Photo of Mindi Levins-Pfeifer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91604, CA
Mindi Levins-Pfeifer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
My specialty is building relationships and making clients feel safe in a space to share. I focus on 1:1 ,couples, families and groups. I am always looking to balance solution focused sessions with underlying clinical issues. Helping clients feel like they can get some relief early on in therapy is a priority. Anxiety, depression, addiction, family relation issues, life transitions and Covid are just some areas of work are that are my specialty. Whether you are comfortable free flow talking or need a more interview style, I am comfortable doing both. I also specialize in young adult and dual diagnosis.
My specialty is building relationships and making clients feel safe in a space to share. I focus on 1:1 ,couples, families and groups. I am always looking to balance solution focused sessions with underlying clinical issues. Helping clients feel like they can get some relief early on in therapy is a priority. Anxiety, depression, addiction, family relation issues, life transitions and Covid are just some areas of work are that are my specialty. Whether you are comfortable free flow talking or need a more interview style, I am comfortable doing both. I also specialize in young adult and dual diagnosis.
(323) 765-1139 View (323) 765-1139
Photo of Afterschool Village, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Afterschool Village
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
We also offer child and family therapy.
Kids in our communities today are stressed. Major social issues from racial and environmental injustice to economic precarity cast a daily shadow over their lives. The social dislocation and isolation of the pandemic has made a difficult situation worse. This situation has led to an epidemic of anxiety and depression among young people. More subtly it has also led to feelings of fragility and powerlessness even among kids who are “doing well”. Parents, themselves stressed out, overworked, and far from their families of origin want to help but don’t know how.
We also offer child and family therapy.
Kids in our communities today are stressed. Major social issues from racial and environmental injustice to economic precarity cast a daily shadow over their lives. The social dislocation and isolation of the pandemic has made a difficult situation worse. This situation has led to an epidemic of anxiety and depression among young people. More subtly it has also led to feelings of fragility and powerlessness even among kids who are “doing well”. Parents, themselves stressed out, overworked, and far from their families of origin want to help but don’t know how.
(323) 776-1908 View (323) 776-1908
Photo of Tiffany Thomas, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Tiffany Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, CADC-II, LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
Do you often feel like no one understands you? Are you in a relationship where you are constantly trying to figure out what is going on? Are you confused as to why you feel unmotivated, have trouble sleeping, and aren't happy? I will help you feel less alone as well as guide you through a deeper understanding of what is happening for you. I am passionate about improving relationships, whether that's with friends, family or oneself. Most of us have a hard time identifying our emotions, or rely on feelings of happy, sad, mad to express ourselves. I will teach you how to recognize your emotions more accurately.
Do you often feel like no one understands you? Are you in a relationship where you are constantly trying to figure out what is going on? Are you confused as to why you feel unmotivated, have trouble sleeping, and aren't happy? I will help you feel less alone as well as guide you through a deeper understanding of what is happening for you. I am passionate about improving relationships, whether that's with friends, family or oneself. Most of us have a hard time identifying our emotions, or rely on feelings of happy, sad, mad to express ourselves. I will teach you how to recognize your emotions more accurately.
(747) 234-2902 View (747) 234-2902
Photo of Gabriel Cooper, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Gabriel Cooper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MPhil, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
My clinical certifications include: EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, trauma, addiction/harm-reduction counseling, grief counseling, LGBT-affirmative, and mindfulness-based therapies (MBSR, MBCT).
I provide depth therapy for adults navigating life challenges and relationships. I hold degrees from Northwestern and Cambridge and have clinical expertise in: ADHD, addiction, anxiety, chronic illness, depression, grief, marriage/dating, men's issues, self-esteem, and trauma. I have a special passion for working with LGBTQ folks and men. In our therapy, I stand right beside you exploring complex issues and growing your personal edges. You don't have to go it alone.
My clinical certifications include: EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, trauma, addiction/harm-reduction counseling, grief counseling, LGBT-affirmative, and mindfulness-based therapies (MBSR, MBCT).
