Photo of Susan Baker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Susan Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478
Is constant worry or lack of sleep making you feel helpless? Feeling overwhelmed or exhausted and finding it difficult to focus? Are you dealing with a difficult person, or stressed out by family life? My clients come to me for many different reasons, but the most common ones are: overcoming symptoms of stress and anxiety, improving marital and family relationships, communication skills, parenting challenges, implementing boundaries with extended family, managing blended marriages and families, and building self-confidence.
Is constant worry or lack of sleep making you feel helpless? Feeling overwhelmed or exhausted and finding it difficult to focus? Are you dealing with a difficult person, or stressed out by family life? My clients come to me for many different reasons, but the most common ones are: overcoming symptoms of stress and anxiety, improving marital and family relationships, communication skills, parenting challenges, implementing boundaries with extended family, managing blended marriages and families, and building self-confidence.
(281) 746-6592 View (281) 746-6592
Photo of Couples Therapy - Joan Marianne Cordova, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sugar Land, TX
Couples Therapy - Joan Marianne Cordova
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, MA, Spanish, English
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478
If you are here because you are struggling with your marriage or a close relationship and you don’t know how to make things better, I want to help. I specialize in working with couples, families, and individuals who are seeking to have a better relationship but don't have the tools and guidance in how to get there. My goal is to walk with you in the journey towards healing and restoration, and to help you rebuild trust, friendship, healthy communication, & mutual love and respect. Here at Roots of Hope Counseling our desire is to restore marital & family relationships and help individuals feel peaceful, confident, & fulfilled.
If you are here because you are struggling with your marriage or a close relationship and you don’t know how to make things better, I want to help. I specialize in working with couples, families, and individuals who are seeking to have a better relationship but don't have the tools and guidance in how to get there. My goal is to walk with you in the journey towards healing and restoration, and to help you rebuild trust, friendship, healthy communication, & mutual love and respect. Here at Roots of Hope Counseling our desire is to restore marital & family relationships and help individuals feel peaceful, confident, & fulfilled.
(832) 589-1625 View (832) 589-1625
Photo of Jennifer Johnson West, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Jennifer Johnson West
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478
My focus includes working with people who are experiencing anxiety, stress, depression, addiction, the impacts of ADHD, relationship and/or family conflict, raising teenagers, infidelity, and marriage or pre-marital counseling.
I listen, I care and I am here to help. Life can be challenging sometimes. As a wife, mother and someone who has worked and volunteered with children, adolescents, couples, and families for more than 30 years I know how difficult, stressful, and messy life can be sometimes. I also know the value of reaching out and engaging in supportive and effective counseling. If you are struggling, or facing difficulties with children, adolescents, life stage, relationships or your marriage, don't wait to take the next step. Reach out today so that we can connect about what you are going through and ways counseling can help.
My focus includes working with people who are experiencing anxiety, stress, depression, addiction, the impacts of ADHD, relationship and/or family conflict, raising teenagers, infidelity, and marriage or pre-marital counseling.
I listen, I care and I am here to help. Life can be challenging sometimes. As a wife, mother and someone who has worked and volunteered with children, adolescents, couples, and families for more than 30 years I know how difficult, stressful, and messy life can be sometimes. I also know the value of reaching out and engaging in supportive and effective counseling. If you are struggling, or facing difficulties with children, adolescents, life stage, relationships or your marriage, don't wait to take the next step. Reach out today so that we can connect about what you are going through and ways counseling can help.
(346) 567-7691 View (346) 567-7691
Matthew E Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you.
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you.
(346) 815-2489 View (346) 815-2489
Photo of Zeynep Cifci, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Zeynep Cifci
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478
I also work with couples in marriage/relationship issues, such as lack of emotional connection, dealing with infidelity, and work-family balance stress.
Over the years I have had the privilege of working with clients dealing with conflicts and life struggles with various background, culture, ethnic identity and faith system. I am passionate about providing an environment of safety and integrity for you (adolescents, adults, couples and families) to reach and sustain your journey to emotional healing, well being and a sense of control in life. I can anticipate seeking help isn't always easy thus, I provide a genuine effort make you feel welcome as you start this essential step for yourself and loved ones.
I also work with couples in marriage/relationship issues, such as lack of emotional connection, dealing with infidelity, and work-family balance stress.
