Family Therapy in Portland, OR

Photo of Erica Tan, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Erica Tan
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
As a clinical psychologist trained as an integrationist, I enjoy working with people from a holistic perspective. I believe it is important to consider not only what is going on in the present, but also what has happened developmentally, biologically, interpersonally,and cognitively. In addition to conceptualizing our experiences as people from a systems perspective, I conduct individual, group, and family therapy using a DBT-informed frame of practice. What this means is that change comes about by learning new behaviors in a variety of contexts while balancing the reality of a person's situation and skill level with acceptance.
As a clinical psychologist trained as an integrationist, I enjoy working with people from a holistic perspective. I believe it is important to consider not only what is going on in the present, but also what has happened developmentally, biologically, interpersonally,and cognitively. In addition to conceptualizing our experiences as people from a systems perspective, I conduct individual, group, and family therapy using a DBT-informed frame of practice. What this means is that change comes about by learning new behaviors in a variety of contexts while balancing the reality of a person's situation and skill level with acceptance.
(503) 980-1301 View (503) 980-1301
Photo of Willamette Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Willamette Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Some of our most sought after therapies include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Processing Therapy, CBT, Couples Counseling, Somatic Work, Psychedelic Psychotherapy, Health at Every Size, Hypnotherapy, and many others.
WWC now has psychiatric medication services available for OR and WA! WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of Oregon and Washington. We have a wide range of specialties including medication management, eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, post partum work, bariatric surgery letters, psychedelic psychotherapy, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
Some of our most sought after therapies include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Processing Therapy, CBT, Couples Counseling, Somatic Work, Psychedelic Psychotherapy, Health at Every Size, Hypnotherapy, and many others.
WWC now has psychiatric medication services available for OR and WA! WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of Oregon and Washington. We have a wide range of specialties including medication management, eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, post partum work, bariatric surgery letters, psychedelic psychotherapy, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
(971) 803-4515 View (971) 803-4515
Photo of Eudaemonia Equine Connections, Inc.®, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Eudaemonia Equine Connections, Inc.®
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD, CTRI, ESMHL
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229
We look forward to the possibility of meeting you, your family, and/or partner, and working with you and by incorporating horses into your treatment, we hope may assist you in the process of reducing impacts of life stressors and increasing your sense of well-being, life mastery, and eudaemonia.
Equine-assisted mental health (EAMH) is a specialized psychotherapy treatment that incorporates equines (i.e. horses) into the therapeutic environment. In EAMH, there is a strong focus on present-moment awareness, experiential learning, and the integration of the mind-body-spirit connection through interactions with a horse(s) in an outdoor barn environment.
We look forward to the possibility of meeting you, your family, and/or partner, and working with you and by incorporating horses into your treatment, we hope may assist you in the process of reducing impacts of life stressors and increasing your sense of well-being, life mastery, and eudaemonia.
Equine-assisted mental health (EAMH) is a specialized psychotherapy treatment that incorporates equines (i.e. horses) into the therapeutic environment. In EAMH, there is a strong focus on present-moment awareness, experiential learning, and the integration of the mind-body-spirit connection through interactions with a horse(s) in an outdoor barn environment.
(971) 232-3105 View (971) 232-3105
Photo of Kimberlee Dennery, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kimberlee Dennery
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
I utilize a mindfulness approach and incorporate cbt, dbt, narrative and family systems theory.
Hello, I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families I specialize in treating anxiety and depression. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. I also enjoy working with teenage and younger clients. I see many people who are going through life transitions. When one is going through grief and loss, education challenges, relationship difficulties, a new family member, pain or illness, it can be particularly difficult to cope and particularly beneficial to be in therapy to work through these issues with an unbiased ear. I also specialize in working with individuals who have struggles with chronic pain.
I utilize a mindfulness approach and incorporate cbt, dbt, narrative and family systems theory.
Hello, I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families I specialize in treating anxiety and depression. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities. I also enjoy working with teenage and younger clients. I see many people who are going through life transitions. When one is going through grief and loss, education challenges, relationship difficulties, a new family member, pain or illness, it can be particularly difficult to cope and particularly beneficial to be in therapy to work through these issues with an unbiased ear. I also specialize in working with individuals who have struggles with chronic pain.
