Photo of Polaris Partners Counseling and Consulting, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80525, CO
Polaris Partners Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
We provide individual, family, and couples therapy in private practice throughout the Northern Colorado.
Currently accepting new telehealth clients, Northern CO, Denver, Western Slope (CCHA, COAccess, RMHP) We at Polaris Partners help people chart a course to their full potential. Our staff has a breadth of training and expertise to help clients navigate life's obstacles and we build strong relationships to reach clients and connect them with sources of support and strength. We strive to be the community's first choice in collaborating with clients and their communities to help clients get their bearings and return to their true path. We look forward to partnering with you in the next steps of your journey toward optimum mental health.
We provide individual, family, and couples therapy in private practice throughout the Northern Colorado.
Currently accepting new telehealth clients, Northern CO, Denver, Western Slope (CCHA, COAccess, RMHP) We at Polaris Partners help people chart a course to their full potential. Our staff has a breadth of training and expertise to help clients navigate life's obstacles and we build strong relationships to reach clients and connect them with sources of support and strength. We strive to be the community's first choice in collaborating with clients and their communities to help clients get their bearings and return to their true path. We look forward to partnering with you in the next steps of your journey toward optimum mental health.
(970) 579-4130 View (970) 579-4130
Photo of LightHouse WholeHealth Therapy Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80525, CO
LightHouse WholeHealth Therapy Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MFT
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
LightHouse WholeHealth offers modalities that include Marriage and Family Systems, EMDR, TF-CBT (trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy), CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), Behavioral, Attachment and Emotion Focused Therapy, Anger Management, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma Systems Therapy, Play Therapy & groups.
Jennifer is the founder and co-owner of LIghtHouse WholeHealth Therapy Center. We accept insurance, FSA/HSA, credit cards and cash. We are currently taking new patients! She started practicing in 2009. Before this she was in education for 12 years. She specializes in trauma, individual, couples and family therapy. She treats individuals, children, couples and families. She has experience working in outpatient, crisis intervention, foster, adoption, family systems, premarital, marital, perinatal and postnatal and intensive in home therapy and group therapy. www.lhhealththerapies.com.
LightHouse WholeHealth offers modalities that include Marriage and Family Systems, EMDR, TF-CBT (trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy), CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy), Behavioral, Attachment and Emotion Focused Therapy, Anger Management, Solution Focused Therapy, Trauma Systems Therapy, Play Therapy & groups.
Jennifer is the founder and co-owner of LIghtHouse WholeHealth Therapy Center. We accept insurance, FSA/HSA, credit cards and cash. We are currently taking new patients! She started practicing in 2009. Before this she was in education for 12 years. She specializes in trauma, individual, couples and family therapy. She treats individuals, children, couples and families. She has experience working in outpatient, crisis intervention, foster, adoption, family systems, premarital, marital, perinatal and postnatal and intensive in home therapy and group therapy. www.lhhealththerapies.com.
(970) 592-5832 View (970) 592-5832
Photo of Mackenzie Howshar, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80525, CO
Mackenzie Howshar
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PACT-I, CAAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Our work will be informed by the Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy (PACT - Level 1), the Gottman Method (Level 2), family systems theory, parts work, EMDR, and trauma-informed approaches.
Are you feeling stuck, disconnected, depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed in life or with your relationships? Are you having trouble knowing and communicating your thoughts and feelings to your partner? Whether you find yourself facing a dilemma or wanting more out of life, navigating these moments becomes easier when we understand and deepen our relationships with our selves, our emotional experiences, and with others. Through person-centered and experiential interventions, I can help you move into a place of safety, confidence, and healing so that you can feel like yourself again and be present for yourself and with loved ones.
Our work will be informed by the Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy (PACT - Level 1), the Gottman Method (Level 2), family systems theory, parts work, EMDR, and trauma-informed approaches.
Are you feeling stuck, disconnected, depressed, anxious, or overwhelmed in life or with your relationships? Are you having trouble knowing and communicating your thoughts and feelings to your partner? Whether you find yourself facing a dilemma or wanting more out of life, navigating these moments becomes easier when we understand and deepen our relationships with our selves, our emotional experiences, and with others. Through person-centered and experiential interventions, I can help you move into a place of safety, confidence, and healing so that you can feel like yourself again and be present for yourself and with loved ones.
(970) 315-6733 View (970) 315-6733
Photo of Keith G Foster, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80525, CO
Keith G Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I see many people who wrestle with depression and anxiety, much of which has its roots in painful family relationships.
