Photo of Courtney Adams, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Courtney Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
I received my Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University.
Hello and welcome! I view mental health and its importance the same way that I view getting my car serviced; sometimes you go in just for a tune up and other times it requires more serious work. Either way, the service is beneficial and things start working a lot smoother afterwards. My goal is to create an environment that is safe and non-judgemental so clients feel comfortable disclosing whatever is on their hearts and minds. Clients come to me with a variety of concerns/needs ranging from relationship issues, stress, anxiety to simply needing a sounding board. Whatever the concern may be, you are welcome.
I received my Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology with an Emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University.
Hello and welcome! I view mental health and its importance the same way that I view getting my car serviced; sometimes you go in just for a tune up and other times it requires more serious work. Either way, the service is beneficial and things start working a lot smoother afterwards. My goal is to create an environment that is safe and non-judgemental so clients feel comfortable disclosing whatever is on their hearts and minds. Clients come to me with a variety of concerns/needs ranging from relationship issues, stress, anxiety to simply needing a sounding board. Whatever the concern may be, you are welcome.
(424) 248-7743 View (424) 248-7743
Photo of Olga Castillo, LCP, Psychologist
Olga Castillo
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019
I utilize a family systems conceptual framework and at the same time utilize a cognitive behavioral approach to guide my interventions.
Hi, my name is Olga Gabriela Martinez. I received my education and training from Azusa Pacific University. I obtained a master's degree in Family Counseling and a Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology. I am fluent in Spanish and have worked extensively with many cultural backgrounds. My work includes working with individuals, couples, and families. My areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, and trauma-related struggles. I have a special interest in women's issues and have worked extensively with women and men of different backgrounds. I am a Christian and have a special interest in the integration of faith in my treatment.
I utilize a family systems conceptual framework and at the same time utilize a cognitive behavioral approach to guide my interventions.
Hi, my name is Olga Gabriela Martinez. I received my education and training from Azusa Pacific University. I obtained a master's degree in Family Counseling and a Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology. I am fluent in Spanish and have worked extensively with many cultural backgrounds. My work includes working with individuals, couples, and families. My areas of expertise are depression, anxiety, and trauma-related struggles. I have a special interest in women's issues and have worked extensively with women and men of different backgrounds. I am a Christian and have a special interest in the integration of faith in my treatment.
(323) 616-1431 View (323) 616-1431
Photo of Jessica Langford, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Langford
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019
Experienced mental health professional with proven success working with children, couples, families and individuals in private practice, clinical, and community environments. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Master’s degree recipient in Counseling, Marriage, Family and Child Therapy. Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Experienced mental health professional with proven success working with children, couples, families and individuals in private practice, clinical, and community environments. Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Master’s degree recipient in Counseling, Marriage, Family and Child Therapy. Strong verbal and written communication skills.
(213) 699-2698 View (213) 699-2698
Photo of Julie Ann Gray, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Ann Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019
I am an empathic individual who is passionate about assisting others to achieve their fullest potential. I believe that every person has the power to change and to heal. I am open and receptive to working with people of all genders, faiths, ethnic groups and sexual orientations. I am confident that together we will work to resolve any issues you bring. I specialize in treating trauma using EMDR and have seen many clients heal from traumatic events using this modality. I also love working with people impacted by depression, anxiety and family issues surrounding addictions.
I am an empathic individual who is passionate about assisting others to achieve their fullest potential. I believe that every person has the power to change and to heal. I am open and receptive to working with people of all genders, faiths, ethnic groups and sexual orientations. I am confident that together we will work to resolve any issues you bring. I specialize in treating trauma using EMDR and have seen many clients heal from traumatic events using this modality. I also love working with people impacted by depression, anxiety and family issues surrounding addictions.
