Photo of Steven Welsh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Steven Welsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Palmyra, VA 22963
I utilize a variety of theories and treatment methods, including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, person centered, and structural family therapy.
I enjoy working with teenagers, adults, and families. I have experience working with a variety of mental health needs from anxiety and depression to anger, trauma and behavioral issues. I support clients who are overwhelmed with stress and life adjustments and help them learn to transform their life challenges into opportunities for healing and growth. Individuals will learn to recognize behaviors and thoughts that keep them stuck and are provided with tools to help them process difficult emotions.
I utilize a variety of theories and treatment methods, including cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, person centered, and structural family therapy.
I enjoy working with teenagers, adults, and families. I have experience working with a variety of mental health needs from anxiety and depression to anger, trauma and behavioral issues. I support clients who are overwhelmed with stress and life adjustments and help them learn to transform their life challenges into opportunities for healing and growth. Individuals will learn to recognize behaviors and thoughts that keep them stuck and are provided with tools to help them process difficult emotions.
(434) 813-6309 View (434) 813-6309
Photo of Tanetta L Hassell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Tanetta L Hassell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23323  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My goal as a therapist is to be a bridge from hopeless to healing. I know during difficult times it may seem impossible to find your way but by working together we can figure out a plan unique to you and your struggle. If you are feeling stuck, afraid, or finding it hard to be in relationship with loved ones or family members, I can create a safe place for you to get the tools you need to feel in control and like the expert of your own life again.
My goal as a therapist is to be a bridge from hopeless to healing. I know during difficult times it may seem impossible to find your way but by working together we can figure out a plan unique to you and your struggle. If you are feeling stuck, afraid, or finding it hard to be in relationship with loved ones or family members, I can create a safe place for you to get the tools you need to feel in control and like the expert of your own life again.
(804) 626-9594 View (804) 626-9594
Photo of Sarah Elizabeth Clayton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Sarah Elizabeth Clayton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Williamsburg, VA 23188
I have worked with children and families, in the mental health field, for over 5 years and received my M.Ed. in Marriage and Family Counseling from the College of William and Mary in 2015. I have a particular passion and focus in providing children and their families emotional and behavioral support, while assisting them in managing life’s daily stressors and navigating difficult transitions. I utilize a person-centered, CBT approach to support my clients in identifying sources of resiliency, building coping skills, and improving communication and self-esteem.
I have worked with children and families, in the mental health field, for over 5 years and received my M.Ed. in Marriage and Family Counseling from the College of William and Mary in 2015. I have a particular passion and focus in providing children and their families emotional and behavioral support, while assisting them in managing life’s daily stressors and navigating difficult transitions. I utilize a person-centered, CBT approach to support my clients in identifying sources of resiliency, building coping skills, and improving communication and self-esteem.
(757) 941-5169 View (757) 941-5169
Virginia Support Services, PC
LPC
Verified Verified
Chester, VA 23831
Services will be built around your preferences, choices, values, strengths, and natural support systems of family and community.
Virginia Support Services is a State Licensed Mental Health Skill-Building Service program that provides behavioral and mental health training and support services to individuals with mental, behavioral, or emotional impairments in major life activities by supporting an individual's level of functioning and promoting his/her autonomy. We service individuals age 16 and up with a mental health diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder-recurrent, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia or other psychotic disorder, a history of higher level of psychiatric care such as hospitalization, residential treatment or ICT/PACT, prescribed Rx therapy.
Services will be built around your preferences, choices, values, strengths, and natural support systems of family and community.
Virginia Support Services is a State Licensed Mental Health Skill-Building Service program that provides behavioral and mental health training and support services to individuals with mental, behavioral, or emotional impairments in major life activities by supporting an individual's level of functioning and promoting his/her autonomy. We service individuals age 16 and up with a mental health diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder-recurrent, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia or other psychotic disorder, a history of higher level of psychiatric care such as hospitalization, residential treatment or ICT/PACT, prescribed Rx therapy.
(804) 348-0326 View (804) 348-0326
Photo of Sarah Wahab, Psychologist in Virginia
Sarah Wahab
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vienna, VA 22182
I specialize in individual (teens and adults), family and couples therapy.