Over the years I have had the privilege of working with clients dealing with conflicts and life struggles with various background, culture, ethnic identity and faith system. I am passionate about providing an environment of safety and integrity for you (adolescents, adults, couples and families) to reach and sustain your journey to emotional healing, well being and a sense of control in life. I can anticipate seeking help isn't always easy thus, I provide a genuine effort make you feel welcome as you start this essential step for yourself and loved ones.
(832) 430-2372 View (832) 430-2372
Photo of Lauren Alyse Rushton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Lauren Alyse Rushton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
I am trained in EMDR to treat trauma and make it to where the effects of the trauma no longer run your life, Theraplay, a type of therapy that involves play to promote healing by strengthening attachment to caregivers, and Internal family systems (IFS) which helps foster inner peace with different conflicting emotions.
Is my kid the only one who does that? Do other families deal with is? Am I failing as a parent? What will my child's future hold? I have good news! You are not alone, and not the only one struggling. It can be scary and isolating when wondering how to help your child with their behavior problems, or mental health struggles. I am passionate about working with kids that have been through hard things including abusive situations, foster care, medical trauma, and bullying just to name a few. I love helping kids and their caregivers learn about how their brains work and how to help them heal to move forward in life with confidence.
I am trained in EMDR to treat trauma and make it to where the effects of the trauma no longer run your life, Theraplay, a type of therapy that involves play to promote healing by strengthening attachment to caregivers, and Internal family systems (IFS) which helps foster inner peace with different conflicting emotions.
Is my kid the only one who does that? Do other families deal with is? Am I failing as a parent? What will my child's future hold? I have good news! You are not alone, and not the only one struggling. It can be scary and isolating when wondering how to help your child with their behavior problems, or mental health struggles. I am passionate about working with kids that have been through hard things including abusive situations, foster care, medical trauma, and bullying just to name a few. I love helping kids and their caregivers learn about how their brains work and how to help them heal to move forward in life with confidence.
(346) 449-5714 View (346) 449-5714
Photo of Asma Rahim, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Asma Rahim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, S
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77479
Mrs. Rahim started RCCS in 2010. Her first experience in the field in 2007 was at the Veteran Hospital's Pain Clinic and In-patient Area. After Graduation, she spent some time in the Middle East and voluntarily served her time and knowledge with familial issues and women issues. She has experienced hospice and loss, & understands grief and suicide. Her years of experience is wide as she has worked with clients and their families about depression, anxiety, addiction, multi-cultural, multi-racial family and marital issues. She works well with adults and adolescents dealing with self esteem and communication issues.
Mrs. Rahim started RCCS in 2010. Her first experience in the field in 2007 was at the Veteran Hospital's Pain Clinic and In-patient Area. After Graduation, she spent some time in the Middle East and voluntarily served her time and knowledge with familial issues and women issues. She has experienced hospice and loss, & understands grief and suicide. Her years of experience is wide as she has worked with clients and their families about depression, anxiety, addiction, multi-cultural, multi-racial family and marital issues. She works well with adults and adolescents dealing with self esteem and communication issues.
(832) 308-8146 View (832) 308-8146
Photo of Karen Waldman, Psychologist in Sugar Land, TX
Karen Waldman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77479  (Online Only)
My specializations include couples and marital counseling, individual therapy, behavioral health (i.e., the mind-body connection), mindfulness training, stress management, values/goals clarification, LGBT issues, and hypnosis. Understandably, clients want results that are both fast and lasting, so I tend to use some type of brief, solution-focused model in my work. I also have considerable experience utilizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a method that is both quick and effective for relationship/family/parenting problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, chronic pain, guilt, insomnia, medical impairments, work stress, anger/resentment, smoking addiction, and many other difficult issues.
My specializations include couples and marital counseling, individual therapy, behavioral health (i.e., the mind-body connection), mindfulness training, stress management, values/goals clarification, LGBT issues, and hypnosis. Understandably, clients want results that are both fast and lasting, so I tend to use some type of brief, solution-focused model in my work. I also have considerable experience utilizing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), a method that is both quick and effective for relationship/family/parenting problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, chronic pain, guilt, insomnia, medical impairments, work stress, anger/resentment, smoking addiction, and many other difficult issues.
