Photo of Ron Austin MS, LMFT 925-949-6349, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ron Austin MS, LMFT 925-949-6349
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117  (Online Only)
I have experience in family counseling, adult and adolescent individuwal sessions.
25 plus years of experience in all areas of counseling. - Clinical Director Substance Abuse - Directed County Mental Health Teams , including Crisis and Children's Mental Health - Adjunct faculty at two Universities totaling 20 years - Juvenile Justice experience I enjoy working with couples and adults as they sort through the challenges of life. I make every attempt to help develop change for a healthy lifestyles. I am skilled in CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused treatments.
I have experience in family counseling, adult and adolescent individuwal sessions.
25 plus years of experience in all areas of counseling. - Clinical Director Substance Abuse - Directed County Mental Health Teams , including Crisis and Children's Mental Health - Adjunct faculty at two Universities totaling 20 years - Juvenile Justice experience I enjoy working with couples and adults as they sort through the challenges of life. I make every attempt to help develop change for a healthy lifestyles. I am skilled in CBT, DBT, and Solution Focused treatments.
(925) 478-2536 View (925) 478-2536
Photo of Linda Shanti McCabe, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Linda Shanti McCabe
Psychologist, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94122
I love bringing in creativity and expressive arts (you do NOT have be an artist!) In addition, I incorporate family of origin awareness, and am 12 step friendly.
Do you want to learn to carry grief with grace? Do you feel despair or shame from eating emotionally? Does it seem impossible to accept your body? Have you lost a loved one to Cancer or COVID? Grief and eating disorder recovery are my specialties. I can help you recover from disordered eating/body image hatred, and not pass it on to your daughter. I work with women on body acceptance, and a non-diet approach to recovery. I can assist you in learning love your life, even after loss. I can help guide you in learning to carry grief with grace.
I love bringing in creativity and expressive arts (you do NOT have be an artist!) In addition, I incorporate family of origin awareness, and am 12 step friendly.
Do you want to learn to carry grief with grace? Do you feel despair or shame from eating emotionally? Does it seem impossible to accept your body? Have you lost a loved one to Cancer or COVID? Grief and eating disorder recovery are my specialties. I can help you recover from disordered eating/body image hatred, and not pass it on to your daughter. I work with women on body acceptance, and a non-diet approach to recovery. I can assist you in learning love your life, even after loss. I can help guide you in learning to carry grief with grace.
(415) 413-3940 View (415) 413-3940
Photo of Amy Powers, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Amy Powers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94110
Welcome! I am Amy Powers and hold a license as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). My approach to therapy is rooted in compassion, unconditional positive regard and authenticity. I have been practicing therapy for ten years, and my background includes a combination of private practice and non-profit sector treatment. Most of the therapeutic work I do comes from a trauma-focused lens, as I am an EMDR trained therapist and utilize different approaches to address underlying trauma. Additionally, I am seasoned in other traditional talk therapy, such as, CBT, Strengths-Based, and Psychoanalytic.
Welcome! I am Amy Powers and hold a license as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). My approach to therapy is rooted in compassion, unconditional positive regard and authenticity. I have been practicing therapy for ten years, and my background includes a combination of private practice and non-profit sector treatment. Most of the therapeutic work I do comes from a trauma-focused lens, as I am an EMDR trained therapist and utilize different approaches to address underlying trauma. Additionally, I am seasoned in other traditional talk therapy, such as, CBT, Strengths-Based, and Psychoanalytic.
(415) 306-8536 View (415) 306-8536
Photo of Sterling Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(415) 840-3997 View (415) 840-3997
Photo of Dr. Neko Milton, Psychological Associate in San Francisco, CA
Dr. Neko Milton
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104  (Online Only)
Hello my name is Dr. Nekolas “Neko” Milton, I am a registered psychological associate supervised by Dr. David Sheperd. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I operate from a client-centered, humanistic approach, focusing on aspects of existentialism, mindfulness, family-systems, multicultralism, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while keeping careful consideration of cultural concerns and practices. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma-related diagnoses, and incorporate evidenced-based practices to address maladaptive patterns and behaviors.