When life gets overwhelming, it can feel like you are stuck, facing an endless cycle that you wish could change. Experiencing gridlock in your own life or in a relationship can be stressful, frustrating and lonely. Sometimes in the moment, it can seem easier to ignore/avoid the issues that are challenging you until you are faced with them again; and other times you can’t stop thinking about your challenges. It can also be difficult or painful to tolerate watching your loved ones struggle, or make decisions you think are not in their best interest. Over time these stressors can cause you to experience negative thoughts and feelings.
I specialize in individual (teens and adults), family and couples therapy.
When life gets overwhelming, it can feel like you are stuck, facing an endless cycle that you wish could change. Experiencing gridlock in your own life or in a relationship can be stressful, frustrating and lonely. Sometimes in the moment, it can seem easier to ignore/avoid the issues that are challenging you until you are faced with them again; and other times you can’t stop thinking about your challenges. It can also be difficult or painful to tolerate watching your loved ones struggle, or make decisions you think are not in their best interest. Over time these stressors can cause you to experience negative thoughts and feelings.
(571) 517-1594 View (571) 517-1594
Photo of Sidd Modi, Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy in Virginia
Sidd Modi
Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20165
As a therapist, I work with individuals, couples, and families of various cultural backgrounds, socioeconomic statuses, life stages, and compositions. I specialize in trauma treatment and anxiety related to family and partner relationships, abuse, acute and chronic trauma, C-PTSD, ACOAs, life transitional stress, occupational and academic stress, and their relationship with themselves. Additionally, I specialize in assisting families and couples with setting boundaries, healthy communication skills, relationship transitions, and navigating parenting styles.
As a therapist, I work with individuals, couples, and families of various cultural backgrounds, socioeconomic statuses, life stages, and compositions. I specialize in trauma treatment and anxiety related to family and partner relationships, abuse, acute and chronic trauma, C-PTSD, ACOAs, life transitional stress, occupational and academic stress, and their relationship with themselves. Additionally, I specialize in assisting families and couples with setting boundaries, healthy communication skills, relationship transitions, and navigating parenting styles.
(703) 493-1169 View (703) 493-1169
Photo of Family Therapy Center of Northern Virginia, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Virginia
Family Therapy Center of Northern Virginia, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lansdowne, VA 20176
You try! You are doing the best that you can for yourself and your family and yet STILL someone is struggling. Sometimes love and researching helpful information isn’t enough to keep everyone afloat. We specialize in helping children, teens and adults calm the anxiety and stress and heal the trauma and depression from the ROOT.
You try! You are doing the best that you can for yourself and your family and yet STILL someone is struggling. Sometimes love and researching helpful information isn’t enough to keep everyone afloat. We specialize in helping children, teens and adults calm the anxiety and stress and heal the trauma and depression from the ROOT.
(703) 957-7641 View (703) 957-7641
Photo of Alexandra Stewart, Licensed Master Social Worker in Virginia
Alexandra Stewart
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW, MSW, MA, BS
Verified Verified
Reston, VA 20190
Do you find yourself constantly thinking about the past or frequently worrying about the future? Do specific life transitions or upcoming relationship changes (divorce, breakup, marriage, expanding family, etc.) keep you frozen from making decisions or disconnected from reality and your responsibilities? Do you keep waiting to just “shake it off” and want nothing more than to feel balanced and safe in your own life? If you’ve noticed a change in how you’re managing any of these difficult thoughts or emotions, or feel more out of control, you may be experiencing symptoms of anxiety and/or depression.
Do you find yourself constantly thinking about the past or frequently worrying about the future? Do specific life transitions or upcoming relationship changes (divorce, breakup, marriage, expanding family, etc.) keep you frozen from making decisions or disconnected from reality and your responsibilities? Do you keep waiting to just “shake it off” and want nothing more than to feel balanced and safe in your own life? If you’ve noticed a change in how you’re managing any of these difficult thoughts or emotions, or feel more out of control, you may be experiencing symptoms of anxiety and/or depression.
(703) 659-6132 View (703) 659-6132
Photo of Phyllis Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Phyllis Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Midlothian, VA 23112
Navigating the various challenges of life can feel daunting. If you don't know already, you're brave to be making this first step towards finding a therapist. While talking to friends and family can help, having a safe, judgment-free, and private space to discuss the challenges you face can do wonders.
Navigating the various challenges of life can feel daunting. If you don't know already, you're brave to be making this first step towards finding a therapist. While talking to friends and family can help, having a safe, judgment-free, and private space to discuss the challenges you face can do wonders.
