Photo of Mohammed Sufiyan Kagzi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91403, CA
Mohammed Sufiyan Kagzi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I have a deep understanding of the many factors that contribute to a person's mental health, such as unique life experiences, cultural values, and family dynamics.
I am a licensed psychotherapist with extensive experience working with teenagers, young adults, and families. Using an integrative therapeutic approach including CBT, DBT, trauma-informed, and other modalities, I treat a wide range of mental health issues, including Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, and other issues. As a therapist, I am committed to providing a safe, caring, and accepting environment that encourages healing and growth.
I have a deep understanding of the many factors that contribute to a person's mental health, such as unique life experiences, cultural values, and family dynamics.
I am a licensed psychotherapist with extensive experience working with teenagers, young adults, and families. Using an integrative therapeutic approach including CBT, DBT, trauma-informed, and other modalities, I treat a wide range of mental health issues, including Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, low self-esteem, and other issues. As a therapist, I am committed to providing a safe, caring, and accepting environment that encourages healing and growth.
(747) 269-6681 View (747) 269-6681
Photo of Lesley Lasker, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Lesley Lasker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
My Associates are skilled therapists who have completed a Masters Program in Marriage and Family Therapy and are obtaining the required hours of therapeutic services under the supervision of a Licensed Therapist.
I realize how difficult choosing a therapist can be. As in life, there are many choices and factors weighing heavily on your decision. I offer my clients a relationship where you can safely explore the struggles and issues that are affecting the most important aspects of your life; your relationships, your career and yourself. My style is straightforward and direct while maintaining compassion and respect for my clients. I provide solace, a calming voice and peace when you may need it most.
My Associates are skilled therapists who have completed a Masters Program in Marriage and Family Therapy and are obtaining the required hours of therapeutic services under the supervision of a Licensed Therapist.
I realize how difficult choosing a therapist can be. As in life, there are many choices and factors weighing heavily on your decision. I offer my clients a relationship where you can safely explore the struggles and issues that are affecting the most important aspects of your life; your relationships, your career and yourself. My style is straightforward and direct while maintaining compassion and respect for my clients. I provide solace, a calming voice and peace when you may need it most.
(818) 850-3788 View (818) 850-3788
Photo of Jaelline Jaffe, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Jaelline Jaffe
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
You may be feeling stuck, discouraged, angry or depressed about your life or relationships. Maybe there's a medical condition with emotional effects on you or others. Your family life or parenting situation may be difficult. Maybe you're having trouble with co-workers or siblings. Or you may have just lost your way and don't know where you are going or how to get there ... wherever "there" might be. Whether you believe we choose our own circumstances, that there is a "master plan," or that sometimes SHTUFF happens, you still have reactions, feelings, and decisions to make about "what next?" I can help.
You may be feeling stuck, discouraged, angry or depressed about your life or relationships. Maybe there's a medical condition with emotional effects on you or others. Your family life or parenting situation may be difficult. Maybe you're having trouble with co-workers or siblings. Or you may have just lost your way and don't know where you are going or how to get there ... wherever "there" might be. Whether you believe we choose our own circumstances, that there is a "master plan," or that sometimes SHTUFF happens, you still have reactions, feelings, and decisions to make about "what next?" I can help.
(818) 946-0116 View (818) 946-0116
Photo of Dr. Kelly A Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Dr. Kelly A Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
In addition to individual and couples/family therapy, I specialize in the treatment of Therapists, Psychologists, and Physicians who desire mental health treatment.
Welcome! I want you to know that engaging in counseling is not an admission of failure. On the contrary, it is a bold statement of growth and strength. I specialize in Borderline Personality Disorder, Couples and Marital Counseling, and Trauma. Most of my clients find me easy to talk to and appreciate my practical and relational approach to treatment. Call for a free consultation - ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I accept Private Payors, Cigna, Blue Shield of California, Magellan, United Healthcare, and Optum Health Insurance.
In addition to individual and couples/family therapy, I specialize in the treatment of Therapists, Psychologists, and Physicians who desire mental health treatment.
Welcome! I want you to know that engaging in counseling is not an admission of failure. On the contrary, it is a bold statement of growth and strength. I specialize in Borderline Personality Disorder, Couples and Marital Counseling, and Trauma. Most of my clients find me easy to talk to and appreciate my practical and relational approach to treatment. Call for a free consultation - ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I accept Private Payors, Cigna, Blue Shield of California, Magellan, United Healthcare, and Optum Health Insurance.
