Photo of Dr. Mesha Ellis, Relationship & Sex Therapist, Psychologist in Nashville, TN
Dr. Mesha Ellis, Relationship & Sex Therapist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Are you troubled by self doubt, questioning your or your partner's level of commitment, or contemplating walking away from a relationship? Perhaps you are feeling disconnected from others or frustrated by an unsatisfying sex life. Is the conflict in your family extreme? Are you struggling to coparent effectively? You may be single and exasperated by the drama that sometimes comes along with dating. Or, a parent who is helplessly watching your child or adolescent struggle educationally or in social relationships. If any of these statements resonate with you, I can help you navigate your journey to contentment, confidence, and bliss.
Are you troubled by self doubt, questioning your or your partner's level of commitment, or contemplating walking away from a relationship? Perhaps you are feeling disconnected from others or frustrated by an unsatisfying sex life. Is the conflict in your family extreme? Are you struggling to coparent effectively? You may be single and exasperated by the drama that sometimes comes along with dating. Or, a parent who is helplessly watching your child or adolescent struggle educationally or in social relationships. If any of these statements resonate with you, I can help you navigate your journey to contentment, confidence, and bliss.
(678) 905-7862 View (678) 905-7862
Photo of Grace (Bomar) Finn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Grace (Bomar) Finn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
My name is Grace, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist serving individuals, adolescents, and families. I value using honesty, humor, and empathy to promote healing. Whether it is with the intention of being a better friend, parent, partner, professional, or person, doing your own work is one of the bravest and most rewarding things you can do. My goal is to make doing the work as safe, goal-driven, and empowering as possible.
My name is Grace, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist serving individuals, adolescents, and families. I value using honesty, humor, and empathy to promote healing. Whether it is with the intention of being a better friend, parent, partner, professional, or person, doing your own work is one of the bravest and most rewarding things you can do. My goal is to make doing the work as safe, goal-driven, and empowering as possible.
(615) 987-0542 View (615) 987-0542
Photo of Lipscomb Family Therapy Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Lipscomb Family Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37204
The therapists interns at LFTC are current students in the master's in marriage and family therapy program at Lipscomb University.
With fees as low as $10 per session, we strive to make talk therapy services available for everyone in the Nashville community. As a center for couples, families, and individuals, Lipscomb Family Therapy Center provides a comfortable and confidential therapy setting to discuss issues you may be struggling with. All LFTC therapist interns provide services on a sliding fee scale that runs from $10 to $50 per session based on client income. At LFTC, we welcome opportunities to work with everyone, regardless of religious or spiritual background. We believe that seeking help shows strength and a commitment to becoming a healthier person.
The therapists interns at LFTC are current students in the master's in marriage and family therapy program at Lipscomb University.
With fees as low as $10 per session, we strive to make talk therapy services available for everyone in the Nashville community. As a center for couples, families, and individuals, Lipscomb Family Therapy Center provides a comfortable and confidential therapy setting to discuss issues you may be struggling with. All LFTC therapist interns provide services on a sliding fee scale that runs from $10 to $50 per session based on client income. At LFTC, we welcome opportunities to work with everyone, regardless of religious or spiritual background. We believe that seeking help shows strength and a commitment to becoming a healthier person.
(615) 398-6580 View (615) 398-6580
Photo of Brian S Poynter, Counselor in Nashville, TN
Brian S Poynter
Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
Utilizing the basic tenets of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy I enjoy assisting those with a wide range of mental health issues. From acute illness such as Bipolar Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder to change of life issues, this approach allows for permanent change to the the distorted thought process. My experience has been, and continues to be inpatient at a local psychiatric hospital as well as my private practice. I will work with your psychiatrist or medical provider as well as supportive members of your family/life to provide a more comprehensive approach to mental wellness.
Utilizing the basic tenets of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy I enjoy assisting those with a wide range of mental health issues. From acute illness such as Bipolar Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder to change of life issues, this approach allows for permanent change to the the distorted thought process. My experience has been, and continues to be inpatient at a local psychiatric hospital as well as my private practice. I will work with your psychiatrist or medical provider as well as supportive members of your family/life to provide a more comprehensive approach to mental wellness.
(615) 442-7143 View (615) 442-7143
Photo of Matthew Andrews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Matthew Andrews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
I am currently offering individual, family, and couples therapy sessions.