(503) 300-5309 View (503) 300-5309
Photo of Nate Wilson-Traisman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Nate Wilson-Traisman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I bring 10 years of experience as a family systems therapist to my work, and have extensive training in models of individual and family therapy.
I love working with adolescents, adult individuals, and families. I enjoy helping teens and families navigate the changes of adolescence, while working to engage parents around their teenager's change process. While adolescence can challenge families, it's also a developmental phase filled with exciting and inspiring change. My work with adults often focuses on relationship issues, anxiety, stress management, and issues related to emotional expression. I work well with adults who are motivated to change behavior, and are wanting some extra help. My clients appreciate my grounded presence, and my strengths-based approach.
I bring 10 years of experience as a family systems therapist to my work, and have extensive training in models of individual and family therapy.
I love working with adolescents, adult individuals, and families. I enjoy helping teens and families navigate the changes of adolescence, while working to engage parents around their teenager's change process. While adolescence can challenge families, it's also a developmental phase filled with exciting and inspiring change. My work with adults often focuses on relationship issues, anxiety, stress management, and issues related to emotional expression. I work well with adults who are motivated to change behavior, and are wanting some extra help. My clients appreciate my grounded presence, and my strengths-based approach.
(503) 549-4841 View (503) 549-4841
Photo of Hanna Omori, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Hanna Omori
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, LPC-I
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
While I utilize a variety of approaches to suit differing needs, I draw primarily from Internal Family Systems.
Do you identify as a BIPOC woman who is feeling depleted from dealing with effects of systemic racism or ongoing micro-aggressions, and it's been affecting how you feel about yourself? Have you recently lost a loved one to suicide or homicide and feel alone in your pain?
While I utilize a variety of approaches to suit differing needs, I draw primarily from Internal Family Systems.
Do you identify as a BIPOC woman who is feeling depleted from dealing with effects of systemic racism or ongoing micro-aggressions, and it's been affecting how you feel about yourself? Have you recently lost a loved one to suicide or homicide and feel alone in your pain?
(503) 832-5535 View (503) 832-5535
Photo of Gina DeLeo Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Gina DeLeo Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I see people as part of their ‘systems’; their history, family, culture, beliefs, current relationships and jobs…it’s an ecology, so any changes can improve the whole.
I work with individuals, couples, and families hoping to heal past trauma, improve communication and find new possibilities. You may be feeling anxious, depressed, and confused about what your next steps in life should be. These feelings may be related to relationship distress, problems in communication with family members, big life changes, or work stress. I work collaboratively with individuals, families and partners who want to foster connection and form deeper, more loving relationships.
I see people as part of their ‘systems’; their history, family, culture, beliefs, current relationships and jobs…it’s an ecology, so any changes can improve the whole.
I work with individuals, couples, and families hoping to heal past trauma, improve communication and find new possibilities. You may be feeling anxious, depressed, and confused about what your next steps in life should be. These feelings may be related to relationship distress, problems in communication with family members, big life changes, or work stress. I work collaboratively with individuals, families and partners who want to foster connection and form deeper, more loving relationships.
(503) 966-4656 View (503) 966-4656
Photo of Lisa Sloan Strom, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Lisa Sloan Strom, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC-I
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
You've let go of the toxic relationship, addictive behavior, and self defeating patterns, and you want to remain empowered, strong, supported through it all. You seek someone you can talk to, someone other than friend or family. Whether you're recovering from a break-up or a major life event like Pandemic or career change, it's time to build support and concrete skills for the healthy, authentic life you've always desired.
You've let go of the toxic relationship, addictive behavior, and self defeating patterns, and you want to remain empowered, strong, supported through it all. You seek someone you can talk to, someone other than friend or family. Whether you're recovering from a break-up or a major life event like Pandemic or career change, it's time to build support and concrete skills for the healthy, authentic life you've always desired.
(503) 743-6638 x974 View (503) 743-6638 x974
Photo of Sophia Fleming, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Sophia Fleming
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221
Sophia often incorporates therapy stemming from cognitive behavioral, attachment, family systems, humanistic, psychodynamic, and trauma theories.