Hello my name is Dr. Nekolas “Neko” Milton, I am a registered psychological associate supervised by Dr. David Sheperd. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. I operate from a client-centered, humanistic approach, focusing on aspects of existentialism, mindfulness, family-systems, multicultralism, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, while keeping careful consideration of cultural concerns and practices. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma-related diagnoses, and incorporate evidenced-based practices to address maladaptive patterns and behaviors.
(415) 799-5848 View (415) 799-5848
Photo of Mark Hirschfield, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Mark Hirschfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
I have worked in the fields of individual, couple, family and group counseling, crisis prevention, child advocacy and shyness research since 1993.
Hello! I work with individuals who wish to create lasting, positive changes in their lives and relationships. I offer safe, compassionate and supportive counseling in an atmosphere that deepens understanding, promotes healing, and releases potential. Unresolved emotional issues can stifle creativity, confidence, ambition, and our ability for good relationships. Trauma and loss can cause sadness, depression and pain that inhibit and block. My personal style is interactive, empathic, non-judgmental and respectful of individual values and choices.
I have worked in the fields of individual, couple, family and group counseling, crisis prevention, child advocacy and shyness research since 1993.
Hello! I work with individuals who wish to create lasting, positive changes in their lives and relationships. I offer safe, compassionate and supportive counseling in an atmosphere that deepens understanding, promotes healing, and releases potential. Unresolved emotional issues can stifle creativity, confidence, ambition, and our ability for good relationships. Trauma and loss can cause sadness, depression and pain that inhibit and block. My personal style is interactive, empathic, non-judgmental and respectful of individual values and choices.
(415) 326-1276 View (415) 326-1276
Gaylesta, Psych Assn for Gender & Sexual Diversity
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, PsyD, LMFT, LCSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
Clients can search for and locate a Nothern California psychiatrist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist or social worker by using our "find a therapist" website at: https://gaylesta.
WELCOME to Gaylesta: The Psychotherapist Association for Gender and Sexual Diversity. Our members provide mental health services including therapist referrals, education, and consultation. We offer a wide range of specializations, allowing us to serve as a unique resource both the LGBTQ communities and to other service providers. Explore our site to find a therapist, learn more about us, or become a valued member.
Clients can search for and locate a Nothern California psychiatrist, psychologist, marriage and family therapist or social worker by using our "find a therapist" website at: https://gaylesta.
WELCOME to Gaylesta: The Psychotherapist Association for Gender and Sexual Diversity. Our members provide mental health services including therapist referrals, education, and consultation. We offer a wide range of specializations, allowing us to serve as a unique resource both the LGBTQ communities and to other service providers. Explore our site to find a therapist, learn more about us, or become a valued member.
Photo of Ken Gladstone, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Ken Gladstone
Psychologist
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103
In my practice, I enjoy meeting with a range of people in terms of age, demographics, and psychological needs. In addition to extensive training, I have many years of experience providing care for those in need here in the Bay Area. I also have specific expertise in the areas of trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, and relationship difficulties. I incorporate the well-researched areas of psychodynamic, family systems, and cognitive-behavioral therapies into my work. As each person is different, I carefully tailor our work to your needs and your goals.
In my practice, I enjoy meeting with a range of people in terms of age, demographics, and psychological needs. In addition to extensive training, I have many years of experience providing care for those in need here in the Bay Area. I also have specific expertise in the areas of trauma, substance abuse, anxiety, and relationship difficulties. I incorporate the well-researched areas of psychodynamic, family systems, and cognitive-behavioral therapies into my work. As each person is different, I carefully tailor our work to your needs and your goals.
(628) 222-4325 View (628) 222-4325
Photo of Teressa Armstrong, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Teressa Armstrong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
Everyone runs into trouble at some point in their life. When they do, they often benefit from talking to someone who isn't primarily their friend or member of their family, someone who is empathic, curious, non-judgmental, and relentlessly focused on helping you feel better. Therapy isn't a one-size-fits-all enterprise, but has to tailored to what you need. Whether it's about simply feeling less anxious or depressed, or mastering an inhibition or block you've had all your life, therapy can get you back on the track you once were on or want to be on.
