Family Therapy in North Carolina

Photo of Jess Cooper Ahlum in North Carolina
Jess Cooper Ahlum
MA, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Relationships are complicated; family is hard, and communication breaks down. I support people who are ready to grow by looking at their behavioral and communication patterns, practice new tools, and make healthy changes to feel better in their most important relationships. My clients want to spend less energy recovering from unnecessary drama and more time having fun together. They are doing the work to shift unhealthy intergenerational patterns, heal and prevent trauma, and develop confidence to love themselves and others deeply.
Relationships are complicated; family is hard, and communication breaks down. I support people who are ready to grow by looking at their behavioral and communication patterns, practice new tools, and make healthy changes to feel better in their most important relationships. My clients want to spend less energy recovering from unnecessary drama and more time having fun together. They are doing the work to shift unhealthy intergenerational patterns, heal and prevent trauma, and develop confidence to love themselves and others deeply.
(910) 386-0147 View (910) 386-0147
Photo of Dr. Rebecca Levy, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Carolina
Dr. Rebecca Levy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jamestown, NC 27282
I pull from many different therapy approaches: narrative therapy, CBT, biopsychosocial model, attachment theory and family systems.
We all deserve a safe space to understand and take care of our health. Many times a new physical diagnosis is given and treated but a big part of your health is forgotten, your mental health. My approach to your health is holistically. Physical health diagnoses can impact how we feel and interact. We forget that our brain lives inside of our body and to heal we must think about the entire body. Using this lens, I work with those struggling with a new physical diagnosis, mood disorders, trauma, life transitions and family distress. I have also worked with various healthcare workers in navigating burnout and healthcare challenges.
I pull from many different therapy approaches: narrative therapy, CBT, biopsychosocial model, attachment theory and family systems.
We all deserve a safe space to understand and take care of our health. Many times a new physical diagnosis is given and treated but a big part of your health is forgotten, your mental health. My approach to your health is holistically. Physical health diagnoses can impact how we feel and interact. We forget that our brain lives inside of our body and to heal we must think about the entire body. Using this lens, I work with those struggling with a new physical diagnosis, mood disorders, trauma, life transitions and family distress. I have also worked with various healthcare workers in navigating burnout and healthcare challenges.
(336) 742-1958 View (336) 742-1958
Photo of Heather Lane Dunleavy Adult Autism Specialist, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Carolina
Heather Lane Dunleavy Adult Autism Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MEd, LMFT, AAMFT, ASDCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kernersville, NC 27284
I specialize in working with adults, with Autism, primarily; however, I also work with the entire family/support system.
In 2011, I decided to start studying to become a therapist after working as a classroom educator for 16 years, because I saw the failing of the educational system and the struggles of the family system. I started working as a therapist in 2016, and today, we all face a variety of emotional issues that are difficult for to express, name, and discuss. Many people feel as if no one is listening or will listen to them, especially adults on the Autism Spectrum who already struggle with communication. I want to help empower all people on the Autism Spectrum and their support systems.
I specialize in working with adults, with Autism, primarily; however, I also work with the entire family/support system.
In 2011, I decided to start studying to become a therapist after working as a classroom educator for 16 years, because I saw the failing of the educational system and the struggles of the family system. I started working as a therapist in 2016, and today, we all face a variety of emotional issues that are difficult for to express, name, and discuss. Many people feel as if no one is listening or will listen to them, especially adults on the Autism Spectrum who already struggle with communication. I want to help empower all people on the Autism Spectrum and their support systems.
(336) 697-6368 View (336) 697-6368
Photo of Stephanie Kemper, Psychologist in North Carolina
Stephanie Kemper
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Family, individual, and group therapies are offered to support you family's needs.
My work is a calling and a purpose that focuses on helping individuals of all ages know that they are worthy of being loved and valued, live fulfilling lives, and heal from pain and hurt. Therapy is a place where your family can find support and encouragement to help your child or family develop optimally. Treatment is chosen based on your child's unique set of needs and is based on effective research based interventions.
Family, individual, and group therapies are offered to support you family's needs.
