Photo of Vanessa Hooper, Counselor in Freeland, WA
Vanessa Hooper
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Freeland, WA 98249  (Online Only)
As a multicultural therapist, I help individuals and couples recognize how institutions of power, environment, family dynamics and personal histories influence and shape identity, values and decision making. My approach supports clients to identify and challenge narratives negatively impacting their life, to uncover their path for transformation. I work with individuals and couples of all identities and relationship types, who are wanting a change and a desire to deepen their understanding of one another, work through trauma, explore setbacks in their relationships, and build a safe space for liberation, empowerment, and connection.
As a multicultural therapist, I help individuals and couples recognize how institutions of power, environment, family dynamics and personal histories influence and shape identity, values and decision making. My approach supports clients to identify and challenge narratives negatively impacting their life, to uncover their path for transformation. I work with individuals and couples of all identities and relationship types, who are wanting a change and a desire to deepen their understanding of one another, work through trauma, explore setbacks in their relationships, and build a safe space for liberation, empowerment, and connection.
(509) 776-7438 View (509) 776-7438
Photo of Rachel Hilliard Psychotherapy, Counselor in Freeland, WA
Rachel Hilliard Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Freeland, WA 98249
*Accepting new clients*- It can be lonely and overwhelming to find ourselves in emotional struggle. The therapeutic relationship is unique and one that I deeply trust. It's instrumental to have a companion and guide as we traverse these unchartered inner landscapes. The pain we feel invites us on a transformative journey from obscurity to clarity. It's so tempting to contract when we are challenged, but it's critical to soften and trust into the process. This movement through our pain rearranges us into an expanded version of ourselves. I bring the qualities of warmth, openness, and curiosity to this transformative work together.
*Accepting new clients*- It can be lonely and overwhelming to find ourselves in emotional struggle. The therapeutic relationship is unique and one that I deeply trust. It's instrumental to have a companion and guide as we traverse these unchartered inner landscapes. The pain we feel invites us on a transformative journey from obscurity to clarity. It's so tempting to contract when we are challenged, but it's critical to soften and trust into the process. This movement through our pain rearranges us into an expanded version of ourselves. I bring the qualities of warmth, openness, and curiosity to this transformative work together.
(360) 226-5416 View (360) 226-5416
Photo of Colin Ross Lindborg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Freeland, WA
Colin Ross Lindborg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Freeland, WA 98249
Couples, Older Adults, Adults. Please call to schedule a free phone consultation. Are you feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, or have you simply found yourself wanting more from your life? People seek therapy for a variety of reasons, and this seeking is often the first brave step toward living into a sense of greater possibility and deeper relationships! I view therapy first and foremost as a relationship that arises from a conversation. That conversation can be transformative and healing, can take many forms, and is an act of co-creation between you and me.
Couples, Older Adults, Adults. Please call to schedule a free phone consultation. Are you feeling sad, anxious, overwhelmed, or have you simply found yourself wanting more from your life? People seek therapy for a variety of reasons, and this seeking is often the first brave step toward living into a sense of greater possibility and deeper relationships! I view therapy first and foremost as a relationship that arises from a conversation. That conversation can be transformative and healing, can take many forms, and is an act of co-creation between you and me.
(360) 614-2287 View (360) 614-2287

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Artemis Mandala, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Freeland, WA
Artemis Mandala
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Langley, WA 98260
Ah, this life! In the lyrics of an old song, ‘Nobody said it was easy, no-one ever said it would be so hard’. I’ve spent most of my life dedicated to human connection- to self and other— bringing deep curiosity to how we can belong deeply to ourselves, and still be loved and belong deeply to one another. It’s not easy. Yet, it truly is possible. And, we need courage and guides along the way. That is where I can help. Our time together is a place where you can unfold yourself. Where you can learn to trust again. I am skilled at working in the deeper realms of grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, and above all intimacy and sexuality.
Ah, this life! In the lyrics of an old song, ‘Nobody said it was easy, no-one ever said it would be so hard’. I’ve spent most of my life dedicated to human connection- to self and other— bringing deep curiosity to how we can belong deeply to ourselves, and still be loved and belong deeply to one another. It’s not easy. Yet, it truly is possible. And, we need courage and guides along the way. That is where I can help. Our time together is a place where you can unfold yourself. Where you can learn to trust again. I am skilled at working in the deeper realms of grief, depression, anxiety, trauma, and above all intimacy and sexuality.
