Photo of Serge Hovaguimian, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kent, WA
Serge Hovaguimian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CSAT, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98042
My approach to therapy is grounded on trust, respect and the honoring of your experiences. I work with individuals, couples and families from a systems based orientation. That means you and your concerns are all in context of your family system. In treatment, we look at how your family of origin impacts how and where you may be stuck. Whether it is anxiety, depression, anger or an addiction, we can discover the source of the problem and help you reach your potential.
My approach to therapy is grounded on trust, respect and the honoring of your experiences. I work with individuals, couples and families from a systems based orientation. That means you and your concerns are all in context of your family system. In treatment, we look at how your family of origin impacts how and where you may be stuck. Whether it is anxiety, depression, anger or an addiction, we can discover the source of the problem and help you reach your potential.
(206) 900-9100 View (206) 900-9100
Photo of Kathleen Hill, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kent, WA
Kathleen Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98032  (Online Only)
Telehealth for your peace of mind and your relationships! Communication problems, stuck, or lost in quiet desperation? Counseling can help. Whether you've been together for decades or are in a new relationship, Emotionally Focused Therapy is the most effective and efficient way to restore trust and loving connection that I have found. As a Relationship Counselor, I help with problems like arguing, infidelity, parenting, divorce, remarriage, and blended families. I also work with family groupings and other relationship combinations. Looking for Individual Counseling? I provide therapy for anxiety, loneliness, depression, and trauma.
Telehealth for your peace of mind and your relationships! Communication problems, stuck, or lost in quiet desperation? Counseling can help. Whether you've been together for decades or are in a new relationship, Emotionally Focused Therapy is the most effective and efficient way to restore trust and loving connection that I have found. As a Relationship Counselor, I help with problems like arguing, infidelity, parenting, divorce, remarriage, and blended families. I also work with family groupings and other relationship combinations. Looking for Individual Counseling? I provide therapy for anxiety, loneliness, depression, and trauma.
(425) 215-0832 View (425) 215-0832
Photo of Alison Davis, Counselor in Kent, WA
Alison Davis
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98042
They specializes in marriage and family counseling, adolescents and teenagers, anxiety, grief, depression, self-esteem, anger management, addiction, sex addiction and infidelity.
I provide a compassionate place to heal so that you can experience healthy relationships and find meaning and joy in life. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington. I am certified in Couples Communication, Sex Addiction (CSAT), and Lifespan Integration - which helps to heal past wounds. I am also trained in EMDR, which is a clinically proven way to help people resolve trauma. I work with clients on issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues including infidelity, codependency, grief, trauma, and Multiple Chemical Sensitivity. I also work with addictions (sex, chemicals & gambling) and Partners and families of addicted individuals.
They specializes in marriage and family counseling, adolescents and teenagers, anxiety, grief, depression, self-esteem, anger management, addiction, sex addiction and infidelity.
I provide a compassionate place to heal so that you can experience healthy relationships and find meaning and joy in life. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington. I am certified in Couples Communication, Sex Addiction (CSAT), and Lifespan Integration - which helps to heal past wounds. I am also trained in EMDR, which is a clinically proven way to help people resolve trauma. I work with clients on issues such as anxiety, depression, self-esteem, relationship issues including infidelity, codependency, grief, trauma, and Multiple Chemical Sensitivity. I also work with addictions (sex, chemicals & gambling) and Partners and families of addicted individuals.
(206) 489-3642 View (206) 489-3642
Photo of Gary M Marcus, Psychologist in Kent, WA
Gary M Marcus
Psychologist, PhD, CRC
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98030  (Online Only)
I am a licensed psychologist with 35 years of experience providing practical, brief, solution-focused therapy. My therapy style is interactive with frequent feedback and coaching. I treat depression and anxiety disorders (Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety Disorder). I provide couple/marital therapy and work with relationship issues. I work exclusively with adults. I use evidence based treatment approaches to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and couple/family issues. I help clients adjust to difficult life events and circumstances. My orientation is cognitive behavioral.
I am a licensed psychologist with 35 years of experience providing practical, brief, solution-focused therapy. My therapy style is interactive with frequent feedback and coaching. I treat depression and anxiety disorders (Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, Generalized Anxiety Disorder). I provide couple/marital therapy and work with relationship issues. I work exclusively with adults. I use evidence based treatment approaches to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and couple/family issues. I help clients adjust to difficult life events and circumstances. My orientation is cognitive behavioral.