Do you ever feel like life can be overwhelming? Has depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or other problems taken control of you life? As a therapist, I believe that everyone has the capacity to heal . Sometimes it just takes a little guidance to help you get better. I have been in this field since 2013 and have been honored to help clients achieve their goals, grow as human beings, and become happier and healthier.
I am currently offering individual, family, and couples therapy sessions.
Do you ever feel like life can be overwhelming? Has depression, anxiety, substance abuse, or other problems taken control of you life? As a therapist, I believe that everyone has the capacity to heal . Sometimes it just takes a little guidance to help you get better. I have been in this field since 2013 and have been honored to help clients achieve their goals, grow as human beings, and become happier and healthier.
(629) 201-7128 View (629) 201-7128
Photo of Julia A McAninch, Psychologist in Nashville, TN
Julia A McAninch
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
In addition to my therapy practice, I work as a Collaborative Divorce Coach and Rule 31 Family Mediator helping clients resolve disputes respectfully and promoting positive co-parenting relationships.
My specialty areas include trauma and PTSD (rape, child abuse, domestic violence, neglect, emotional abuse, car accidents and other accidents, combat exposure, and other violent crimes); relationship issues (couples therapy, recovering from affairs, LGBT couples, family conflict); sexuality (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning concerns, sexual performance, diverse sexual expression); gender (women's issues, men's issues, transgender issues); identity exploration (college students, multicultural populations, career changes); mood disorders (depression and anxiety); along with other areas of concern. Please go to www.mcaninchpsychological.com to see more.
In addition to my therapy practice, I work as a Collaborative Divorce Coach and Rule 31 Family Mediator helping clients resolve disputes respectfully and promoting positive co-parenting relationships.
My specialty areas include trauma and PTSD (rape, child abuse, domestic violence, neglect, emotional abuse, car accidents and other accidents, combat exposure, and other violent crimes); relationship issues (couples therapy, recovering from affairs, LGBT couples, family conflict); sexuality (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and questioning concerns, sexual performance, diverse sexual expression); gender (women's issues, men's issues, transgender issues); identity exploration (college students, multicultural populations, career changes); mood disorders (depression and anxiety); along with other areas of concern. Please go to www.mcaninchpsychological.com to see more.
(615) 208-7104 View (615) 208-7104
Photo of Lexie Holcomb, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Lexie Holcomb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
This private practice is unlike most others. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at The Briggs Institute, Inc. The therapists at the Institute are graduates of Lipscomb University's Master of Marriage and Family Therapy Program. As the only COAMFTE accredited program in Nashville, the Lipscomb MFT program has earned its reputation by meeting the highest academic and clinical experience standards in the country. Because we practice under the supervision of the Lipscomb MFT program faculty, we remain connected to academia. This means our work is informed by state-of-the-art research.
This private practice is unlike most others. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at The Briggs Institute, Inc. The therapists at the Institute are graduates of Lipscomb University's Master of Marriage and Family Therapy Program. As the only COAMFTE accredited program in Nashville, the Lipscomb MFT program has earned its reputation by meeting the highest academic and clinical experience standards in the country. Because we practice under the supervision of the Lipscomb MFT program faculty, we remain connected to academia. This means our work is informed by state-of-the-art research.
(615) 247-6345 View (615) 247-6345
Photo of Juliana Breeden, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Juliana Breeden
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Hello! My name is Juliana and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Nashville, TN, where I offer individual, couples, and family therapy. I am passionate about bringing hope into the lives of those with mental health issues and distress in their relationships. Whether a life transition has you feeling anxious and unsteady, or relationship problems are all consuming, I am committed to creating a safe space for you to process and explore your thoughts and emotions. It is possible to reframe and rewrite the stories that become our reality, and I am here to help with that revision process.
Hello! My name is Juliana and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Nashville, TN, where I offer individual, couples, and family therapy. I am passionate about bringing hope into the lives of those with mental health issues and distress in their relationships. Whether a life transition has you feeling anxious and unsteady, or relationship problems are all consuming, I am committed to creating a safe space for you to process and explore your thoughts and emotions. It is possible to reframe and rewrite the stories that become our reality, and I am here to help with that revision process.
(615) 392-3698 View (615) 392-3698
Photo of J. Gregory Briggs, Ph.D., LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
J. Gregory Briggs, Ph.D., LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
My private practice is different than most therapy practices. First, my personal practice is small. My role as President of The Briggs Institute, Inc. allows me to limit my caseload size. This assures that my clients receive the attention they deserve. Second, my experience in academia places me at the forefront of the field of marriage and family therapy. This means that my practice is informed by scientific research that most private practice therapists can't easily access.