Everyone has a story. I want to hear your story, whether you are depressed and suicidal, have parenting challenges, are struggling with relationship boundaries, or finding where you fit in this world. I believe in you as a human being, a relational being, a spiritual being. Professionally, I am a seasoned therapist with almost 30 years of experience, including over a decade of which involved assessing people in crisis, supporting those struggling with medical issues, and connecting people to community resources. Personally, I am an adoptive parent of five children.
I see many people who wrestle with depression and anxiety, much of which has its roots in painful family relationships.
Everyone has a story. I want to hear your story, whether you are depressed and suicidal, have parenting challenges, are struggling with relationship boundaries, or finding where you fit in this world. I believe in you as a human being, a relational being, a spiritual being. Professionally, I am a seasoned therapist with almost 30 years of experience, including over a decade of which involved assessing people in crisis, supporting those struggling with medical issues, and connecting people to community resources. Personally, I am an adoptive parent of five children.
(970) 533-3084 View (970) 533-3084
Photo of Diane Bauer, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in 80525, CO
Diane Bauer
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS, MFTC, PACT II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
I start with a family systems approach, believing all relationships are interconnected and impact who we are.
If there is anything you should know about me, it is that I am passionate about my work as a psychotherapist. I love working with clients toward the changes they want to make in their lives. Therapy takes courage and I am humbled by that. It is an honor to share in people's lives. Therapy is a collaborative process. The most critical ingredient to successful therapy is the relationship you build with your therapist. If you don't feel comfortable, it will be difficult to share your deepest emotions and vulnerabilities.
I start with a family systems approach, believing all relationships are interconnected and impact who we are.
If there is anything you should know about me, it is that I am passionate about my work as a psychotherapist. I love working with clients toward the changes they want to make in their lives. Therapy takes courage and I am humbled by that. It is an honor to share in people's lives. Therapy is a collaborative process. The most critical ingredient to successful therapy is the relationship you build with your therapist. If you don't feel comfortable, it will be difficult to share your deepest emotions and vulnerabilities.
(970) 999-1354 View (970) 999-1354
Photo of Alison Hartman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80525, CO
Alison Hartman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525  (Online Only)
Taking the time and investing in yourself will have a positive impact on your life and family.
Bringing home a new baby is a time filled with joy and happiness, but for some reason you don't feel that way, and find yourself feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, irritated, your mind is filled with scary thoughts, or worry that something bad may happen to your baby. Maybe you haven't shared these thoughts with anyone else for fear of judgment or that someone will take your baby away or think you're not fit to be a mother. All of these unwanted thoughts and feelings leave you wondering if you will ever feel yourself again and find relief.
Taking the time and investing in yourself will have a positive impact on your life and family.
Bringing home a new baby is a time filled with joy and happiness, but for some reason you don't feel that way, and find yourself feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, irritated, your mind is filled with scary thoughts, or worry that something bad may happen to your baby. Maybe you haven't shared these thoughts with anyone else for fear of judgment or that someone will take your baby away or think you're not fit to be a mother. All of these unwanted thoughts and feelings leave you wondering if you will ever feel yourself again and find relief.
(970) 548-8967 View (970) 548-8967
Photo of Poling Chan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80525, CO
Poling Chan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
While I believe in tailoring treatment to each individual's needs, my practice originates from my extensive training in gestalt therapy, family systems, somatic experiencing and EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing).
My practice focuses on integrating one's body and mind awareness. I work well with clients who are interested in building their resilience as opposed to examining pathologies. I believe you have the innate ability to heal in a safe and nurturing environment.
While I believe in tailoring treatment to each individual's needs, my practice originates from my extensive training in gestalt therapy, family systems, somatic experiencing and EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing).
My practice focuses on integrating one's body and mind awareness. I work well with clients who are interested in building their resilience as opposed to examining pathologies. I believe you have the innate ability to heal in a safe and nurturing environment.
(970) 279-4374 View (970) 279-4374
Photo of Colleen Nelson, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80525, CO
Colleen Nelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Welcome! I'm Colleen Nelson, MA, LPC, EMDR - a Colorado Licensed Professional Counselor and mother of two. With a decade in practice and experience at Children's Hospital, I specialize in adolescent challenges like school refusal, anxiety, and tech dependency, using direct therapy and somatic techniques for emotional and behavioral growth. Trained in EMDR and experienced in various issues, I aim for family healing. Understanding the need for a supportive environment, I strive to meet adolescents where they are, fostering open communication and growth. Let's embark on a journey to unlock potential and foster well-being together.