(804) 336-2663 View (804) 336-2663
Photo of Jamika Isaacs-Poole, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia
Jamika Isaacs-Poole
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport News, VA 23608  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Jamika, and I am a Licensed Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy. I graduated from Capella University with my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I love to work with children, couples, biological families, blended families, and individuals. I have experience working with clients who exhibit ADHD, adjustment issues, anxiety, behavioral concerns, depression, family conflict, grief, relationship issues, and trauma. Also, as an individual who served 10 years in the United States Army, I can understand the military lifestyle and the adjustment period that comes with transitioning into a civilian.
Hi, my name is Jamika, and I am a Licensed Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy. I graduated from Capella University with my master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I love to work with children, couples, biological families, blended families, and individuals. I have experience working with clients who exhibit ADHD, adjustment issues, anxiety, behavioral concerns, depression, family conflict, grief, relationship issues, and trauma. Also, as an individual who served 10 years in the United States Army, I can understand the military lifestyle and the adjustment period that comes with transitioning into a civilian.
(757) 767-4355 View (757) 767-4355
Photo of Mosaic Counseling Services , Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Mosaic Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Manassas, VA 20110
Sometimes life introduces unexpected challenges and difficult transitions that interfere with your ability to be your best self. Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or stuck can make it hard to reach your goals or achieve the happiness you are looking for in life. Together, we will work to identify roadblocks, develop new ways of coping, and focus on growth and healing. I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy and value empathy, authenticity, and connection. I have experience working with individuals with anxiety, poor self-esteem, relationship conflict, and family issues. I support clients to better understand their emotions.
Sometimes life introduces unexpected challenges and difficult transitions that interfere with your ability to be your best self. Feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or stuck can make it hard to reach your goals or achieve the happiness you are looking for in life. Together, we will work to identify roadblocks, develop new ways of coping, and focus on growth and healing. I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy and value empathy, authenticity, and connection. I have experience working with individuals with anxiety, poor self-esteem, relationship conflict, and family issues. I support clients to better understand their emotions.
(571) 946-1543 View (571) 946-1543
Photo of Alex Ribbentrop, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Alex Ribbentrop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, EMDR, CFTP, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175
I work with motivated individuals and families who are ready to address problem areas, develop insight, and identify what is of most value and meaning in their lives. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, especially as it relates to family system and relationship issues, life stressors and transitions, and substance use disorders. In addition to my clinical practice I speak nationally on these topics and work as a clinical consultant. I believe in providing quality, authentic, and clinically informed care that identifies and addresses the root causes of problems and barriers to living a more meaningful life.
I work with motivated individuals and families who are ready to address problem areas, develop insight, and identify what is of most value and meaning in their lives. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, especially as it relates to family system and relationship issues, life stressors and transitions, and substance use disorders. In addition to my clinical practice I speak nationally on these topics and work as a clinical consultant. I believe in providing quality, authentic, and clinically informed care that identifies and addresses the root causes of problems and barriers to living a more meaningful life.
(571) 556-6361 View (571) 556-6361
Photo of Scott Cundiff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Virginia
Scott Cundiff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
Waitlist for new clients
I work with older children, tweens, adolescents, young adults and their parents. I also see individuals struggling with a variety of concerns. I provide couples therapy as well for highly motivated couples who are eager to improve their relationship. Common problem situations I often see: Parenting anxiety, impulse control issues (gaming, pornography etc.), anger control, burn-out, relationship fatigue, difficult family dynamics, anxiety and depression which comes from many sources including traumatic experiences. I also help individuals of all types, often feeling burdoned discover the preferred path that they wish to walk in life.
I work with older children, tweens, adolescents, young adults and their parents. I also see individuals struggling with a variety of concerns. I provide couples therapy as well for highly motivated couples who are eager to improve their relationship. Common problem situations I often see: Parenting anxiety, impulse control issues (gaming, pornography etc.), anger control, burn-out, relationship fatigue, difficult family dynamics, anxiety and depression which comes from many sources including traumatic experiences. I also help individuals of all types, often feeling burdoned discover the preferred path that they wish to walk in life.
(540) 889-3229 x810 View (540) 889-3229 x810
Photo of Lakeisha Todd, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Virginia
Lakeisha Todd
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
Whether you're facing family issues, relationship challenges, or individual struggles, I am here to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space for you.