(360) 215-5850 View (360) 215-5850
Photo of Sarah Sterling, Mindfulness-Based Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Freeland, WA
Sarah Sterling, Mindfulness-Based Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Port Ludlow, WA 98365  (Online Only)
As a mindfulness-based counselor, I help individuals, adolescents and couples transform their struggles into opportunities for growth, learning and adventure. I help you turn your problems into pathways. This journey is an opportunity to unearth the home that is your deep and abiding sense of self. Drawing on nature wisdom, archetypal patterns, myth, mindfulness and the mind-body connection, I am here to be a guide as you dive into your own depths. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey toward wholeness, freedom and purpose.
As a mindfulness-based counselor, I help individuals, adolescents and couples transform their struggles into opportunities for growth, learning and adventure. I help you turn your problems into pathways. This journey is an opportunity to unearth the home that is your deep and abiding sense of self. Drawing on nature wisdom, archetypal patterns, myth, mindfulness and the mind-body connection, I am here to be a guide as you dive into your own depths. I look forward to accompanying you on your journey toward wholeness, freedom and purpose.
(360) 215-2512 View (360) 215-2512

Online Therapists

Photo of Kathryn McNiel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Freeland, WA
Kathryn McNiel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122
My name is Kathryn McNiel, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Child Mental Health Specialist (CMHS) and owner of KM Therapy LLC.
I want to commend you for taking the first step in the therapeutic process and considering me as a part of the journey. I help individuals (13yo+), couples/relationships, and families overcome feelings of disconnect to develop meaning, intention, and joy in their lives. My work is with people who are going through all types of life challenges and transitions. Therapy is process that takes time and energy. Our work together can create lasting and meaningful change.
My name is Kathryn McNiel, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Child Mental Health Specialist (CMHS) and owner of KM Therapy LLC.
I want to commend you for taking the first step in the therapeutic process and considering me as a part of the journey. I help individuals (13yo+), couples/relationships, and families overcome feelings of disconnect to develop meaning, intention, and joy in their lives. My work is with people who are going through all types of life challenges and transitions. Therapy is process that takes time and energy. Our work together can create lasting and meaningful change.
(206) 333-0473 View (206) 333-0473
Photo of Casey McCarthy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Freeland, WA
Casey McCarthy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to find balance and communication in your family or relationship? Are you not sure what your next phase of life looks like? Maybe you know exactly what you want but are afraid to commit to it. Has parenting become overwhelming? These are all common issues we face as emotional beings.
Are you struggling to find balance and communication in your family or relationship? Are you not sure what your next phase of life looks like? Maybe you know exactly what you want but are afraid to commit to it. Has parenting become overwhelming? These are all common issues we face as emotional beings.
(206) 589-5223 View (206) 589-5223
Photo of Spencer Wallis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Freeland, WA
Spencer Wallis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
Waitlist for new clients
I use approaches based on theory in family systems, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and other evidence-based approaches.
I work with couples and individuals who wish to address emotional, relational, and identity conflict. This involves tailoring my treatment approach to the unique needs of each client. In my couple and family work, I aim to nurture clients' skills related to intimacy, shared understanding, communication, and connectedness, while respecting each partner's need for independent growth. I believe in the healing power of human connection, and that this bond can be a path to fulfillment and meaning in everyday life. My work with individuals addresses issues related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, sexuality, dating, and career.
I use approaches based on theory in family systems, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and other evidence-based approaches.
I work with couples and individuals who wish to address emotional, relational, and identity conflict. This involves tailoring my treatment approach to the unique needs of each client. In my couple and family work, I aim to nurture clients' skills related to intimacy, shared understanding, communication, and connectedness, while respecting each partner's need for independent growth. I believe in the healing power of human connection, and that this bond can be a path to fulfillment and meaning in everyday life. My work with individuals addresses issues related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, sexuality, dating, and career.
(253) 509-7168 View (253) 509-7168
Photo of Audrey Phillips, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Freeland, WA
Audrey Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122
I believe relationships (friendships, romantic, family, to ourself) are the foundation of joy for all of us as humans, so when we feel stressed about our relationships.
Are you having the same fight over and over again with your partner? I work with couples around topics like sex (pain with sex, different libidos, healing from affairs, feeling emotionally or sexually disconnected) as well as other conflict around chores, roles, money, etc. The pain of having the same fight again and again contributes over time to a break down in trust, love and connection. These ruptures can build up over time as resentment, which speeds up the disconnection process. I love helping couples re-find each other, re-build trust, and re-connect!