(713) 766-4375 View (713) 766-4375
Photo of Dr. David Pulley in Sugar Land, TX
Dr. David Pulley
PsyD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77479
Dr. David Pulley "Dr. Dave" earned his bachelor's in psychology from Howard University in DC and obtained both his Master's and Doctorate from Chestnut Hill College in PA. His Doctorate degree is in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy and a specialization in the subject of Soul Mates. As a result, he is known as an expert on soul mates and a pioneer of some of the clinically based models and theories on the subject. Dr. Pulley has created a team of clinical consultants (Tender Loving Care Clinical Consultations) who provide psychologically based consultative support for their client base.
Dr. David Pulley "Dr. Dave" earned his bachelor's in psychology from Howard University in DC and obtained both his Master's and Doctorate from Chestnut Hill College in PA. His Doctorate degree is in Clinical Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy and a specialization in the subject of Soul Mates. As a result, he is known as an expert on soul mates and a pioneer of some of the clinically based models and theories on the subject. Dr. Pulley has created a team of clinical consultants (Tender Loving Care Clinical Consultations) who provide psychologically based consultative support for their client base.
(281) 519-2038 View (281) 519-2038
Photo of Jannah Therapy & Healing Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Sugar Land, TX
Jannah Therapy & Healing Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BSW, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478
I'm skilled in trauma-informed strengths based counseling, solution-focused brief therapy, somatic & cognitive behavioral therapy, individual & youth counseling, domestic violence, family counseling, autism awareness, Islamically Integrated Counseling, case management, Foster Care, juvenile justice, social justice, grassroots activism, community building.
Creating an empathy driven & compassion focused mental health & social service practice has been my dream since I was 16 years old. My own life experiences drove me into the field of Social Work & mental health to empower, motivate, uplift and elevate individuals, youth, and families. I have over 15 years of experience in Trauma-informed psychotherapy and/or social work practices with a demonstrated history of working in government, civic & social non-profit organizations.
I'm skilled in trauma-informed strengths based counseling, solution-focused brief therapy, somatic & cognitive behavioral therapy, individual & youth counseling, domestic violence, family counseling, autism awareness, Islamically Integrated Counseling, case management, Foster Care, juvenile justice, social justice, grassroots activism, community building.
Creating an empathy driven & compassion focused mental health & social service practice has been my dream since I was 16 years old. My own life experiences drove me into the field of Social Work & mental health to empower, motivate, uplift and elevate individuals, youth, and families. I have over 15 years of experience in Trauma-informed psychotherapy and/or social work practices with a demonstrated history of working in government, civic & social non-profit organizations.
(346) 708-6205 View (346) 708-6205
Photo of Alessia Fontenette Madkins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Alessia Fontenette Madkins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, LPC-S, CCPS, ImTT, NFB
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
working with blended families because making a few important changes in the family system can have huge rewards for the family.
Welcome to your story of renewal, healing, and hope. There is hope, even if you can’t see a way forward right now. God made you exactly the way He wanted you to be. We were created to live lives of peace, joy, and fulfillment. If you are not experiencing the abundant life that Christ freely gives, it's not too late! Gods wants nothing than to comfort you, love you, empower you, redeem you and see His glory shine through you. "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right sprit within me", Psalm 51:10. Each session is warm. supportive and inviting, with a Christ-centered, biblically rooted, and clinically competent approach.
working with blended families because making a few important changes in the family system can have huge rewards for the family.
Welcome to your story of renewal, healing, and hope. There is hope, even if you can’t see a way forward right now. God made you exactly the way He wanted you to be. We were created to live lives of peace, joy, and fulfillment. If you are not experiencing the abundant life that Christ freely gives, it's not too late! Gods wants nothing than to comfort you, love you, empower you, redeem you and see His glory shine through you. "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right sprit within me", Psalm 51:10. Each session is warm. supportive and inviting, with a Christ-centered, biblically rooted, and clinically competent approach.
(281) 201-1512 View (281) 201-1512
Photo of Adrienne Parker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Adrienne Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77498  (Online Only)
I'm Adrienne Parker, and I've worked in mental health for over 9 years, providing individual, group, and family therapy. I have worked with various individuals giving treatment for Depression, Anxiety, Youth Substance Abuse, Anger Management, Mood Disorders, Adjustment Disorder, Childhood PTSD, Trauma, Self Esteem, ODD, Stress Reduction, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and Parents of Children with Special Needs. I use client-centered techniques, including TF-CBT, Imago Relationship Therapy, CBT, Psychotherapy, Brief Therapy, and ERP. I believe you are the expert on you, and I respect what your concept of "happy" looks like.