Sophia Fleming, LCSW, SEP offers virtual counseling sessions for adults throughout Oregon who are yearning to experience more peace and more joy in their lives. Typically, when one seeks counseling, he or she feels "stuck". Sophia has a knack for guiding clients to untangle the pieces. Sophia has had the honor of working and training at The Meadows, a world-renowned treatment center, and has received training from world-renowned therapists Pia Mellody on codependency, love addiction/ love avoidance, and inner child work, Claudia Black focusing on couples therapy, and Peter Levine developer of Somatic Experiencing.
Sophia often incorporates therapy stemming from cognitive behavioral, attachment, family systems, humanistic, psychodynamic, and trauma theories.
Sophia Fleming, LCSW, SEP offers virtual counseling sessions for adults throughout Oregon who are yearning to experience more peace and more joy in their lives. Typically, when one seeks counseling, he or she feels "stuck". Sophia has a knack for guiding clients to untangle the pieces. Sophia has had the honor of working and training at The Meadows, a world-renowned treatment center, and has received training from world-renowned therapists Pia Mellody on codependency, love addiction/ love avoidance, and inner child work, Claudia Black focusing on couples therapy, and Peter Levine developer of Somatic Experiencing.
(971) 290-2672 View (971) 290-2672
Photo of Ana Reichelt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Ana Reichelt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CADC, I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97230  (Online Only)
My approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Structural Family Therapy, by integrating this two approaches I am better able to help my clients heal past wounds and overcome current struggles.
It's my privilege to work as a Mental Health Counselor. I offer a safe, non judgmental, place where people can explore their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. I have expertise addressing relationship conflicts, child/parent struggles, separation/divorce, substance abuse, and codependency issues. When we are suffering and in need of counseling we sometimes endure a great deal before we recognize there is a problem that needs to be addressed. If you find yourself struggling in any one of these areas call me to help you find the joy in everyday life.
My approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Structural Family Therapy, by integrating this two approaches I am better able to help my clients heal past wounds and overcome current struggles.
It's my privilege to work as a Mental Health Counselor. I offer a safe, non judgmental, place where people can explore their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. I have expertise addressing relationship conflicts, child/parent struggles, separation/divorce, substance abuse, and codependency issues. When we are suffering and in need of counseling we sometimes endure a great deal before we recognize there is a problem that needs to be addressed. If you find yourself struggling in any one of these areas call me to help you find the joy in everyday life.
(503) 926-6359 View (503) 926-6359
Photo of Megan S Samsel, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Megan S Samsel
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
I utilize Hakomi, Internal Family Systems, Gestalt, and Emotions Focused Therapy for individuals and couples.
Whether we are exploring the relationship we have with ourselves or with others, I believe compassion and loving-presence are essential to understanding the parts of ourselves that feel tender and/or condemned. It isn’t uncommon for these tender parts to appear to be stuck in patterns that seem to further disconnect us from ourselves and others. I enjoy working with neurodivergence, those with complex trauma, LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples. My work is an anti-oppressive, relational, humorous, and client-centered.
I utilize Hakomi, Internal Family Systems, Gestalt, and Emotions Focused Therapy for individuals and couples.
Whether we are exploring the relationship we have with ourselves or with others, I believe compassion and loving-presence are essential to understanding the parts of ourselves that feel tender and/or condemned. It isn’t uncommon for these tender parts to appear to be stuck in patterns that seem to further disconnect us from ourselves and others. I enjoy working with neurodivergence, those with complex trauma, LGBTQIA+ individuals and couples. My work is an anti-oppressive, relational, humorous, and client-centered.
(971) 298-7928 View (971) 298-7928
Photo of Candice Jones, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Candice Jones
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
Adolescence can be a very challenging time for both teens and their parents. Being a teenager is hard work and can often bring struggles of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and relationship conflicts. Parenting can also be accompanied by stress, confusion, and moments of doubt. Through collaboration we will work towards building resilience, discovering more about yourself, and develop coping strategies to decrease the discomfort that accompanies these phases in life. Together we will navigate the challenges to foster a healthy and supportive family dynamic.
Adolescence can be a very challenging time for both teens and their parents. Being a teenager is hard work and can often bring struggles of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, and relationship conflicts. Parenting can also be accompanied by stress, confusion, and moments of doubt. Through collaboration we will work towards building resilience, discovering more about yourself, and develop coping strategies to decrease the discomfort that accompanies these phases in life. Together we will navigate the challenges to foster a healthy and supportive family dynamic.
