washington Center for Psychoanalysis and the Washington School of Psychiatry. Toni has also been trained as a Collaborative Divorce Coach as well as a Parent Coordinator. In addition, she provides supervision to other therapists. Her empathy and commitment to her work led to her being included in WASHINGTONIAN MAGAZINE "TOP COUPLE THERAPISTS" in 2012.,
(240) 451-8702 View (240) 451-8702
Photo of Voted "Best Of- Practice" - Potomac Therapy Group, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Voted "Best Of- Practice" - Potomac Therapy Group
Psychologist
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Potomac Therapy Group is an award-winning psychotherapy practice in North Bethesda, Maryland that provides specialized psychotherapy services. Potomac Therapy Group offers virtual and in-person individual, couples, family, and group therapy services for clients located in Maryland, Virginia, Washington, DC, and California.
Potomac Therapy Group is an award-winning psychotherapy practice in North Bethesda, Maryland that provides specialized psychotherapy services. Potomac Therapy Group offers virtual and in-person individual, couples, family, and group therapy services for clients located in Maryland, Virginia, Washington, DC, and California.
(240) 453-4923 View (240) 453-4923
Photo of Phyllis Agyapong, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Phyllis Agyapong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Open for Online and In-Person Sessions- Hey there! My name is Phyllis and I'm a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist. I am a level-2 certified Gottman Couples Therapist providing counseling for couples, adults, and families. I help clients improve communication, trust, and security in their relationships. I work collaboratively with my clients and believe they are the expert on their lives. I focus on their strengths and help build upon them to overcome difficulties. I identify what is already working well for them and we build the skills that they can implement and use in their everyday lives.
Open for Online and In-Person Sessions- Hey there! My name is Phyllis and I'm a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist. I am a level-2 certified Gottman Couples Therapist providing counseling for couples, adults, and families. I help clients improve communication, trust, and security in their relationships. I work collaboratively with my clients and believe they are the expert on their lives. I focus on their strengths and help build upon them to overcome difficulties. I identify what is already working well for them and we build the skills that they can implement and use in their everyday lives.
(301) 690-9369 View (301) 690-9369
Photo of Rebecca Resnik and Associates LLC, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Rebecca Resnik and Associates LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
Welcome! Our practice offers neuropsychological and psychoeducational testing and psychotherapy provided by exceptional clinicians. Our experienced clinicians focus on providing the highest quality of care in a warm, supportive environment. We are committed to evidence-based practices in both testing and therapy to ensure that we can help you meet your goals (and your child/teen realize their true potential). Not only are we focused on your goals, we want testing and/or therapy to be a great experience for you and your family. We believe that evidence-based psychological care can transform lives and unlock potential.
Welcome! Our practice offers neuropsychological and psychoeducational testing and psychotherapy provided by exceptional clinicians. Our experienced clinicians focus on providing the highest quality of care in a warm, supportive environment. We are committed to evidence-based practices in both testing and therapy to ensure that we can help you meet your goals (and your child/teen realize their true potential). Not only are we focused on your goals, we want testing and/or therapy to be a great experience for you and your family. We believe that evidence-based psychological care can transform lives and unlock potential.
(240) 434-0755 x1 View (240) 434-0755 x1
Photo of Paula Henriquez, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Paula Henriquez
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
I am Bilingual Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with children and adolescents and their families with a range of emotional and behavioral conflicts and issues. I have provided individual and family therapy using a variety of evidence-based methods. Having a particular interest in working with children who struggle with various life issues, I view my office as a place where children can feel safe and learn to help themselves. I encourage them to identify their own strengths and develop goals to promote positive long-term outcomes and resilience so that they may thrive.
I am Bilingual Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with children and adolescents and their families with a range of emotional and behavioral conflicts and issues. I have provided individual and family therapy using a variety of evidence-based methods. Having a particular interest in working with children who struggle with various life issues, I view my office as a place where children can feel safe and learn to help themselves. I encourage them to identify their own strengths and develop goals to promote positive long-term outcomes and resilience so that they may thrive.