I believe relationships (friendships, romantic, family, to ourself) are the foundation of joy for all of us as humans, so when we feel stressed about our relationships.
Are you having the same fight over and over again with your partner? I work with couples around topics like sex (pain with sex, different libidos, healing from affairs, feeling emotionally or sexually disconnected) as well as other conflict around chores, roles, money, etc. The pain of having the same fight again and again contributes over time to a break down in trust, love and connection. These ruptures can build up over time as resentment, which speeds up the disconnection process. I love helping couples re-find each other, re-build trust, and re-connect!
(206) 207-9238 View (206) 207-9238
Photo of Candace Hunsucker Therapeutic Services, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Freeland, WA
Candace Hunsucker Therapeutic Services, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SUDP
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372
I offer therapeutic sessions for individuals, couples, youth, and families. I help facilitate a process where people can develop insight and understanding of what may be holding them back from wellness, joy, and personal growth. Sometimes this may involve family patterns, behaviors that are not in line with one's values, or relationships that are no longer serving you. My job is to create safety for people to share their authentic selves, honoring strengths and navigating challenges together. My intention is to honor your gifts and to expand new ways of thinking or approaching situations to better meet your goals.
I offer therapeutic sessions for individuals, couples, youth, and families. I help facilitate a process where people can develop insight and understanding of what may be holding them back from wellness, joy, and personal growth. Sometimes this may involve family patterns, behaviors that are not in line with one's values, or relationships that are no longer serving you. My job is to create safety for people to share their authentic selves, honoring strengths and navigating challenges together. My intention is to honor your gifts and to expand new ways of thinking or approaching situations to better meet your goals.
(206) 486-2113 View (206) 486-2113
Photo of Christine Havens, Counselor in Freeland, WA
Christine Havens
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bainbridge Island, WA 98110  (Online Only)
For 28 years, I've worked with clients to support healing around trauma, marriage/partnering, sexuality, grief, depression/anxiety, addictions. Using Somatic Experiencing, family of origin, meditation/movement work, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and Internal Family Systems, I work with clients to help them develop a deeper sense of self, to face life's inevitable challenges with clarity and resources. Clients can repair their marriages/partnerships. Emphasized is the capacity to stay emotionally present, to attune, differentiate, have healthy boundaries, practice dual awareness and have clarity about attachment issues.
For 28 years, I've worked with clients to support healing around trauma, marriage/partnering, sexuality, grief, depression/anxiety, addictions. Using Somatic Experiencing, family of origin, meditation/movement work, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy and Internal Family Systems, I work with clients to help them develop a deeper sense of self, to face life's inevitable challenges with clarity and resources. Clients can repair their marriages/partnerships. Emphasized is the capacity to stay emotionally present, to attune, differentiate, have healthy boundaries, practice dual awareness and have clarity about attachment issues.
(206) 759-7147 View (206) 759-7147
Photo of Elisabeth Esmiol Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Freeland, WA
Elisabeth Esmiol Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Federal Way, WA 98023  (Online Only)
As a published author, a current clinical supervisor, a former tenured professor of Sex Therapy and Marriage and Family Therapy, and a regular speaker at various workshops, I find that my experience training therapists and community members keeps me current and continually learning how to best serve the people I work with.
Do you want to improve communication and understanding, work through past hurts such as infidelity, rebuild trust or increase intimacy? I am committed to helping people connect, heal and build mutually respectful, loving relationships. I work from a relational-experiential perspective which gives each person room to voice their desires and needs while learning to engage in new patterns and ways of being together. I enjoy working with people in any stage of relationship and I am committed to working together to help you reach your goals.
As a published author, a current clinical supervisor, a former tenured professor of Sex Therapy and Marriage and Family Therapy, and a regular speaker at various workshops, I find that my experience training therapists and community members keeps me current and continually learning how to best serve the people I work with.
Do you want to improve communication and understanding, work through past hurts such as infidelity, rebuild trust or increase intimacy? I am committed to helping people connect, heal and build mutually respectful, loving relationships. I work from a relational-experiential perspective which gives each person room to voice their desires and needs while learning to engage in new patterns and ways of being together. I enjoy working with people in any stage of relationship and I am committed to working together to help you reach your goals.
