Family Therapy in Carmel, Charlotte, NC

Photo of Monique Aquino, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monique Aquino
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) licensed marriage and family therapist with a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s in marriage and family therapy.
Life can be a journey with peaks and valleys. Sometimes we can feel stuck along the way, and the tools that once served us are no longer working. This can leave us feeling hopeless, lost, and alone. That is when having a fellow traveler and a safe space to navigate life’s difficulties can help us adjust course and find peace. With more than 17 years of experience, it would honor me to be a part of your healing journey.
I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) licensed marriage and family therapist with a bachelor’s in psychology and a master’s in marriage and family therapy.
Life can be a journey with peaks and valleys. Sometimes we can feel stuck along the way, and the tools that once served us are no longer working. This can leave us feeling hopeless, lost, and alone. That is when having a fellow traveler and a safe space to navigate life’s difficulties can help us adjust course and find peace. With more than 17 years of experience, it would honor me to be a part of your healing journey.
(704) 610-4117 View (704) 610-4117
Photo of Scott Alan Smith, MA, LCMHC, CSAT, CPTT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Scott Alan Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities in my counseling, including but not limited to Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, emotionally-focused couples counseling, solution-focused, and rational-emotive behavior therapies while emphasizing a spiritual perspective that treats the entire person.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist. I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor in the STate of South Carolina. I have a master's degree in Christian counseling from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. I have been working as a therapist since 2012, specializing in helping couples and individuals with sex addiction, betrayal trauma, relationships, and mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss.
I utilize multiple therapeutic modalities in my counseling, including but not limited to Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral, emotionally-focused couples counseling, solution-focused, and rational-emotive behavior therapies while emphasizing a spiritual perspective that treats the entire person.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist. I am also a Licensed Professional Counselor in the STate of South Carolina. I have a master's degree in Christian counseling from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. I have been working as a therapist since 2012, specializing in helping couples and individuals with sex addiction, betrayal trauma, relationships, and mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, grief and loss.
(704) 981-6840 View (704) 981-6840
Photo of Jessica Massey - Jessica L. Massey, LCSW, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica L. Massey, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Psycho-Education and many other treatment modalities to help treat emotional, psychiatric and relationship issues.
I provide individual therapy for disorders which include depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and attention deficit disorder. I see a range of ages, from adolescents to adults.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Psycho-Education and many other treatment modalities to help treat emotional, psychiatric and relationship issues.
I provide individual therapy for disorders which include depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder and attention deficit disorder. I see a range of ages, from adolescents to adults.
(704) 707-3488 View (704) 707-3488
Photo of Donna Moore Kanipe, MACC, LMFT, LCMHC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donna Moore Kanipe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACC, LMFT, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, I specialize in working with pre-marital couples, distressed couples, and individuals (21+). My experience includes counseling pre-marital couples, conflicted couples, trauma survivors, divorce care, women grieving betrayals, anxiety, panic attacks, grief, and adjustment after life-altering accidents and medical conditions.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, I specialize in working with pre-marital couples, distressed couples, and individuals (21+). My experience includes counseling pre-marital couples, conflicted couples, trauma survivors, divorce care, women grieving betrayals, anxiety, panic attacks, grief, and adjustment after life-altering accidents and medical conditions.
(704) 215-4203 x121 View (704) 215-4203 x121
Photo of Simone B., M Ed, PSC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Simone B.
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, PSC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
Are you overwhelmed with the day to day mess? Are you still recovering from the impact of the pandemic? Perhaps you are a recovering overachiever, looking to set boundaries, or undergoing complex family dynamics. Did you think that being an adult would be easier?! As a person who is learning & growing as an adult daily, it's easy to feel bogged down. Do you want to be more emotionally aware & compassionate to yourself and others but don't know where to start? Life doesn't have to feel like this and I'm here to help! Let's work together so the load can get lighter. Change is right around the corner.
Are you overwhelmed with the day to day mess? Are you still recovering from the impact of the pandemic? Perhaps you are a recovering overachiever, looking to set boundaries, or undergoing complex family dynamics. Did you think that being an adult would be easier?! As a person who is learning & growing as an adult daily, it's easy to feel bogged down. Do you want to be more emotionally aware & compassionate to yourself and others but don't know where to start? Life doesn't have to feel like this and I'm here to help! Let's work together so the load can get lighter. Change is right around the corner.