(503) 470-2629 View (503) 470-2629
Photo of Annie 'jiahui' Chen, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Annie 'jiahui' Chen
Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Are you seeking a POC clinician, someone with lived experience as a first-generational immigrant, or as an international student? Do you need support with family issues or a partner, cultural support, or support for mental health in a culture where stigma exists? I can help you with depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, trauma, issues related to cultural adaptation, relationship issues, boundary setting, procrastination, life transitions and self worth. I also speak fluent Cantonese and Mandarin. Its never easy to walk alone in distress, feeling lost and helpless. Together, lets create a safe space for you to heal.
Are you seeking a POC clinician, someone with lived experience as a first-generational immigrant, or as an international student? Do you need support with family issues or a partner, cultural support, or support for mental health in a culture where stigma exists? I can help you with depression, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, trauma, issues related to cultural adaptation, relationship issues, boundary setting, procrastination, life transitions and self worth. I also speak fluent Cantonese and Mandarin. Its never easy to walk alone in distress, feeling lost and helpless. Together, lets create a safe space for you to heal.
(503) 994-1469 View (503) 994-1469
Photo of Malia Graves, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Malia Graves
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215  (Online Only)
Systemic therapy can offer a holistic view that incorporates all aspects of your life, from your family history to Portland culture and beyond, allowing for wider awareness of how you fit in these systems.
Are you feeling like your relationships are stressed, disconnected, or just not the same as they used to be? Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or not like yourself? - Learning how to manage our emotions and communicate effectively can be tricky, but especially with our families and partners. Don't take on the challenge alone, build the skills to manage your mental health effectively with the support of a licensed mental health professional. My intention is to support your healing and guide you towards sustainable goals that will let you feel safe, heard, and connected. Let me help you take the first steps towards growth!
Systemic therapy can offer a holistic view that incorporates all aspects of your life, from your family history to Portland culture and beyond, allowing for wider awareness of how you fit in these systems.
Are you feeling like your relationships are stressed, disconnected, or just not the same as they used to be? Do you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or not like yourself? - Learning how to manage our emotions and communicate effectively can be tricky, but especially with our families and partners. Don't take on the challenge alone, build the skills to manage your mental health effectively with the support of a licensed mental health professional. My intention is to support your healing and guide you towards sustainable goals that will let you feel safe, heard, and connected. Let me help you take the first steps towards growth!
(971) 308-5256 View (971) 308-5256
Photo of Dr. Richard Nalbandian, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Dr. Richard Nalbandian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97227
Richard Nalbandian, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist as works with individuals located in OR and MA. Dr. Nalbandian has experience working with adults from various backgrounds on issues including anxiety, depression, grief, complex trauma, relationship struggles, family conflict, and personality troubles. He completed his internship and post-doctoral residency in Massachusetts as a fellow at the Albert and Jessie Danielsen Institute at Boston University. Dr. Nalbandian has focused training in and provides psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. His therapeutic style is collaborative and relational.
Richard Nalbandian, Psy.D., is a licensed clinical psychologist as works with individuals located in OR and MA. Dr. Nalbandian has experience working with adults from various backgrounds on issues including anxiety, depression, grief, complex trauma, relationship struggles, family conflict, and personality troubles. He completed his internship and post-doctoral residency in Massachusetts as a fellow at the Albert and Jessie Danielsen Institute at Boston University. Dr. Nalbandian has focused training in and provides psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families. His therapeutic style is collaborative and relational.
(971) 299-2882 View (971) 299-2882
Photo of Emily Anne Weidlich, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Emily Anne Weidlich
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Everyone needs support and encouragement, and though our friends and family play an integral role in our lives, they often struggle with finding the words to say when we face truly troubling experiences. As a trained counselor, my goal is to skillfully and empathetically help you navigate your challenges by working together to develop greater insight into your experience, foster an honest and compassionate stance towards your previous efforts, and develop more adaptive skills and perspectives to aid you moving forward.
Everyone needs support and encouragement, and though our friends and family play an integral role in our lives, they often struggle with finding the words to say when we face truly troubling experiences. As a trained counselor, my goal is to skillfully and empathetically help you navigate your challenges by working together to develop greater insight into your experience, foster an honest and compassionate stance towards your previous efforts, and develop more adaptive skills and perspectives to aid you moving forward.
