Photo of Begin Anew Counseling, LLC & Kodde Counseling, LLC, Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Begin Anew Counseling, LLC & Kodde Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
I provide counseling to all ages - family, dating, premarital, marriage, affair recovery (Gottman Methods Couples Training - Levels I-III completed), relationship problems, anger, anxiety, depression, grief, infertility, miscarriage, pre and post adoption adjustments, codependency, college issues, ADHD, abuse issues, and trauma care.
Are you struggling, confused, depressed, or anxious about your circumstances and relationships? Life is complicated and I am committed to truly hear you in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I am a skilled, caring, compassionate, counselor who will give you exceptional care, offer solution-based, holistic treatment that gives hope for change, and uses carefully selected therapy to best meet your unique needs.
I provide counseling to all ages - family, dating, premarital, marriage, affair recovery (Gottman Methods Couples Training - Levels I-III completed), relationship problems, anger, anxiety, depression, grief, infertility, miscarriage, pre and post adoption adjustments, codependency, college issues, ADHD, abuse issues, and trauma care.
Are you struggling, confused, depressed, or anxious about your circumstances and relationships? Life is complicated and I am committed to truly hear you in a safe, non-judgmental environment. I am a skilled, caring, compassionate, counselor who will give you exceptional care, offer solution-based, holistic treatment that gives hope for change, and uses carefully selected therapy to best meet your unique needs.
(616) 426-6577 View (616) 426-6577
Photo of Chris Postema, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Chris Postema
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
), Suicidality/Self-Harm, Family Issues, Parenting, Emotional Struggles, Anxiety (including social anxiety), Depression, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, substance abuse, and Motivational Interviewing.
Everyone experiences life struggles. I believe clients come to therapy already equipped with the tools and skills to make change and therapy is a tool to help accomplish that goal. I specialize in helping individuals with trauma, depression, anxiety and relationship problems. I've worked with adults, children, adolescents and families for 20 years, and take great joy in seeing change happen in the lives of others. I believe in a client-centered approach, which means you are the expert of your own life, and I am a facilitator in helping you accomplish your own goals. I also have experience working with other healthcare professionals.
), Suicidality/Self-Harm, Family Issues, Parenting, Emotional Struggles, Anxiety (including social anxiety), Depression, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, substance abuse, and Motivational Interviewing.
Everyone experiences life struggles. I believe clients come to therapy already equipped with the tools and skills to make change and therapy is a tool to help accomplish that goal. I specialize in helping individuals with trauma, depression, anxiety and relationship problems. I've worked with adults, children, adolescents and families for 20 years, and take great joy in seeing change happen in the lives of others. I believe in a client-centered approach, which means you are the expert of your own life, and I am a facilitator in helping you accomplish your own goals. I also have experience working with other healthcare professionals.
(616) 438-0643 View (616) 438-0643
Photo of Jeromy Krogman, Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Jeromy Krogman
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I have worked with couples dealing with relationship issues, family problems, depression, addiction, and many other difficulties.
Do you struggle with intrusive thoughts? Is it hard to get moving in the mornings? Is your life not what you wanted it to be? Then you have come to the right place. I work with a wide range of clients but specialize helping those with OCD and anxiety. I am also certified in helping couples improve their communication and build trust back into the relationship. I have helped couples deal with marriage infidelity as well as financial hardship. I also specialize in working through men's struggles. I have a very relaxed personality, which helps most clients feel at ease in talking in session.
I have worked with couples dealing with relationship issues, family problems, depression, addiction, and many other difficulties.
Do you struggle with intrusive thoughts? Is it hard to get moving in the mornings? Is your life not what you wanted it to be? Then you have come to the right place. I work with a wide range of clients but specialize helping those with OCD and anxiety. I am also certified in helping couples improve their communication and build trust back into the relationship. I have helped couples deal with marriage infidelity as well as financial hardship. I also specialize in working through men's struggles. I have a very relaxed personality, which helps most clients feel at ease in talking in session.
(616) 947-4103 View (616) 947-4103
Photo of Beth Reimel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Beth Reimel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546  (Online Only)
Areas I treat include depression, anxiety, panic attacks, couple conflict, family conflict, stress, life transitions and grief.