(704) 586-9395 View (704) 586-9395
Photo of Steven Clemons Jr, MAMFC, LCMHC, LPC
Steven Clemons Jr
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAMFC, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
I have an MA in Marriage and Family Counseling with over 10 years of experience.
Life is unpredictable and often takes unexpected twists and turns. I strive to create a safe and warm environment in order to help you through life challenges, such as life-transitions, anxiety, emetophobia, depression, anger, low self-image, spiritual concerns, grief and loss, OCD, ADD/ADHD, and trauma. I utilize compassion, experience, and straightforwardness, working in collaboration with your willingness and motivation to change in a dynamic combination. I enjoy integrating theology and spirituality into counseling as desired by clients. Clients working with me are ready for healing, growth, and change that is long-term.
I have an MA in Marriage and Family Counseling with over 10 years of experience.
Life is unpredictable and often takes unexpected twists and turns. I strive to create a safe and warm environment in order to help you through life challenges, such as life-transitions, anxiety, emetophobia, depression, anger, low self-image, spiritual concerns, grief and loss, OCD, ADD/ADHD, and trauma. I utilize compassion, experience, and straightforwardness, working in collaboration with your willingness and motivation to change in a dynamic combination. I enjoy integrating theology and spirituality into counseling as desired by clients. Clients working with me are ready for healing, growth, and change that is long-term.
(704) 802-1765 x1114 View (704) 802-1765 x1114
Photo of Erika Marie Brinley, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Erika Marie Brinley
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
With my studies in Marriage and Family therapy, I offer therapy from the family systems approach.
We all have different seasons in our lives where we may feel a pull or a need for change and growth. My hope is to help those on their individual journeys find a place that feels good for them and their families. I believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, heard and validated and thus I provide that in my therapy room, and help other family members develop that for one another.
With my studies in Marriage and Family therapy, I offer therapy from the family systems approach.
We all have different seasons in our lives where we may feel a pull or a need for change and growth. My hope is to help those on their individual journeys find a place that feels good for them and their families. I believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, heard and validated and thus I provide that in my therapy room, and help other family members develop that for one another.
(704) 610-4786 View (704) 610-4786
Photo of Christopher A. Cook, PhD, MA, LCMHC, QS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher A. Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LCMHC, QS
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
Therapy includes body work, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and story processing.
If you need help healing from painful past experiences or developing healthy relationships, I can help. I work with clients who have been harmed by past experiences, from prolonged childhood neglect or abuse to adult experiences that you are just having difficulty moving past. I also work with couples who are trying to work through conflict or grow closer. I help clients find calm and peace in their current lives, healing from past pain, a renewed sense of meaning, purpose, and identity. I will partner with you to discover where you are on the healing journey and develop a plan for moving you forward in healing and growth.
Therapy includes body work, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and story processing.
If you need help healing from painful past experiences or developing healthy relationships, I can help. I work with clients who have been harmed by past experiences, from prolonged childhood neglect or abuse to adult experiences that you are just having difficulty moving past. I also work with couples who are trying to work through conflict or grow closer. I help clients find calm and peace in their current lives, healing from past pain, a renewed sense of meaning, purpose, and identity. I will partner with you to discover where you are on the healing journey and develop a plan for moving you forward in healing and growth.
(828) 348-0736 View (828) 348-0736
Photo of Ashley Black, LCMHC
Ashley Black
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
I work with individuals to explore past traumas, the impact of their family of origin, and their current stress load in order to bring awareness and growth to their internal and external environment.
As a therapist since 2015, I believe whole heartedly that true and lasting change comes from looking at the whole system, not just one part. I work with clients to bring about transformation through emotional healing, behavioral change, brain health, spiritual encouragement, and social support. I have completed training in EMDR, a therapy designed to treat trauma and PTSD. I am also specialized in brain health and am a certified brain health coach through the Amen Clinic. My office is a safe space for people of all races, ethnicities, religions, genders, and sexual identities.