(469) 812-5670 View (469) 812-5670
Photo of Ana Sigala Quezada, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ana Sigala Quezada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) therapist with a License in Marriage and Family Therapy. I’ve been trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Solution Focused Therapy, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and overall take a person-centered approach based on my client's goals. With my compassionate and proactive therapeutic approach, I will collaboratively create a treatment plan that will focus on enhancing the areas of your life you wish to work on and achieve your desired goals.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) therapist with a License in Marriage and Family Therapy. I’ve been trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Solution Focused Therapy, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and overall take a person-centered approach based on my client's goals. With my compassionate and proactive therapeutic approach, I will collaboratively create a treatment plan that will focus on enhancing the areas of your life you wish to work on and achieve your desired goals.
(424) 231-6499 View (424) 231-6499
Photo of Sean Carpenter, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sean Carpenter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples, families and groups on a wide variety of issues and concerns, including but not limited to: LGBTQIA+-related issues, PTSD and trauma, anxiety and depression, unsatisfying relationships, overwhelming emotions, self-esteem and identity issues, sexual concerns, family discord, life transitions and career and work challenges.
I have a deep passion for helping people find liberation from concerns that bring them to therapy. Understanding why we do things the way we do them is critical to growth, change and healing. I ground my work in warmth, compassion, authenticity and an understanding of how thoughts and emotions relate to neuro/physiological processes, as well as how past experiences inform current beliefs, thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My aim is to help you gain clarity into underlying causes of problems, provide strategies for coping and support you in taking risks and trying new ways of being, to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I work with individuals, couples, families and groups on a wide variety of issues and concerns, including but not limited to: LGBTQIA+-related issues, PTSD and trauma, anxiety and depression, unsatisfying relationships, overwhelming emotions, self-esteem and identity issues, sexual concerns, family discord, life transitions and career and work challenges.
I have a deep passion for helping people find liberation from concerns that bring them to therapy. Understanding why we do things the way we do them is critical to growth, change and healing. I ground my work in warmth, compassion, authenticity and an understanding of how thoughts and emotions relate to neuro/physiological processes, as well as how past experiences inform current beliefs, thoughts, feelings and behaviors. My aim is to help you gain clarity into underlying causes of problems, provide strategies for coping and support you in taking risks and trying new ways of being, to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(323) 310-9754 View (323) 310-9754
Photo of Mary Kate Hurlbutt, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mary Kate Hurlbutt
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019
Hi, I’m Mary Kate (she/her) and I’m an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist based in Los Angeles, CA. I’m passionate about approaching our work together in a way that invites you to connect to the most empowered vision and story of yourself. I also understand the importance of honoring and exploring all the complexities and emotions that make your lived experience unique to you. Together we’ll create a warm, non-judgemental atmosphere where you can feel seen and heard as your authentic self.
Hi, I’m Mary Kate (she/her) and I’m an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist based in Los Angeles, CA. I’m passionate about approaching our work together in a way that invites you to connect to the most empowered vision and story of yourself. I also understand the importance of honoring and exploring all the complexities and emotions that make your lived experience unique to you. Together we’ll create a warm, non-judgemental atmosphere where you can feel seen and heard as your authentic self.
(323) 910-4379 View (323) 910-4379
Photo of Jordan Aura-Gullick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan Aura-Gullick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
I help adults manage and overcome depression, anxiety, family and relationship challenges, stress, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, and the mental effects of chronic illness.
With warmth, empathy, and honesty, I strive to create an atmosphere of safety and trust. I understand that choosing a therapist is a difficult decision. Being a good match to your specific needs is important to me. Together we’ll identify your struggles and work toward your personal goals. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness practice, and a psychodynamic approach to address your unique needs. My aim is to provide you with a nurturing environment for personal growth, healing, and self-transformation.
I help adults manage and overcome depression, anxiety, family and relationship challenges, stress, trauma, abuse, parenting issues, and the mental effects of chronic illness.
With warmth, empathy, and honesty, I strive to create an atmosphere of safety and trust. I understand that choosing a therapist is a difficult decision. Being a good match to your specific needs is important to me. Together we’ll identify your struggles and work toward your personal goals. I use a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness practice, and a psychodynamic approach to address your unique needs. My aim is to provide you with a nurturing environment for personal growth, healing, and self-transformation.