When people seek my counseling services, I do not see them as "problems to be fixed," but as people who have become stuck in patterns of behavior and ways of dealing with their feelings that are not helpful. My first goal with my clients is to establish a safe place where they feel understood and free to really "open up." I respect clients' individuality and consequently work together with them for what will best help them achieve a satisfying, productive life. My ultimate goal for my clients is for them to gain self understanding through awareness of what has influenced them so they can choose healthy ways of conducting their lives
Areas I treat include depression, anxiety, panic attacks, couple conflict, family conflict, stress, life transitions and grief.
When people seek my counseling services, I do not see them as "problems to be fixed," but as people who have become stuck in patterns of behavior and ways of dealing with their feelings that are not helpful. My first goal with my clients is to establish a safe place where they feel understood and free to really "open up." I respect clients' individuality and consequently work together with them for what will best help them achieve a satisfying, productive life. My ultimate goal for my clients is for them to gain self understanding through awareness of what has influenced them so they can choose healthy ways of conducting their lives
(616) 433-2507 View (616) 433-2507
Photo of Matthew M. Ready, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Matthew M. Ready
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
However, since 2007, my scope and expertise have broadened to include individual mental health treatment, family therapy, couples therapy, trauma, anger management and substance abuse/ addiction treatment.
The relationship between client and clinician is a key component of treatment efficacy. I believe that this therapeutic relationship is founded in a spirit of collaboration, an emotional bond and an agreement on goals and tasks. Two main characteristics of therapy are critical to the building of this therapeutic alliance: expertise and compassion. I am confident in my ability to help resolve any issues in a satisfying manner, prepared in both theory and practice, clear in my thoughts, ideas, and logical in the problem solving process. Of equal importance, I am accepting, understanding and genuinely interested in you and your needs.
However, since 2007, my scope and expertise have broadened to include individual mental health treatment, family therapy, couples therapy, trauma, anger management and substance abuse/ addiction treatment.
The relationship between client and clinician is a key component of treatment efficacy. I believe that this therapeutic relationship is founded in a spirit of collaboration, an emotional bond and an agreement on goals and tasks. Two main characteristics of therapy are critical to the building of this therapeutic alliance: expertise and compassion. I am confident in my ability to help resolve any issues in a satisfying manner, prepared in both theory and practice, clear in my thoughts, ideas, and logical in the problem solving process. Of equal importance, I am accepting, understanding and genuinely interested in you and your needs.
(616) 374-6390 View (616) 374-6390
Photo of Karol Chubb, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Karol Chubb
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
With the ease and flexibility of teletherapy, join me from the comfort of your own home on our therapy journey together! I work with adolescents, individuals, couples, and families across Michigan. With my masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, EMDR training, Gottman Level 1 Certificate, and Prepare and Enrich Certificate, my goal is to collaborate with you to find individual and relational growth.
With the ease and flexibility of teletherapy, join me from the comfort of your own home on our therapy journey together! I work with adolescents, individuals, couples, and families across Michigan. With my masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, EMDR training, Gottman Level 1 Certificate, and Prepare and Enrich Certificate, my goal is to collaborate with you to find individual and relational growth.
(616) 557-6283 View (616) 557-6283
Photo of Jamie LaFontsee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Jamie LaFontsee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLMFT, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49508
My therapeutic approach focuses mostly on Family Systems Theory, but my therapeutic intervention combines a variety of techniques associated with multiple theories.
Does something feel off? Do you feel like you're getting by okay but need a little something? Therapy might be just the right tool to get you back to your full functioning self again. Sometimes life makes us carry way more than we can handle (although we rarely admit it) and that load takes a burden on us emotionally, physically, and mentally. It affects our relationships at work, home, and even our sex lives! It's not YOU, it's LIFE! My Specific areas of interest include marital conflict, divorce and/or remarriage, Infidelity, sex addiction, grief/loss, and more. If your LIFE is weighing you down, let's talk.
My therapeutic approach focuses mostly on Family Systems Theory, but my therapeutic intervention combines a variety of techniques associated with multiple theories.
Does something feel off? Do you feel like you're getting by okay but need a little something? Therapy might be just the right tool to get you back to your full functioning self again. Sometimes life makes us carry way more than we can handle (although we rarely admit it) and that load takes a burden on us emotionally, physically, and mentally. It affects our relationships at work, home, and even our sex lives! It's not YOU, it's LIFE! My Specific areas of interest include marital conflict, divorce and/or remarriage, Infidelity, sex addiction, grief/loss, and more. If your LIFE is weighing you down, let's talk.