Everyone runs into trouble at some point in their life. When they do, they often benefit from talking to someone who isn't primarily their friend or member of their family, someone who is empathic, curious, non-judgmental, and relentlessly focused on helping you feel better. Therapy isn't a one-size-fits-all enterprise, but has to tailored to what you need. Whether it's about simply feeling less anxious or depressed, or mastering an inhibition or block you've had all your life, therapy can get you back on the track you once were on or want to be on.
(415) 630-4514 View (415) 630-4514
Photo of Ryan Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Ryan Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
I have a few areas of speciality including, relationship problems, addiction, trauma, family wounds, and spiritual concerns/growth.
My goal is to create a safe and open space for you to explore your story and deepen your self understanding, putting you on a path to healing. I work with you to identify areas of frustration and concern, as well as areas of strength. My approach is based in relational psychotherapy and also incorporates Emotionally Focused Therapy, family systems and Existential perspectives.
I have a few areas of speciality including, relationship problems, addiction, trauma, family wounds, and spiritual concerns/growth.
My goal is to create a safe and open space for you to explore your story and deepen your self understanding, putting you on a path to healing. I work with you to identify areas of frustration and concern, as well as areas of strength. My approach is based in relational psychotherapy and also incorporates Emotionally Focused Therapy, family systems and Existential perspectives.
(415) 761-2815 View (415) 761-2815
Photo of Alex Gallegos, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Alex Gallegos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94132
Hello, my name is Alex Gallegos and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist (Lic. 101393) in California. I have been providing treatment for 14 years in mental health. I have provided therapy for adults, children, families, couples, and support groups. Some of the areas related to mental health that I have addressed are depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, domestic violence, and parenting problems, and I work with fathers struggling to parent their children as a result of historical trauma.
Hello, my name is Alex Gallegos and I'm a licensed marriage and family therapist (Lic. 101393) in California. I have been providing treatment for 14 years in mental health. I have provided therapy for adults, children, families, couples, and support groups. Some of the areas related to mental health that I have addressed are depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, domestic violence, and parenting problems, and I work with fathers struggling to parent their children as a result of historical trauma.
(415) 849-7926 View (415) 849-7926
Photo of Alexa Gutierrez, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Alexa Gutierrez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
I specialize in the following for couples: mixed couples (interracial, intercultural, and interreligious), trauma, intimacy, infidelity/transgressions, pre-marital counseling, family planning, and the separation and ending of a relationship.
My clinical approach is multi-disciplinary and rooted in psychodynamic theory, existential psychology, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I also have a background in integrative health and wellness, which can contribute to a more in-depth perspective on treatment. My style is collaborative, intuitive, direct, and non-judgemental, and I encourage clients to be true to themselves and transparent. Although treatment is based on an individual's needs and goals, principle themes in all treatment are to help one regain one’s confidence and strength and to reinforce one’s resiliency.
I specialize in the following for couples: mixed couples (interracial, intercultural, and interreligious), trauma, intimacy, infidelity/transgressions, pre-marital counseling, family planning, and the separation and ending of a relationship.
My clinical approach is multi-disciplinary and rooted in psychodynamic theory, existential psychology, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). I also have a background in integrative health and wellness, which can contribute to a more in-depth perspective on treatment. My style is collaborative, intuitive, direct, and non-judgemental, and I encourage clients to be true to themselves and transparent. Although treatment is based on an individual's needs and goals, principle themes in all treatment are to help one regain one’s confidence and strength and to reinforce one’s resiliency.
(415) 851-3427 View (415) 851-3427
Photo of Yu Hang 'ronald' Deng, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Yu Hang 'ronald' Deng
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
Because every individual, couple, family, and/or group is unique, I will use a clinical approach that will fit the case the best, or I will follow the preferred theoretical orientation per client's request.
I received my B.A. degree in University of California, Davis, with a major in Psychology, and my M.A. degree from John F. Kennedy University in the Counseling Psychology program. My expertise includes mental health counseling, such as depressive/anxiety disorders, communication, family, intimacy and/or relationship issues for individuals, groups, couples, and families, drug addiction treatment, and gambling addiction. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I strongly believe in human potential, and my goal is to help my clients to discover and utilize the tools they have already possessed!
