Photo of Renana Brooks, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Renana Brooks
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
DBT) Diplomate and Board Certified in DBT ,Marriage and Family Therapy and Behavioral Medicine.
Clients with a strong desire to fix their relationships in the most profound ways fit well with my practice .This is true even if you don’t know what is wrong or your partner disagrees about what the problem is. The change is not just communication patterns but also underlying intense emotional distress or explosive patterns of expression. We address complaints such as lack of sex or affection or emotional withdrawal.We stop couples from divorce and fix communication problems by training partners how to best be supportive and to understand underlying psychological messages unwittingly communicated between partners.
DBT) Diplomate and Board Certified in DBT ,Marriage and Family Therapy and Behavioral Medicine.
Clients with a strong desire to fix their relationships in the most profound ways fit well with my practice .This is true even if you don’t know what is wrong or your partner disagrees about what the problem is. The change is not just communication patterns but also underlying intense emotional distress or explosive patterns of expression. We address complaints such as lack of sex or affection or emotional withdrawal.We stop couples from divorce and fix communication problems by training partners how to best be supportive and to understand underlying psychological messages unwittingly communicated between partners.
(703) 420-7312 View (703) 420-7312
Photo of Lenore M. Pomerance, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lenore M. Pomerance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CGP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
We come to therapy to change our lives which can only be done by changing ourselves. I believe the most effective changes occur when we can experience and examine our behavior in relation to others. In individual therapy you and I will not only identify and try to understnad how your life experiences have shaped your behavior, but how you and I experience that behavior in our relationship. When I work with couples, I focus on your dynamics of intimacy, power imbalances, money, sexuality, and the impact of family and friends on your couple.
We come to therapy to change our lives which can only be done by changing ourselves. I believe the most effective changes occur when we can experience and examine our behavior in relation to others. In individual therapy you and I will not only identify and try to understnad how your life experiences have shaped your behavior, but how you and I experience that behavior in our relationship. When I work with couples, I focus on your dynamics of intimacy, power imbalances, money, sexuality, and the impact of family and friends on your couple.
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The Bowen Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20007
The Bowen Center for the Study of the Family Clinic is a non-profit organization that has been offering the community affordable psychotherapy to individuals and families for over 35 years. Our experienced clinicians help the client devote his or her best thinking and energy to working on self in the broader context of important relationships.
The Bowen Center for the Study of the Family Clinic is a non-profit organization that has been offering the community affordable psychotherapy to individuals and families for over 35 years. Our experienced clinicians help the client devote his or her best thinking and energy to working on self in the broader context of important relationships.
(202) 601-3485 View (202) 601-3485
Photo of Dr. Jeff J. Rocker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Dr. Jeff J. Rocker
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006
in Marriage and Family therapy from Nova Southeastern University.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
in Marriage and Family therapy from Nova Southeastern University.
With 12 years of experience working with clients going through individual, relationship, and family issues, Celebrity Therapist Dr. Jeff Rocker has provided therapeutic services to clients nationwide. He is Licensed in 14 states and has served clients from all age groups. Over the years, Dr. Jeff has organized lectures and various events in the community, including excursions and retreats for couples to improve their communication and better understand each other. He has experience working with athletes in the NFL, NBA, and MLB. In addition, Dr. Jeff has also worked with clients in the Movie, Music, and Entertainment Industries.
(786) 526-0294 View (786) 526-0294
Photo of Dwayne Phillips-McNamee, Pre-Licensed Professional in Washington, DC
Dwayne Phillips-McNamee
Pre-Licensed Professional, LGSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20037
Dwayne utilizes a variety of techniques informed by Relational-Cultural Therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Therapy, and more.
Dwayne Phillips-McNamee is a Licensed Social Worker who works to provide a culturally sensitive, inclusive, equitable internal and external space for all clients regardless of age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious background, or any other factor. Dwayne works with adult individuals surrounding a variety of issues, including issues related to race and ethnicity, religion, sexuality, gender identity, and relationships. He is particularly interested in working with black adults, those in and around the LGBTQ+ community, and those navigating issues related to building and maintaining relationships.