(240) 668-0511 View (240) 668-0511
Photo of Allison Brown, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Allison Brown
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Contact me to determine how I am best able to work with your family.
We currently have 2 new child therapists that have after school availability. Is it difficult to communicate with your child? Does your child have moments when their emotions take over and have a meltdown? Is your child withdrawn and have difficulty interacting with other children? Does your child have unpredictable reactions to simple requests or situations? Would you like to be able to comfort your child when they appear upset?
Contact me to determine how I am best able to work with your family.
We currently have 2 new child therapists that have after school availability. Is it difficult to communicate with your child? Does your child have moments when their emotions take over and have a meltdown? Is your child withdrawn and have difficulty interacting with other children? Does your child have unpredictable reactions to simple requests or situations? Would you like to be able to comfort your child when they appear upset?
(240) 398-3298 View (240) 398-3298
Photo of Dr. Silvi Guerra, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Dr. Silvi Guerra
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Call today to schedule a consultation to discuss personalized support to empower you or your family member on the journey towards well-being.
Hi! I am Dr. Silvi, a licensed clinical psychologist, consultant, and author. With a clinical focus on evidence-based treatment for OCD, anxiety, and mood disorders across all age groups, I provide individual therapy, parenting consultations, and group sessions in person and via telehealth across 38 states with PSYPACT. Our collaborative journey involves crafting a personalized treatment plan using a holistic, neuropsychological, empathic, culturally informed, and resilient approach. Embracing a strength-based perspective, I am dedicated to supporting your healing journey in every possible way. Learn more at drsilvi.com
Call today to schedule a consultation to discuss personalized support to empower you or your family member on the journey towards well-being.
Hi! I am Dr. Silvi, a licensed clinical psychologist, consultant, and author. With a clinical focus on evidence-based treatment for OCD, anxiety, and mood disorders across all age groups, I provide individual therapy, parenting consultations, and group sessions in person and via telehealth across 38 states with PSYPACT. Our collaborative journey involves crafting a personalized treatment plan using a holistic, neuropsychological, empathic, culturally informed, and resilient approach. Embracing a strength-based perspective, I am dedicated to supporting your healing journey in every possible way. Learn more at drsilvi.com
(301) 820-7670 View (301) 820-7670
Photo of Derwin Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Derwin Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
My integrative training allows me to assist a client and family members dealing with mental health and substance abuse issues.
I believe in meeting clients where they are and empowering them to explore their own path. I specialize in mental health and substance abuse interventions. I've found that a client-centered approach, coupled with Solution Focused Therapy, is effective. My integrative approach addresses issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic violence, and substance abuse in individuals, couples, and families. I'm trained in applying ASAM criteria for appropriate recommendations. Together, let's shape the narrative of your story and work towards the recovery you desire. If needed, I'm here to make referrals for additional support.
My integrative training allows me to assist a client and family members dealing with mental health and substance abuse issues.
I believe in meeting clients where they are and empowering them to explore their own path. I specialize in mental health and substance abuse interventions. I've found that a client-centered approach, coupled with Solution Focused Therapy, is effective. My integrative approach addresses issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic violence, and substance abuse in individuals, couples, and families. I'm trained in applying ASAM criteria for appropriate recommendations. Together, let's shape the narrative of your story and work towards the recovery you desire. If needed, I'm here to make referrals for additional support.
(301) 450-6094 View (301) 450-6094
Photo of Raine Weiner, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Raine Weiner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
In addition to individual and family therapy, I run a women's group for moms, two groups for high school girls, and one group for young adult women.
It is with sensitivity and warmth that I work with people struggling with such issues as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and family problems. Psychotherapy is an interactive, creative, exciting process, and together we can work toward change. We can also focus on your strengths and build a stronger sense of self-esteem and self-awareness. I genuinely communicate my care and concern for each of my clients, allowing for greater comfort in opening up and forming a deep therapeutic alliance in a safe, supportive environment.