(818) 287-0456 View (818) 287-0456
Photo of Amanda Sisco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91403, CA
Amanda Sisco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
When it comes to dealing with pain or struggle in your life, you are not alone. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, family issues, anger or the lingering impacts of trauma, it’s never too late to make a significant change to your mental wellbeing. I provide therapy for people of all ages to help them cope with life stress, break free from negative patterns of thinking and acting, and become the best possible versions of themselves. Utilizing various therapeutic techniques—CBT, Mindfulness, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and others—I will work with you to better understand your issues and help you reach your goal.
When it comes to dealing with pain or struggle in your life, you are not alone. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, depression, family issues, anger or the lingering impacts of trauma, it’s never too late to make a significant change to your mental wellbeing. I provide therapy for people of all ages to help them cope with life stress, break free from negative patterns of thinking and acting, and become the best possible versions of themselves. Utilizing various therapeutic techniques—CBT, Mindfulness, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, and others—I will work with you to better understand your issues and help you reach your goal.
(747) 281-3792 View (747) 281-3792
Photo of Erika Carter, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Erika Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I integrate techniques from CBT, Gestalt, Family Systems, Art Therapy, Solution-focused, and other therapeutic approaches to provide you with the tools you need to grow, persevere, and thrive.
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel alone carrying the weight of your trauma, I am here to help you begin your journey towards healing. I provide treatment for children and their families that experience depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, autism spectrum, parenting skills, and other mental health issues. I approach each of my clients with a kind, compassionate, and caring approach to form a genuine therapeutic bond where you will feel comfortable, be understood, and have hope knowing you do not have to carry the burden alone.
I integrate techniques from CBT, Gestalt, Family Systems, Art Therapy, Solution-focused, and other therapeutic approaches to provide you with the tools you need to grow, persevere, and thrive.
Whether you are feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or just feel alone carrying the weight of your trauma, I am here to help you begin your journey towards healing. I provide treatment for children and their families that experience depression, anxiety, disruptive behaviors, trauma, low self-esteem, grief, autism spectrum, parenting skills, and other mental health issues. I approach each of my clients with a kind, compassionate, and caring approach to form a genuine therapeutic bond where you will feel comfortable, be understood, and have hope knowing you do not have to carry the burden alone.
(424) 381-0277 View (424) 381-0277
Photo of Inesa Rchtouni, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Inesa Rchtouni
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
At Open Expressions, we know that in working with an individual, it is vital to gain a comprehensive understanding of the individual’s family as well as their broader socioecological circumstances.
Seeking treatment is difficult as the complexities of our emotional turmoil often makes it challenging to reach out for help. As the founder of Open Expressions, I believe that any therapeutic process commences with a safe and welcoming environment to those who are ready to begin their journey towards self-fulfillment in both their personal and professional lives.
At Open Expressions, we know that in working with an individual, it is vital to gain a comprehensive understanding of the individual’s family as well as their broader socioecological circumstances.
Seeking treatment is difficult as the complexities of our emotional turmoil often makes it challenging to reach out for help. As the founder of Open Expressions, I believe that any therapeutic process commences with a safe and welcoming environment to those who are ready to begin their journey towards self-fulfillment in both their personal and professional lives.
(818) 390-9076 View (818) 390-9076
Photo of Monica Weil, Psychologist in 91403, CA
Monica Weil
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Finding your true purpose and "meaning to life" is a focus of my therapeutic techniques. It may be necessary to assist you with your eating disorders, addictive disorders, sexual dysfunction and trauma before you can find your purpose. Often times a family or couple may need to be treated together. We can discuss this when you call. There is hope, joy and meaning for you. Please feel free to call me for a free telephone consultation. Dr. Weil
Finding your true purpose and "meaning to life" is a focus of my therapeutic techniques. It may be necessary to assist you with your eating disorders, addictive disorders, sexual dysfunction and trauma before you can find your purpose. Often times a family or couple may need to be treated together. We can discuss this when you call. There is hope, joy and meaning for you. Please feel free to call me for a free telephone consultation. Dr. Weil
(818) 578-4781 View (818) 578-4781
Photo of Gisoo Mohandesi, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Gisoo Mohandesi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I am Gisoo Mohandesi, a licensed marriage and family therapist (License 108751), with over (10 years) of professional experience. As a professional, who is passionate about helping individuals, children, adolescents, and families, I believe that the way to help my clients cultivate well-being, is to understand them as human beings and not just their struggles.