My work is a calling and a purpose that focuses on helping individuals of all ages know that they are worthy of being loved and valued, live fulfilling lives, and heal from pain and hurt. Therapy is a place where your family can find support and encouragement to help your child or family develop optimally. Treatment is chosen based on your child's unique set of needs and is based on effective research based interventions.
(704) 769-2837 View (704) 769-2837
Photo of Vatogna Steward, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Vatogna Steward, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LCMHC, LPC, LMFT, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28273
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Family & Marriage Therapist.
Welcome to the first step in finding a therapist to aid you in your healing and development. My practice highlights individuals, families and couples who are ready to make a change in their life. In my therapeutic approach I integrate several therapeutic approaches that have key characteristics to aid the client in their own healing and development. I allow the client to engage their thoughts which can drive their actions which will impact their overall worldview. I use an individualized approach that enables the client to see what modality they can grow from. Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapist (TF-CBT) therapist.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Family & Marriage Therapist.
Welcome to the first step in finding a therapist to aid you in your healing and development. My practice highlights individuals, families and couples who are ready to make a change in their life. In my therapeutic approach I integrate several therapeutic approaches that have key characteristics to aid the client in their own healing and development. I allow the client to engage their thoughts which can drive their actions which will impact their overall worldview. I use an individualized approach that enables the client to see what modality they can grow from. Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapist (TF-CBT) therapist.
(980) 238-2658 View (980) 238-2658
Photo of Josie Clark-Trippodo, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Josie Clark-Trippodo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27403
My areas of expertise include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, family issues, grief, self-esteem, trauma and simply assisting in life's transitions to bring balance and joy into clients lives.
Choosing to begin therapy is an excellent first step in navigating life's struggles and reaching your full potential. I approach the therapeutic process as a journey we will take together. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Counseling with a certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy. Much of my experience has included working in a hospital setting on the inpatient units providing therapy for children, adolescents and adults.
My areas of expertise include anxiety disorders, mood disorders, depression, family issues, grief, self-esteem, trauma and simply assisting in life's transitions to bring balance and joy into clients lives.
Choosing to begin therapy is an excellent first step in navigating life's struggles and reaching your full potential. I approach the therapeutic process as a journey we will take together. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor. I received my Master's degree in Clinical Counseling with a certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy. Much of my experience has included working in a hospital setting on the inpatient units providing therapy for children, adolescents and adults.
(336) 447-1634 View (336) 447-1634
Photo of Kerry Dowd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Kerry Dowd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27606  (Online Only)
Kerry helps you heal from the past, build your self-esteem, and find joy in life. Kerry has over 10 years of experience. She uses aspects of Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitizing and Reprocessing (EMDR). Are you feeling anxious, stuck, or frustrated with your relationships? Are you tired of being overwhelmed and putting everyone else first? She can help.
Kerry helps you heal from the past, build your self-esteem, and find joy in life. Kerry has over 10 years of experience. She uses aspects of Internal Family Systems, Polyvagal Theory, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitizing and Reprocessing (EMDR). Are you feeling anxious, stuck, or frustrated with your relationships? Are you tired of being overwhelmed and putting everyone else first? She can help.
(919) 504-5569 View (919) 504-5569
Photo of Herring Human Services, PA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Herring Human Services, PA
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27534
I have previously been Adjunct Faculty with ECU and MOC and continue to provide training around the area and NC, focusing on family and indv care approaches.
My approach to therapy is to assist individuals in accomplishing their goals in this journey we call life. I feel our expectations of others, ourselves and our environment create more stress than we often realize. The good news is we can tame those expectations in order to live a more purposeful life, less driven by stress and greatly assisted by the skills acquired in therapy.
I have previously been Adjunct Faculty with ECU and MOC and continue to provide training around the area and NC, focusing on family and indv care approaches.
My approach to therapy is to assist individuals in accomplishing their goals in this journey we call life. I feel our expectations of others, ourselves and our environment create more stress than we often realize. The good news is we can tame those expectations in order to live a more purposeful life, less driven by stress and greatly assisted by the skills acquired in therapy.