Welcome! I'm Colleen Nelson, MA, LPC, EMDR - a Colorado Licensed Professional Counselor and mother of two. With a decade in practice and experience at Children's Hospital, I specialize in adolescent challenges like school refusal, anxiety, and tech dependency, using direct therapy and somatic techniques for emotional and behavioral growth. Trained in EMDR and experienced in various issues, I aim for family healing. Understanding the need for a supportive environment, I strive to meet adolescents where they are, fostering open communication and growth. Let's embark on a journey to unlock potential and foster well-being together.
(970) 364-1855 View (970) 364-1855
Photo of Michele Bates, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80525, CO
Michele Bates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about creating a safe space to allow vulnerability and openness, which help facilitate growth and change for my clients. I enjoy working with individuals age 10 and up, and also enjoy working with couples and families. I am experienced with working with a wide range of presenting problems including (but not limited to!) trauma, anxiety, life transitions, substance use, chronic illnesses, grief and loss, couples and family issues. I also am an ally, and proud to cultivate a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community.
I am passionate about creating a safe space to allow vulnerability and openness, which help facilitate growth and change for my clients. I enjoy working with individuals age 10 and up, and also enjoy working with couples and families. I am experienced with working with a wide range of presenting problems including (but not limited to!) trauma, anxiety, life transitions, substance use, chronic illnesses, grief and loss, couples and family issues. I also am an ally, and proud to cultivate a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community.
(970) 550-1675 View (970) 550-1675
Photo of Cierra Martino, Counselor in 80525, CO
Cierra Martino
Counselor, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
As a culturally competent therapist, I understand that each person has unique world views, based on their experiences within their family of origin and within themselves, and in relationships.
Let’s work together to lighten your human experience. It is courageous to admit when you need a bit of help. The process of therapy is collaborative, and we are in this together. Progress in life starts with clarity in your mental health and wellbeing. My motivation as a therapist is to offer you a safe space to share and navigate life’s challenges. Together we will tailor where you want to take your journey and how you want to get there. Life transitions, relationships and self-work can feel heavy and isolating. Sessions are client-focused, in a confidential environment where you are encouraged to express and process all emotions.
As a culturally competent therapist, I understand that each person has unique world views, based on their experiences within their family of origin and within themselves, and in relationships.
Let’s work together to lighten your human experience. It is courageous to admit when you need a bit of help. The process of therapy is collaborative, and we are in this together. Progress in life starts with clarity in your mental health and wellbeing. My motivation as a therapist is to offer you a safe space to share and navigate life’s challenges. Together we will tailor where you want to take your journey and how you want to get there. Life transitions, relationships and self-work can feel heavy and isolating. Sessions are client-focused, in a confidential environment where you are encouraged to express and process all emotions.
(970) 408-3188 x4 View (970) 408-3188 x4
Photo of Kari Weiler, Marriage & Family Therapist in 80525, CO
Kari Weiler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Are you struggling with your partner? Does your family feel out of control? Do you wonder how life became so unmanageable? I work with people struggling just like you. Using an attachment focused therapy, we'll work together to create secure connections and reduce anxiety. This approach has profound effects for couples with relationship and sexuality issues, social anxiety, recovering from trauma, or reengineering their life. I work with families, parents, and children recovering from trauma, illness, grief, loss, moving, and divorce.
Are you struggling with your partner? Does your family feel out of control? Do you wonder how life became so unmanageable? I work with people struggling just like you. Using an attachment focused therapy, we'll work together to create secure connections and reduce anxiety. This approach has profound effects for couples with relationship and sexuality issues, social anxiety, recovering from trauma, or reengineering their life. I work with families, parents, and children recovering from trauma, illness, grief, loss, moving, and divorce.
(303) 622-5946 View (303) 622-5946
Photo of Sofia Gentry at Mindful Indigo, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80525, CO
Sofia Gentry at Mindful Indigo, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW, CTP
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Additionally, I support clients struggling with depression, ADHD, substance use, eating disorders, mood & personality disorders, grief & loss, family conflict and women’s issues.
If you feel disconnected from yourself and others, or find it difficult to live each moment fully, you may be carrying unresolved trauma. You are worthy of feeling whole and I'm here to support you in reconnecting with your authentic self. Together, we can develop an inner protector for your wounded inner child. This looks like developing a practice of self-compassion, boosting mindfulness, embracing vulnerability and imperfection, responding to challenging emotions, healing attachment wounds, and integrating traumatic experiences. I sincerely believe in our capacity to transform your trauma into post-traumatic growth.