Dwayne utilizes a variety of techniques informed by Relational-Cultural Therapy such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Family Therapy, and more.
Dwayne Phillips-McNamee is a Licensed Social Worker who works to provide a culturally sensitive, inclusive, equitable internal and external space for all clients regardless of age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious background, or any other factor. Dwayne works with adult individuals surrounding a variety of issues, including issues related to race and ethnicity, religion, sexuality, gender identity, and relationships. He is particularly interested in working with black adults, those in and around the LGBTQ+ community, and those navigating issues related to building and maintaining relationships.
(833) 658-9654 View (833) 658-9654
Photo of Carolyn Bell, Counselor in Washington, DC
Carolyn Bell
Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA, MBA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009
I work with individuals- especially young adults-balancing family, career, relationships, community, and self care to improve well-being.
Are you seeking deeper attachment? I collaborate with couples and individuals to increase your inner awareness of self to share with others. I help clients process life-changing events including job growth and relocation, loss and grief, chronic health diagnoses, and adoption. I offer support for couples who want to strengthen their relationships and resolve issues preventing emotional and sexual intimacy. Where appropriate, I offer intensive therapy to bring clarity and begin the healing process of life experiences. I'm licensed in DC/MD/VA. My diverse background includes working in Silicon Valley, Wall Street and Main Street.
I work with individuals- especially young adults-balancing family, career, relationships, community, and self care to improve well-being.
Are you seeking deeper attachment? I collaborate with couples and individuals to increase your inner awareness of self to share with others. I help clients process life-changing events including job growth and relocation, loss and grief, chronic health diagnoses, and adoption. I offer support for couples who want to strengthen their relationships and resolve issues preventing emotional and sexual intimacy. Where appropriate, I offer intensive therapy to bring clarity and begin the healing process of life experiences. I'm licensed in DC/MD/VA. My diverse background includes working in Silicon Valley, Wall Street and Main Street.
(202) 262-9922 View (202) 262-9922
Photo of Sarah Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Sarah Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036
I enjoy working with clients in the polyamorous or ethically non monogamous and or kink community. For clients exploring non monogamy I provide a safe space to explore uncertainties, insecurities, and fears while also celebrating many of the joys this relationship style brings. I also work with many clients who may be questioning their gender or sexual identity. I also work with many clients who have experienced trauma, dissociation, and attachment wounding and family of origin issues.
I enjoy working with clients in the polyamorous or ethically non monogamous and or kink community. For clients exploring non monogamy I provide a safe space to explore uncertainties, insecurities, and fears while also celebrating many of the joys this relationship style brings. I also work with many clients who may be questioning their gender or sexual identity. I also work with many clients who have experienced trauma, dissociation, and attachment wounding and family of origin issues.
(202) 980-1236 View (202) 980-1236
Photo of Adrienne Harding, MA, LPC — Optimal Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Adrienne Harding, MA, LPC — Optimal Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20005
In therapy, we can map a way forward while building coping skills that can help you move forward to sustained balance and focus in your personal, professional, and family life.
Are you stuck? Do you or your teenager need support recovering from addiction? Are depression, anxiety, or poor self-image keeping you stuck in life? Have you been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (BPD), schizophrenia, or other mental health challenges? Have you experienced traumatic events in childhood or in your adult life? In therapy, we will draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other treatment modalities to support you in developing effective coping skills. We can work on resolving trauma and defusing other factors that may be powering your difficulties. Contact me today. I am looking forward to hearing your story.
In therapy, we can map a way forward while building coping skills that can help you move forward to sustained balance and focus in your personal, professional, and family life.
Are you stuck? Do you or your teenager need support recovering from addiction? Are depression, anxiety, or poor self-image keeping you stuck in life? Have you been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder (BPD), schizophrenia, or other mental health challenges? Have you experienced traumatic events in childhood or in your adult life? In therapy, we will draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other treatment modalities to support you in developing effective coping skills. We can work on resolving trauma and defusing other factors that may be powering your difficulties. Contact me today. I am looking forward to hearing your story.