I work with individuals to explore past traumas, the impact of their family of origin, and their current stress load in order to bring awareness and growth to their internal and external environment.
As a therapist since 2015, I believe whole heartedly that true and lasting change comes from looking at the whole system, not just one part. I work with clients to bring about transformation through emotional healing, behavioral change, brain health, spiritual encouragement, and social support. I have completed training in EMDR, a therapy designed to treat trauma and PTSD. I am also specialized in brain health and am a certified brain health coach through the Amen Clinic. My office is a safe space for people of all races, ethnicities, religions, genders, and sexual identities.
(704) 389-9494 View (704) 389-9494
Photo of Jennifer Davidson, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Davidson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
I would love the opportunity to work with your child and your family to provide treatment that will make a difference.
Accepting New Clients! I am passionate about working with children and their families to collaborate together to make a strong impact to promote healing and improve family functioning. I work with children of all ages, as well as support parents, who may experience difficult situations or experiences in their lives such as adoption, ADHD, anxiety, Autism, emotional and behavioral issues, school disruption, and trauma. I specialize in using play therapy to help children learn to self-regulate, improve executive functioning, increase self-esteem, deal with trauma, increase social skills, and develop positive relationships.
I would love the opportunity to work with your child and your family to provide treatment that will make a difference.
Accepting New Clients! I am passionate about working with children and their families to collaborate together to make a strong impact to promote healing and improve family functioning. I work with children of all ages, as well as support parents, who may experience difficult situations or experiences in their lives such as adoption, ADHD, anxiety, Autism, emotional and behavioral issues, school disruption, and trauma. I specialize in using play therapy to help children learn to self-regulate, improve executive functioning, increase self-esteem, deal with trauma, increase social skills, and develop positive relationships.
(704) 286-8475 x103 View (704) 286-8475 x103
Photo of Savannah Bryant, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Savannah Bryant
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
It takes courage to dream about and step forward in making a change to desire something better, whether for yourself or your family.
I am passionate about empowering others to live life with intentionality and genuinely love themselves in the process. I find meaning in my professional work when I can help equip families with the tools that they need to experience wholeness and unity as they navigate joys and hardship, together. My areas of speciality include working with young children (preschool and above) through young adults. My areas of interest include ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, trauma, loss, behavioral and adjustment challenges. In addition to my work with individuals, I also enjoy working with engaged and married couples.
It takes courage to dream about and step forward in making a change to desire something better, whether for yourself or your family.
I am passionate about empowering others to live life with intentionality and genuinely love themselves in the process. I find meaning in my professional work when I can help equip families with the tools that they need to experience wholeness and unity as they navigate joys and hardship, together. My areas of speciality include working with young children (preschool and above) through young adults. My areas of interest include ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, trauma, loss, behavioral and adjustment challenges. In addition to my work with individuals, I also enjoy working with engaged and married couples.
(704) 703-4355 View (704) 703-4355
Photo of Debbie A Breen, Th, M, MA, LCMHC
Debbie A Breen
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Th, M, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
My passion and calling is for the family: the core unit and each individual.
Has something occurred recently that pushed you over into unfamiliar territory and is causing anger, anxiety, depression? I have helped hundreds of people, adults, adolescents and children reconcile these issues, identify wants and needs, and achieve resolve for a more satisfying life today, and promising tomorrow, for this generation and the next. I am a parent & child advocate, family & individual therapist, and pastoral confidant. My work with families & individuals, young and old, help them achieve understanding, meaning and direction for the current issue of today, and those that will occur in the future.
My passion and calling is for the family: the core unit and each individual.
Has something occurred recently that pushed you over into unfamiliar territory and is causing anger, anxiety, depression? I have helped hundreds of people, adults, adolescents and children reconcile these issues, identify wants and needs, and achieve resolve for a more satisfying life today, and promising tomorrow, for this generation and the next. I am a parent & child advocate, family & individual therapist, and pastoral confidant. My work with families & individuals, young and old, help them achieve understanding, meaning and direction for the current issue of today, and those that will occur in the future.