Embarking on a journey towards a fulfilling life and meaningful relationships requires courage and I am here to support you every step of the way. As a dedicated and compassionate intern therapist, I am committed to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate the complexities of life, approach conflict in constructive ways, and achieve personal growth. With a focus on conflict counseling, premarital counseling, and support during life stage transitions, I am here to guide you on a path towards your best and healthiest self.
Whether you're facing family issues, relationship challenges, or individual struggles, I am here to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental space for you.
Embarking on a journey towards a fulfilling life and meaningful relationships requires courage and I am here to support you every step of the way. As a dedicated and compassionate intern therapist, I am committed to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate the complexities of life, approach conflict in constructive ways, and achieve personal growth. With a focus on conflict counseling, premarital counseling, and support during life stage transitions, I am here to guide you on a path towards your best and healthiest self.
(703) 782-5614 View (703) 782-5614
Photo of Chantel Bishop, Supervisee in Clinical Social Work in Virginia
Chantel Bishop
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
Chantilly, VA 20151  (Online Only)
I have 5 yrs of experience using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Crisis intervention, Interpersonal Effectiveness, Mood Regulation, Family Systems Theory, Distress Tolerance, Strengths-based approach, Resiliency, Communication Skill Building, and Problem Solving.
Dear reader, whether you are initiating services with me, or continuing your mental health journey, know that you are still taking steps in the right direction to cater to your mental health needs! As a therapist I develop a relaxed and judgment-free environment to build a healthy and supportive therapeutic relationship with you. I use cultural sensitivity, ethics, & evidence-based practices to address Depressive Disorders, Self-injurious Behavior, Anxiety/Bipolar Disorders, Anger/Stress Management, Grief, PTSD, Substance Abuse, and some Trauma. I am experienced in working with families, children 5-17, couples, and elderly clients.
I have 5 yrs of experience using Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Crisis intervention, Interpersonal Effectiveness, Mood Regulation, Family Systems Theory, Distress Tolerance, Strengths-based approach, Resiliency, Communication Skill Building, and Problem Solving.
Dear reader, whether you are initiating services with me, or continuing your mental health journey, know that you are still taking steps in the right direction to cater to your mental health needs! As a therapist I develop a relaxed and judgment-free environment to build a healthy and supportive therapeutic relationship with you. I use cultural sensitivity, ethics, & evidence-based practices to address Depressive Disorders, Self-injurious Behavior, Anxiety/Bipolar Disorders, Anger/Stress Management, Grief, PTSD, Substance Abuse, and some Trauma. I am experienced in working with families, children 5-17, couples, and elderly clients.
(571) 475-9169 View (571) 475-9169
Photo of The Center for Connection, Healing and Change (LB), Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia
The Center for Connection, Healing and Change (LB)
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT-R, LPC-R, LMFT , LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sterling, VA 20166
We value holistic connection and healing (emotional, relational, physical, mental, spiritual) and intentionally treat the whole person, couple, or family.
Accepting new clients - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change was conceived as a sanctuary to facilitate joyful connection to ourselves and our loved ones. Our work focuses on the creation of secure, close, and satisfying relationships – within us and between us. We choose to specialize in relationships because we know the importance of satisfying relationships for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Services explore the relationship we have with both ourselves and others; how well we can live with emotional ease, know who we are, ask for what we need, and access our resilience in moments of hurt or stress.
We value holistic connection and healing (emotional, relational, physical, mental, spiritual) and intentionally treat the whole person, couple, or family.
Accepting new clients - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change was conceived as a sanctuary to facilitate joyful connection to ourselves and our loved ones. Our work focuses on the creation of secure, close, and satisfying relationships – within us and between us. We choose to specialize in relationships because we know the importance of satisfying relationships for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Services explore the relationship we have with both ourselves and others; how well we can live with emotional ease, know who we are, ask for what we need, and access our resilience in moments of hurt or stress.
(703) 782-8809 View (703) 782-8809
Photo of Lucia Abbott, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Lucia Abbott
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hayes, VA 23072
I practice from an eco-systemic family systems model and use cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, and practice from a strengths based approach.