(202) 866-1366 View (202) 866-1366
Photo of Priya K Tahim, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Priya K Tahim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
I strive to create a healthy therapeutic relationship with each individual/couple/family, in order create a judgement free zone to process thoughts, feelings, and emotions.
Therapy can be an intimidating process, and my goal is to provide an open, safe environment to help instill support, understanding and empowerment throughout your therapeutic journey. Whether you’re looking to build confidence as an individual or within your relationship, together we can build the tools you need to succeed. I believe in fostering hope and creating a safe space for individuals/couples/families to process, as well as find healthy solutions.My passion is helping others find confidence within themselves, and/or within relationships.
I strive to create a healthy therapeutic relationship with each individual/couple/family, in order create a judgement free zone to process thoughts, feelings, and emotions.
Therapy can be an intimidating process, and my goal is to provide an open, safe environment to help instill support, understanding and empowerment throughout your therapeutic journey. Whether you’re looking to build confidence as an individual or within your relationship, together we can build the tools you need to succeed. I believe in fostering hope and creating a safe space for individuals/couples/families to process, as well as find healthy solutions.My passion is helping others find confidence within themselves, and/or within relationships.
(202) 899-8253 View (202) 899-8253
Photo of Jennifer Mostafa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Washington, DC
Jennifer Mostafa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
Hi there! Congratulations on taking the first step toward engaging in therapy. I have been practicing the art of therapy for over 10 years and believe wholeheartedly in the process of therapy. I utilize an integrative, holistic and practical approach toward achieving client goals and incorporate a variety of techniques such as Person-Centered, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), combined with a reality-based approach that encourages self-acceptance and insight.
Hi there! Congratulations on taking the first step toward engaging in therapy. I have been practicing the art of therapy for over 10 years and believe wholeheartedly in the process of therapy. I utilize an integrative, holistic and practical approach toward achieving client goals and incorporate a variety of techniques such as Person-Centered, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), combined with a reality-based approach that encourages self-acceptance and insight.
(202) 304-1180 View (202) 304-1180
Photo of Morgan Levine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Morgan Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20010  (Online Only)
Cross-trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Imago Relationship Therapy, my approach is tailored to each person and what works best for you.
Accepting new clients! My clients oftentimes say they struggle with symptoms such as recurring negative patterns in their life, anxiety, depression, anger, overwhelm, relationship issues, problematic family dynamics, trouble getting new habits to stick, compulsively using external things to feel better (i.e. work, people, alcohol), pain, headaches, and more. Through a mixture of talk therapy and body centered approaches, we explore sources of symptoms with curiosity and build on your strengths to move toward feeling more grounded, presence, and connected.
Cross-trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Imago Relationship Therapy, my approach is tailored to each person and what works best for you.
Accepting new clients! My clients oftentimes say they struggle with symptoms such as recurring negative patterns in their life, anxiety, depression, anger, overwhelm, relationship issues, problematic family dynamics, trouble getting new habits to stick, compulsively using external things to feel better (i.e. work, people, alcohol), pain, headaches, and more. Through a mixture of talk therapy and body centered approaches, we explore sources of symptoms with curiosity and build on your strengths to move toward feeling more grounded, presence, and connected.
(667) 213-5474 View (667) 213-5474
Photo of Jonathan Farber, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Jonathan Farber
Psychologist, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20007
I work with individuals and couples, as well as children, in both DC and Chapel Hill. I do best with adults who are educated or reflective: many are scientists, artists, health and business professionals, or psychotherapists, and some are not pursuing conventional achievement.Some see me for family or work problems, some for help dealing with a chronic health issue or a loss, some to change longstanding emotional and interpersonal patterns involving anxiety, anger, or intimacy. We may try quick and simple approaches first, because sometimes they work, but if not we can go more deeply into the individual's unique personal narrative.
I work with individuals and couples, as well as children, in both DC and Chapel Hill. I do best with adults who are educated or reflective: many are scientists, artists, health and business professionals, or psychotherapists, and some are not pursuing conventional achievement.Some see me for family or work problems, some for help dealing with a chronic health issue or a loss, some to change longstanding emotional and interpersonal patterns involving anxiety, anger, or intimacy. We may try quick and simple approaches first, because sometimes they work, but if not we can go more deeply into the individual's unique personal narrative.