(425) 954-6943 View (425) 954-6943
Photo of Pearle Hintz, Counselor in Kent, WA
Pearle Hintz
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98042
I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) with over 20 years experience working with adults, families and adolescents. Areas I work in include depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, relationship, family conflict, parenting, life transitions, anger, grief/loss, stress, and improving communication, confidence and self esteem. Approaches I use include cognitive behavioral (CBT), family systems, and I am a certified EMDR therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I work in Kent, Federal Way, and Enumclaw.
I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) with over 20 years experience working with adults, families and adolescents. Areas I work in include depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, relationship, family conflict, parenting, life transitions, anger, grief/loss, stress, and improving communication, confidence and self esteem. Approaches I use include cognitive behavioral (CBT), family systems, and I am a certified EMDR therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I work in Kent, Federal Way, and Enumclaw.
(253) 777-1059 View (253) 777-1059
Photo of Emily Wesley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kent, WA
Emily Wesley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, EMDR, Reiki
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98042  (Online Only)
I am EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Certified through EMDRIA, I integrate IFS (Internal Family Systems) into EMDR and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT).
I am passionate to assist clients with healing the mind, body and spirit while seeing each person as an individual in the context of their environment. I use a relational, humanistic, client centered and strength-based approach with an attachment lens while acknowledging that each individual is unique and motivated through free will to achieve their highest potential. I hold space for vulnerability and acceptance during each session. I work with BIPOC identified people with their intersectionalities and how it relates to systemic oppression and other nuances of identifying as BIPOC.
I am EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Certified through EMDRIA, I integrate IFS (Internal Family Systems) into EMDR and Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT).
I am passionate to assist clients with healing the mind, body and spirit while seeing each person as an individual in the context of their environment. I use a relational, humanistic, client centered and strength-based approach with an attachment lens while acknowledging that each individual is unique and motivated through free will to achieve their highest potential. I hold space for vulnerability and acceptance during each session. I work with BIPOC identified people with their intersectionalities and how it relates to systemic oppression and other nuances of identifying as BIPOC.
(253) 342-4672 View (253) 342-4672
Life Guide Northwest PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98042
My expertise in therapy encompasses areas such as depression, trauma, relationship and family conflicts, mood disorders, psychosis, challenges with boundaries and assertiveness, racial and cultural identity, and addictions.
Life Guide Northwest was founded in 2010 in Portland Oregon by my late father Stevie B. Hoggans. His sole purpose in establishing Life Guide Northwest was to create a treatment agency to support the specific needs of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) community. This level of support was not available in his community, which dealt with socio-economic challenges which manifested into issues such as behavioral health conditions, crime, substance abuse, poverty, and homelessness. Like my father, I am passionate about helping ALL individuals who are struggling to navigate interpersonal challenges.
My expertise in therapy encompasses areas such as depression, trauma, relationship and family conflicts, mood disorders, psychosis, challenges with boundaries and assertiveness, racial and cultural identity, and addictions.
Life Guide Northwest was founded in 2010 in Portland Oregon by my late father Stevie B. Hoggans. His sole purpose in establishing Life Guide Northwest was to create a treatment agency to support the specific needs of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color) community. This level of support was not available in his community, which dealt with socio-economic challenges which manifested into issues such as behavioral health conditions, crime, substance abuse, poverty, and homelessness. Like my father, I am passionate about helping ALL individuals who are struggling to navigate interpersonal challenges.
(253) 652-5938 View (253) 652-5938
Photo of Pat Vulk, Counselor in Kent, WA
Pat Vulk
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98030  (Online Only)
Consequently, I have a lot to offer in the realm of parenting, relationships, and working on improving family relationships as well.
I know that finding a counselor can be difficult, so I want to give you a sense of who I am and how I approach therapy. This way, you can find out if we are a good fit. You can always call me too if you would like to know more. First of all, counseling is about you. I will do my best to create a safe, supportive, and caring space for us to work together to build the life you want. The primary focus of my therapy practice is teaching unconditional self-love, self-acceptance, and seeking joy in our lives.
Consequently, I have a lot to offer in the realm of parenting, relationships, and working on improving family relationships as well.