Because every individual, couple, family, and/or group is unique, I will use a clinical approach that will fit the case the best, or I will follow the preferred theoretical orientation per client's request.
I received my B.A. degree in University of California, Davis, with a major in Psychology, and my M.A. degree from John F. Kennedy University in the Counseling Psychology program. My expertise includes mental health counseling, such as depressive/anxiety disorders, communication, family, intimacy and/or relationship issues for individuals, groups, couples, and families, drug addiction treatment, and gambling addiction. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I strongly believe in human potential, and my goal is to help my clients to discover and utilize the tools they have already possessed!
(415) 367-4238 View (415) 367-4238
Photo of Dorise Hebenstreit, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Francisco, CA
Dorise Hebenstreit
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
My focus is to help individuals and families heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship/family issues. As the therapeutic area of concern is introduced, we can begin to work together in developing empowerment of self as we set up together healthy and achievable goals. I aim to establish include compassion, good communication and trust. In our relationship then I will work alongside you to develop your own coping tools. My approach is a person-centered (positive type) direction to further your strengths and resilience which is tailored towards your specific goals and needs.
My focus is to help individuals and families heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship/family issues. As the therapeutic area of concern is introduced, we can begin to work together in developing empowerment of self as we set up together healthy and achievable goals. I aim to establish include compassion, good communication and trust. In our relationship then I will work alongside you to develop your own coping tools. My approach is a person-centered (positive type) direction to further your strengths and resilience which is tailored towards your specific goals and needs.
(415) 877-9581 View (415) 877-9581
Photo of LaTosha Akana, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
LaTosha Akana
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist committed to treating individuals, couples, and families. My clinical interests include treating couples’ issues in transition periods (preparing for marriage, parenthood, or divorce), spiritual or religious issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, and other life transition issues. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches in working with clients and the relationships they have in their lives. Using an integrative change model, I highlight the strengths of different theories to fit the client’s identified needs.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist committed to treating individuals, couples, and families. My clinical interests include treating couples’ issues in transition periods (preparing for marriage, parenthood, or divorce), spiritual or religious issues, depression, anxiety, trauma, and other life transition issues. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches in working with clients and the relationships they have in their lives. Using an integrative change model, I highlight the strengths of different theories to fit the client’s identified needs.
(415) 888-9744 View (415) 888-9744
Photo of Adilia E Torres, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Adilia E Torres
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94120  (Online Only)
I address challenges with depression, anxiety, trauma including PTSD, attachment, anger in children, family reunification, and birth trauma.
Healing is a gift that emerges from seeds cultivated by struggle, broken borders, and bold dreams. I am a queer mental health practitioner in the Bay Area. My daily practice as a mental health clinician is guided and shaped by culturally relevant services imbued with an Indigenous approach to healing and medicine. My work is focused on trauma-trauma-informed care and recovery services for children, youth, adults, and families impacted by (im)migration, displacement, and other forms of oppression. We individualize and collaborate with the creation of your treatment plan of care tailored to the needs of each person. English & Spanish
I address challenges with depression, anxiety, trauma including PTSD, attachment, anger in children, family reunification, and birth trauma.
Healing is a gift that emerges from seeds cultivated by struggle, broken borders, and bold dreams. I am a queer mental health practitioner in the Bay Area. My daily practice as a mental health clinician is guided and shaped by culturally relevant services imbued with an Indigenous approach to healing and medicine. My work is focused on trauma-trauma-informed care and recovery services for children, youth, adults, and families impacted by (im)migration, displacement, and other forms of oppression. We individualize and collaborate with the creation of your treatment plan of care tailored to the needs of each person. English & Spanish
(415) 639-3276 View (415) 639-3276
Photo of Adrienne Elizabeth Amundsen, Psychologist in San Francisco, CA
Adrienne Elizabeth Amundsen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
When an eating disorder arises, it is an opportunity for a profound course -correction in family relationships, emotional patterns, and self-concept.