In addition to individual and family therapy, I run a women's group for moms, two groups for high school girls, and one group for young adult women.
It is with sensitivity and warmth that I work with people struggling with such issues as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and family problems. Psychotherapy is an interactive, creative, exciting process, and together we can work toward change. We can also focus on your strengths and build a stronger sense of self-esteem and self-awareness. I genuinely communicate my care and concern for each of my clients, allowing for greater comfort in opening up and forming a deep therapeutic alliance in a safe, supportive environment.
(301) 984-3333 View (301) 984-3333
Photo of Christina Aiello, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Christina Aiello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I empower Clients through psycho education, and utilizing an integrative approach pulling from mindfulness/grounding, CBT, family systems theory, and psycho dynamic methods.
I specialize in supporting adults managing anxiety, depression, grief, life changes, and healing from relational trauma. I work with adults who are feeling overwhelmed managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief and the impacts of childhood trauma on their daily life, and relationships. The deeper work done by my clients includes themes of perfectionism, childhood attachment wounds, and generational trauma.
I empower Clients through psycho education, and utilizing an integrative approach pulling from mindfulness/grounding, CBT, family systems theory, and psycho dynamic methods.
I specialize in supporting adults managing anxiety, depression, grief, life changes, and healing from relational trauma. I work with adults who are feeling overwhelmed managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, grief and the impacts of childhood trauma on their daily life, and relationships. The deeper work done by my clients includes themes of perfectionism, childhood attachment wounds, and generational trauma.
(301) 246-8261 View (301) 246-8261
Photo of Shoba Nayar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Shoba Nayar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
Being South Asian and having grown up in the United States, I have first hand knowledge of the challenges of straddling two cultures, negotiating family expectations, and developing a self that feels authentic.
Finding the right therapist is difficult, isn't it? So hard to tell from reading the profile if she will be a good match for you. Perhaps you are asking yourself questions like "Do I really want to do this?", "Can I speak freely to a stranger?", "How do I know she will understand me and my issues?", or "How does therapy work?" It's understandable to have reservations. Call/e-mail me to set up a free, no obligation session and we can address your concerns. You'll be able to tell if you feel safe and heard.
Being South Asian and having grown up in the United States, I have first hand knowledge of the challenges of straddling two cultures, negotiating family expectations, and developing a self that feels authentic.
Finding the right therapist is difficult, isn't it? So hard to tell from reading the profile if she will be a good match for you. Perhaps you are asking yourself questions like "Do I really want to do this?", "Can I speak freely to a stranger?", "How do I know she will understand me and my issues?", or "How does therapy work?" It's understandable to have reservations. Call/e-mail me to set up a free, no obligation session and we can address your concerns. You'll be able to tell if you feel safe and heard.
(301) 684-6401 View (301) 684-6401
Photo of Andrea Zawatsky- Voted Top Therapist By Washington Family Magazine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Andrea Zawatsky- Voted Top Therapist By Washington Family Magazine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Andrea was named "Top Therapist" by Washington Family Magazine in addition to having her work in mental health be featured on various news channels. Andrea is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Andrea specializes in helping children, teens, adults, and couples overcome anxiety and work through any trauma they may have. She works with clients who are ready to change their anxious thinking, low self-esteem, and intrusive thoughts. Andrea also does couples therapy and is trained in the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy. She is neuro-divergent and LGBTQIA+ friendly.
Andrea was named "Top Therapist" by Washington Family Magazine in addition to having her work in mental health be featured on various news channels. Andrea is also a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Andrea specializes in helping children, teens, adults, and couples overcome anxiety and work through any trauma they may have. She works with clients who are ready to change their anxious thinking, low self-esteem, and intrusive thoughts. Andrea also does couples therapy and is trained in the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy. She is neuro-divergent and LGBTQIA+ friendly.
(301) 822-2704 View (301) 822-2704
Photo of Vicki B. Klein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Vicki B. Klein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
When working with kids/teens, I integrate a family systems approach and work with parents to help them learn the most appropriate response to their anxious child.
