Photo of Katherine Hawthorne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Durham, NC
Katherine Hawthorne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
My therapeutic approach is integrative and flexible while being strongly based on Person-Centered, Family Systems, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
I believe that the cornerstone of effective counseling is a safe, trusting, and collaborative therapeutic relationship. I view each client as a unique person with their own story, strengths, and challenges. As a therapist, I greatly value the client as an individual and view counseling as a means of helping you achieve your personal goals for growth. I believe in treating the client as a whole: by considering the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual components to problems and growth in order to achieve lasting change. I am able to integrate faith into the counseling process at the request of the client.
My therapeutic approach is integrative and flexible while being strongly based on Person-Centered, Family Systems, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
I believe that the cornerstone of effective counseling is a safe, trusting, and collaborative therapeutic relationship. I view each client as a unique person with their own story, strengths, and challenges. As a therapist, I greatly value the client as an individual and view counseling as a means of helping you achieve your personal goals for growth. I believe in treating the client as a whole: by considering the physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual components to problems and growth in order to achieve lasting change. I am able to integrate faith into the counseling process at the request of the client.
(919) 646-6060 View (919) 646-6060
Photo of Kelly Smedley in Durham, NC
Kelly Smedley
MSN, RN, PMHCNS, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
I am NOT able to accept new clients at this time. Are you not feeling like yourself since having your baby? Are you irritable, sad, anxious or feeling overwhelmed and guilty? Are you a mom of older kids and struggling with your moods and finding satisfaction in your relationship, family life, or career? Being a mom is exhausting, demanding, and sometimes emotionally confusing! Not sure why you are feeling a certain way? I can help you sort it all out. I specialize in treating mothers suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, infertility and loss, as well as moms struggling with guilt, shame, and anger.
I am NOT able to accept new clients at this time. Are you not feeling like yourself since having your baby? Are you irritable, sad, anxious or feeling overwhelmed and guilty? Are you a mom of older kids and struggling with your moods and finding satisfaction in your relationship, family life, or career? Being a mom is exhausting, demanding, and sometimes emotionally confusing! Not sure why you are feeling a certain way? I can help you sort it all out. I specialize in treating mothers suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, infertility and loss, as well as moms struggling with guilt, shame, and anger.
(919) 635-1925 View (919) 635-1925
Photo of Gillian R. Galdy Counseling, PLLC, Counselor in Durham, NC
Gillian R. Galdy Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
As an anti-racist, intersectional feminist, I believe in the constant and ever evolving pursuit of social, racial, gender, sexual, economic, and environmental justice. My goal in working with my clients is to address their concerns as a co-collaborator and ally. I work from a Relational/Cultural theoretical orientation, meaning that I believe the therapeutic relationship is a key to healing within treatment. I take an eclectic approach to counseling utilizing interventions from various theories in order to best serve the needs of the individual, couple, and family.
As an anti-racist, intersectional feminist, I believe in the constant and ever evolving pursuit of social, racial, gender, sexual, economic, and environmental justice. My goal in working with my clients is to address their concerns as a co-collaborator and ally. I work from a Relational/Cultural theoretical orientation, meaning that I believe the therapeutic relationship is a key to healing within treatment. I take an eclectic approach to counseling utilizing interventions from various theories in order to best serve the needs of the individual, couple, and family.
(919) 899-7647 View (919) 899-7647
Photo of Rachel Eshel, Psychologist in Durham, NC
Rachel Eshel
Psychologist, MSEd, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
I am passionate about supporting people who range in age from early childhood through adulthood. My background in child psychology informs my work with adults as well, as I am always considering how a person's developmental path and early relationships have shaped them. In therapy, I strive to bring empathy, warmth, and humor to the process. You can expect me to be curious about and accepting of your experiences as I support you in actively working towards change. I am sensitive to issues related to disability, immigration, and non-traditional forms of family building, and welcome all to my practice.
I am passionate about supporting people who range in age from early childhood through adulthood. My background in child psychology informs my work with adults as well, as I am always considering how a person's developmental path and early relationships have shaped them. In therapy, I strive to bring empathy, warmth, and humor to the process. You can expect me to be curious about and accepting of your experiences as I support you in actively working towards change. I am sensitive to issues related to disability, immigration, and non-traditional forms of family building, and welcome all to my practice.