I am Gisoo Mohandesi, a licensed marriage and family therapist (License 108751), with over (10 years) of professional experience. As a professional, who is passionate about helping individuals, children, adolescents, and families, I believe that the way to help my clients cultivate well-being, is to understand them as human beings and not just their struggles.
(747) 319-4223 View (747) 319-4223
Photo of Hillside Wellness Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Hillside Wellness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
At Hillside Wellness Center we are dedicated to provide affordable inclusive mental health services to individuals, couples, and families who reside in Sherman Oaks and the surrounding areas. We offer Individual therapy ; Family Therapy; Couples therapy; and Groups.
At Hillside Wellness Center we are dedicated to provide affordable inclusive mental health services to individuals, couples, and families who reside in Sherman Oaks and the surrounding areas. We offer Individual therapy ; Family Therapy; Couples therapy; and Groups.
(818) 532-5195 View (818) 532-5195
Photo of Rakhee Alston, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Rakhee Alston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
Together I can help you and your family achieve your goals and live a happier life.
Feeling hopeless? As a bilingual therapist (English/Spanish), I work with individuals who are troubled by relationship discord, trauma, depression and loss, or anxiety. Therapy is a journey toward growth, personal fulfillment and greater understanding of ourselves and those around us. My work involves helping individuals who are dealing with life's challenging issues. I also work closely with parents to help them gain tools they need to feel confident and successful.
Together I can help you and your family achieve your goals and live a happier life.
Feeling hopeless? As a bilingual therapist (English/Spanish), I work with individuals who are troubled by relationship discord, trauma, depression and loss, or anxiety. Therapy is a journey toward growth, personal fulfillment and greater understanding of ourselves and those around us. My work involves helping individuals who are dealing with life's challenging issues. I also work closely with parents to help them gain tools they need to feel confident and successful.
(818) 214-8261 View (818) 214-8261
Photo of Randé Dorn, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Randé Dorn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MFA
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Your partner and family deserve the best of you.
You are a multicultural or bi-racial artist, partner, parent. A creative who feels the world deeply, but doesn’t feel the world sees or feels them. You want to be the best partner and parent, but you sometimes stumble in your approach. Difficult conversations escalate, and race, identity, and culture, have become hot buttons in your home. I help you regain your purpose and place in the family by increasing your communication skills, reigniting intimacy, and strengthening your ability to provide the love and affection you long to give.
Your partner and family deserve the best of you.
You are a multicultural or bi-racial artist, partner, parent. A creative who feels the world deeply, but doesn’t feel the world sees or feels them. You want to be the best partner and parent, but you sometimes stumble in your approach. Difficult conversations escalate, and race, identity, and culture, have become hot buttons in your home. I help you regain your purpose and place in the family by increasing your communication skills, reigniting intimacy, and strengthening your ability to provide the love and affection you long to give.
(818) 975-3484 View (818) 975-3484
Photo of Annette Hymes, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Annette Hymes
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
My name is Annette Hymes. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 25 years of experience. I have experience working with adults, couples and individuals dealing with anxiety disorder, depression, stress reduction, bereavement and loss and relationship issues. I realize that each person has unique needs, therefore my treatment plan for changes, positive growth and problem solving skills are carefully planned for each individual. Together we work to make therapy a beneficial and worthwhile experience. Together we also develop tools to help solve problems, improve relationships and change behavior to improve your life. Please feel free to call me to discuss any questions.
My name is Annette Hymes. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 25 years of experience. I have experience working with adults, couples and individuals dealing with anxiety disorder, depression, stress reduction, bereavement and loss and relationship issues. I realize that each person has unique needs, therefore my treatment plan for changes, positive growth and problem solving skills are carefully planned for each individual. Together we work to make therapy a beneficial and worthwhile experience. Together we also develop tools to help solve problems, improve relationships and change behavior to improve your life. Please feel free to call me to discuss any questions.