(616) 557-7924 View (616) 557-7924
Photo of Rosann Raftery, Licensed Professional Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Rosann Raftery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LLMFT
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
When you think about your relationship, do you ever wonder “how did we get here?!” If so, then I am definitely the counselor you should meet with. I am a firm believer that each relationship we have impacts us in one way or another because, well… they do! I specialize in working with couples and families to assist them in building their communication skills, healing, and strengthening their relationships. I am especially passionate about pre-engagement or premarital counseling, divorce recovery, parallel parenting, family therapy, working with blended families, teens, and working with people of the LGBTQ community.
When you think about your relationship, do you ever wonder “how did we get here?!” If so, then I am definitely the counselor you should meet with. I am a firm believer that each relationship we have impacts us in one way or another because, well… they do! I specialize in working with couples and families to assist them in building their communication skills, healing, and strengthening their relationships. I am especially passionate about pre-engagement or premarital counseling, divorce recovery, parallel parenting, family therapy, working with blended families, teens, and working with people of the LGBTQ community.
(616) 920-6851 View (616) 920-6851
Photo of Melanie Szucs, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Melanie Szucs
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Waitlist for new clients
Our lives are stories and we all want them to be stories worth telling, that give us hope. Maybe you long to rewrite the story you are living. I believe everyone has the ability to change their story. Whether you are a couple, a family, or an individual, you can have hope. I desire to walk alongside you in your struggles and help you to forge a new path. Sometimes all it takes is a listening ear; sometimes it takes long, hard work. But you have the choice-to step out in courage and to start writing a new story.
Our lives are stories and we all want them to be stories worth telling, that give us hope. Maybe you long to rewrite the story you are living. I believe everyone has the ability to change their story. Whether you are a couple, a family, or an individual, you can have hope. I desire to walk alongside you in your struggles and help you to forge a new path. Sometimes all it takes is a listening ear; sometimes it takes long, hard work. But you have the choice-to step out in courage and to start writing a new story.
(616) 965-2816 View (616) 965-2816
Photo of Kylene Frank Dccs Pllc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Kylene Frank Dccs Pllc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506  (Online Only)
Additionally, I have worked in settings that include children & family, community mental health, and corrections facilities.
As a therapist, I understand that it can take time to develop a relationship and open up to a stranger about personal life and history. My goal is to work with each person to create a trusting relationship that allows each individual to be heard and respected. I value looking at each client's individual and unique strengths to help them find creative strategies that best fit their needs and lifestyles so that they can be successful in both their short-term and long-term goals.
Additionally, I have worked in settings that include children & family, community mental health, and corrections facilities.
As a therapist, I understand that it can take time to develop a relationship and open up to a stranger about personal life and history. My goal is to work with each person to create a trusting relationship that allows each individual to be heard and respected. I value looking at each client's individual and unique strengths to help them find creative strategies that best fit their needs and lifestyles so that they can be successful in both their short-term and long-term goals.
(616) 585-0691 View (616) 585-0691
Photo of Dan Slane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Dan Slane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
I completed my Master of Social Work at the University of Michigan in 2017 and now blend cognitive therapies (CBT/DBT) with strategies and awarenesses from Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Gottman Method, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotional-focused Therapy (EFT), Sensate Focus Therapy (SFT), and Mindfulness.
I interlace myriad strategies for assuaging complex trauma, increasing vulnerability, improving emotional and physical intimacy, strengthening relationships, and decreasing the disconnecting symptoms of anxiety, depression, and personality disorders, specifically Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).
I completed my Master of Social Work at the University of Michigan in 2017 and now blend cognitive therapies (CBT/DBT) with strategies and awarenesses from Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Gottman Method, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotional-focused Therapy (EFT), Sensate Focus Therapy (SFT), and Mindfulness.
I interlace myriad strategies for assuaging complex trauma, increasing vulnerability, improving emotional and physical intimacy, strengthening relationships, and decreasing the disconnecting symptoms of anxiety, depression, and personality disorders, specifically Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD).