Additionally, I support clients struggling with depression, ADHD, substance use, eating disorders, mood & personality disorders, grief & loss, family conflict and women’s issues.
If you feel disconnected from yourself and others, or find it difficult to live each moment fully, you may be carrying unresolved trauma. You are worthy of feeling whole and I'm here to support you in reconnecting with your authentic self. Together, we can develop an inner protector for your wounded inner child. This looks like developing a practice of self-compassion, boosting mindfulness, embracing vulnerability and imperfection, responding to challenging emotions, healing attachment wounds, and integrating traumatic experiences. I sincerely believe in our capacity to transform your trauma into post-traumatic growth.
(970) 676-2414 View (970) 676-2414
Photo of Kelsey Edwards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80525, CO
Kelsey Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, SWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
She completed her Bachelor of Social Work Degree at Colorado State University and completed specialized courses focused on families through the Colorado School for Family Therapy.
Kelsey believes that people are operating in the world the best they can with the tools that they have. Everyone needs a safe and loving environment to build on those tools and reach a place of peace and prosperity for themselves and for their families. Kelsey strives to empower individuals to enhance their lives and create meaningful change that will have a lifelong impact. Kelsey has extensive experience working with individuals on their healing journey, couples looking to rebuild their relationships and families who have their heart set on finding peace and restoration.
She completed her Bachelor of Social Work Degree at Colorado State University and completed specialized courses focused on families through the Colorado School for Family Therapy.
Kelsey believes that people are operating in the world the best they can with the tools that they have. Everyone needs a safe and loving environment to build on those tools and reach a place of peace and prosperity for themselves and for their families. Kelsey strives to empower individuals to enhance their lives and create meaningful change that will have a lifelong impact. Kelsey has extensive experience working with individuals on their healing journey, couples looking to rebuild their relationships and families who have their heart set on finding peace and restoration.
(970) 293-3694 View (970) 293-3694
Photo of Anne Roche, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in 80525, CO
Anne Roche
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MS, NCC, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Raising children often comes with unexpected challenges. In her practice, Anne Roche utilizes a Family Systems Approach in combination with techniques from Applied Behavior Analysis in order to improve family functioning. She assists children with regulating their emotions, modifying behaviors, and improving communication skills. Typically, this also involves providing parents with the tools they need to meet their child’s unique needs. Anne’s goal is to offer a safe and nonjudgmental space where all family members can reach their fullest potential.
Raising children often comes with unexpected challenges. In her practice, Anne Roche utilizes a Family Systems Approach in combination with techniques from Applied Behavior Analysis in order to improve family functioning. She assists children with regulating their emotions, modifying behaviors, and improving communication skills. Typically, this also involves providing parents with the tools they need to meet their child’s unique needs. Anne’s goal is to offer a safe and nonjudgmental space where all family members can reach their fullest potential.
(970) 614-7561 View (970) 614-7561
Photo of Alana O'Brien, Pre-Licensed Professional in 80525, CO
Alana O'Brien
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
“I have memories that still haunt me.” “I no longer feel close to my partner.” “My family isn’t like other families.” “I don’t know what my beliefs are.” I’m here for you. My name is Alana, and I am ready to help those seeking to make a change. I am passionate about working with people who want to become the best version of themselves. I am honored to meet you where you are, and help you get to where you want to be.
“I have memories that still haunt me.” “I no longer feel close to my partner.” “My family isn’t like other families.” “I don’t know what my beliefs are.” I’m here for you. My name is Alana, and I am ready to help those seeking to make a change. I am passionate about working with people who want to become the best version of themselves. I am honored to meet you where you are, and help you get to where you want to be.
(970) 519-5089 View (970) 519-5089
Photo of Chrystal Dellinger, Licensed Professional Counselor in 80525, CO
Chrystal Dellinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
It also incorporates the body, home and family, social networks and the societal system that we live in.
I work with a wide range of clients and issues, however, the clients that benefit the most from working with me are ones who are looking for a partner in therapy. I believe that every person is the most accurate resource to understanding themselves and their world view. I would like to pair my knowledge about mental health with your lived experience and to help you create your own solutions. I provide an inclusive and non-judgmental space for all that walk through my door. Diversity is what creates beauty in this world and as such I strive for cultural sensitivity, body positivity, LGBTQIA+ rights and neurodivergence affirming.