(818) 963-9192 View (818) 963-9192
Photo of Ani Sargsyan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91403, CA
Ani Sargsyan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I have experience providing individual, family and play therapy, assessing individual and family needs for support services and case management.
You may choose to seek therapy during times of emotional pain or when you wish to merely grow. Whatever your reasoning is, I can provide ways for you to work through various issues, learn about feelings, understand the different patterns of thinking by gaining perspective on past/current events in your life, provide support with relationships, processing past/current trauma and learning positive coping tools to meet your needs by providing the highest quality care.
I have experience providing individual, family and play therapy, assessing individual and family needs for support services and case management.
You may choose to seek therapy during times of emotional pain or when you wish to merely grow. Whatever your reasoning is, I can provide ways for you to work through various issues, learn about feelings, understand the different patterns of thinking by gaining perspective on past/current events in your life, provide support with relationships, processing past/current trauma and learning positive coping tools to meet your needs by providing the highest quality care.
(323) 968-6412 View (323) 968-6412
Photo of Dianne Stern Gorsey, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Dianne Stern Gorsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
I am bilingual Spanish and have taught parenting classes in both languages helping parents improve their family dynamic.
Feeling sad, mad, anxious, confused, overwhelmed, lonely, stuck? In my private practice I see individuals and couples dealing with depression and anxiety, life transitions including aging, retirement, illness, divorce, death of spouse, empty nest and career transitions as well as domestic violence, and parenting. I utilize a variety of theoretical orientations and interventions all tailored to the needs of each client. I am California certified to see survivors of domestic abuse. If you are ready to make changes in your life, therapy might be the conduit through which you can discover alternatives and improve your life.
I am bilingual Spanish and have taught parenting classes in both languages helping parents improve their family dynamic.
Feeling sad, mad, anxious, confused, overwhelmed, lonely, stuck? In my private practice I see individuals and couples dealing with depression and anxiety, life transitions including aging, retirement, illness, divorce, death of spouse, empty nest and career transitions as well as domestic violence, and parenting. I utilize a variety of theoretical orientations and interventions all tailored to the needs of each client. I am California certified to see survivors of domestic abuse. If you are ready to make changes in your life, therapy might be the conduit through which you can discover alternatives and improve your life.
(818) 918-3211 View (818) 918-3211
Photo of Patrycja Anna Malinowska, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91403, CA
Patrycja Anna Malinowska
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
My clinical experience includes treatment of culturally and socio-economically diverse adult population with range of diagnosis in outpatient and inpatient settings. My treatment experience includes individuals, couples, family, and groups utilizing Brief Therapy, Crisis Intervention, Structural Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR. Areas addressed in private practice consists of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, adjustment disorders, personality disorders, self esteem, body image, family conflicts, and bereavement.
My clinical experience includes treatment of culturally and socio-economically diverse adult population with range of diagnosis in outpatient and inpatient settings. My treatment experience includes individuals, couples, family, and groups utilizing Brief Therapy, Crisis Intervention, Structural Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR. Areas addressed in private practice consists of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, adjustment disorders, personality disorders, self esteem, body image, family conflicts, and bereavement.
(323) 745-2451 View (323) 745-2451
Photo of Dr. Camille Ortanez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91403, CA
Dr. Camille Ortanez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
I hope to be of assistance in helping you, your children, or your family, achieve the meaningful long-term change you desire and the happiness you deserve.
I am here to listen and offer guidance in helping heal the wounded heart, mind, and body. I strive to empower clients achieve balance and reach the personal growth that can bring satisfaction in life. Seeking support from a therapist happens for various reasons. Sometimes, a life-changing crisis, transition, or past trauma causes undue stress, anxiety, depression, pain, anger, or other strong states of feelings and the person decides to no longer confront their troubles alone. By working collaboratively on defined goals, my hope is that you will obtain the relief and life fulfillment you seek.
I hope to be of assistance in helping you, your children, or your family, achieve the meaningful long-term change you desire and the happiness you deserve.
I am here to listen and offer guidance in helping heal the wounded heart, mind, and body. I strive to empower clients achieve balance and reach the personal growth that can bring satisfaction in life. Seeking support from a therapist happens for various reasons. Sometimes, a life-changing crisis, transition, or past trauma causes undue stress, anxiety, depression, pain, anger, or other strong states of feelings and the person decides to no longer confront their troubles alone. By working collaboratively on defined goals, my hope is that you will obtain the relief and life fulfillment you seek.