(253) 655-0633 View (253) 655-0633
Photo of Christy Forrester, Marriage & Family Therapist in Freeland, WA
Christy Forrester
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
My approach includes: Psychodynamic, Family Systems, Humanistic, Internal Family Systems, Emotion Focused, Narrative, CBT, DBT, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, Existentialism, Secular Buddhism, and Feminism.
Are you wishing for better relationships? Feeling anxious, down, lost, or wondering about the meaning of life? Would you like to feel more confident? Hoping to heal after trauma? Going through loss or life transition? We need lots of self-compassion so we can heal and find a better approach to our lives and relationships. I offer a non-judgmental space to be open about your struggles and explore what it means to live in your values. It is through our common humanity that I relate to my clients. I believe the struggles we face also occur in the systems of race, class, gender, sexuality, age, ability, religion, and national identity.
My approach includes: Psychodynamic, Family Systems, Humanistic, Internal Family Systems, Emotion Focused, Narrative, CBT, DBT, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, Existentialism, Secular Buddhism, and Feminism.
Are you wishing for better relationships? Feeling anxious, down, lost, or wondering about the meaning of life? Would you like to feel more confident? Hoping to heal after trauma? Going through loss or life transition? We need lots of self-compassion so we can heal and find a better approach to our lives and relationships. I offer a non-judgmental space to be open about your struggles and explore what it means to live in your values. It is through our common humanity that I relate to my clients. I believe the struggles we face also occur in the systems of race, class, gender, sexuality, age, ability, religion, and national identity.
(206) 207-6684 View (206) 207-6684
Photo of Brian J Warren, Marriage & Family Therapist in Freeland, WA
Brian J Warren
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist.
I enjoy helping couples, families and individuals in working on relationship issues and concerns in a wide variety of areas these may be facing or dealing with. Some of the issues I can help with include depression, anxiety, health and medical problems, grief, loss, transitions, adjustment, self-esteem, troubled/at-risk youth or children, marriage and couple relationship issues, step-families, relationship concerns, sexual issues, teen concerns, child development, sibling and extended family concerns, and more. I work with clients on their issues and help them attain their goals. I focus on strengths, successes, emotions, thoughts and feelings in helping them.
I am a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist.
I enjoy helping couples, families and individuals in working on relationship issues and concerns in a wide variety of areas these may be facing or dealing with. Some of the issues I can help with include depression, anxiety, health and medical problems, grief, loss, transitions, adjustment, self-esteem, troubled/at-risk youth or children, marriage and couple relationship issues, step-families, relationship concerns, sexual issues, teen concerns, child development, sibling and extended family concerns, and more. I work with clients on their issues and help them attain their goals. I focus on strengths, successes, emotions, thoughts and feelings in helping them.
(206) 818-3223 View (206) 818-3223
Photo of Daryl L McInnis, Counselor in Freeland, WA
Daryl L McInnis
Counselor, MA, LMHCA, SUDP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501  (Online Only)
I use an integrative approach stemming from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Accepting NEW Clients! Do you ever feel like your mind won’t stop racing, or you’re often nervous and tense? If so, please know you’re not alone. I specialize in treating teens and adults struggling with anxiety. My work focuses on creating a safe space in which individuals feel comfortable processing difficult emotions and developing coping skills to help navigate this hectic world we are living in. I believe in taking a person-centered collaborative approach to help clients reach their goals (i.e. you're a key part of the process and have a say.)
I use an integrative approach stemming from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Accepting NEW Clients! Do you ever feel like your mind won’t stop racing, or you’re often nervous and tense? If so, please know you’re not alone. I specialize in treating teens and adults struggling with anxiety. My work focuses on creating a safe space in which individuals feel comfortable processing difficult emotions and developing coping skills to help navigate this hectic world we are living in. I believe in taking a person-centered collaborative approach to help clients reach their goals (i.e. you're a key part of the process and have a say.)
(360) 523-1379 View (360) 523-1379
Photo of Life and Peace Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Freeland, WA
Life and Peace Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043  (Online Only)
I hold a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology.
I'm a devoted and joyful therapist who values the strength of embracing life's positive aspects. With a relaxed demeanor and a sincere affection for people, I'm here to guide you on a journey towards tranquility, optimism, and insight. I provide support, understanding, and a secure environment for exploration where you can openly express yourself. It's my heartfelt commitment to collaborate with you, ensuring you feel acknowledged and upheld throughout our therapeutic journey.
I hold a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Bachelor's degree in Psychology.