I know that finding a counselor can be difficult, so I want to give you a sense of who I am and how I approach therapy. This way, you can find out if we are a good fit. You can always call me too if you would like to know more. First of all, counseling is about you. I will do my best to create a safe, supportive, and caring space for us to work together to build the life you want. The primary focus of my therapy practice is teaching unconditional self-love, self-acceptance, and seeking joy in our lives.
(360) 429-0671 x1 View (360) 429-0671 x1
Photo of Angela F Kelly Lmhc, Counselor in Kent, WA
Angela F Kelly Lmhc
Counselor, LMHC, GMHS, CBHC
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98031  (Online Only)
You tell yourself that if you just do everything perfectly, you’ll feel okay. As long as the house is spotless. And your family is ideal (or at least looks that way on social media.) If you always say yes, constantly keep a smile on your face, and never complain about anything – then everything should be fine. But no matter how hard you try, you can’t shake this feeling of dread. And all of your efforts to appear perfect are taking a toll. To-do lists never end. No one seems to know the real you. You’re terrified that at any moment, there’ll be a crack in your mask and everyone will see you for who you truly are; this cant go on.
You tell yourself that if you just do everything perfectly, you’ll feel okay. As long as the house is spotless. And your family is ideal (or at least looks that way on social media.) If you always say yes, constantly keep a smile on your face, and never complain about anything – then everything should be fine. But no matter how hard you try, you can’t shake this feeling of dread. And all of your efforts to appear perfect are taking a toll. To-do lists never end. No one seems to know the real you. You’re terrified that at any moment, there’ll be a crack in your mask and everyone will see you for who you truly are; this cant go on.
(206) 590-4720 View (206) 590-4720
Photo of Zachary Rothwell in Kent, WA
Zachary Rothwell
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98032
This includes growing stronger friendships and intimate relationships, strengthening or repairing family relationships, becoming more comfortable spending time with yourself, and feeling more connected in your community.
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients have had difficult childhoods and are curious how therapy can help to reduce their suffering, heal from past traumas, and learn healthier ways of attachment. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
This includes growing stronger friendships and intimate relationships, strengthening or repairing family relationships, becoming more comfortable spending time with yourself, and feeling more connected in your community.
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients have had difficult childhoods and are curious how therapy can help to reduce their suffering, heal from past traumas, and learn healthier ways of attachment. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
(425) 272-6501 View (425) 272-6501
Photo of Amy Langdahl, Counselor in Kent, WA
Amy Langdahl
Counselor, MACP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98030  (Online Only)
I have worked within the mental health field since 2013 in different positions, institutions, and with a variety of issues; including: anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, peer relationships, low self-esteem, adjustment difficulties, family conflict, and more.
I believe that everyone has their own unique story that is worthy of being told. Some stories hurt more than others and I aim to offer a non-judgmental, safe environment for all who seek my services.
I have worked within the mental health field since 2013 in different positions, institutions, and with a variety of issues; including: anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, peer relationships, low self-esteem, adjustment difficulties, family conflict, and more.
I believe that everyone has their own unique story that is worthy of being told. Some stories hurt more than others and I aim to offer a non-judgmental, safe environment for all who seek my services.
(425) 529-5374 View (425) 529-5374
Photo of Gaaren Anderson MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kent, WA
Gaaren Anderson MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98031  (Online Only)
) & systemic family therapy enables me to understand & effectively work with the individual & relationship aspects of the situation.
We will not try to make you do what somebody else wants you to do. We start with your goals & find ways to help you develop the necessary skills. We have found that, if a person's individual wishes are not represented in the solution, it will not work in the long run. So there is a strong emphasis on helping each person take responsibility and control over their own happiness. Some things are better handled individually, and some things are better handled with both people in the room. Our unique blend of individual & couples therapy is quite effective.
) & systemic family therapy enables me to understand & effectively work with the individual & relationship aspects of the situation.
We will not try to make you do what somebody else wants you to do. We start with your goals & find ways to help you develop the necessary skills. We have found that, if a person's individual wishes are not represented in the solution, it will not work in the long run. So there is a strong emphasis on helping each person take responsibility and control over their own happiness. Some things are better handled individually, and some things are better handled with both people in the room. Our unique blend of individual & couples therapy is quite effective.
