Photo of Andy Melton, PhD, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andy Melton
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
in counselor education and supervision from Trevecca University in Nashville as well as a masters in counseling and marriage and family therapy from John Brown University in Arkansas.
Hello everyone! Thanks for taking time to read my profile. I help Disconnected Couples, Restless Entrepreneurs, and Anxious Adults. When I entered this profession, I realized that everyone on the planet needs a safe place to go where they can be completely themselves...and say anything they care to say. At times we need to chat with someone who's not part of our family or friend circles, someone with the training and skills to navigate confusing thoughts, emotions, relationships, careers, and matters of faith.
in counselor education and supervision from Trevecca University in Nashville as well as a masters in counseling and marriage and family therapy from John Brown University in Arkansas.
Hello everyone! Thanks for taking time to read my profile. I help Disconnected Couples, Restless Entrepreneurs, and Anxious Adults. When I entered this profession, I realized that everyone on the planet needs a safe place to go where they can be completely themselves...and say anything they care to say. At times we need to chat with someone who's not part of our family or friend circles, someone with the training and skills to navigate confusing thoughts, emotions, relationships, careers, and matters of faith.
(615) 492-2174 View (615) 492-2174
Photo of Sara Minges, BA, MS
Sara Minges Minges
BA, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I also worked as a Child & Family Therapist for 10 years.
Do your kids struggle with remembering to complete and turn in homework on time? Is it hard for them to finish their homework without getting distracted? Do they get easily frustrated if the assignments are challenging or difficult? Do they have trouble falling asleep or getting ready for school in the morning? Are you an adult who often forgets their keys or is late to meetings?
I also worked as a Child & Family Therapist for 10 years.
Do your kids struggle with remembering to complete and turn in homework on time? Is it hard for them to finish their homework without getting distracted? Do they get easily frustrated if the assignments are challenging or difficult? Do they have trouble falling asleep or getting ready for school in the morning? Are you an adult who often forgets their keys or is late to meetings?
(615) 235-1884 View (615) 235-1884
Photo of Karlene Howie, MS, LPC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karlene Howie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37206
I individualize each person and family member and believe that incorporating all members of the family is an important component in the process of therapy. I integrate treatment, care, and resources which support a healthy mind, body and spirit. I focus on the strengths of the individual and family and build on those strengths. My approach is direct and practical integrative and holistic. I specialize in neurofeedback treatment. Neurofeedback is an evidence based, noninvasive, drug free method of self-regulation, used to treat many diagnosis including anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, PTSD, etc.
I individualize each person and family member and believe that incorporating all members of the family is an important component in the process of therapy. I integrate treatment, care, and resources which support a healthy mind, body and spirit. I focus on the strengths of the individual and family and build on those strengths. My approach is direct and practical integrative and holistic. I specialize in neurofeedback treatment. Neurofeedback is an evidence based, noninvasive, drug free method of self-regulation, used to treat many diagnosis including anxiety, depression, ADD/ADHD, chronic pain, PTSD, etc.
(865) 213-9051 View (865) 213-9051
Photo of Sara R Bartram - The Bridge Counseling, LLC, MMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Bridge Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
My areas of expertise include individuals with depressive and anxiety symptoms, self-worth and confidence concerns, women's issues, adolescent counseling, working to support parents to improve family functioning and relationships, spiritual issues, and other emotional challenges.
Are you often self-critical and lack the compassion that you so willingly offer to others when they are in need?  Do you want to feel whole, healthy, and empowered to live a meaningful and positive life?  I believe that is something we all  strive for and want for our lives, but life's roadblocks can present challenges that impede our growth and cause us to doubt ourselves. It is important to move forward in life with self-compassion and the feeling of empowerment to manage life successfully when things get difficult.
My areas of expertise include individuals with depressive and anxiety symptoms, self-worth and confidence concerns, women's issues, adolescent counseling, working to support parents to improve family functioning and relationships, spiritual issues, and other emotional challenges.
Are you often self-critical and lack the compassion that you so willingly offer to others when they are in need?  Do you want to feel whole, healthy, and empowered to live a meaningful and positive life?  I believe that is something we all  strive for and want for our lives, but life's roadblocks can present challenges that impede our growth and cause us to doubt ourselves. It is important to move forward in life with self-compassion and the feeling of empowerment to manage life successfully when things get difficult.