My private practice is different than most therapy practices. First, my personal practice is small. My role as President of The Briggs Institute, Inc. allows me to limit my caseload size. This assures that my clients receive the attention they deserve. Second, my experience in academia places me at the forefront of the field of marriage and family therapy. This means that my practice is informed by scientific research that most private practice therapists can't easily access.
(615) 593-3999 View (615) 593-3999
Photo of Carrie Wilkerson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Carrie Wilkerson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
I weave together Bowen family therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic and Mindfulness work, Trauma-informed care and EMDR, attachment, Recovery and the 12 steps, Narrative, Art, Transpersonal psychology, Gottman, Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT), Imago, and more.
Hi, I’m Carrie. Whatever is happening in your life right now, we can face it with care and find authentic, effective ways to handle it, together. For over 20 years, I’ve worked with individuals, groups, organizations, and communities in making positive change. I have also experienced my own healing journey from childhood abuse and family dysfunction, so I’m intimately familiar with the terrain. My life’s passion is for healing trauma; transforming pain into wholeness; helping my clients develop their unique gifts and path; and nurturing relationships back to health; and that’s what I’ve trained to do.
I weave together Bowen family therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic and Mindfulness work, Trauma-informed care and EMDR, attachment, Recovery and the 12 steps, Narrative, Art, Transpersonal psychology, Gottman, Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT), Imago, and more.
Hi, I’m Carrie. Whatever is happening in your life right now, we can face it with care and find authentic, effective ways to handle it, together. For over 20 years, I’ve worked with individuals, groups, organizations, and communities in making positive change. I have also experienced my own healing journey from childhood abuse and family dysfunction, so I’m intimately familiar with the terrain. My life’s passion is for healing trauma; transforming pain into wholeness; helping my clients develop their unique gifts and path; and nurturing relationships back to health; and that’s what I’ve trained to do.
(615) 492-2208 View (615) 492-2208
Photo of Jonathan Rudiger, Psychologist in Nashville, TN
Jonathan Rudiger
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
We will examine: sleep, nutrition, activity level, family history, relationships, occupational stress, and coping skills.
SATURDAY hours available & Video sessions! I have been practicing psychotherapy in diverse settings for 14 years. I completed my residency at Vanderbilt University and served as an expert consultant for NBC's Today Show. As a psychologist, I have the opportunity to help people understand and navigate very difficult situations. I help my patients develop insight into problems that prevent them from feeling whole and complete. By reading between the lines and exploring the complexity of physical and mental health we are able to finally resolve long-standing concerns. I look forward to helping you find the answers you're looking for!
We will examine: sleep, nutrition, activity level, family history, relationships, occupational stress, and coping skills.
SATURDAY hours available & Video sessions! I have been practicing psychotherapy in diverse settings for 14 years. I completed my residency at Vanderbilt University and served as an expert consultant for NBC's Today Show. As a psychologist, I have the opportunity to help people understand and navigate very difficult situations. I help my patients develop insight into problems that prevent them from feeling whole and complete. By reading between the lines and exploring the complexity of physical and mental health we are able to finally resolve long-standing concerns. I look forward to helping you find the answers you're looking for!
(615) 567-3857 View (615) 567-3857
Photo of Joash Koh, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Nashville, TN
Joash Koh
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, TLMFT, MMFT, MAPC, EFT-C, CCTP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37211  (Online Only)
I curate my sessions to help you navigate these difficulties, allowing you to live with a greater sense of safety, connection, and satisfaction. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in relationships and intimacy. With years of clinical experience, I help those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, feeling stuck, or relationship issues, including infidelity, complex trauma, and abuse. I have many years of clinical experience working with diverse individuals and couples. My clients love my authenticity and healing space to rejuvenate and grow in effective therapy that aligns with their goals and values.
I curate my sessions to help you navigate these difficulties, allowing you to live with a greater sense of safety, connection, and satisfaction. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in relationships and intimacy. With years of clinical experience, I help those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, feeling stuck, or relationship issues, including infidelity, complex trauma, and abuse. I have many years of clinical experience working with diverse individuals and couples. My clients love my authenticity and healing space to rejuvenate and grow in effective therapy that aligns with their goals and values.