Deciding to see a therapist can be a difficult decision, whether it is for yourself, or your teen/child. In my practice, I use a supportive, non-judgmental, cognitive behavioral approach. My work will be practical and oriented towards results. It will ultimately increase your self-confidence. I have had great success working with people of all ages on their various fears using CBT.
When working with kids/teens, I integrate a family systems approach and work with parents to help them learn the most appropriate response to their anxious child.
Deciding to see a therapist can be a difficult decision, whether it is for yourself, or your teen/child. In my practice, I use a supportive, non-judgmental, cognitive behavioral approach. My work will be practical and oriented towards results. It will ultimately increase your self-confidence. I have had great success working with people of all ages on their various fears using CBT.
(301) 417-5317 View (301) 417-5317
Photo of Diana Stewart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Diana Stewart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I have seen many clients over the years and each one has been a unique individual with their own story to tell. Just as no two snowflakes are alike, no two people are alike. Allow me to help you find your own path and solutions through empowerment utilizing your unique strengths. Individuals come to see me for many reasons: Trauma, Grief, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, OCD, changes in family dynamics and other life changes. I want to provide an open, relaxed, non-judgmental environment that allows you to reach your full potential. Whatever your reason, therapy can be the first step.
I have seen many clients over the years and each one has been a unique individual with their own story to tell. Just as no two snowflakes are alike, no two people are alike. Allow me to help you find your own path and solutions through empowerment utilizing your unique strengths. Individuals come to see me for many reasons: Trauma, Grief, Anxiety, ADHD, Depression, OCD, changes in family dynamics and other life changes. I want to provide an open, relaxed, non-judgmental environment that allows you to reach your full potential. Whatever your reason, therapy can be the first step.
(301) 701-4020 View (301) 701-4020
Photo of Alia A Merraro, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Alia A Merraro
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
We all face challenges in our lives that we may have difficulty navigating through. It may be feeling depressed or anxious, experiencing relational/family conflict and grief, or adjusting to life transitions. Sometimes we need another person to help us along the way outside of our loved ones. That's where I come in. I strive to help you work through adversities, build upon your strengths, and empower you to create new, meaningful, and fulfilling chapters in your life. I specialize in working with individuals ages 18-30+ and couples.
We all face challenges in our lives that we may have difficulty navigating through. It may be feeling depressed or anxious, experiencing relational/family conflict and grief, or adjusting to life transitions. Sometimes we need another person to help us along the way outside of our loved ones. That's where I come in. I strive to help you work through adversities, build upon your strengths, and empower you to create new, meaningful, and fulfilling chapters in your life. I specialize in working with individuals ages 18-30+ and couples.
(301) 965-1040 View (301) 965-1040
Photo of Emily Picon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Emily Picon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I am trained in Problematic Sexual Behavior Cognitive - Behavioral Therapy (PSB-CBT), a family-oriented treatment designed to reduce or eliminate incidents of problematic sexual behavior in children.
I specialize in helping individuals heal from the emotional wounds that can be created by traumatic experiences. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, meeting my clients wherever they may be in their journey toward healing. My theoretical approach is eclectic, rooted in relational, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral theories. I prioritize being goal-oriented, having a clear treatment plan, and regularly measuring progress during therapy. I value your perspective on our progress and will invite your feedback regularly, as well as objectively measuring progress with standardized psychological measures.
I am trained in Problematic Sexual Behavior Cognitive - Behavioral Therapy (PSB-CBT), a family-oriented treatment designed to reduce or eliminate incidents of problematic sexual behavior in children.
I specialize in helping individuals heal from the emotional wounds that can be created by traumatic experiences. I work with children, adolescents, and adults, meeting my clients wherever they may be in their journey toward healing. My theoretical approach is eclectic, rooted in relational, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral theories. I prioritize being goal-oriented, having a clear treatment plan, and regularly measuring progress during therapy. I value your perspective on our progress and will invite your feedback regularly, as well as objectively measuring progress with standardized psychological measures.