(213) 816-8727 View (213) 816-8727
Photo of Vera Cerny, LCSW
Vera Cerny
LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
The clients I see are adults of all ages whose lives are diminished by depression or anxiety, whether lingering or overwhelming. Such feelings can make it difficult to focus on tasks or even leave their home. Some clients struggle with unsupportive family members or relationship partners; others cannot shake off the impact of trauma they suffered as children or as adults. Some are young adults who are experiencing Adulthood as a loss of past freedoms; some cannot find satisfying relationships, or establish boundaries with parents or roommates. My older adults are coping with aging; but they also desire social connection and purpose.
The clients I see are adults of all ages whose lives are diminished by depression or anxiety, whether lingering or overwhelming. Such feelings can make it difficult to focus on tasks or even leave their home. Some clients struggle with unsupportive family members or relationship partners; others cannot shake off the impact of trauma they suffered as children or as adults. Some are young adults who are experiencing Adulthood as a loss of past freedoms; some cannot find satisfying relationships, or establish boundaries with parents or roommates. My older adults are coping with aging; but they also desire social connection and purpose.
(747) 281-3755 View (747) 281-3755
Photo of Brenda H Rodman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda H Rodman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019
Working through depression, anxiety, grief, family stressors, loneliness, relationship issues, career dilemmas, chronic/terminal illnesses, aging, and a desire for growth/self-exploration are areas with which I can help.
Why do people seek therapy? They want to feel better. They want to improve their relationships. They want support in times of loss and transition. A search for insight and personal growth are also reasons. With over 25 years of clinical experience I have an approach that would help you find answer to these issues. Each person brings a unique story to therapy, and I draw from various therapeutic processes utilizing insight, cognitive behavioral and mindfulness techniques to help them gain insight and feel better about their life.
Working through depression, anxiety, grief, family stressors, loneliness, relationship issues, career dilemmas, chronic/terminal illnesses, aging, and a desire for growth/self-exploration are areas with which I can help.
Why do people seek therapy? They want to feel better. They want to improve their relationships. They want support in times of loss and transition. A search for insight and personal growth are also reasons. With over 25 years of clinical experience I have an approach that would help you find answer to these issues. Each person brings a unique story to therapy, and I draw from various therapeutic processes utilizing insight, cognitive behavioral and mindfulness techniques to help them gain insight and feel better about their life.
(213) 375-1126 View (213) 375-1126
Photo of Christie Chu, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christie Chu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019
Hello, my name is Christie Chu. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and a licensed professional counselor in Texas. I'm a mother of 11-year-old twins, and have a great deal of life experience dealing with many of the issues my patients face. I work with clients with mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I work with couples dealing with infertility, relational violence, Child Abuse, and LGBTQ issues. In addition, I I work with school issues and I am a credentialed school counselor.
Hello, my name is Christie Chu. I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist in California and a licensed professional counselor in Texas. I'm a mother of 11-year-old twins, and have a great deal of life experience dealing with many of the issues my patients face. I work with clients with mood disorders, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. I work with couples dealing with infertility, relational violence, Child Abuse, and LGBTQ issues. In addition, I I work with school issues and I am a credentialed school counselor.
(323) 616-2574 View (323) 616-2574
Photo of Gabriel Marks, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Gabriel Marks
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019
A former professional athlete turned clinician, I received my MA in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. During my time in practice, Ive had the opportunity to work with a diverse client population ranging from 15-50 years of age, addressing a wide range of presenting problems in the clinical setting including but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Life and Career Transitions, Relationships, Men's Issues, and Trauma. As a Los Angeles native, I understand the stressors of living in the city, as well as our need to have someone to process it all with in a safe and non-judgmental space.
A former professional athlete turned clinician, I received my MA in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University. During my time in practice, Ive had the opportunity to work with a diverse client population ranging from 15-50 years of age, addressing a wide range of presenting problems in the clinical setting including but not limited to: Depression, Anxiety, Life and Career Transitions, Relationships, Men's Issues, and Trauma. As a Los Angeles native, I understand the stressors of living in the city, as well as our need to have someone to process it all with in a safe and non-judgmental space.