Because everyone comes with their own needs, goals, and styles, I am flexible in my approach. I can be practical and problem-focused, but much of my work is deeper, and deals with emotional patterns developed early in life, I work a lot with trauma and loss. Attending to the therapy relationship is also important for learning about relationship patterns and trust. I bring my love of creativity to my work as well. Working with dreams and imagery, I find, can bring surprising insight. When therapy really takes off, I find that clients often discover their own creativity and a sense of life purpose.
When an eating disorder arises, it is an opportunity for a profound course -correction in family relationships, emotional patterns, and self-concept.
Because everyone comes with their own needs, goals, and styles, I am flexible in my approach. I can be practical and problem-focused, but much of my work is deeper, and deals with emotional patterns developed early in life, I work a lot with trauma and loss. Attending to the therapy relationship is also important for learning about relationship patterns and trust. I bring my love of creativity to my work as well. Working with dreams and imagery, I find, can bring surprising insight. When therapy really takes off, I find that clients often discover their own creativity and a sense of life purpose.
(415) 423-2642 View (415) 423-2642
Photo of Holly N Kirth, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Holly N Kirth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, ME
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and trained in EMDR, DBT, CBT, and Family Systems.
Are you struggling to cope with life’s difficulties? Are you feeling out of control? Hopeless? Whether this is a recent experience or a life long issue, I am here to help. I believe every person has the innate ability and power within themselves to manage life’s challenges and improve yourselves—you just don’t always know how to access it. I will assist you and challenge you into accessing your tools, utilizing your innate strengths, and finding new insights into yourself.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and trained in EMDR, DBT, CBT, and Family Systems.
Are you struggling to cope with life’s difficulties? Are you feeling out of control? Hopeless? Whether this is a recent experience or a life long issue, I am here to help. I believe every person has the innate ability and power within themselves to manage life’s challenges and improve yourselves—you just don’t always know how to access it. I will assist you and challenge you into accessing your tools, utilizing your innate strengths, and finding new insights into yourself.
(949) 468-5731 View (949) 468-5731
Photo of Erica L Spartos, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Erica L Spartos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94132
I have 15 years of experience providing the following modalities: EMDR Therapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Individual Therapy, Group Therapies and Family Therapy.
I welcome individuals, families and adolescents to my private practice. A few of my specialties: Standard EMDR therapy protocols to resolve trauma and other related symptoms; Teaching coping & life skills to safely & effectively improve sleep and reduce stress, anxiety & depression; Helping adolescents and young people thrive by addressing low-self-esteem, relationship issues, ADHD and behavioral challenges; Supporting individuals and families through issues around substance use & co-occurring disorders; Providing a compassionate and supportive place for you to explore balance, self-awareness and life satisfaction.
I have 15 years of experience providing the following modalities: EMDR Therapy, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Individual Therapy, Group Therapies and Family Therapy.
I welcome individuals, families and adolescents to my private practice. A few of my specialties: Standard EMDR therapy protocols to resolve trauma and other related symptoms; Teaching coping & life skills to safely & effectively improve sleep and reduce stress, anxiety & depression; Helping adolescents and young people thrive by addressing low-self-esteem, relationship issues, ADHD and behavioral challenges; Supporting individuals and families through issues around substance use & co-occurring disorders; Providing a compassionate and supportive place for you to explore balance, self-awareness and life satisfaction.
(628) 600-2894 View (628) 600-2894
Photo of Izzy Lopez, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco, CA
Izzy Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist providing evidence-based practices. When I'm not in private practice, I'm working at UCSF Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences treating children, adolescents, and their families. Living in the Bay Area has many advantages and opportunities that motivate us to become the best, most successful version of ourselves. At times, occupational and social demands can bring overwhelming amounts of stress, pressure, and anxiety. I'm currently focusing my practice for families and couples as well as young professionals and athletes who have experienced trauma and/or high stress.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist providing evidence-based practices. When I'm not in private practice, I'm working at UCSF Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences treating children, adolescents, and their families. Living in the Bay Area has many advantages and opportunities that motivate us to become the best, most successful version of ourselves. At times, occupational and social demands can bring overwhelming amounts of stress, pressure, and anxiety. I'm currently focusing my practice for families and couples as well as young professionals and athletes who have experienced trauma and/or high stress.
(415) 360-1210 View (415) 360-1210

See more therapy options for San Francisco

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.