(615) 845-6236 View (615) 845-6236
Photo of Natalie Hoyt, Pre-Licensed Professional in Nashville, TN
Natalie Hoyt
Pre-Licensed Professional, TLMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
Every individual is worthy of healing and peace, and my favorite part about working with clients is working with them as they find the courage to live out this belief. Journeys of healing are sometimes scary, so using a holistic and collaborative approach, I endeavor to create a space that is nonjudgmental, safe, and peaceful as I aid clients in their work. My approach to therapy includes a combination of evidence-based practices including Restoration therapy and Internal Family Systems therapy, as well as Gottman Method interventions, common factors, and the expressive arts.
Every individual is worthy of healing and peace, and my favorite part about working with clients is working with them as they find the courage to live out this belief. Journeys of healing are sometimes scary, so using a holistic and collaborative approach, I endeavor to create a space that is nonjudgmental, safe, and peaceful as I aid clients in their work. My approach to therapy includes a combination of evidence-based practices including Restoration therapy and Internal Family Systems therapy, as well as Gottman Method interventions, common factors, and the expressive arts.
(615) 205-9589 View (615) 205-9589
Photo of Dr. Amber Kelley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Dr. Amber Kelley
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, TLMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
My therapeutic approach also includes an integration of Restoration therapy and Narrative therapy, and is further informed by family systems theory, common factors, attachment theory, and mindfulness, as well as other research- and evidence-based methods.
In all my relationships, including and especially with my clients in therapy, I seek to operate from a place of curiosity and compassion. As vulnerable and painful as it can be to dismantle old patterns, it is even more rewarding to see clients establish new, more functional ways of being (relationally, emotionally, cognitively, physically, and spiritually). My goal is to provide a safe space to collaborate and walk alongside clients as they seek to heal, grow, and change into more of the person they want to be.
My therapeutic approach also includes an integration of Restoration therapy and Narrative therapy, and is further informed by family systems theory, common factors, attachment theory, and mindfulness, as well as other research- and evidence-based methods.
In all my relationships, including and especially with my clients in therapy, I seek to operate from a place of curiosity and compassion. As vulnerable and painful as it can be to dismantle old patterns, it is even more rewarding to see clients establish new, more functional ways of being (relationally, emotionally, cognitively, physically, and spiritually). My goal is to provide a safe space to collaborate and walk alongside clients as they seek to heal, grow, and change into more of the person they want to be.
(615) 510-6346 View (615) 510-6346
Photo of Matt Reid, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Matt Reid
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37208
Hi, I’m Matt (he/him). I am trained as a Marriage and Family Therapist, which means I think a lot about how relationships shape our experience. This certainly includes relationships with partners, family, and friends, but also our relationships with self and the systems in which we live. Finding balance and harmony in these relationships can be challenging, if not overwhelming. I count it as a joy and privilege to be invited to ally with you in this pursuit.
Hi, I’m Matt (he/him). I am trained as a Marriage and Family Therapist, which means I think a lot about how relationships shape our experience. This certainly includes relationships with partners, family, and friends, but also our relationships with self and the systems in which we live. Finding balance and harmony in these relationships can be challenging, if not overwhelming. I count it as a joy and privilege to be invited to ally with you in this pursuit.
(615) 239-0090 View (615) 239-0090
Photo of Paige McNeilly Blackwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Paige McNeilly Blackwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
This private practice is unlike most others. I am a licensed therapist at The Briggs Institute, Inc. The therapists at the Institute are graduates of Lipscomb University's Master of Marriage and Family Therapy Program. As the only COAMFTE accredited program in Nashville, the Lipscomb MFT program has earned its fine reputation by meeting the highest academic and clinical experience standards in the country. Because we practice under the supervision of the Lipscomb MFT program core faculty, we remain connected to academia. This means our work is informed by state-of-the-art scientific research.
This private practice is unlike most others. I am a licensed therapist at The Briggs Institute, Inc. The therapists at the Institute are graduates of Lipscomb University's Master of Marriage and Family Therapy Program. As the only COAMFTE accredited program in Nashville, the Lipscomb MFT program has earned its fine reputation by meeting the highest academic and clinical experience standards in the country. Because we practice under the supervision of the Lipscomb MFT program core faculty, we remain connected to academia. This means our work is informed by state-of-the-art scientific research.
(901) 519-2207 View (901) 519-2207
Photo of Kelvin Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Kelvin Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37207
Please contact me for a free 15 min phone consultation to determine if receiving therapy is a good fit for you or your family member.