(984) 223-8355 View (984) 223-8355
Photo of Myishanka (Mya) McMillian, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Durham, NC
Myishanka (Mya) McMillian
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701
We are committed to creating a personalized plan that empowers you and/or your family to live a better and healthier life.
My name is MyiShanka Mya McMillian, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Motivational Speaker, Educator, & Transformation Coach. Like you, first and foremost, I am a human being with countless experiences that continue to shape life with beautiful highs and devastating lows. These extremes, coupled with my background in Psychology, Mental Health Counseling, Trauma, and Mindfulness allow me to challenge and guide clients while relating to their struggles. With the use of counseling, I help clients recognize their inner strength, overcome obstacles, and develop a winning mindset. For more information: www.theempresshaven.org
We are committed to creating a personalized plan that empowers you and/or your family to live a better and healthier life.
My name is MyiShanka Mya McMillian, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Motivational Speaker, Educator, & Transformation Coach. Like you, first and foremost, I am a human being with countless experiences that continue to shape life with beautiful highs and devastating lows. These extremes, coupled with my background in Psychology, Mental Health Counseling, Trauma, and Mindfulness allow me to challenge and guide clients while relating to their struggles. With the use of counseling, I help clients recognize their inner strength, overcome obstacles, and develop a winning mindset. For more information: www.theempresshaven.org
(919) 849-3585 View (919) 849-3585
Photo of Caroline Rutledge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Durham, NC
Caroline Rutledge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCASA, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
Caroline's clinical training is in CBT, DBT, ACT, solutions-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and Maudsley family therapy.
Caroline is a therapist dedicated to helping others move beyond challenges and pain of past experiences in order to live a productive, authentic, and hope-filled life. Through individual and group counseling, she strives to create a safe and affirming environment through a trauma-informed lens for clients to explore their authentic selves. Caroline practices from an anti-racist, anti-diet culture, LGBTQIA+ affirming, inclusive, HAES perspective. With warmth, collaboration, and compassion, she seeks to provide each client with their own individual treatment, utilizing evidenced-based interventions.
Caroline's clinical training is in CBT, DBT, ACT, solutions-focused therapy, motivational interviewing, and Maudsley family therapy.
Caroline is a therapist dedicated to helping others move beyond challenges and pain of past experiences in order to live a productive, authentic, and hope-filled life. Through individual and group counseling, she strives to create a safe and affirming environment through a trauma-informed lens for clients to explore their authentic selves. Caroline practices from an anti-racist, anti-diet culture, LGBTQIA+ affirming, inclusive, HAES perspective. With warmth, collaboration, and compassion, she seeks to provide each client with their own individual treatment, utilizing evidenced-based interventions.
(984) 400-4843 View (984) 400-4843
Photo of Angel Greene Fox, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in Durham, NC
Angel Greene Fox
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27703
Accepting new clients. Do you feel stuck? Is life throwing obstacles in your way that seem overwhelming? Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, or balancing a career and family? Have you ever wondered what your purpose is and how you will ever find joy in your life again? No matter what age or what stage you are in life it is okay to not feel okay. During a very difficult time in my life, I experienced many of the same thoughts and feelings you may be feeling right now. God changed the course of my life and set me on a new path. I have a passion for helping hearts to heal and find meaning in life again.
Accepting new clients. Do you feel stuck? Is life throwing obstacles in your way that seem overwhelming? Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, or balancing a career and family? Have you ever wondered what your purpose is and how you will ever find joy in your life again? No matter what age or what stage you are in life it is okay to not feel okay. During a very difficult time in my life, I experienced many of the same thoughts and feelings you may be feeling right now. God changed the course of my life and set me on a new path. I have a passion for helping hearts to heal and find meaning in life again.
(919) 849-3109 View (919) 849-3109
Photo of Rick Rothman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham, NC
Rick Rothman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27712  (Online Only)
I strongly believe in treating the person as a unique person given their individual needs. I primarily practice cognitive-behavior therapy utilizing an eclectic style and often use anecdotes, paradoxes, and especially humor in order to enhance, educate, and assist in reaching each person's goals. I have a specialty in treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorders, and Anxiety. While I specialize in treating those suffering OCD, Panic, and Anxiety, I am equally proud of the successes I've had in helping those with Adjustment Disorders, Stress Management, Depression, Relationship Difficulties, and Family Concerns.