I provide depth therapy for adults navigating life challenges and relationships. I hold degrees from Northwestern and Cambridge and have clinical expertise in: ADHD, addiction, anxiety, chronic illness, depression, grief, marriage/dating, men's issues, self-esteem, and trauma. I have a special passion for working with LGBTQ folks and men. In our therapy, I stand right beside you exploring complex issues and growing your personal edges. You don't have to go it alone.
(818) 732-0777 View (818) 732-0777
Photo of George Lough, Psychologist in 91604, CA
George Lough
Psychologist, PhD, SEP, NARM
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
If you grew up in a dysfunctional family it is essential to understand and heal from the emotional wounds you suffered in that environment. You internalized bad relationship styles. Your wounds may appear in the form of excessive fears, unexplained sadness, inappropriate expressions of anger and an inability to be creative. Facing the truth about your emotional wounds can give you the freedom to be your true self. In our therapy I'll provide you with the support and guidance you need, bringing a spiritual perspective, giving you an understanding of how your past affects your present.
If you grew up in a dysfunctional family it is essential to understand and heal from the emotional wounds you suffered in that environment. You internalized bad relationship styles. Your wounds may appear in the form of excessive fears, unexplained sadness, inappropriate expressions of anger and an inability to be creative. Facing the truth about your emotional wounds can give you the freedom to be your true self. In our therapy I'll provide you with the support and guidance you need, bringing a spiritual perspective, giving you an understanding of how your past affects your present.
(323) 629-8121 View (323) 629-8121
Photo of Lynne Friedman-Gell, Psychologist in 91604, CA
Lynne Friedman-Gell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
My expertise includes developmental and family trauma & mental health issues anxiety, depression, stress, alcoholism, substance abuse & sabotaging behaviors.
My expertise as a therapist is in creating a safe and trusting connection as the foundation of our work. Are you struggling with anxiety, addiction, trauma, depression or multiple issues? Through collaboration, attunement and curiosity, explore the life you want, what interferes with achieving it, and how life experiences influence relational dynamics and perceptions of the world. I support this process of exploration towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life, with healthier connections to self and others. Treatment focus is also on strengths and experiencing a sense of empowerment, resiliency, aliveness and joy in your life.
My expertise includes developmental and family trauma & mental health issues anxiety, depression, stress, alcoholism, substance abuse & sabotaging behaviors.
My expertise as a therapist is in creating a safe and trusting connection as the foundation of our work. Are you struggling with anxiety, addiction, trauma, depression or multiple issues? Through collaboration, attunement and curiosity, explore the life you want, what interferes with achieving it, and how life experiences influence relational dynamics and perceptions of the world. I support this process of exploration towards a more fulfilling and meaningful life, with healthier connections to self and others. Treatment focus is also on strengths and experiencing a sense of empowerment, resiliency, aliveness and joy in your life.
(424) 401-3705 View (424) 401-3705
Photo of Stacey Inal Women's Coaching And Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Stacey Inal Women's Coaching And Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
Do you feel overwhelmed by the demands of life? Are you struggling with dissatisfaction in your career, family challenges, or the weight of various pressures? If you're experiencing anxiety, anger, or hopelessness, please know that you're not alone. As a woman who's been down that path, I understand the journey and am passionate about guiding you through it. I believe in your resilience and potential for growth. Together, we can navigate these obstacles, uncover your strengths, and create strategies for a more positive journey. You deserve compassionate support, understanding, and the tools to thrive.
Do you feel overwhelmed by the demands of life? Are you struggling with dissatisfaction in your career, family challenges, or the weight of various pressures? If you're experiencing anxiety, anger, or hopelessness, please know that you're not alone. As a woman who's been down that path, I understand the journey and am passionate about guiding you through it. I believe in your resilience and potential for growth. Together, we can navigate these obstacles, uncover your strengths, and create strategies for a more positive journey. You deserve compassionate support, understanding, and the tools to thrive.
(626) 986-0072 View (626) 986-0072
Photo of Michael Shiffman, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Michael Shiffman
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
I am an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #122513) and certified in Somatic Experiencing, the use of touch for trauma, NARM, and am Level 2 PACT Couple therapist.