(704) 504-7282 View (704) 504-7282
Photo of Erik Alex Goldfield - Erik Goldfield, Individual & Family Therapist, LCMHC, NCC
Erik Goldfield, Individual & Family Therapist
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
Waitlist for new clients
My mission is to make therapy fun and interactive. Therapy can be a daunting prospect for many people, and I aim to make it as productive and painless as possible. I don't necessarily have an ideal client, just an ideal match. If the client feels connected and hopeful, change and progress can occur. I utilize several modalities, each one catered to the specific client, while at the same time incorporating family work to better support the individual. I myself am ADHD and can relate to children and adults who struggle academically and socially, incorporating a holistic approach to the therapeutic relationship.
My mission is to make therapy fun and interactive. Therapy can be a daunting prospect for many people, and I aim to make it as productive and painless as possible. I don't necessarily have an ideal client, just an ideal match. If the client feels connected and hopeful, change and progress can occur. I utilize several modalities, each one catered to the specific client, while at the same time incorporating family work to better support the individual. I myself am ADHD and can relate to children and adults who struggle academically and socially, incorporating a holistic approach to the therapeutic relationship.
(980) 255-5632 View (980) 255-5632
Photo of Debra P Hinson, MA, LCMHC
Debra P Hinson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
Life is a journey that can often become difficult to maneuver. However, facing life's struggles can empower us to be the people we are intended to be. This process is often mentally and physically exhausting. I would be honored to walk alongside you, your child, and/or your family on your personal journey of self-discovery. I love children and specialize in non-directive play therapy with children 3-7 years of age. Additionally, I work with adolescents and teens navigating the often difficult times of transition through middle/high school. Finally, I have a heart to work with women in life transitions.
Life is a journey that can often become difficult to maneuver. However, facing life's struggles can empower us to be the people we are intended to be. This process is often mentally and physically exhausting. I would be honored to walk alongside you, your child, and/or your family on your personal journey of self-discovery. I love children and specialize in non-directive play therapy with children 3-7 years of age. Additionally, I work with adolescents and teens navigating the often difficult times of transition through middle/high school. Finally, I have a heart to work with women in life transitions.
(704) 441-3307 View (704) 441-3307
Photo of Amy O'Bryan, LCMHC, MEd, NCC
Amy O'Bryan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
My personal philosophy and approach to counseling begins and ends with compassion & a willingness to enter into my clients’ experiences alongside them. I became active in this field because I have an authentic, listening heart that desires to see people live as whole, healthy individuals. Areas of my practice include depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, peer & family relationships. With a master’s degree in education and experience working in schools, I also provide academic, social, and emotional support. Treatment plans are created based on the individuals' needs and combine evidenced based practices with personal wellness.
My personal philosophy and approach to counseling begins and ends with compassion & a willingness to enter into my clients’ experiences alongside them. I became active in this field because I have an authentic, listening heart that desires to see people live as whole, healthy individuals. Areas of my practice include depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, peer & family relationships. With a master’s degree in education and experience working in schools, I also provide academic, social, and emotional support. Treatment plans are created based on the individuals' needs and combine evidenced based practices with personal wellness.
(704) 270-5380 View (704) 270-5380
Photo of Ariel T. (The Young Adult And Couple Specialist), MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ariel T. (The Young Adult And Couple Specialist)
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
You'll leave therapy a changed person, friends & family will notice.
Do you look in the mirror & sometimes don't know who is staring back at you? Anxiety is flooding your thoughts & stressing you out. Not feeling seen or heard by your significant other, family, or friends. You've contemplated whether this relationship is even right for you. You've been the "strong" one, always holding it together when everything is falling apart. Well...YOU deserve to feel heard & seen. YOU deserve to know who is staring back in the mirror. YOU are worthy of unconditional love & respect in your relationship. Let someone else help you for once. This is your time to unleash the true you & shape the life you deserve.
You'll leave therapy a changed person, friends & family will notice.
Do you look in the mirror & sometimes don't know who is staring back at you? Anxiety is flooding your thoughts & stressing you out. Not feeling seen or heard by your significant other, family, or friends. You've contemplated whether this relationship is even right for you. You've been the "strong" one, always holding it together when everything is falling apart. Well...YOU deserve to feel heard & seen. YOU deserve to know who is staring back in the mirror. YOU are worthy of unconditional love & respect in your relationship. Let someone else help you for once. This is your time to unleash the true you & shape the life you deserve.