I strongly believe in treating the person as a unique person given their individual needs. I primarily practice cognitive-behavior therapy utilizing an eclectic style and often use anecdotes, paradoxes, and especially humor in order to enhance, educate, and assist in reaching each person's goals. I have a specialty in treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Panic Disorders, and Anxiety. While I specialize in treating those suffering OCD, Panic, and Anxiety, I am equally proud of the successes I've had in helping those with Adjustment Disorders, Stress Management, Depression, Relationship Difficulties, and Family Concerns.
(973) 536-0902 View (973) 536-0902
Photo of Dr. Anthony C. Teasdale, Psychologist in Durham, NC
Dr. Anthony C. Teasdale
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27703  (Online Only)
We've been hurt by family, friends and the world, so it is understandably hard to trust or believe in good things.
I want to say hello and acknowledge the strength, courage and determination it takes to seek help. Therapy can be an enriching, powerful journey. People come to therapy because they want something to change and want to better understand themselves, their relationships, and the world around them. Therapy can also be uncomfortable and hard work. Experience has taught me that human beings possess the most amazing resilience, strength, and capacity to heal, whatever challenges they have faced in life. I work to build on these strengths to help people achieve the changes that they want in life, and challenge what doesn't work.
We've been hurt by family, friends and the world, so it is understandably hard to trust or believe in good things.
I want to say hello and acknowledge the strength, courage and determination it takes to seek help. Therapy can be an enriching, powerful journey. People come to therapy because they want something to change and want to better understand themselves, their relationships, and the world around them. Therapy can also be uncomfortable and hard work. Experience has taught me that human beings possess the most amazing resilience, strength, and capacity to heal, whatever challenges they have faced in life. I work to build on these strengths to help people achieve the changes that they want in life, and challenge what doesn't work.
(984) 459-7918 View (984) 459-7918
Photo of Ashley Trice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham, NC
Ashley Trice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705
I enjoy doing both individual treatment as well as parent-child treatment and family work.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have worked with adolescents, adults, and families for over 10 years. As a therapist, I believe that we have most of the tools we already need to make change. Therapy is simply a place where these tools can be identified and strengthened. I also believe people make lasting change through interpersonal relationships. Effective therapeutic treatment occurs through a meaningful, empowering, and reparative relationship. In therapy, I focus on relationships and how these impact our past & present relationships. I have experience with trauma, anxiety, depression, and attachment issues.
I enjoy doing both individual treatment as well as parent-child treatment and family work.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have worked with adolescents, adults, and families for over 10 years. As a therapist, I believe that we have most of the tools we already need to make change. Therapy is simply a place where these tools can be identified and strengthened. I also believe people make lasting change through interpersonal relationships. Effective therapeutic treatment occurs through a meaningful, empowering, and reparative relationship. In therapy, I focus on relationships and how these impact our past & present relationships. I have experience with trauma, anxiety, depression, and attachment issues.
(704) 994-8114 View (704) 994-8114
Photo of Heath Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham, NC
Heath Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701
Waitlist for new clients
Psychotherapy should be collaborative and flexible, based on you and your specific story. Whether you have been through things in your life that are just coming to the surface or are feeling stuck and struggling to find joy and connection, I can help you gain clarity and find new ways to move through old challenges. Together, we will work toward deepening your connection to your core self and engaging more fully in the life you want. I provide an affirming and supportive space to process family of origin issues, grief, loss, relationship struggles and feelings of worry or anxiety.
Psychotherapy should be collaborative and flexible, based on you and your specific story. Whether you have been through things in your life that are just coming to the surface or are feeling stuck and struggling to find joy and connection, I can help you gain clarity and find new ways to move through old challenges. Together, we will work toward deepening your connection to your core self and engaging more fully in the life you want. I provide an affirming and supportive space to process family of origin issues, grief, loss, relationship struggles and feelings of worry or anxiety.
(919) 899-4949 View (919) 899-4949
Photo of Therapeutic Family Solutions, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham, NC
Therapeutic Family Solutions, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27703
Therapeutic Family Solutions is a group practice serving individuals, families, and couples in Roxboro, Raleigh, Durham, and all surrounding areas in NC. All of our clinicians are licensed professionals, treating those who suffer with mental health disorders, which include adjustment disorders, mood disorders, anxiety related disorders, personality disorders, traumatic stress disorders, and substance use disorders. We use CBT and other evidence based practice modalities. Our modalities are culturally comprehensive and inclusive. We provide a free phone screening to determine if we should proceed with the initial clinical assessment.