(206) 745-0931 View (206) 745-0931
Photo of Michelle Mong, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kent, WA
Michelle Mong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98030  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Everything we do involves relationships; so when we are not feeling effective in this part of our lives, other parts suffer as well. Over the past twenty five years I have worked on relationships with teenagers and adults through individual, family and couples work. My specialty is effective communication coaching in order to get needs met in relationships. I do this through the lens of family systems work, asking thoughtful questions and offering perspective. Anyone who is willing to walk through the therapy door and want more out of their relationships is who I welcome in my office.
Everything we do involves relationships; so when we are not feeling effective in this part of our lives, other parts suffer as well. Over the past twenty five years I have worked on relationships with teenagers and adults through individual, family and couples work. My specialty is effective communication coaching in order to get needs met in relationships. I do this through the lens of family systems work, asking thoughtful questions and offering perspective. Anyone who is willing to walk through the therapy door and want more out of their relationships is who I welcome in my office.
(253) 442-2334 View (253) 442-2334
Photo of Allied Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kent, WA
Allied Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, MA-MFT, CC(Cert, Couns)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98030
Currently accepting new clients. Arguing over money? Communication? Unmotivated teenager? Infidelity? We've got your back. We help you communicate and resolve conflict in kind, loving ways that build your relationship. We help couples find their love again, and teach teenagers adult life skills, with humor and sensitivity. Dr. LauraMaery Gold is a marriage and family therapist, certified counselor, and best-selling author with degrees in law, finance, and family counseling. She provides proven communication and financial planning tools, and helps couples focus on the big picture.
Currently accepting new clients. Arguing over money? Communication? Unmotivated teenager? Infidelity? We've got your back. We help you communicate and resolve conflict in kind, loving ways that build your relationship. We help couples find their love again, and teach teenagers adult life skills, with humor and sensitivity. Dr. LauraMaery Gold is a marriage and family therapist, certified counselor, and best-selling author with degrees in law, finance, and family counseling. She provides proven communication and financial planning tools, and helps couples focus on the big picture.
(253) 259-3104 View (253) 259-3104
Photo of Vicki Johnson, Counselor in Kent, WA
Vicki Johnson
Counselor, MS, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98030
I was an elementary teacher for 7 years before getting my master's degree in marriage and family counseling. I've been in private practice for 14 years as well as being a school counselor. In addition, I've taught Love and Logic parenting classes for the last 13 years. I work with individuals, couples or families and work well with children, too.
I was an elementary teacher for 7 years before getting my master's degree in marriage and family counseling. I've been in private practice for 14 years as well as being a school counselor. In addition, I've taught Love and Logic parenting classes for the last 13 years. I work with individuals, couples or families and work well with children, too.
(360) 200-7046 View (360) 200-7046
Photo of Souchinda Khampradith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kent, WA
Souchinda Khampradith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98030  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for a Therapist who understands the strengths and complexities of individuals and families from diverse cultural backgrounds? Not happy with where you are in life? Are you dealing with life transitions such as parenthood, divorce, a career change, death of a loved one, diagnosed with cancer, or caring for aging parents/ill family member/special needs child? Feeling depressed or anxious about challenges in balancing work, family and your personal needs? Then contact me to discuss how I can assist.
Are you looking for a Therapist who understands the strengths and complexities of individuals and families from diverse cultural backgrounds? Not happy with where you are in life? Are you dealing with life transitions such as parenthood, divorce, a career change, death of a loved one, diagnosed with cancer, or caring for aging parents/ill family member/special needs child? Feeling depressed or anxious about challenges in balancing work, family and your personal needs? Then contact me to discuss how I can assist.
(206) 535-1438 View (206) 535-1438
Photo of Janai Felizardo (Carraway), Counselor in Kent, WA
Janai Felizardo (Carraway)
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, SUDP, NCC, WSCGCII
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98032  (Online Only)
I have experience working with adults, adolescents, teens and families dealing with challenges such as: transition, divorce, family conflict,depression,grief and loss as well as anxiety to name a few.
Are you finding yourself at a stuck point in life and want to find healthy attainable solutions? Are you struggling to find meaning and purpose in life? I find that an integrative approach that is rooted in trust and connection allows for growth. I believe in honoring the different cultures and life experiences of my clients as this allows us to work holistically: Mind, Body, Spirit & Culture. I believe that we all experience a variety of transitions in life and by having a willingness to explore ways of healing and change there can be an increase in life satisfaction.