(980) 366-2713 View (980) 366-2713
Photo of Michelle Holleman, MS, LCAS, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Michelle Holleman
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCAS, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
I recognize and empathize with the common feelings of fear, guilt or shame many clients, partners and family members bring to therapy.
It is my honor to be a part of your healing journey and recovery. Nothing is really a problem, until it becomes a problem. My mission is to guide people to heal and find their authentic selves via an exceptional therapeutic process and experience. As a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, I specialize in supporting teens, adults, and their loved ones recover from sex/love, pornography, internet/gaming, mental health issues, and drug and alcohol addiction/dependency. There is no judgement and I welcome all. This is a safe place to heal.
I recognize and empathize with the common feelings of fear, guilt or shame many clients, partners and family members bring to therapy.
It is my honor to be a part of your healing journey and recovery. Nothing is really a problem, until it becomes a problem. My mission is to guide people to heal and find their authentic selves via an exceptional therapeutic process and experience. As a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, I specialize in supporting teens, adults, and their loved ones recover from sex/love, pornography, internet/gaming, mental health issues, and drug and alcohol addiction/dependency. There is no judgement and I welcome all. This is a safe place to heal.
(704) 469-5425 View (704) 469-5425
Photo of Alexandria D. (The Transparent Therapist), MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandria D. (The Transparent Therapist)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
You have been struggling with your feelings lately. It feels like they are messing up your life; some days you even feel crazy. You've been feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Your family and friends are starting to notice, but they haven't been as supportive as you would hope. This has been a difficult season, and you are tired of feeling like this. Although these feelings are confusing and you may feel alone with them, I want to let you know you are not alone. I can help you rebalance your life.
You have been struggling with your feelings lately. It feels like they are messing up your life; some days you even feel crazy. You've been feeling stressed and overwhelmed. Your family and friends are starting to notice, but they haven't been as supportive as you would hope. This has been a difficult season, and you are tired of feeling like this. Although these feelings are confusing and you may feel alone with them, I want to let you know you are not alone. I can help you rebalance your life.
(704) 800-3684 View (704) 800-3684
Photo of Danielle Mead, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Mead
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
Specializing in Anxiety Disorders, Marital Conflict, Family Conflict, Step- Family Conflict, Stress Management, Behavioral Modification, Parent Coaching.
I provide professional counseling in the Charlotte, NC area to individuals, couples and families. My clients are encouraged to identify areas of concerns and guidance is given to assist in creating new and more effective patterns of behavior. Awareness creates the power needed for change.
Specializing in Anxiety Disorders, Marital Conflict, Family Conflict, Step- Family Conflict, Stress Management, Behavioral Modification, Parent Coaching.
I provide professional counseling in the Charlotte, NC area to individuals, couples and families. My clients are encouraged to identify areas of concerns and guidance is given to assist in creating new and more effective patterns of behavior. Awareness creates the power needed for change.
(252) 347-0141 View (252) 347-0141
Photo of Linda V Hanby, MACC, LMFT, LCMHC-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda V Hanby
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACC, LMFT, LCMHC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Carmel, Charlotte, NC 28226
Sometimes life hurts and we stumble and fall along our journey and may even lose our way. During times like this, we need help and support to get back up and begin experiencing life in a more meaningful way. It is my sincere desire to empower and motivate change that facilitates growth. Together we can work on overcoming problems, discover patterns in thinking or behavior that hinder your growth, establish attainable goals and learn healthy and effective skills that will put you in control and allow you to live a life of purpose and inner peace. .
Sometimes life hurts and we stumble and fall along our journey and may even lose our way. During times like this, we need help and support to get back up and begin experiencing life in a more meaningful way. It is my sincere desire to empower and motivate change that facilitates growth. Together we can work on overcoming problems, discover patterns in thinking or behavior that hinder your growth, establish attainable goals and learn healthy and effective skills that will put you in control and allow you to live a life of purpose and inner peace. .
(704) 233-7545 View (704) 233-7545
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See more therapy options for Carmel, Charlotte

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.