Are you experiencing challenging or overwhelming feelings of stress or conflict with the people close to you in your life? Do you feel lost or stuck? Does coming up with a plan leave you feeling exhausted and drained? Está usted experimentando sensaciones de desafíos abrumadores ó tensión nerviosa, ó siente tener conflictos con las personas más allegadas a Usted en su vida? Se siente perdido ó estancado? El tener que desarrollar una estrategia ó plan para lidiar con sus problemas le deja exhausto ó agotado?
I practice from an eco-systemic family systems model and use cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, and practice from a strengths based approach.
Are you experiencing challenging or overwhelming feelings of stress or conflict with the people close to you in your life? Do you feel lost or stuck? Does coming up with a plan leave you feeling exhausted and drained? Está usted experimentando sensaciones de desafíos abrumadores ó tensión nerviosa, ó siente tener conflictos con las personas más allegadas a Usted en su vida? Se siente perdido ó estancado? El tener que desarrollar una estrategia ó plan para lidiar con sus problemas le deja exhausto ó agotado?
(804) 656-5408 View (804) 656-5408
Photo of Eric R Ward, Marriage & Family Therapist in Virginia
Eric R Ward
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Williamsburg, VA 23185
Through an authentic and acceptance-based relationship, I empower clients to address depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, marriage and family concerns, and parenting challenges. I also specialize in issues specific to men such as sex, identity, fidelity, and fatherhood. I would love to join with you on your journey towards wellness. My passion is helping and empowering families, couples, and individuals. Often life will give us situations that seem hopeless, but together I join with my clients in restoring that hope.I love working with families to heal and create stronger, more unified bonds.
Through an authentic and acceptance-based relationship, I empower clients to address depression, anxiety, trauma, stress, marriage and family concerns, and parenting challenges. I also specialize in issues specific to men such as sex, identity, fidelity, and fatherhood. I would love to join with you on your journey towards wellness. My passion is helping and empowering families, couples, and individuals. Often life will give us situations that seem hopeless, but together I join with my clients in restoring that hope.I love working with families to heal and create stronger, more unified bonds.
(757) 279-7359 View (757) 279-7359
Photo of Douglas Muller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Douglas Muller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LMFT, CSAC
Verified Verified
Newport News, VA 23608
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), a licensed professional counselor (LPC), a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) and a certified substance abuse counselor (CSAC). I earned an MA in Social Work, MA in Correctional Counseling and a Ph.D. in Urban Services/Counseling. I provide therapy in a number of areas: serious mentally ill, marriage & family, drug/alcohol, adult Attention Deficit Disorder & family therapy. I also work with the LGBTQIA community.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), a licensed professional counselor (LPC), a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) and a certified substance abuse counselor (CSAC). I earned an MA in Social Work, MA in Correctional Counseling and a Ph.D. in Urban Services/Counseling. I provide therapy in a number of areas: serious mentally ill, marriage & family, drug/alcohol, adult Attention Deficit Disorder & family therapy. I also work with the LGBTQIA community.
(757) 926-0286 View (757) 926-0286
Photo of Nichole H Aiken, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Nichole H Aiken
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC , CSAT, CPTT-C
Not Verified Not Verified
Reston, VA 20190
Areas of Specilaity: Trauma Work, Life Transitions, Couples and Family Work, Addictions;Sexual Addiction;Love Addiction, Partners of Sex Addicts,OCD/Anxiety,Sexual Anorexia,Codependency, Affair Recovery; Brainspotting.
I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a CPTT candidate. My focus is primarily on encouraging the relational healing and post-traumatic growth of relationally betrayed partners. I also work with those that have been impacted by sexual compulsive behavior. Through my training in Brainspotting I help people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences or relational trauma. My therapeutic style is compassionate, warm, and I am described as empathetic in my work. Your work with me will be both confidential and respectful. It would be an honor to work with you.
Areas of Specilaity: Trauma Work, Life Transitions, Couples and Family Work, Addictions;Sexual Addiction;Love Addiction, Partners of Sex Addicts,OCD/Anxiety,Sexual Anorexia,Codependency, Affair Recovery; Brainspotting.
I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a CPTT candidate. My focus is primarily on encouraging the relational healing and post-traumatic growth of relationally betrayed partners. I also work with those that have been impacted by sexual compulsive behavior. Through my training in Brainspotting I help people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences or relational trauma. My therapeutic style is compassionate, warm, and I am described as empathetic in my work. Your work with me will be both confidential and respectful. It would be an honor to work with you.
(571) 570-3015 View (571) 570-3015
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.