(919) 584-9306 View (919) 584-9306
Photo of Holland And Associates Counseling, PLLC, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina
Holland And Associates Counseling, PLLC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor
Verified Verified
Nags Head, NC 27959
INDIVIDUAL, FAMILY AND GROUP COUNSELING APPOINTMENTS A typical individual, family or group session lasts 60 minutes.
Although we are unable to change the past, it assists us in bringing awareness in the present moment. In doing so, we are able to review the past while participating in the moment and preparing for future experiences. Whether you are looking to better understand yourself, change long-standing behavioral and thought patterns, or enhance the quality of your life, Holland and Associates Counseling looks forward to working along side you.
INDIVIDUAL, FAMILY AND GROUP COUNSELING APPOINTMENTS A typical individual, family or group session lasts 60 minutes.
Although we are unable to change the past, it assists us in bringing awareness in the present moment. In doing so, we are able to review the past while participating in the moment and preparing for future experiences. Whether you are looking to better understand yourself, change long-standing behavioral and thought patterns, or enhance the quality of your life, Holland and Associates Counseling looks forward to working along side you.
(252) 336-9479 View (252) 336-9479
Photo of Steve Hanna Interventions, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Steve Hanna Interventions
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226  (Online Only)
Assessments, Consultation, Individual, Group and Family Therapy, Invitational and Traditional Interventions, Case Management and Mentoring, Structured Family Recovery.
Steve is a mature and seasoned professional with 26 years experience in both residential and outpatient therapy. He is both pragmatic and compassionate combining evidenced based practices, lifestyle changes,12 step recovery and experiential therapies to empower clients with Substance Use and Mental Health issues in their healing and wellness.
Assessments, Consultation, Individual, Group and Family Therapy, Invitational and Traditional Interventions, Case Management and Mentoring, Structured Family Recovery.
Steve is a mature and seasoned professional with 26 years experience in both residential and outpatient therapy. He is both pragmatic and compassionate combining evidenced based practices, lifestyle changes,12 step recovery and experiential therapies to empower clients with Substance Use and Mental Health issues in their healing and wellness.
(704) 966-7288 View (704) 966-7288
Photo of Becky Shaffer, Counselor in North Carolina
Becky Shaffer
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615  (Online Only)
Life is not always easy, but I believe we all have the strength within us to grow, adapt, and heal. My goal is to create a safe space for you to uncover your own resilience and cultivate a sense of meaning and purpose in this life. I primarily work with adults of all ages facing a variety of concerns such as: anxiety, panic, mild-to-moderate depression, grief and loss, OCD, chronic and terminal physical illness, relational/family stressors, and difficulties related to addiction. I am able to integrate faith and spirituality into counseling if so desired.
Life is not always easy, but I believe we all have the strength within us to grow, adapt, and heal. My goal is to create a safe space for you to uncover your own resilience and cultivate a sense of meaning and purpose in this life. I primarily work with adults of all ages facing a variety of concerns such as: anxiety, panic, mild-to-moderate depression, grief and loss, OCD, chronic and terminal physical illness, relational/family stressors, and difficulties related to addiction. I am able to integrate faith and spirituality into counseling if so desired.
(919) 679-9515 View (919) 679-9515
Photo of Alex Bonicelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Alex Bonicelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562
I can help clients work through issues related to social stressors, relationship conflict, complex family dynamics, behavioral challenges at school/home, grief, and adjusting to various other life changes.
Finding a therapist you can trust is key when pursuing mental health services. I believe that all aspects of a client's life are relevant and contribute to their overall mental health. I work with individuals/ families experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, irregular mood, stress, trauma, and behavioral issues. I also work with clients who are having a hard time adjusting to life changes, grief, and loss. I utilize a variety of interventions in order to provide the best quality of treatment for each client.
I can help clients work through issues related to social stressors, relationship conflict, complex family dynamics, behavioral challenges at school/home, grief, and adjusting to various other life changes.
Finding a therapist you can trust is key when pursuing mental health services. I believe that all aspects of a client's life are relevant and contribute to their overall mental health. I work with individuals/ families experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, irregular mood, stress, trauma, and behavioral issues. I also work with clients who are having a hard time adjusting to life changes, grief, and loss. I utilize a variety of interventions in order to provide the best quality of treatment for each client.