Therapeutic Family Solutions is a group practice serving individuals, families, and couples in Roxboro, Raleigh, Durham, and all surrounding areas in NC. All of our clinicians are licensed professionals, treating those who suffer with mental health disorders, which include adjustment disorders, mood disorders, anxiety related disorders, personality disorders, traumatic stress disorders, and substance use disorders. We use CBT and other evidence based practice modalities. Our modalities are culturally comprehensive and inclusive. We provide a free phone screening to determine if we should proceed with the initial clinical assessment.
(984) 369-8322 View (984) 369-8322
Photo of Deanna Pickett, Counselor in Durham, NC
Deanna Pickett
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27703  (Online Only)
Our aim at Discover Therapy & Wellness, PLLC is to support you as you begin to explore and uncover your authentic self. It can be challenging enough to navigate through life with its various demands, from juggling family dynamics, achieving career goals, maintaining healthy friendships to keeping up with the latest social trends. Allow me to create a safe space for you to process the underlying issues that are at the origin of discontentment, regret and unhappiness. So, if you’re ready, let’s begin the process to discovering your better self!
Our aim at Discover Therapy & Wellness, PLLC is to support you as you begin to explore and uncover your authentic self. It can be challenging enough to navigate through life with its various demands, from juggling family dynamics, achieving career goals, maintaining healthy friendships to keeping up with the latest social trends. Allow me to create a safe space for you to process the underlying issues that are at the origin of discontentment, regret and unhappiness. So, if you’re ready, let’s begin the process to discovering your better self!
(919) 842-5012 View (919) 842-5012
Photo of Ben Willcott in Durham, NC
Ben Willcott
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families on a range of things, from family and relationship issues to life transitions, depression and anxiety, grief, larger existential questions, and other things. A particular focus is helping people in crisis manage and make meaning from difficulties. My approach to therapy is supportive, relational, and client-centered, with a focus on how things manifest themselves in the here and now. More than anything, I try to create a safe space for tuning in to feelings, finding balance, healing, and working on change.
I work with adolescents, adults, couples and families on a range of things, from family and relationship issues to life transitions, depression and anxiety, grief, larger existential questions, and other things. A particular focus is helping people in crisis manage and make meaning from difficulties. My approach to therapy is supportive, relational, and client-centered, with a focus on how things manifest themselves in the here and now. More than anything, I try to create a safe space for tuning in to feelings, finding balance, healing, and working on change.
(833) 302-3578 View (833) 302-3578
Photo of Kate Mayfour, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham, NC
Kate Mayfour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Hi, my name is Kate, and I'm glad you're here. I work with folks of all ages who are experiencing eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and family of origin issues. I am particularly passionate about working with queer and trans individuals, women, and older adults. I am deeply committed to maintaining an anti-racist, feminist, and neurodiversity-affirming lens, and incorporating a systems perspective to explore your experience in context of oppressive systems.
Hi, my name is Kate, and I'm glad you're here. I work with folks of all ages who are experiencing eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, depression, and family of origin issues. I am particularly passionate about working with queer and trans individuals, women, and older adults. I am deeply committed to maintaining an anti-racist, feminist, and neurodiversity-affirming lens, and incorporating a systems perspective to explore your experience in context of oppressive systems.
(919) 343-0081 View (919) 343-0081
Photo of Jill D. Strickland, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Durham, NC
Jill D. Strickland
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27703
Specialty in Marriage/Family, anxiety, depression, relationships and life transitions.
ACCEPTing new clients virtually/in-person. Life can be hard, extremely tough at times. Do you feel like life has become too overwhelming? We offer a welcoming and compassionate environment where you can feel safe to talk about any challenge that is getting in the way of improving the quality of your life. Together, we will discover how you can begin to enjoy life again! We have experience with children, adolescents, and young adults transitioning to adulthood, relationships, family and marriage.
Specialty in Marriage/Family, anxiety, depression, relationships and life transitions.
ACCEPTing new clients virtually/in-person. Life can be hard, extremely tough at times. Do you feel like life has become too overwhelming? We offer a welcoming and compassionate environment where you can feel safe to talk about any challenge that is getting in the way of improving the quality of your life. Together, we will discover how you can begin to enjoy life again! We have experience with children, adolescents, and young adults transitioning to adulthood, relationships, family and marriage.