(213) 674-5288 View (213) 674-5288
Photo of Michelle Pow, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Pow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with feeling unseen by your family, friends, or partner? Does self-doubt keep you stagnate in something unfulfilling or prevent you from wanting or striving for more? Does perfectionism keep you from finding satisfaction in different parts of your life? Do you have difficulty identifying and voicing your emotions?.
Hi, I’m Michelle! I am a second-generation Asian American mental health therapist and most importantly Human. As an Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe providing a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and social justice-oriented environment is critically important to doing this brave work. My goal is to support you on your journey to understanding yourself, healing from the past, and creating the life you want to live. My specialties include: First/Second Generation Asian American Mental Health, Intergenerational Trauma/Conflict, Relationships, Postpartum Mental Health, Racial Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, and Self-Esteem
Do you struggle with feeling unseen by your family, friends, or partner? Does self-doubt keep you stagnate in something unfulfilling or prevent you from wanting or striving for more? Does perfectionism keep you from finding satisfaction in different parts of your life? Do you have difficulty identifying and voicing your emotions?.
Hi, I’m Michelle! I am a second-generation Asian American mental health therapist and most importantly Human. As an Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I believe providing a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and social justice-oriented environment is critically important to doing this brave work. My goal is to support you on your journey to understanding yourself, healing from the past, and creating the life you want to live. My specialties include: First/Second Generation Asian American Mental Health, Intergenerational Trauma/Conflict, Relationships, Postpartum Mental Health, Racial Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, and Self-Esteem
(213) 375-1763 View (213) 375-1763
Photo of Jaha Higgs, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jaha Higgs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019
I have been successful in supporting clients facing challenges such as, depression, anxiety, life transition, difficulties with work, family conflict, relationship concerns, stress, trauma, loss and grief, creativity, cultural issues, and racial trauma. I work with clients from all paths of life, including, artists/ creatives, adolescents, LGBTQIA+ individuals. I am committed to being a part of the collective effort to make mental health services more accessible for marginalized communities; therefore, I especially welcome clients who are Black, Indigenous, or who are of color.
I have been successful in supporting clients facing challenges such as, depression, anxiety, life transition, difficulties with work, family conflict, relationship concerns, stress, trauma, loss and grief, creativity, cultural issues, and racial trauma. I work with clients from all paths of life, including, artists/ creatives, adolescents, LGBTQIA+ individuals. I am committed to being a part of the collective effort to make mental health services more accessible for marginalized communities; therefore, I especially welcome clients who are Black, Indigenous, or who are of color.
(213) 577-2385 View (213) 577-2385
Photo of Timothy Connely, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Timothy Connely
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019
I utilize a lot of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Narrative therapy, Family Systems, and Attachment work.
Hi there, I'm Tim Connely, LMFT. I work hard to create a safe and secure environment in order to support my clients in doing the work of understanding their thoughts and the effects they have on our life. I work with people across the lifespan encouraging them in any way I can. I have worked with clients across the lifespan. I have worked with people as young as 4 all the way to people in their 70's and 80's. I am most comfortable treating people that have experienced trauma, dealing with life events, depression, anxiety, and many more.
I utilize a lot of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Narrative therapy, Family Systems, and Attachment work.
Hi there, I'm Tim Connely, LMFT. I work hard to create a safe and secure environment in order to support my clients in doing the work of understanding their thoughts and the effects they have on our life. I work with people across the lifespan encouraging them in any way I can. I have worked with clients across the lifespan. I have worked with people as young as 4 all the way to people in their 70's and 80's. I am most comfortable treating people that have experienced trauma, dealing with life events, depression, anxiety, and many more.
(323) 395-5253 View (323) 395-5253
Photo of Kelly Newbill, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Newbill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019
My name is Kelly Newbill and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I take a person-centered approach to therapy. I meet my clients where they are at each session. I will help be your guide to a happier and more peaceful you. Individual adult clients who are looking to find more peace in their lives. Clients who are wanting help with life transitions, processing of past life experiences to help create a happier life today.