(616) 207-8013 View (616) 207-8013
Photo of 616 Center for Counseling & Behavioral Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
616 Center for Counseling & Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49506
Practicing since 2005, I work with children and teens, families and individuals and specialize in trauma, attachment, behavioral issues, children's mental health, relationship issues and transitions with the family life cycle. I assess clients and their presenting concerns with a welcoming, non-judgmental , solution-focused approach. My client-centered manner empowers the individual to realize strengths and assets available to them and how to compensate for and overcome identified barriers.
Practicing since 2005, I work with children and teens, families and individuals and specialize in trauma, attachment, behavioral issues, children's mental health, relationship issues and transitions with the family life cycle. I assess clients and their presenting concerns with a welcoming, non-judgmental , solution-focused approach. My client-centered manner empowers the individual to realize strengths and assets available to them and how to compensate for and overcome identified barriers.
(616) 984-1021 View (616) 984-1021
Photo of Hailey Yatros, Pre-Licensed Professional in Grand Rapids, MI
Hailey Yatros
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Are you searching for relief, hope, clarity, or a sense of direction? Finding the right therapist with whom you feel comfortable and connect with can be nerve-racking. Will they understand me? Are we the best fit? Is therapy worth my time? These are valid questions! My goal is to make this experience as smooth as possible for you. Whether you are looking for couple, individual, or family therapy, going at your own rhythm, pace, and comfort will guide us when working together. Bring your pain, struggle, anxiety, and stress, we will explore it together.
Are you searching for relief, hope, clarity, or a sense of direction? Finding the right therapist with whom you feel comfortable and connect with can be nerve-racking. Will they understand me? Are we the best fit? Is therapy worth my time? These are valid questions! My goal is to make this experience as smooth as possible for you. Whether you are looking for couple, individual, or family therapy, going at your own rhythm, pace, and comfort will guide us when working together. Bring your pain, struggle, anxiety, and stress, we will explore it together.
(616) 947-3302 View (616) 947-3302
Photo of Us And Kids Communication Program, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Us And Kids Communication Program
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546  (Online Only)
Couples with young kiddo are particularly at risk for marriage and family strife because they are so busy, and because there is so much that is new to their brains, emotions and relationship. Figuring out how to be both mom and dad as well as husband and wife is often overwhelming and troubling. Tension builds when the relationship energy gets split between kiddos needs (and there are a lot of them!) and marriage needs (and those are valid as well). The energy to figure out how to integrate all those needs, wants, wishes becomes divided and divisive. Disconnected and discontent brew and relationship trouble stews. What to do?
Couples with young kiddo are particularly at risk for marriage and family strife because they are so busy, and because there is so much that is new to their brains, emotions and relationship. Figuring out how to be both mom and dad as well as husband and wife is often overwhelming and troubling. Tension builds when the relationship energy gets split between kiddos needs (and there are a lot of them!) and marriage needs (and those are valid as well). The energy to figure out how to integrate all those needs, wants, wishes becomes divided and divisive. Disconnected and discontent brew and relationship trouble stews. What to do?
(616) 843-0985 View (616) 843-0985
Photo of Katie Gendron, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Katie Gendron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
I specialize in anxiety, depression, self worth and confidence, relationship issues, family of origin challenges, and work stress.
With 28 years of experience, helping others is not just my job; it is my nature. Life can be stressful at times, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and lost in your own thoughts. With me, you will find a warm and empathetic environment so you may share your feelings and your story. I offer coping skills, ways to understand your emotions, and help you find real solutions to daily problems. These tools can help to restore a sense of calm in your life and guide you in finding your way back to yourself.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, self worth and confidence, relationship issues, family of origin challenges, and work stress.
With 28 years of experience, helping others is not just my job; it is my nature. Life can be stressful at times, leaving you feeling overwhelmed and lost in your own thoughts. With me, you will find a warm and empathetic environment so you may share your feelings and your story. I offer coping skills, ways to understand your emotions, and help you find real solutions to daily problems. These tools can help to restore a sense of calm in your life and guide you in finding your way back to yourself.
(616) 300-2969 View (616) 300-2969
Photo of Brian Ulrich, Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Brian Ulrich
Counselor, PhD, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Please feel free to reach out if you feel that I might be able to support you or your family going forward.
My passion is serving others through a relational style of therapy that is meant to help people repair emotional wounds, restore relationships, and develop a greater sense of wholeness within their lives. I seek to create a warm, supportive, and genuine climate where clients feel comfortable and safe working on problems and making progress towards life goals.