I'm Adrienne Parker, and I've worked in mental health for over 9 years, providing individual, group, and family therapy. I have worked with various individuals giving treatment for Depression, Anxiety, Youth Substance Abuse, Anger Management, Mood Disorders, Adjustment Disorder, Childhood PTSD, Trauma, Self Esteem, ODD, Stress Reduction, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, and Parents of Children with Special Needs. I use client-centered techniques, including TF-CBT, Imago Relationship Therapy, CBT, Psychotherapy, Brief Therapy, and ERP. I believe you are the expert on you, and I respect what your concept of "happy" looks like.
(832) 604-0959 View (832) 604-0959
Photo of Jordan Murphy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Jordan Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77479
In our lives, we often encounter a multitude of expectations imposed by society, family members, partners, friends, social media, and even ourselves. These expectations can create a sense of confusion, insecurity, and loneliness. I understand that navigating life’s complexities can be overwhelming, and it is during these times that we may experience an array of uncomfortable thoughts and feelings.
In our lives, we often encounter a multitude of expectations imposed by society, family members, partners, friends, social media, and even ourselves. These expectations can create a sense of confusion, insecurity, and loneliness. I understand that navigating life’s complexities can be overwhelming, and it is during these times that we may experience an array of uncomfortable thoughts and feelings.
(832) 924-8185 View (832) 924-8185
Photo of Barbara J. Washington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Barbara J. Washington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CART
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77479  (Online Only)
I have successfully taught children as early as those in Program Head Start, before becoming a Texas Teacher & School Counselor, and ultimately a LPC-Supervisor . As a child advocate who tries to understand the needs of the child in hopes of helping with mental or emotional turmoil. One may say or think that I specialize in treating children? This would be false, because I can't recall a situation where I could help the child without helping the parents, and even the whole family. Family history and dynamics plays a "Huge" role in your child's development and behaviors.
I have successfully taught children as early as those in Program Head Start, before becoming a Texas Teacher & School Counselor, and ultimately a LPC-Supervisor . As a child advocate who tries to understand the needs of the child in hopes of helping with mental or emotional turmoil. One may say or think that I specialize in treating children? This would be false, because I can't recall a situation where I could help the child without helping the parents, and even the whole family. Family history and dynamics plays a "Huge" role in your child's development and behaviors.
(713) 772-9085 View (713) 772-9085
Photo of Dr. Karen L. Jaggers, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Dr. Karen L. Jaggers
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NBCC, CGRS, CAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77478
Advanced Family Mediator, Life Coach, Grief Specialist, Certified Autism Specialist, Certified Parenting Facilitator, behavior specialist, and educational consultant.
Dr. Karen Jaggers holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and a Masters Degree in Mental Health Counseling. She is well known in the Houston and surrounding communities for her commitment to community mental health issues. Dr. Jaggers was honored to be voted Best Counselor in Katy/Fulshear in 2019 and 2020!
Advanced Family Mediator, Life Coach, Grief Specialist, Certified Autism Specialist, Certified Parenting Facilitator, behavior specialist, and educational consultant.
Dr. Karen Jaggers holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and a Masters Degree in Mental Health Counseling. She is well known in the Houston and surrounding communities for her commitment to community mental health issues. Dr. Jaggers was honored to be voted Best Counselor in Katy/Fulshear in 2019 and 2020!
(832) 726-0961 View (832) 726-0961
Photo of Iristela Rodriguez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sugar Land, TX
Iristela Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience providing individual, couples and family counseling. I provide a therapeutic environment that promotes safety, empathy, and support. I believe in a strength based approach in order to attain desired goals. Treatment focuses on processing and working out any individual or family issues that are impeding one from attaining goals. I have been working with individuals and families for 18 years. My treatment specializations include anxiety, depression, ADHD, relational problems, family dynamics, divorce, blended families, military families, and parenting.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience providing individual, couples and family counseling. I provide a therapeutic environment that promotes safety, empathy, and support. I believe in a strength based approach in order to attain desired goals. Treatment focuses on processing and working out any individual or family issues that are impeding one from attaining goals. I have been working with individuals and families for 18 years. My treatment specializations include anxiety, depression, ADHD, relational problems, family dynamics, divorce, blended families, military families, and parenting.