(919) 351-1352 View (919) 351-1352
Photo of Carl Mojta, LMFT, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Carl Mojta, LMFT, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, CAC-I, CST-S, IFS
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20006  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am very glad you are here! I offer a person-centered, compassionate, and systemic approach to therapy. I consider working with each client to be a privilege and a collaborative therapeutic experience. If you’re looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals and hopes. Internal Family Systems (IFS), an evidence-based model, guides my approach to helping individuals and couples heal by unburdening their protective and wounded parts in a loving and compassionate manner.
Welcome! I am very glad you are here! I offer a person-centered, compassionate, and systemic approach to therapy. I consider working with each client to be a privilege and a collaborative therapeutic experience. If you’re looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals and hopes. Internal Family Systems (IFS), an evidence-based model, guides my approach to helping individuals and couples heal by unburdening their protective and wounded parts in a loving and compassionate manner.
(202) 803-8623 View (202) 803-8623
Photo of Molly Boehm, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Molly Boehm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20009  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Ready for less surviving and more flourishing? Less chaos and more ease? You feel like a hot mess, pouring so much energy into getting by. You want success at school or work, better connections with your partner, friends, and family, and a satisfying sex life. You wish you could have more fun. But past failures, disappointments, heartbreak, or regrets keep haunting you. It feels like the pandemic reinforced these mental and emotional shackles.
Ready for less surviving and more flourishing? Less chaos and more ease? You feel like a hot mess, pouring so much energy into getting by. You want success at school or work, better connections with your partner, friends, and family, and a satisfying sex life. You wish you could have more fun. But past failures, disappointments, heartbreak, or regrets keep haunting you. It feels like the pandemic reinforced these mental and emotional shackles.
(571) 474-9416 View (571) 474-9416
Photo of Rosie Bick-Mera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Rosie Bick-Mera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20036  (Online Only)
I work with adults who have experienced childhood trauma and abuse. It's OK if you don't resonate with that word. Maybe you've said that you had a "dysfunctional family" or a "complicated childhood." However you see it, it is what we experienced and learned in childhood that influences how we show up in relationships with others and with ourselves. My clients want to heal their inner child, want to improve their relationships, what to feel safe and secure in who they are. They want to rewrite the stories they've held on to, and unlearn the painful negative beliefs about who they are and what they deserve.
I work with adults who have experienced childhood trauma and abuse. It's OK if you don't resonate with that word. Maybe you've said that you had a "dysfunctional family" or a "complicated childhood." However you see it, it is what we experienced and learned in childhood that influences how we show up in relationships with others and with ourselves. My clients want to heal their inner child, want to improve their relationships, what to feel safe and secure in who they are. They want to rewrite the stories they've held on to, and unlearn the painful negative beliefs about who they are and what they deserve.
(202) 883-8129 View (202) 883-8129
Photo of Lori Shapiro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington, DC
Lori Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, lCISWC, AASECT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20009
First and foremost my 20 plus years of practice has taught me that every person, couple or family with whom I work has unique needs and deserves to be treated as such.
HeartWerq Lori Shapiro, LICSW Senior Clinician Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sex Therapist, Marriage and Couples Therapist (She/Her) Lori Shapiro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with more than 20 years of experience. Her practice focuses on working with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues, including couples counseling, sex therapy, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity support, as well as unique individual challenges. Lori has received degrees from Florida Atlantic University and Barry University (Master’s in Social Work) and also has a certification in sex therapy f
First and foremost my 20 plus years of practice has taught me that every person, couple or family with whom I work has unique needs and deserves to be treated as such.
HeartWerq Lori Shapiro, LICSW Senior Clinician Clinical Social Worker, Certified Sex Therapist, Marriage and Couples Therapist (She/Her) Lori Shapiro is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Supervisor with more than 20 years of experience. Her practice focuses on working with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of issues, including couples counseling, sex therapy, relationship difficulties, sexual and gender identity support, as well as unique individual challenges. Lori has received degrees from Florida Atlantic University and Barry University (Master’s in Social Work) and also has a certification in sex therapy f
(240) 669-2573 View (240) 669-2573
Photo of Dr. Martha Gross, Psychologist in Washington, DC
Dr. Martha Gross
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20008
I have been in private practice for 45 years and specialize in sexual dysfunction,step family issues and major life transitions.