It also incorporates the body, home and family, social networks and the societal system that we live in.
I work with a wide range of clients and issues, however, the clients that benefit the most from working with me are ones who are looking for a partner in therapy. I believe that every person is the most accurate resource to understanding themselves and their world view. I would like to pair my knowledge about mental health with your lived experience and to help you create your own solutions. I provide an inclusive and non-judgmental space for all that walk through my door. Diversity is what creates beauty in this world and as such I strive for cultural sensitivity, body positivity, LGBTQIA+ rights and neurodivergence affirming.
(970) 431-7916 View (970) 431-7916
Photo of Peyton Hottle, Pre-Licensed Professional in 80525, CO
Peyton Hottle
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
“My partner and I feel worlds apart.” “I am struggling setting boundaries in my relationships.” “I don’t feel like my family is as close as we used to be.” “I’m tired of having the same argument.” I’d love to help you. My name is Peyton and I am passionate about helping people be the best version of themselves and living life with deeper and more meaningful connections.
“My partner and I feel worlds apart.” “I am struggling setting boundaries in my relationships.” “I don’t feel like my family is as close as we used to be.” “I’m tired of having the same argument.” I’d love to help you. My name is Peyton and I am passionate about helping people be the best version of themselves and living life with deeper and more meaningful connections.
(970) 594-9452 View (970) 594-9452
Photo of Mallory Hislar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80525, CO
Mallory Hislar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Collins, CO 80525
If you have ever experienced sexual assault, abuse, the loss of a loved one, or a toxic relationship you are already a survivor. You might feel really lost and alone, but you don't have to be. Oftentimes when people have been through significant traumas they continue through life thinking they will be fine, but they are continuously haunted by anxiety and depression. If you have experienced any of these traumatic situations you likely have also experienced narcissistic abuse within your family. This kind of trauma and abuse can make it difficult to function in healthy relationships as an adult. -now offering EMDR
If you have ever experienced sexual assault, abuse, the loss of a loved one, or a toxic relationship you are already a survivor. You might feel really lost and alone, but you don't have to be. Oftentimes when people have been through significant traumas they continue through life thinking they will be fine, but they are continuously haunted by anxiety and depression. If you have experienced any of these traumatic situations you likely have also experienced narcissistic abuse within your family. This kind of trauma and abuse can make it difficult to function in healthy relationships as an adult. -now offering EMDR
(970) 788-2781 View (970) 788-2781
Photo of Lisa Cline, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 80525, CO
Lisa Cline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
As we approach the holiday season, many people will experience a stark realization of family conflict, loneliness or stressful demands. I am happy to have the availability to support you in coping and moving beyond coping, towards reclaiming your sense of groundedness during this time. I work with teens, families and adults in making sense of painful experiences and moving beyond suffering into more joyful living. I am well versed in treating concerns such as loneliness, perfectionism, poor self esteem, conflictual relationships, and compulsive behaviors (suicidal behaviors, self harm, eating disordered behavior, substance misuse).
As we approach the holiday season, many people will experience a stark realization of family conflict, loneliness or stressful demands. I am happy to have the availability to support you in coping and moving beyond coping, towards reclaiming your sense of groundedness during this time. I work with teens, families and adults in making sense of painful experiences and moving beyond suffering into more joyful living. I am well versed in treating concerns such as loneliness, perfectionism, poor self esteem, conflictual relationships, and compulsive behaviors (suicidal behaviors, self harm, eating disordered behavior, substance misuse).
(970) 458-7883 View (970) 458-7883
Photo of Jeff See, Pre-Licensed Professional in 80525, CO
Jeff See
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Collins, CO 80525
Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and other techniques, I offer a safe space for people navigating various challenges they may be facing like depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, school issues, relationships and family issues.
Choosing to seek therapy takes strength and courage, and you are already showing that within you. I believe that you are the expert of your own story and hope to treat you as such, while providing some additional insight that could be helpful to you. I value respect, honesty, and vulnerability in the work I do.
Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and other techniques, I offer a safe space for people navigating various challenges they may be facing like depression, anxiety, self-esteem issues, school issues, relationships and family issues.
Choosing to seek therapy takes strength and courage, and you are already showing that within you. I believe that you are the expert of your own story and hope to treat you as such, while providing some additional insight that could be helpful to you. I value respect, honesty, and vulnerability in the work I do.
(970) 592-5850 View (970) 592-5850
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.