(281) 789-6667 View (281) 789-6667
Photo of Dr. Immigration Evaluations Carolina Jimenez, Psychologist in Sugar Land, TX
Dr. Immigration Evaluations Carolina Jimenez
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77479
I am a bilingual licensed psychologist with 15 years of experience providing emotion focused therapy in English and Spanish for the treatment of: stress, depression, anxiety, relationship and interpersonal difficulties, family of origin and identity concerns, and adjustment and life transitions with an adult population. I understand the cultural factors affecting people's lives. Pressure to prove yourself, wanting to connect with others, balancing work and family responsibilities; these are concerns that my clients often want to address. I can help you feel greater satisfaction in different areas of your life by looking beneath the surface to achieve meaningful change.
I am a bilingual licensed psychologist with 15 years of experience providing emotion focused therapy in English and Spanish for the treatment of: stress, depression, anxiety, relationship and interpersonal difficulties, family of origin and identity concerns, and adjustment and life transitions with an adult population. I understand the cultural factors affecting people's lives. Pressure to prove yourself, wanting to connect with others, balancing work and family responsibilities; these are concerns that my clients often want to address. I can help you feel greater satisfaction in different areas of your life by looking beneath the surface to achieve meaningful change.
(281) 709-2933 View (281) 709-2933
Photo of Celeste Lott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Sugar Land, TX
Celeste Lott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Land, TX 77479
Sometimes life takes a turn that we did not expect and the way we used to cope and survive no longer works for us. I am excited to join you on this path towards self-exploration while holding a safe place for you to discover, grow, and heal. I believe the therapeutic relationship is a critical component to making counseling work. I value the importance of hearing your unique story and the struggles you are experiencing. I work with clients 18 and older with specific various presenting concerns including: family of origin & attachment issues, adjustment to life changes, communication struggles, and boundary setting in relationships.
Sometimes life takes a turn that we did not expect and the way we used to cope and survive no longer works for us. I am excited to join you on this path towards self-exploration while holding a safe place for you to discover, grow, and heal. I believe the therapeutic relationship is a critical component to making counseling work. I value the importance of hearing your unique story and the struggles you are experiencing. I work with clients 18 and older with specific various presenting concerns including: family of origin & attachment issues, adjustment to life changes, communication struggles, and boundary setting in relationships.
(281) 672-8776 View (281) 672-8776
Photo of Nicole Thompson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Sugar Land, TX
Nicole Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MS, LMFT-A, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
Are you feeling nervous about starting therapy and engaging with a total stranger? If so, I'll make it comfortable for you to share those things that have kept you stuck. I'll also help you make sense of your past and family-of-origin issues that impact your life and significant relationships. Therapy is not always about deeply traumatic experiences but can provide an understanding of issues that will empower you to make changes that lead to sustained transformation. I work with individuals ten years and above and especially enjoy working with women and couples who want to learn how to connect emotionally.
Are you feeling nervous about starting therapy and engaging with a total stranger? If so, I'll make it comfortable for you to share those things that have kept you stuck. I'll also help you make sense of your past and family-of-origin issues that impact your life and significant relationships. Therapy is not always about deeply traumatic experiences but can provide an understanding of issues that will empower you to make changes that lead to sustained transformation. I work with individuals ten years and above and especially enjoy working with women and couples who want to learn how to connect emotionally.
(832) 793-9354 View (832) 793-9354
Photo of Kevin Randall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Sugar Land, TX
Kevin Randall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77478
Whether you are coming individually or with your partner or family we will work to improve the quality of your relationships and your life. Discover the possibilities as you improve communication, learn to support a partner, or learn how to seek out getting your own healthy needs met in healthy ways. Experience peace of mind as you find increased support and new ways to decrease self-destructive behavior and healing from the pain of past experiences.
Whether you are coming individually or with your partner or family we will work to improve the quality of your relationships and your life. Discover the possibilities as you improve communication, learn to support a partner, or learn how to seek out getting your own healthy needs met in healthy ways. Experience peace of mind as you find increased support and new ways to decrease self-destructive behavior and healing from the pain of past experiences.
(281) 789-0976 View (281) 789-0976
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.