I'm a devoted and joyful therapist who values the strength of embracing life's positive aspects. With a relaxed demeanor and a sincere affection for people, I'm here to guide you on a journey towards tranquility, optimism, and insight. I provide support, understanding, and a secure environment for exploration where you can openly express yourself. It's my heartfelt commitment to collaborate with you, ensuring you feel acknowledged and upheld throughout our therapeutic journey.
(425) 541-7313 View (425) 541-7313
Photo of Anne M Eugenio, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Freeland, WA
Anne M Eugenio
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
I help individuals, families, and couples create or restore secure secure bonds in family and intimate relationships. Relational counseling means that my relationship with you, my client, will be our best, most important tool for your healing. Before anything else, we will establish safety, trust, and connection. Then together we will uncover the path of healing for your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I also help those coping with the effects of anxiety and depression.
I help individuals, families, and couples create or restore secure secure bonds in family and intimate relationships. Relational counseling means that my relationship with you, my client, will be our best, most important tool for your healing. Before anything else, we will establish safety, trust, and connection. Then together we will uncover the path of healing for your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I also help those coping with the effects of anxiety and depression.
(253) 303-5880 View (253) 303-5880
Photo of Haley Boscolo, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Freeland, WA
Haley Boscolo
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Working from a family systems perspective and informed by EFT and attachment frameworks as well as the Gottman method, I will consider your situation in the context of your family, community, and culture.
Currently only accepting new couples. Conflict in interpersonal relationships is one of the most difficult challenges we may face. If you are looking to overcome a communication rut and get back on the same team with your partner, I am here to help! I can help you rekindle your connection and see a future again. I want you to feel safe to openly explore your challenges as we collaborate on a plan toward change.
Working from a family systems perspective and informed by EFT and attachment frameworks as well as the Gottman method, I will consider your situation in the context of your family, community, and culture.
Currently only accepting new couples. Conflict in interpersonal relationships is one of the most difficult challenges we may face. If you are looking to overcome a communication rut and get back on the same team with your partner, I am here to help! I can help you rekindle your connection and see a future again. I want you to feel safe to openly explore your challenges as we collaborate on a plan toward change.
(206) 312-4936 View (206) 312-4936
Photo of Angela F Kelly Lmhc, Counselor in Freeland, WA
Angela F Kelly Lmhc
Counselor, LMHC, GMHS, CBHC
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98031  (Online Only)
You tell yourself that if you just do everything perfectly, you’ll feel okay. As long as the house is spotless. And your family is ideal (or at least looks that way on social media.) If you always say yes, constantly keep a smile on your face, and never complain about anything – then everything should be fine. But no matter how hard you try, you can’t shake this feeling of dread. And all of your efforts to appear perfect are taking a toll. To-do lists never end. No one seems to know the real you. You’re terrified that at any moment, there’ll be a crack in your mask and everyone will see you for who you truly are; this cant go on.
You tell yourself that if you just do everything perfectly, you’ll feel okay. As long as the house is spotless. And your family is ideal (or at least looks that way on social media.) If you always say yes, constantly keep a smile on your face, and never complain about anything – then everything should be fine. But no matter how hard you try, you can’t shake this feeling of dread. And all of your efforts to appear perfect are taking a toll. To-do lists never end. No one seems to know the real you. You’re terrified that at any moment, there’ll be a crack in your mask and everyone will see you for who you truly are; this cant go on.
(206) 590-4720 View (206) 590-4720
Photo of Nicole Ma, Marriage & Family Therapist in Freeland, WA
Nicole Ma
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98008
I will help you discover dysfunctional communication patterns that cause problems in your relationships or in the family to break the vicious cycleI.
The goal of therapy is determined by you, and what you want to accomplish in the process of therapy. I believe you have the full potential to reach your goals and have a better understanding of your true self if you allow self-compassion and compassion for others. You are people who experience hardships in life transitions, struggle with identity issues, have relationship conflicts, seek healing from traumatic experiences, suffer from social injustice and people who seek personal growth.
I will help you discover dysfunctional communication patterns that cause problems in your relationships or in the family to break the vicious cycleI.
The goal of therapy is determined by you, and what you want to accomplish in the process of therapy. I believe you have the full potential to reach your goals and have a better understanding of your true self if you allow self-compassion and compassion for others. You are people who experience hardships in life transitions, struggle with identity issues, have relationship conflicts, seek healing from traumatic experiences, suffer from social injustice and people who seek personal growth.
(425) 403-2602 View (425) 403-2602

See more therapy options for Freeland

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.