(615) 212-2219 View (615) 212-2219
Photo of Pamela K Haga - Pamela K Haga  /  Wound Light Counseling, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela K Haga / Wound Light Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I worked for 10+ years with children doing individual & family counseling and multi-systemic therapy.
"The Wound is the Place Where the Light Enters You." ~ Rumi~ In one way or another, our souls have been bruised. Depression, anxiety, divorce/relationship issues, trauma, family crisis, & many other issues can slowly chip away at our self-worth, our sense of belonging, our hope. Do you seek a true, raw connection with yourself & others? Are you tired of fighting the "uphill battle" & seek peace in your life? I have no magic wand. I cannot make troubles disappear. I can, however, walk with you & give you the tools to find inner peace & love in the midst of chaos.
I worked for 10+ years with children doing individual & family counseling and multi-systemic therapy.
"The Wound is the Place Where the Light Enters You." ~ Rumi~ In one way or another, our souls have been bruised. Depression, anxiety, divorce/relationship issues, trauma, family crisis, & many other issues can slowly chip away at our self-worth, our sense of belonging, our hope. Do you seek a true, raw connection with yourself & others? Are you tired of fighting the "uphill battle" & seek peace in your life? I have no magic wand. I cannot make troubles disappear. I can, however, walk with you & give you the tools to find inner peace & love in the midst of chaos.
(615) 610-1454 View (615) 610-1454
Photo of Chris Hancock - Therapy Outside The Box, LCSW, ACMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Therapy Outside The Box
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
Waitlist for new clients
I offer Integrative Counseling, Energy Psychology, a Transpersonal spin on Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Psychospiritual Support for spiritual crisis/integrating the non-ordinary, AND a 100% higher source-guided Facilitated Mystical Experience (FME) process.
Do you see the world differently? Do you know to the very depths of your soul you're a spiritual being with a body? Are you 'awakening' and need knowledgeable support? Prepping for or integrating a psychedelic experience? Seeking unconventional healing approaches that reflect your uniqueness and spiritual worldview? For 24 yrs I've been helping people understand the past, heal and integrate wounded parts, discover an authentic spirituality, & embody Larger Self. My approach is relaxed, informal, creative, intuitive (claircognizant/clairsentient), psycho-spiritual, relational; real. I love learning, love people, and love this work.
I offer Integrative Counseling, Energy Psychology, a Transpersonal spin on Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Psychospiritual Support for spiritual crisis/integrating the non-ordinary, AND a 100% higher source-guided Facilitated Mystical Experience (FME) process.
Do you see the world differently? Do you know to the very depths of your soul you're a spiritual being with a body? Are you 'awakening' and need knowledgeable support? Prepping for or integrating a psychedelic experience? Seeking unconventional healing approaches that reflect your uniqueness and spiritual worldview? For 24 yrs I've been helping people understand the past, heal and integrate wounded parts, discover an authentic spirituality, & embody Larger Self. My approach is relaxed, informal, creative, intuitive (claircognizant/clairsentient), psycho-spiritual, relational; real. I love learning, love people, and love this work.
(615) 430-2778 View (615) 430-2778
Photo of Serenity Counseling - Serenity Counseling & Mediation Center, LMFT, MFT, LPC, CLC, Interns, Marriage & Family Therapist
Serenity Counseling & Mediation Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MFT, LPC, CLC, Interns
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37206
Our believe is to strengthen the individual, the family and the community.
Serenity Counseling Center provides a safe, confidential opportunity for people to experience victory over life's difficulties by using counseling framework and an environment for counselors and counselors in training. Serenity Counseling Center was established in 2007. It's our purpose of Serenity to equip individuals, couples, and families with coping skills for life's issues that are consistent. Serenity Counseling Center is staffed by master's level practitioners from every discipline, including marriage and family, divorce mediation, life coaching substance abuse, and therapy. You can see intern if no insurance or low fee needs
Our believe is to strengthen the individual, the family and the community.