My name is Kelly Newbill and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I take a person-centered approach to therapy. I meet my clients where they are at each session. I will help be your guide to a happier and more peaceful you. Individual adult clients who are looking to find more peace in their lives. Clients who are wanting help with life transitions, processing of past life experiences to help create a happier life today.
(831) 400-5020 View (831) 400-5020
Photo of Patricia Ulloa-Green, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Ulloa-Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019
Greetings! I'm Patricia Ulloa-Green, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with an extensive 24-year background in the mental health field. Dedicated to assisting individuals navigating adversity, I bring a passion for helping others discover creative solutions tailored to their unique needs. Having triumphed over my own challenges, I approach therapy with a deep understanding of life's complexities. In today's world, trauma is pervasive, and my goal is to provide compassion, kindness, and empathy as we embark on your healing journey together.
Greetings! I'm Patricia Ulloa-Green, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with an extensive 24-year background in the mental health field. Dedicated to assisting individuals navigating adversity, I bring a passion for helping others discover creative solutions tailored to their unique needs. Having triumphed over my own challenges, I approach therapy with a deep understanding of life's complexities. In today's world, trauma is pervasive, and my goal is to provide compassion, kindness, and empathy as we embark on your healing journey together.
(760) 623-0758 View (760) 623-0758
Photo of Carolina Louis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolina Louis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
I help clients understand narcissism in family dynamics and interpersonal relationships.
My approach to therapy focuses on establishing a warm, trusting relationship with my clients to help us explore deep personal issues. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, trauma, addictive behaviors, co-dependency, and life transitions. In my approach I use psycho-dynamic and solution-focused approaches to help dislodge old behavioral patterns and emphasize the importance of how our previous relationships impact our present. In therapy we will look to find meaning in our present-day challenges, experiment with new ways of thinking and seek resolution.
I help clients understand narcissism in family dynamics and interpersonal relationships.
My approach to therapy focuses on establishing a warm, trusting relationship with my clients to help us explore deep personal issues. My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, trauma, addictive behaviors, co-dependency, and life transitions. In my approach I use psycho-dynamic and solution-focused approaches to help dislodge old behavioral patterns and emphasize the importance of how our previous relationships impact our present. In therapy we will look to find meaning in our present-day challenges, experiment with new ways of thinking and seek resolution.
(562) 210-0269 View (562) 210-0269
Photo of Tracy Dickerson, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracy Dickerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019  (Online Only)
We all need extra support sometimes to get us through life's challenges. I can offer a non-judgmental and safe space in which you can freely explore whatever it is that you are facing. Together, we can identify the places where you may feel stuck, and work on removing the obstacles that stand in your way. Whether you're an individual in need of support or change, a couple wanting to improve communication, or a family in conflict, my goal is to assist you in moving forward with clarity.
We all need extra support sometimes to get us through life's challenges. I can offer a non-judgmental and safe space in which you can freely explore whatever it is that you are facing. Together, we can identify the places where you may feel stuck, and work on removing the obstacles that stand in your way. Whether you're an individual in need of support or change, a couple wanting to improve communication, or a family in conflict, my goal is to assist you in moving forward with clarity.
(323) 568-1339 View (323) 568-1339
Photo of Cheryl Wharton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cheryl Wharton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019
I have had a passion for helping people since I was very young. I have been providing professional counseling for almost 30 years. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I’m an experienced facilitator of health and healing for individuals, couples, and families. With 27 years of experience in counseling, I know what it takes to move one into their desired path. My proven methods will help you build and live a more authentic and powerful life. I create a place for individuals to talk about their experiences, feel heard, know they’re valued, and feel a sense of belonging.
I have had a passion for helping people since I was very young. I have been providing professional counseling for almost 30 years. I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I’m an experienced facilitator of health and healing for individuals, couples, and families. With 27 years of experience in counseling, I know what it takes to move one into their desired path. My proven methods will help you build and live a more authentic and powerful life. I create a place for individuals to talk about their experiences, feel heard, know they’re valued, and feel a sense of belonging.
(831) 244-9035 View (831) 244-9035
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.