Photo of Paul S Mefford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 40511, KY
Paul S Mefford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MTh, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40511  (Online Only)
I have always believed in a holistic life / treatment model. I have thirty five years of experience in diverse therapeutic environments and with a large variety of people and issues. I often tell clients the reason I come to work is because I believe that I and you can change. My goal is to provide a safe space where you can become the person you are meant to be. I am also a licensed massage therapist , reiki master , and craniosacral therapist .
I have always believed in a holistic life / treatment model. I have thirty five years of experience in diverse therapeutic environments and with a large variety of people and issues. I often tell clients the reason I come to work is because I believe that I and you can change. My goal is to provide a safe space where you can become the person you are meant to be. I am also a licensed massage therapist , reiki master , and craniosacral therapist .
(812) 541-9643 View (812) 541-9643
Photo of Lesa Young, Counselor in 40511, KY
Lesa Young
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, NCC, EMDR, CCPT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40511
I believe that everyone comes to a time in life when they face their own personal “truth in the room”. This can be as simple as private self-reflection or as complicated as trying to save a relationship or marriage. Maybe you have a child who is out of control or a sibling who suffers from substance abuse. Whatever brings you to therapy, know that it is my goal to partner with you as you work toward personal growth and wellness. Strong individuals are able to have strong relationships and healthy lives with meaning and purpose. My ideal client is one who is ready to explore "who they are and to do it on purpose".
I believe that everyone comes to a time in life when they face their own personal “truth in the room”. This can be as simple as private self-reflection or as complicated as trying to save a relationship or marriage. Maybe you have a child who is out of control or a sibling who suffers from substance abuse. Whatever brings you to therapy, know that it is my goal to partner with you as you work toward personal growth and wellness. Strong individuals are able to have strong relationships and healthy lives with meaning and purpose. My ideal client is one who is ready to explore "who they are and to do it on purpose".
(859) 878-1109 View (859) 878-1109
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.