I have experience working with adults, adolescents, teens and families dealing with challenges such as: transition, divorce, family conflict,depression,grief and loss as well as anxiety to name a few.
Are you finding yourself at a stuck point in life and want to find healthy attainable solutions? Are you struggling to find meaning and purpose in life? I find that an integrative approach that is rooted in trust and connection allows for growth. I believe in honoring the different cultures and life experiences of my clients as this allows us to work holistically: Mind, Body, Spirit & Culture. I believe that we all experience a variety of transitions in life and by having a willingness to explore ways of healing and change there can be an increase in life satisfaction.
(206) 823-2133 View (206) 823-2133
Photo of Neupathway (Maribel Aheran), Counselor in Kent, WA
Neupathway (Maribel Aheran)
Counselor, EdD, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98031
Working on improving your mental health and addressing aspects of your life that affect your level of functioning at work, school, family, and relationships, is a big step, but is also a step further to becoming the best version of yourself! "I will be honored to be part of your emotional growth!".
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
Working on improving your mental health and addressing aspects of your life that affect your level of functioning at work, school, family, and relationships, is a big step, but is also a step further to becoming the best version of yourself! "I will be honored to be part of your emotional growth!".
Accepting New Patients, same week availability................................... Maribel Aheran Ed.D, LMHC-QS, NCC, MCAP is a bilingual (English & Spanish) licensed clinical mental health counselor with over 12 years of experience treating children, adolescents, college students, and adults. She completed a bachelor's degree in education from Caribbean University, a master's degree in English for speakers of other languages from Turabo University, a master's degree in Counseling and Psychology from Troy University, and a doctorate degree in education from Edgewood College.
(425) 470-6819 View (425) 470-6819
Photo of Angel Asuncion-Reed, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Kent, WA
Angel Asuncion-Reed
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98042
Waitlist for new clients
I practice Narrative Therapy, EMDR-trained (trauma-focused), Internal Family Systems Therapy, Child-Centered Play Therapy, Multicultural Therapy, Family Constellations (Ancestral Healing) Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy; also, integrating art & experiential therapy modalities.
My therapy work is rooted in a systemic approach with children, adolescents, couples, and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting challenges, grief, etc... . Through my own identities and experiences as a 1.5 generation immigrant from the Philippines, being raised in Los Angeles, and as an educator for over 20 years, I understand the impact of harm and losses that carry from generation to generation caused by systems that are not made for us. They surface in our lives and within our relationships.
I practice Narrative Therapy, EMDR-trained (trauma-focused), Internal Family Systems Therapy, Child-Centered Play Therapy, Multicultural Therapy, Family Constellations (Ancestral Healing) Therapy, and Solution-Focused Therapy; also, integrating art & experiential therapy modalities.
My therapy work is rooted in a systemic approach with children, adolescents, couples, and families experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, parenting challenges, grief, etc... . Through my own identities and experiences as a 1.5 generation immigrant from the Philippines, being raised in Los Angeles, and as an educator for over 20 years, I understand the impact of harm and losses that carry from generation to generation caused by systems that are not made for us. They surface in our lives and within our relationships.
(425) 364-6718 View (425) 364-6718
Photo of Courtney Corbit, Pre-Licensed Professional in Kent, WA
Courtney Corbit
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kent, WA 98032
Life, whether at home or school, is challenging your inner thoughts and emotions. In the in-between times, you may become hopeless or overwhelmed, feeling disconnected from yourself or the world around you. Your sense of self becomes dysregulated and you are off balance. You have low energy, diminished self-confidence, feeling isolated from family and friends. The future, and the positive parts of your life, are hard to see. You know something doesnt feel right and you want to feel better, want to express yourself and get onto the path of healing.
Life, whether at home or school, is challenging your inner thoughts and emotions. In the in-between times, you may become hopeless or overwhelmed, feeling disconnected from yourself or the world around you. Your sense of self becomes dysregulated and you are off balance. You have low energy, diminished self-confidence, feeling isolated from family and friends. The future, and the positive parts of your life, are hard to see. You know something doesnt feel right and you want to feel better, want to express yourself and get onto the path of healing.
(253) 215-8863 View (253) 215-8863

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.