Serenity Counseling Center provides a safe, confidential opportunity for people to experience victory over life's difficulties by using counseling framework and an environment for counselors and counselors in training. Serenity Counseling Center was established in 2007. It's our purpose of Serenity to equip individuals, couples, and families with coping skills for life's issues that are consistent. Serenity Counseling Center is staffed by master's level practitioners from every discipline, including marriage and family, divorce mediation, life coaching substance abuse, and therapy. You can see intern if no insurance or low fee needs
(629) 302-1426 View (629) 302-1426
Photo of Brooke Stephens, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brooke Stephens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I truly believe in client centered care, therefore, I match theoretical approaches to the needs and personality of the individual/couple/ family.
Finding the best fit for a new therapist can be challenging and scary as you step into a place of vulnerability. My experience has provided me with the opportunity to work with those who suffer from severe mental illness and substance abuse over the last 10 years in various settings. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families who suffer from symptoms of depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, personality disorders, and thought disorders, as well as, those who suffer from trauma (ie. childhood attachment related issues or various relational traumas).
I truly believe in client centered care, therefore, I match theoretical approaches to the needs and personality of the individual/couple/ family.
Finding the best fit for a new therapist can be challenging and scary as you step into a place of vulnerability. My experience has provided me with the opportunity to work with those who suffer from severe mental illness and substance abuse over the last 10 years in various settings. I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families who suffer from symptoms of depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, personality disorders, and thought disorders, as well as, those who suffer from trauma (ie. childhood attachment related issues or various relational traumas).
(615) 205-4597 View (615) 205-4597
Photo of Shawn David Wright, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shawn David Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I am independently contracted through Green Hills Family Psych.
What is your story? The question seems simple, but it isn’t. Your story is comprised of your life’s experiences from your perspective. Our stories contain themes of joy, excitement love, life and heartbreak, fear, anger and loss. With the demands of daily life such as career or relationships, it can be difficult to engage in being the author of your story. Who is narrating your story? Are negative thoughts dictating your self-image? Is your anxiety controlling your narrative? Or is your sadness causing you to stare at a blank page? Ultimately, everyone deserves a better story.
I am independently contracted through Green Hills Family Psych.
What is your story? The question seems simple, but it isn’t. Your story is comprised of your life’s experiences from your perspective. Our stories contain themes of joy, excitement love, life and heartbreak, fear, anger and loss. With the demands of daily life such as career or relationships, it can be difficult to engage in being the author of your story. Who is narrating your story? Are negative thoughts dictating your self-image? Is your anxiety controlling your narrative? Or is your sadness causing you to stare at a blank page? Ultimately, everyone deserves a better story.
(615) 551-7184 View (615) 551-7184
Photo of Grace (Bomar) Finn, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Grace (Bomar) Finn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I also love incorporating parts work using Internal Family Systems, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy skills, and Coherence Therapy schemas.
I hear folks on my therapy couch often ask these questions: "Why can't I get a hold on these anxious feelings?" "Why am I still repeating these same patterns?" "Why does (experience) bring up so much (emotion) for me?" I help adults and adolescents (16+) translate this curiosity into insight to develop emotion regulation skills, a sense of self rooted in integrity instead of shame, and more mindfulness in their relationships. I work mostly with anxiety, LGBTQIA+ issues, depression, emotion regulation difficulty, relationship issues, spirituality, and grief, including “identity grief” (grieving the life we thought we’d live).
I also love incorporating parts work using Internal Family Systems, Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy skills, and Coherence Therapy schemas.
I hear folks on my therapy couch often ask these questions: "Why can't I get a hold on these anxious feelings?" "Why am I still repeating these same patterns?" "Why does (experience) bring up so much (emotion) for me?" I help adults and adolescents (16+) translate this curiosity into insight to develop emotion regulation skills, a sense of self rooted in integrity instead of shame, and more mindfulness in their relationships. I work mostly with anxiety, LGBTQIA+ issues, depression, emotion regulation difficulty, relationship issues, spirituality, and grief, including “identity grief” (grieving the life we thought we’d live).
(615) 987-0542 View (615) 987-0542
Photo of Elizabeth Redwine, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Redwine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have unique experience supporting people who are finding it difficult to care for themselves while they take care of others. This includes helping professionals experiencing professional burnout or secondary trauma, family members caring for those with serious forms of mental or physical illness, and parents managing life changes such as pregnancy, birth and child-rearing, or feeling overwhelmed by day to day life. I am specially certified in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C) which includes issues related to pregnancy, postpartum, infertility/loss, and the transition to parenthood.