Navigating life's stresses, dealing with relationship disappointments and regaining self confidence and hope are issues that we can confront together. I will help you become aware of your harmful patterns of behavior and replace them with new healthier ones. Through awareness learned in therapy, you will develop a new sense of comfort and satisfaction with your life.
I have been in private practice for 45 years and specialize in sexual dysfunction,step family issues and major life transitions.
Navigating life's stresses, dealing with relationship disappointments and regaining self confidence and hope are issues that we can confront together. I will help you become aware of your harmful patterns of behavior and replace them with new healthier ones. Through awareness learned in therapy, you will develop a new sense of comfort and satisfaction with your life.
(202) 390-7162 View (202) 390-7162
Photo of Sasha Taskier, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Sasha Taskier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20008  (Online Only)
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe relationships can be the most important and empowering parts of our lives; they can bring us immense joy, and they can also cause incredible pain and sorrow.
The therapeutic process is meant to be a collaborative, effective and healing experience. I work with individuals and couples as they work to navigate life's transitions, increase understanding of themselves and their loved ones, heal from past hurts, and work to improve interpersonal relationships. My approach to therapy is culturally sensitive, affirming and focused on strengths. I am committed to joining you where you are in this moment, and walking alongside you on your journey, as an empathic and attuned guide.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe relationships can be the most important and empowering parts of our lives; they can bring us immense joy, and they can also cause incredible pain and sorrow.
The therapeutic process is meant to be a collaborative, effective and healing experience. I work with individuals and couples as they work to navigate life's transitions, increase understanding of themselves and their loved ones, heal from past hurts, and work to improve interpersonal relationships. My approach to therapy is culturally sensitive, affirming and focused on strengths. I am committed to joining you where you are in this moment, and walking alongside you on your journey, as an empathic and attuned guide.
(202) 949-3457 View (202) 949-3457
Photo of Stephanie Prymas, Counselor in Washington, DC
Stephanie Prymas
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Washington, DC 20003  (Online Only)
Just as you don't click with every person you meet in the world, you won't mesh with every therapist. And I want to make sure you have a good experience in therapy! As a career changer myself, I work well with professionals who are feeling stuck in certain areas of their life and can't seem to figure it out with the same tools they have used in the past. I love to assist people in mobilizing strengths they already have (like being analytical) and building new capacities (like sitting with tough emotions and listening to the body). Trauma, relationships, family dynamics, identity, and sexual concerns come up a lot in our sessions.
Just as you don't click with every person you meet in the world, you won't mesh with every therapist. And I want to make sure you have a good experience in therapy! As a career changer myself, I work well with professionals who are feeling stuck in certain areas of their life and can't seem to figure it out with the same tools they have used in the past. I love to assist people in mobilizing strengths they already have (like being analytical) and building new capacities (like sitting with tough emotions and listening to the body). Trauma, relationships, family dynamics, identity, and sexual concerns come up a lot in our sessions.
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Photo of Marissa Nelson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington, DC
Marissa Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST, CSE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Washington, DC 20018
Couples therapy is my calling and life passion. I created IntimacyMoons for Couples as an intensive transformation model and was voted Best Couples Retreat by Women's Health, Bustle, Livestrong, Matador Network, Madame Noire and Black Enterprise Magazines. Not only am I a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist but I am also a Certified Sex Therapist, and Certified Sexuality Educator by the American Association of Sexuality Educators and Therapists (AASECT).
Couples therapy is my calling and life passion. I created IntimacyMoons for Couples as an intensive transformation model and was voted Best Couples Retreat by Women's Health, Bustle, Livestrong, Matador Network, Madame Noire and Black Enterprise Magazines. Not only am I a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist but I am also a Certified Sex Therapist, and Certified Sexuality Educator by the American Association of Sexuality Educators and Therapists (AASECT).
(202) 932-0332 View (202) 932-0332
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.