(503) 506-4505 View (503) 506-4505
Photo of Diana Crane, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Diana Crane
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
My counseling philosophy is rooted in the idea that all humans have the ability to grow and heal. No human being is broken, and most mental health struggles stem, in part, from difficult external circumstances, like a traumatic past or a flawed culture. Through active listening, reflection, and gentle challenging, I help you become better acquainted with yourself, so that you can live in closer alignment with your values. I specialize in working with eating disorders and body image distress, but I also work with anxiety, depression, relationship and family struggles.
My counseling philosophy is rooted in the idea that all humans have the ability to grow and heal. No human being is broken, and most mental health struggles stem, in part, from difficult external circumstances, like a traumatic past or a flawed culture. Through active listening, reflection, and gentle challenging, I help you become better acquainted with yourself, so that you can live in closer alignment with your values. I specialize in working with eating disorders and body image distress, but I also work with anxiety, depression, relationship and family struggles.
(503) 647-4154 View (503) 647-4154
Photo of Michelle Perrier, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Michelle Perrier
Professional Counselor Associate , MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97203  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Using mindfulness, somatic practices, and Internal Family Systems, we will address anxiety and trauma by exploring your attachment and relationship dynamics.
Being a human is hard. In our work together, you'll find a compassionate space where you can navigate life's transitions and challenges, from identity exploration, relationship dynamics and tough emotions. It's okay to feel what you're feeling. We'll work on deepening your connection to your body & emotions, guiding you away from constant fight-or-flight responses. We'll delve into understanding your relationships & past experiences, focusing on attachment and the ways they shape your present, to softly process trauma. Clients have seen less anxiety, greater presence, better management of stress, process trauma, and more confidence.
Using mindfulness, somatic practices, and Internal Family Systems, we will address anxiety and trauma by exploring your attachment and relationship dynamics.
Being a human is hard. In our work together, you'll find a compassionate space where you can navigate life's transitions and challenges, from identity exploration, relationship dynamics and tough emotions. It's okay to feel what you're feeling. We'll work on deepening your connection to your body & emotions, guiding you away from constant fight-or-flight responses. We'll delve into understanding your relationships & past experiences, focusing on attachment and the ways they shape your present, to softly process trauma. Clients have seen less anxiety, greater presence, better management of stress, process trauma, and more confidence.
(971) 328-7425 View (971) 328-7425
Photo of Clark Hazel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Clark Hazel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, AM
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I work with those who are questioning their gender identity, navigating barriers to receiving gender affirming care, and working with folks experiencing difficult family relationships related to their transgender/non-binary identity.
Are you looking to make changes in your life but are unsure of where to start? It can be especially challenging to navigate life right now with the pandemic, economic uncertainty, and the unveiling of the multitude of intertwined systems of oppression we find ourselves in at this time. You are not alone in experiencing concerns, outrage, and fear. I am here to accompany you in navigating these challenges and also acknowledging the joy in life. You are deserving of support and a space to talk openly. I am someone you can trust to process your fears and anxieties with as well as cultivate hope for your future.
I work with those who are questioning their gender identity, navigating barriers to receiving gender affirming care, and working with folks experiencing difficult family relationships related to their transgender/non-binary identity.
Are you looking to make changes in your life but are unsure of where to start? It can be especially challenging to navigate life right now with the pandemic, economic uncertainty, and the unveiling of the multitude of intertwined systems of oppression we find ourselves in at this time. You are not alone in experiencing concerns, outrage, and fear. I am here to accompany you in navigating these challenges and also acknowledging the joy in life. You are deserving of support and a space to talk openly. I am someone you can trust to process your fears and anxieties with as well as cultivate hope for your future.
(971) 365-3367 View (971) 365-3367
Photo of Chelsea Carter, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Chelsea Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I believe you were born whole. You already have everything you need to succeed and thrive. I am here to create a safe, supportive environment in which you can share your experience. I provide trauma informed, systemically-oriented therapy to adults (18+) and couples. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and somatic exercises to guide my work.
I believe you were born whole. You already have everything you need to succeed and thrive. I am here to create a safe, supportive environment in which you can share your experience. I provide trauma informed, systemically-oriented therapy to adults (18+) and couples. I use Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and somatic exercises to guide my work.
(503) 549-4134 View (503) 549-4134
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.