Please feel free to reach out if you feel that I might be able to support you or your family going forward.
My passion is serving others through a relational style of therapy that is meant to help people repair emotional wounds, restore relationships, and develop a greater sense of wholeness within their lives. I seek to create a warm, supportive, and genuine climate where clients feel comfortable and safe working on problems and making progress towards life goals.
(616) 207-1968 View (616) 207-1968
Photo of Jordi Cross, Counselor in Grand Rapids, MI
Jordi Cross
Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
I work with individuals, couples and families as they navigate a variety of life complexities. My practice is a safe and practical place to process the past and explore your future. Perhaps, you’re coping with a particular problem or feeling stuck in long-term patterns of dysfunction and individual therapy sounds like a great fit. Or maybe, you're hoping to renew hope in the relationships you treasure most via couples or family therapy where you will learn to improve communication, cultivate boundaries, and mend any past or present wounds to ensure the healing and sustainability of the relationships that matter most.
I work with individuals, couples and families as they navigate a variety of life complexities. My practice is a safe and practical place to process the past and explore your future. Perhaps, you’re coping with a particular problem or feeling stuck in long-term patterns of dysfunction and individual therapy sounds like a great fit. Or maybe, you're hoping to renew hope in the relationships you treasure most via couples or family therapy where you will learn to improve communication, cultivate boundaries, and mend any past or present wounds to ensure the healing and sustainability of the relationships that matter most.
(616) 808-0333 View (616) 808-0333
Photo of Morgan McGraw, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Morgan McGraw
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
As an LLMFT, I think systemically and look at a person as a whole; what has shaped them into who they are, their perspectives, family background, etc.
I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families through several different issues. Some issues include infidelity, grief and loss, divorce, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.
As an LLMFT, I think systemically and look at a person as a whole; what has shaped them into who they are, their perspectives, family background, etc.
I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families through several different issues. Some issues include infidelity, grief and loss, divorce, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders.
(616) 947-3125 View (616) 947-3125
Photo of Great Lakes Psychology Group - Grand Rapids, Marriage & Family Therapist in Grand Rapids, MI
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Grand Rapids
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49544
The GLPG support staff will personally match you with a best-fit therapist who accepts your insurance and is available to see you online or in person at a time that works for you. The GLPG provider network comprises doctoral and master’s level psychologists, marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and social workers. Benefits include online and in-person therapy options, night and weekend availability, and most insurance plans accepted. Additionally, our knowledgeable and helpful support staff are available to answer your questions or help with anything you might need at any point along the therapy journey.
The GLPG support staff will personally match you with a best-fit therapist who accepts your insurance and is available to see you online or in person at a time that works for you. The GLPG provider network comprises doctoral and master’s level psychologists, marriage and family therapists, professional counselors, and social workers. Benefits include online and in-person therapy options, night and weekend availability, and most insurance plans accepted. Additionally, our knowledgeable and helpful support staff are available to answer your questions or help with anything you might need at any point along the therapy journey.
(734) 802-2995 View (734) 802-2995
Photo of Sollars and Associates, Psychologist in Grand Rapids, MI
Sollars and Associates
Psychologist, LP
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Individual, couple and family therapy is available.
I am a Licensed Psychologist and the Clinical Director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. Our group is trained in dealing with a variety of issues including: Attention Deficit Disorder, School Difficulties, Interpersonal Issues such as bullying, adult ADD and related issues, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Grief and Loss, Parenting, Educational Concerns, Relationship Concerns, Career and Work Issues, and Sexual Issues.
Individual, couple and family therapy is available.
I am a Licensed Psychologist and the Clinical Director of Sollars and Associates Integrative Counseling and Psychological Services. I have been providing counseling and psychotherapy for over 30 years in the Metro Detroit area and our group practice spans across the state of Michigan. Our group is trained in dealing with a variety of issues including: Attention Deficit Disorder, School Difficulties, Interpersonal Issues such as bullying, adult ADD and related issues, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Mood Disorders, Grief and Loss, Parenting, Educational Concerns, Relationship Concerns, Career and Work Issues, and Sexual Issues.
(248) 862-1171 View (248) 862-1171

See more therapy options for Grand Rapids

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.