(301) 962-2051 View (301) 962-2051
Photo of Dr. Leila Jarrahi, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Dr. Leila Jarrahi
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I also specialize in treating anxiety, depression and problematic family dynamics.
I am a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Indiana University Bloomington and Texas A&M University trained private practitioner psychologist. In addition to my 25 years of experience, I have a Master’s in Counseling and PhD in Psychology. My intention is to provide a safe space for you to explore your emotional triggers and old patterns of thinking to build insight and tools to make more fulfilling life choices. Together, we can work toward improving mood and communication, helping you build more satisfying relationships.
I also specialize in treating anxiety, depression and problematic family dynamics.
I am a University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Indiana University Bloomington and Texas A&M University trained private practitioner psychologist. In addition to my 25 years of experience, I have a Master’s in Counseling and PhD in Psychology. My intention is to provide a safe space for you to explore your emotional triggers and old patterns of thinking to build insight and tools to make more fulfilling life choices. Together, we can work toward improving mood and communication, helping you build more satisfying relationships.
(301) 882-1440 View (301) 882-1440
Photo of Rachael Spenadel, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Rachael Spenadel
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I can help with life transitions, relationship issues, family-of-origin issues, ADHD, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and childhood or relationship trauma processing.
Please note I am only seeing clients via telehealth. I have convenient evening hours, available 3pm to 8pm, Monday through Thursday. My ideal client is motivated to change and build a deeper understanding of self. They may be feeling stuck or lost and need an external push. I provide compassion, humor, and insight, and tailored strategies to empower you to finding your way. I have a lot of experience working with college students and post-grads, but love working with teenagers and adults of any age.
I can help with life transitions, relationship issues, family-of-origin issues, ADHD, self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and childhood or relationship trauma processing.
Please note I am only seeing clients via telehealth. I have convenient evening hours, available 3pm to 8pm, Monday through Thursday. My ideal client is motivated to change and build a deeper understanding of self. They may be feeling stuck or lost and need an external push. I provide compassion, humor, and insight, and tailored strategies to empower you to finding your way. I have a lot of experience working with college students and post-grads, but love working with teenagers and adults of any age.
(240) 453-4029 View (240) 453-4029
Photo of Steve Wechsler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Steve Wechsler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852
My practice is a mixture of traditional counseling, coaching, and social work case management. Many people come to me because of a specific issue like job stress which is causing anxiety and disrupting family life. Or maybe you are just looking to find sustained and meaningful employment in a challenging economy. Or perhaps you have been affected by our current political climate and need someone to help process your feelings.Whether you fit into these catagories or related mental health issues, I would like to hear from you.
My practice is a mixture of traditional counseling, coaching, and social work case management. Many people come to me because of a specific issue like job stress which is causing anxiety and disrupting family life. Or maybe you are just looking to find sustained and meaningful employment in a challenging economy. Or perhaps you have been affected by our current political climate and need someone to help process your feelings.Whether you fit into these catagories or related mental health issues, I would like to hear from you.
(301) 816-2633 View (301) 816-2633
Photo of Neha Pancholi Patel, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Neha Pancholi Patel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Dr. Patel specializes in treating eating disorders and OCD. She also treats adolescent behavioral issues, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, low self-esteem, and self-injury. Dr. Patel is specialized in working with adolescents to decrease their maladaptive behaviors, learn and implement adaptive coping skills and increase positive interactions between the adolescent and family members. Dr. Patel is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and utilizes evidence based approaches with her clients.
Dr. Patel specializes in treating eating disorders and OCD. She also treats adolescent behavioral issues, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, low self-esteem, and self-injury. Dr. Patel is specialized in working with adolescents to decrease their maladaptive behaviors, learn and implement adaptive coping skills and increase positive interactions between the adolescent and family members. Dr. Patel is trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and utilizes evidence based approaches with her clients.
(571) 322-8927 View (571) 322-8927

See more therapy options for North Bethesda

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.