(252) 254-2444 View (252) 254-2444
Photo of Todd Green , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Todd Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
I love building genuine rapport with clients and believe therapy can also be a place to share a good laugh(if appropriate) I use a combination of Motivational interviewing, Solution- focused therapy, CBT, ACT, Internal family systems and mindfulness based therapy.
Hi ! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working with families and individuals for 24 years. My passion is providing a safe space built on trust and open honesty where you can be your authentic self without fear of judgment or stigma. My ultimate objective is to always help clients reconnect to the people, things, and activities that matter most to them.
I love building genuine rapport with clients and believe therapy can also be a place to share a good laugh(if appropriate) I use a combination of Motivational interviewing, Solution- focused therapy, CBT, ACT, Internal family systems and mindfulness based therapy.
Hi ! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working with families and individuals for 24 years. My passion is providing a safe space built on trust and open honesty where you can be your authentic self without fear of judgment or stigma. My ultimate objective is to always help clients reconnect to the people, things, and activities that matter most to them.
(828) 547-3332 View (828) 547-3332
Photo of Ashley Moser, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Carolina
Ashley Moser
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
As a marriage and family therapist, I also enjoy teaching loved ones how to support each other in order to improve the quality of relationships.
I am the owner and therapist behind Next Steps Counseling and Consulting, PLLC. With a focus on anxiety, life transitions, and relationships, I specialize in disordered eating, body image, and helping families support each other. For 15 years, I have provided therapy in multiple settings, including outpatient, PHP/IOP, community mental health, and private practice. I spent ten years of my career in clinical and administrative leadership but felt a calling to return to direct service in response to the current mental health crisis. I opened a virtual private practice and have loved being able to return to therapy and direct care.
As a marriage and family therapist, I also enjoy teaching loved ones how to support each other in order to improve the quality of relationships.
I am the owner and therapist behind Next Steps Counseling and Consulting, PLLC. With a focus on anxiety, life transitions, and relationships, I specialize in disordered eating, body image, and helping families support each other. For 15 years, I have provided therapy in multiple settings, including outpatient, PHP/IOP, community mental health, and private practice. I spent ten years of my career in clinical and administrative leadership but felt a calling to return to direct service in response to the current mental health crisis. I opened a virtual private practice and have loved being able to return to therapy and direct care.
(704) 529-9948 View (704) 529-9948
Photo of Elizabeth W Watson, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in North Carolina
Elizabeth W Watson
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401
I use a tailored combination of traditional psychotherapy, family therapy, play therapy, parent behavior management, and educational planning.
Hi! I'm Elizabeth. If you're reading this, you or someone you care about might be interested in seeking counseling services. Working through relationship and family of origin issues, challenging negative belief systems and improving unhelpful habits/thoughts are a few areas worked on often in therapy. I have worked with those who are adjusting to change, grieving, experiencing depression/anxiety (postpartum or otherwise) as well as teenagers coping with change, and children and families coping with divorce. My desire is to walk alongside clients to help navigate whatever issue is before them.
I use a tailored combination of traditional psychotherapy, family therapy, play therapy, parent behavior management, and educational planning.
Hi! I'm Elizabeth. If you're reading this, you or someone you care about might be interested in seeking counseling services. Working through relationship and family of origin issues, challenging negative belief systems and improving unhelpful habits/thoughts are a few areas worked on often in therapy. I have worked with those who are adjusting to change, grieving, experiencing depression/anxiety (postpartum or otherwise) as well as teenagers coping with change, and children and families coping with divorce. My desire is to walk alongside clients to help navigate whatever issue is before them.
(910) 335-2648 View (910) 335-2648
Photo of Charlotte Therapy Associates, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Carolina
Charlotte Therapy Associates, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
Providing individual, couples & family therapy.
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Together we will unearth behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
Providing individual, couples & family therapy.
My goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Together we will unearth behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(704) 257-6607 x1 View (704) 257-6607 x1
Cynthia Palmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
High Point, NC 27265
Marriage and Family Therapy is unique in that it works simultaneously on different relationship levels to address each as the dynamic system they are.