(818) 921-4104 View (818) 921-4104
Photo of Jen Rosen, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Jen Rosen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
Welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist (LMFT# 125267). The focus of my practice is working with individuals, couples and families who are seeking growth, a deeper sense of purpose, who want to improve their overall quality of life and enhance and transform their relationships. I believe that therapy can be a wonderful tool to promote this self-exploration, healing and growth and I hope to help you in this process. My style is open, direct and at times, eclectic. I provide a warm, safe environment to discuss concerns and challenges. I work with clients to together build customizable goals and an actionable plan.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist (LMFT# 125267). The focus of my practice is working with individuals, couples and families who are seeking growth, a deeper sense of purpose, who want to improve their overall quality of life and enhance and transform their relationships. I believe that therapy can be a wonderful tool to promote this self-exploration, healing and growth and I hope to help you in this process. My style is open, direct and at times, eclectic. I provide a warm, safe environment to discuss concerns and challenges. I work with clients to together build customizable goals and an actionable plan.
(747) 204-3193 View (747) 204-3193
Photo of Chaya Krinsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91403, CA
Chaya Krinsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403
My unique approach combining attachment based, systemic oriented, and trauma informed treatment models has helped people find joy in family life, level up their relationships, find their voices and experience more freedom, wholeness and authenticity in their lives.
You look put together, present yourself well, but are privately struggling. Your problems may not be immediately apparent to others, but internally you have a hard time with accepting yourself, being present in your life, and with finding joy. You work hard and are constantly juggling an array of tasks, but your relationships are sluggish and you feel overwhelmed and disconnected. You may be struggling with parenting and wonder why your intimate relationships, or the lack thereof, are so damn hard. You do not feel content and question whether you're good enough to do life well.
My unique approach combining attachment based, systemic oriented, and trauma informed treatment models has helped people find joy in family life, level up their relationships, find their voices and experience more freedom, wholeness and authenticity in their lives.
You look put together, present yourself well, but are privately struggling. Your problems may not be immediately apparent to others, but internally you have a hard time with accepting yourself, being present in your life, and with finding joy. You work hard and are constantly juggling an array of tasks, but your relationships are sluggish and you feel overwhelmed and disconnected. You may be struggling with parenting and wonder why your intimate relationships, or the lack thereof, are so damn hard. You do not feel content and question whether you're good enough to do life well.
(424) 543-8129 View (424) 543-8129
Photo of Keri Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91403, CA
Keri Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403  (Online Only)
However, as a woman of color who has survived a chronic illness, I feel my personal experiences and expertise contributes to my focus areas of Intergenerational Trauma, Chronic Illness, BIPOC, Social Justice, Anxiety/Depression, Relationships, Family of Choice groups, Transitions, Workplace Trauma, Transitional Aged Youth, and Social Justice.
Do you feel misunderstood, isolated, and distressed? Have you experienced trauma, discrimination, or have chronic illness and pain? These common experiences are frequently ignored, but I am here to support you. Often times, our life experiences contribute to how we react and relate in the world, which can be isolating and invalidating causing mental, physical, and emotional pain. Whether your issues present internally or externally, I am happy to work with you to unpack and restore your whole self that creates resilience, empowerment, and self-care to HEAL, GROW, & THRIVE together!
However, as a woman of color who has survived a chronic illness, I feel my personal experiences and expertise contributes to my focus areas of Intergenerational Trauma, Chronic Illness, BIPOC, Social Justice, Anxiety/Depression, Relationships, Family of Choice groups, Transitions, Workplace Trauma, Transitional Aged Youth, and Social Justice.
Do you feel misunderstood, isolated, and distressed? Have you experienced trauma, discrimination, or have chronic illness and pain? These common experiences are frequently ignored, but I am here to support you. Often times, our life experiences contribute to how we react and relate in the world, which can be isolating and invalidating causing mental, physical, and emotional pain. Whether your issues present internally or externally, I am happy to work with you to unpack and restore your whole self that creates resilience, empowerment, and self-care to HEAL, GROW, & THRIVE together!
(310) 943-1383 View (310) 943-1383

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.