I have unique experience supporting people who are finding it difficult to care for themselves while they take care of others. This includes helping professionals experiencing professional burnout or secondary trauma, family members caring for those with serious forms of mental or physical illness, and parents managing life changes such as pregnancy, birth and child-rearing, or feeling overwhelmed by day to day life. I am specially certified in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C) which includes issues related to pregnancy, postpartum, infertility/loss, and the transition to parenthood.
(615) 667-8297 View (615) 667-8297
Photo of Ben Roberts, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ben Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
Many of my clients are young professionals who are seeking assistance managing emotions and dealing with change. This can involve: helping professionals navigate feelings of "imposture syndrome", understanding self apart from family, or assisting young professional manage feelings of stress, anxiety, or loneliness. Many clients like to involve their faith in session, while utilizing evidence based practices. I have experience working with many different age groups and backgrounds in many different settings. The majority of the people I serve include: Young Professionals, Men, and People of Faith.
Many of my clients are young professionals who are seeking assistance managing emotions and dealing with change. This can involve: helping professionals navigate feelings of "imposture syndrome", understanding self apart from family, or assisting young professional manage feelings of stress, anxiety, or loneliness. Many clients like to involve their faith in session, while utilizing evidence based practices. I have experience working with many different age groups and backgrounds in many different settings. The majority of the people I serve include: Young Professionals, Men, and People of Faith.
(615) 502-4942 View (615) 502-4942
Photo of John Barsotti, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
John Barsotti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37206  (Online Only)
I am committed to guiding you on your journey toward wellness and self-discovery. With a compassionate approach and a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in the therapeutic process, and making positive changes in pursuit of clients needs and goals. I like to see growth in people and understand I can be an healthy impact on that process.
I am committed to guiding you on your journey toward wellness and self-discovery. With a compassionate approach and a deep understanding of the complexities of mental health, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I believe in the therapeutic process, and making positive changes in pursuit of clients needs and goals. I like to see growth in people and understand I can be an healthy impact on that process.
(423) 830-2336 View (423) 830-2336
Photo of Russell Baxter, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Russell Baxter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I’m passionate about working with adults and couples who have experienced trauma, battled depression, faced difficult life transitions, and struggled with compulsive sexuality or other addictions. With couples, I'm deeply committed to helping them rebuild their relationships into something solid, navigate through challenging times, and reconnect. Through my training and experience, I use EMDR, Brainspotting, part’s work, mindfulness, attachment work, and other evidence based approaches in my practice. Each approach is used to process difficult experiences and develop skills to handle life’s challenges and live authentically.
I’m passionate about working with adults and couples who have experienced trauma, battled depression, faced difficult life transitions, and struggled with compulsive sexuality or other addictions. With couples, I'm deeply committed to helping them rebuild their relationships into something solid, navigate through challenging times, and reconnect. Through my training and experience, I use EMDR, Brainspotting, part’s work, mindfulness, attachment work, and other evidence based approaches in my practice. Each approach is used to process difficult experiences and develop skills to handle life’s challenges and live authentically.
(615) 436-8818 View (615) 436-8818
Photo of Amanda Laughlin - Exhale Family Therapy and Wellness, PC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Exhale Family Therapy and Wellness, PC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37206
I help individuals, couples, and families who are seeking support with symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, or find themselves in challenging seasons of life due to change or transition.
I help individuals, couples, and families who are seeking support with symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, relationship difficulties, or find themselves in challenging seasons of life due to change or transition.
(615) 326-6505 View (615) 326-6505
Photo of Melisse Prusinski, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melisse Prusinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
It's time to reach your full potential. I offer holistic therapy that focuses on your goals and quick solutions to address current problems as well as changing long entrenched behaviorial patterns. Therapy will assist you in gaining insight from your past, healing traumas at the root and making long term changes for the future. I believe in client centered/relational therapy in a supportive environment. I hold a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I am also a trained and certified Hypnotherapist by The National Guild of Hypnotists. I work from several therapeutic modalities depending on the individual.