(919) 533-9977 View (919) 533-9977
Photo of Robin Coull, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham, NC
Robin Coull
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705  (Online Only)
I work with clients to find strategies that build family harmony.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Having trouble coping day to day? Frustrated with life? Looking to break free from the past? I can help. I have over 15 years of experience working with students and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship struggles, fertility, pregnancy and/or postpartum challenges, parenthood, high sensitivity, or identity concerns. It’s painful to walk through life feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, loss, sadness, or past experiences. I will work with you to find solutions that help you feel healthier and happier.
I work with clients to find strategies that build family harmony.
Do you feel overwhelmed? Having trouble coping day to day? Frustrated with life? Looking to break free from the past? I can help. I have over 15 years of experience working with students and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship struggles, fertility, pregnancy and/or postpartum challenges, parenthood, high sensitivity, or identity concerns. It’s painful to walk through life feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, loss, sadness, or past experiences. I will work with you to find solutions that help you feel healthier and happier.
(919) 323-3560 View (919) 323-3560
Photo of Deepa Bhatt-Mackin, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Durham, NC
Deepa Bhatt-Mackin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707  (Online Only)
As a licensed clinical mental health counselor, I offer telehealth sessions for adolescents, families, and adults. For children under 13, I offer parenting support, consultation, and parent-child sessions. I assist clients with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, neurodivergence (Giftedness/LD/ADHD/2e), relationship problems, and identity development. My extensive training includes a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as psychodynamic, attachment-based, Internal Family Systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused. I also provide ADHD and executive functioning skills coaching.
As a licensed clinical mental health counselor, I offer telehealth sessions for adolescents, families, and adults. For children under 13, I offer parenting support, consultation, and parent-child sessions. I assist clients with a variety of presenting issues, including anxiety, depression, neurodivergence (Giftedness/LD/ADHD/2e), relationship problems, and identity development. My extensive training includes a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as psychodynamic, attachment-based, Internal Family Systems, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused. I also provide ADHD and executive functioning skills coaching.
(919) 343-0027 View (919) 343-0027
Photo of Healing Arts Collaborative in Durham, NC
Healing Arts Collaborative
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Through individual therapy, relationship & family therapy, and group therapy, we work together with our clients to challenge oppressive systems by radically naming our experiences and embodying our innate power.
Welcome to Healing Arts Collaborative! We are a community-driven therapy and healing arts practice based on Eno, Tutelo, Saponi, Occaneechi, Shakori, Cheraw, Tuscarora, and Lumbee ancestral land (so-called Durham, North Carolina). We are mental healthcare workers committed to providing safe, affirming, and culturally responsive healthcare for our 2SLGBTQI+ community.
Through individual therapy, relationship & family therapy, and group therapy, we work together with our clients to challenge oppressive systems by radically naming our experiences and embodying our innate power.
Welcome to Healing Arts Collaborative! We are a community-driven therapy and healing arts practice based on Eno, Tutelo, Saponi, Occaneechi, Shakori, Cheraw, Tuscarora, and Lumbee ancestral land (so-called Durham, North Carolina). We are mental healthcare workers committed to providing safe, affirming, and culturally responsive healthcare for our 2SLGBTQI+ community.
(919) 918-0262 View (919) 918-0262
Photo of Liadainn (Lia) Gilmore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Durham, NC
Liadainn (Lia) Gilmore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I also work well with individuals who want to explore themselves and improve their relationships with family, work and their significant others.
Welcome. I am a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in helping people of all ages, nationalities, races, gender expressions and sexual identities. My clients find me easy to talk to and my style is warm, non-judgmental and relational. I have a particular expertise in helping couples with issues such as infidelity, arguments, lack of communication and connection and dwindling sexual expression. For this work I draw on Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy by Susan Johnson see "Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love." I also use the work of the Gottman Institute, Harville Hendrix and Stan Tatkin.
I also work well with individuals who want to explore themselves and improve their relationships with family, work and their significant others.
Welcome. I am a psychotherapist with over 20 years of experience in helping people of all ages, nationalities, races, gender expressions and sexual identities. My clients find me easy to talk to and my style is warm, non-judgmental and relational. I have a particular expertise in helping couples with issues such as infidelity, arguments, lack of communication and connection and dwindling sexual expression. For this work I draw on Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy by Susan Johnson see "Hold Me Tight: Seven Conversations for a Lifetime of Love." I also use the work of the Gottman Institute, Harville Hendrix and Stan Tatkin.
(919) 709-0332 View (919) 709-0332
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.