“The hardest part about the gym, is getting there.” And you have done that! I am excited that you have taken the first step to overcome your emotional challenges and life stressors. Making the choice to begin therapy is not always an easy one. My goal is to help you feel more comfortable about that decision. Sometimes you just need someone to assist you with life changes, challenges, and handling the stress of it all.
Please contact me for a free 15 min phone consultation to determine if receiving therapy is a good fit for you or your family member.
“The hardest part about the gym, is getting there.” And you have done that! I am excited that you have taken the first step to overcome your emotional challenges and life stressors. Making the choice to begin therapy is not always an easy one. My goal is to help you feel more comfortable about that decision. Sometimes you just need someone to assist you with life changes, challenges, and handling the stress of it all.
(615) 900-2393 View (615) 900-2393
Photo of Claire Hipkens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nashville, TN
Claire Hipkens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37209  (Online Only)
I'm open to a broad client base but my predominant experience is with first gen college students, pro athletes & their family members. I ran the mental health services for UW athletics and am currently the consulting clinician for the Seattle Mariners and the NHL. I work best with driven people experiencing a big change. Perhaps, despite your best efforts, things aren’t working out as you’d hoped. Or perhaps you’ve gotten all you wanted and it doesn’t satisfy the way you thought it might. Though I often work with athletes I am not a Sports Psych. In fact, I don’t even follow sports! I’m here for the rest of your life and identity.
I'm open to a broad client base but my predominant experience is with first gen college students, pro athletes & their family members. I ran the mental health services for UW athletics and am currently the consulting clinician for the Seattle Mariners and the NHL. I work best with driven people experiencing a big change. Perhaps, despite your best efforts, things aren’t working out as you’d hoped. Or perhaps you’ve gotten all you wanted and it doesn’t satisfy the way you thought it might. Though I often work with athletes I am not a Sports Psych. In fact, I don’t even follow sports! I’m here for the rest of your life and identity.
(206) 752-2461 View (206) 752-2461
Photo of Bedford M Combs, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nashville, TN
Bedford M Combs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
I have had the privilege, for the last 40 years, of working with over 12,000 courageous folks who have taught me invaluable lessons over and over about the incredible resilience and possibilities of the human spirit. Utilizing our six day workshop for individuals and couples, individual, couples, group and family therapy, Heartstream Journeys treats issues around relationship struggles, historical trauma and the desire to create life in the most meaningful way in primary love relationships, parenting, with family and friends and within oneself and one's spiritual connection. It is my profound privilege to Journey with you.
I have had the privilege, for the last 40 years, of working with over 12,000 courageous folks who have taught me invaluable lessons over and over about the incredible resilience and possibilities of the human spirit. Utilizing our six day workshop for individuals and couples, individual, couples, group and family therapy, Heartstream Journeys treats issues around relationship struggles, historical trauma and the desire to create life in the most meaningful way in primary love relationships, parenting, with family and friends and within oneself and one's spiritual connection. It is my profound privilege to Journey with you.
(615) 538-0074 View (615) 538-0074
Photo of Robert Wesley Phillips, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Nashville, TN
Robert Wesley Phillips
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADAC, NCAC, SAP, CPS, CIP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37201
Robert has extensive training in Motivational Interviewing (MI), Co-Active Life Coaching, Egan's Skilled Helper Model and the Johnson Model of Intervention and is certified in Family Systemic Intervention© and ARISE(tm).
Robert is an Intervention Specialist trained in guiding families through the systemic process whereby a person addicted to alcohol or drugs is encouraged to accept help and enter treatment. Robert has worked in treatment centers and detoxification facilities as a counselor, program developer, educator, director of admission and clinical supervisor. Robert's practice specializes in substance abuse interventions, counseling, DOT/SAP services and community prevention. Robert is certified and licensed as an Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse counselor; Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) ; Prevention Specialist; and Crisis Interventionist.
Robert has extensive training in Motivational Interviewing (MI), Co-Active Life Coaching, Egan's Skilled Helper Model and the Johnson Model of Intervention and is certified in Family Systemic Intervention© and ARISE(tm).
Robert is an Intervention Specialist trained in guiding families through the systemic process whereby a person addicted to alcohol or drugs is encouraged to accept help and enter treatment. Robert has worked in treatment centers and detoxification facilities as a counselor, program developer, educator, director of admission and clinical supervisor. Robert's practice specializes in substance abuse interventions, counseling, DOT/SAP services and community prevention. Robert is certified and licensed as an Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse counselor; Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) ; Prevention Specialist; and Crisis Interventionist.
(615) 283-7320 View (615) 283-7320
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.