It's time to reach your full potential. I offer holistic therapy that focuses on your goals and quick solutions to address current problems as well as changing long entrenched behaviorial patterns. Therapy will assist you in gaining insight from your past, healing traumas at the root and making long term changes for the future. I believe in client centered/relational therapy in a supportive environment. I hold a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I am also a trained and certified Hypnotherapist by The National Guild of Hypnotists. I work from several therapeutic modalities depending on the individual.
(310) 596-4164 View (310) 596-4164
Photo of Elizabeth Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has been in practice for 15+ years. I enjoy working with clients of all ages on issues related to grief and loss, trauma, depression and anxiety. My clients say I am easy to talk to.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has been in practice for 15+ years. I enjoy working with clients of all ages on issues related to grief and loss, trauma, depression and anxiety. My clients say I am easy to talk to.
(615) 610-1274 View (615) 610-1274
Photo of Sara Baldwin - Hope Clinic for Women, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hope Clinic for Women
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37206
Located in Nashville, TN our licensed counselors see Individuals, Couples, and Families. We offer counseling for: Pregnancy Loss (Miscarriage, Infant Death, Stillbirth, Failed IVF, Abortion), Adoption-Related Loss, Support for Infertility and Reproductive Health Concerns, Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), STD Diagnoses, Grief, Loss, Relationship issues, Sexual Abuse and Assault, Boundaries, Assertiveness and Communication, Self Esteem, and Pornography/Sexual Addiction. We are a faith-based, safe, and confidential place, providing professional counseling regardless of age, race, or religion.
Located in Nashville, TN our licensed counselors see Individuals, Couples, and Families. We offer counseling for: Pregnancy Loss (Miscarriage, Infant Death, Stillbirth, Failed IVF, Abortion), Adoption-Related Loss, Support for Infertility and Reproductive Health Concerns, Perinatal Mood & Anxiety Disorders (PMADs), STD Diagnoses, Grief, Loss, Relationship issues, Sexual Abuse and Assault, Boundaries, Assertiveness and Communication, Self Esteem, and Pornography/Sexual Addiction. We are a faith-based, safe, and confidential place, providing professional counseling regardless of age, race, or religion.
(615) 551-3311 View (615) 551-3311
Photo of Jessica Lee Blackwell, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jessica Lee Blackwell
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I want you to be able to live life on your terms, not on the terms of your anxiety, trauma, or depression. I received my master’s degree with academic distinction in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University in 2023. Before pursuing my mental health passion, I was a professional violinist, and I have a deep understanding of the challenges that come with the pursuit of an intensive career, as well as an appreciation for the amount of pressure and anxiety job performance can create. Working through tendencies like overthinking or perfectionism can both enhance your performance and overall quality of life.
I want you to be able to live life on your terms, not on the terms of your anxiety, trauma, or depression. I received my master’s degree with academic distinction in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University in 2023. Before pursuing my mental health passion, I was a professional violinist, and I have a deep understanding of the challenges that come with the pursuit of an intensive career, as well as an appreciation for the amount of pressure and anxiety job performance can create. Working through tendencies like overthinking or perfectionism can both enhance your performance and overall quality of life.
(615) 471-7335 View (615) 471-7335
Photo of Ginamarie Guarino, LMHC, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ginamarie Guarino
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Build the life that you want for yourself. No matter the situation, you can heal and become who you're meant to be. Whether you are seeking healing, answers, change, or someone to talk to, I am here for you. You will feel safe to discuss what is on your mind and discover your path toward healing. Discover who you are, find your worth, and build an identity that makes you feel confident and proud because you have a voice that deserves to be heard. Feeling helpless is painful, but you have power to make positive changes in your life. Let's discover what you need to quiet your negative self-talk and become the best version of yourself.
Build the life that you want for yourself. No matter the situation, you can heal and become who you're meant to be. Whether you are seeking healing, answers, change, or someone to talk to, I am here for you. You will feel safe to discuss what is on your mind and discover your path toward healing. Discover who you are, find your worth, and build an identity that makes you feel confident and proud because you have a voice that deserves to be heard. Feeling helpless is painful, but you have power to make positive changes in your life. Let's discover what you need to quiet your negative self-talk and become the best version of yourself.
(615) 471-6736 View (615) 471-6736
1
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.