I see people as young as 3 years old and throughout their journey through life. I work with life's challenges including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, marital stress, grief/ loss, eating disorders, addictions, blending of stepfamilies, separations and divorces, ADHD, and transitions in life. I do cognitive-behavioral therapy, play therapy, and experiential therapy, all with a systemic perspective. In addition, I am a level 2 trained professional in EMDR. Peace is found within, and I would be honored to be here to help you through these difficult times to your place of comfort again.
Marriage and Family Therapy is unique in that it works simultaneously on different relationship levels to address each as the dynamic system they are.
I see people as young as 3 years old and throughout their journey through life. I work with life's challenges including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, marital stress, grief/ loss, eating disorders, addictions, blending of stepfamilies, separations and divorces, ADHD, and transitions in life. I do cognitive-behavioral therapy, play therapy, and experiential therapy, all with a systemic perspective. In addition, I am a level 2 trained professional in EMDR. Peace is found within, and I would be honored to be here to help you through these difficult times to your place of comfort again.
(336) 827-9430 View (336) 827-9430
Photo of Megan Baron, Counselor in North Carolina
Megan Baron
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28027
I work with teens, young adults and families. I am passionate about helping young women and teen girls discover their inner strength. My experience includes working with women ages 12+ facing concerns with relational and family issues, anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions and self-esteem. I see myself as a rudder, guiding young adult women and teens towards their own self-discovery, healing and strengths. If you or your teen are feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands, my services will introduce support and skills needed to foster self-empowerment.
I work with teens, young adults and families. I am passionate about helping young women and teen girls discover their inner strength. My experience includes working with women ages 12+ facing concerns with relational and family issues, anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions and self-esteem. I see myself as a rudder, guiding young adult women and teens towards their own self-discovery, healing and strengths. If you or your teen are feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands, my services will introduce support and skills needed to foster self-empowerment.
(984) 789-4968 View (984) 789-4968
Photo of Faith Based Counseling Services, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Faith Based Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFT
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
Waitlist for new clients
La'Neika Benbow is Owner & Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Marriage & Family Therapist with over 18 years of experience.
At Faith Based Counseling Services, LLC, our mission is to provide quality therapeutic services that embody the whole you, mind, body and spirit. We believe that in order to have overall balance and healing, you must be able to tap into all parts of you , which include spiritual connection. Therapeutic services are not provided in the form of preaching, but incorporate your connection with God. We utilize Godly principles to assist in strengthening you in order to enhance your ability to cope, see hope and imagine a better life for yourself.
La'Neika Benbow is Owner & Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Marriage & Family Therapist with over 18 years of experience.
At Faith Based Counseling Services, LLC, our mission is to provide quality therapeutic services that embody the whole you, mind, body and spirit. We believe that in order to have overall balance and healing, you must be able to tap into all parts of you , which include spiritual connection. Therapeutic services are not provided in the form of preaching, but incorporate your connection with God. We utilize Godly principles to assist in strengthening you in order to enhance your ability to cope, see hope and imagine a better life for yourself.
(252) 648-7574 View (252) 648-7574
Photo of Michele Hairston - Faith First Christian Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina
Michele Hairston - Faith First Christian Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAMF, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Walnut Cove, NC 27052
As a counselor, I believe that true and lasting change comes from looking at the whole person. I work with patients to bring about transformation through an understanding of the body, emotional healing, behavioral change and a spiritual foundation. I enjoy working with adolescents and families who have been affected by violence, trauma, family changes, drugs and major life changes. I also work with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, life changes, addictions as a result of trauma, self-regulation, stress and conflict. I desire to help strengthen and deepen your personal relationship with Jesus Christ as you heal.
As a counselor, I believe that true and lasting change comes from looking at the whole person. I work with patients to bring about transformation through an understanding of the body, emotional healing, behavioral change and a spiritual foundation. I enjoy working with adolescents and families who have been affected by violence, trauma, family changes, drugs and major life changes. I also work with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, life changes, addictions as a result of trauma, self-regulation, stress and conflict. I desire to help strengthen and deepen your personal relationship with Jesus Christ as you heal.
(336) 663-0423 View (336) 663-0423

See more therapy options for North Carolina

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.