Our past presents itself in the present moment. I treat my clients, not apply a model or theory on them. Whether it is anxiety, panic, pain, addictions, trauma, loss or grief - we explore together what gets in the way of living a life worth living. I integrate Somatic Experiencing, NARM, EMDR, PACT, Mindfulness practices and Voice Dialogue into a multidimensional approach to discover how to help you realize a satisfying life, the life you want to live.
I am an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT #122513) and certified in Somatic Experiencing, the use of touch for trauma, NARM, and am Level 2 PACT Couple therapist.
Our past presents itself in the present moment. I treat my clients, not apply a model or theory on them. Whether it is anxiety, panic, pain, addictions, trauma, loss or grief - we explore together what gets in the way of living a life worth living. I integrate Somatic Experiencing, NARM, EMDR, PACT, Mindfulness practices and Voice Dialogue into a multidimensional approach to discover how to help you realize a satisfying life, the life you want to live.
(424) 258-5432 View (424) 258-5432
Photo of Alexa Brand, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Alexa Brand
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
I integrate an intersectional, multicultural feminist approach with family systems therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, mindful self-compassion, brainspotting, somatic embodiment, and internal family systems.
You deserve an affirming space for all of your parts to be embraced. I work with survivors of acute and complex trauma who tend to be perfectionists and struggle with self-criticalness. I specifically specialize in working with marginalized populations, with a majority of my clients being women, LGBTQ+, and trans/non-binary. Many of my clients internalize the stigma and shame conditioned by our society's oppressive norms and politics. I help my clients find self-compassion, embrace their authenticity, and process their trauma from an intersectional, warm approach that always emphasizes fostering safety rather than "fixing."
I integrate an intersectional, multicultural feminist approach with family systems therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, mindful self-compassion, brainspotting, somatic embodiment, and internal family systems.
You deserve an affirming space for all of your parts to be embraced. I work with survivors of acute and complex trauma who tend to be perfectionists and struggle with self-criticalness. I specifically specialize in working with marginalized populations, with a majority of my clients being women, LGBTQ+, and trans/non-binary. Many of my clients internalize the stigma and shame conditioned by our society's oppressive norms and politics. I help my clients find self-compassion, embrace their authenticity, and process their trauma from an intersectional, warm approach that always emphasizes fostering safety rather than "fixing."
(818) 464-4860 View (818) 464-4860
Photo of Audrey Curra, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 91604, CA
Audrey Curra
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
Pregnancy, birthing, and early parenting are physically and emotionally life altering transitions. For many families they can be a mix of immense joy and overwhelming suffering. If you are struggling with infertility or loss, the road to parenthood is even more emotionally burdensome. Trained in maternal mental health, I help women and couples work through the challenges of difficulty conceiving, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and early parenting. I help the whole family to develop resources, make meaning out of your experiences, transform your identity, and forge supportive and loving relationships within your family unit.
Pregnancy, birthing, and early parenting are physically and emotionally life altering transitions. For many families they can be a mix of immense joy and overwhelming suffering. If you are struggling with infertility or loss, the road to parenthood is even more emotionally burdensome. Trained in maternal mental health, I help women and couples work through the challenges of difficulty conceiving, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, and early parenting. I help the whole family to develop resources, make meaning out of your experiences, transform your identity, and forge supportive and loving relationships within your family unit.
(818) 293-4026 View (818) 293-4026
Photo of Maria Vogel, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Maria Vogel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
Relationships are either the most fulfilling or the most challenging part of our lives (or both!) - whether with our partner, kids, friends, or family. I'm certain you value your relationships, but maybe you're struggling to feel connected, appreciated, or to stay calm when conflict arises. I promise there’s a reason you’re feeling the way you do, and the reason is more understandable than you think. When we’re at odds with a person we love, it's easy to get stuck in "me vs. them" thinking instead of tackling issues like a team. These last few years have been hard on everyone - if you're struggling right now, you're not alone.
Relationships are either the most fulfilling or the most challenging part of our lives (or both!) - whether with our partner, kids, friends, or family. I'm certain you value your relationships, but maybe you're struggling to feel connected, appreciated, or to stay calm when conflict arises. I promise there’s a reason you’re feeling the way you do, and the reason is more understandable than you think. When we’re at odds with a person we love, it's easy to get stuck in "me vs. them" thinking instead of tackling issues like a team. These last few years have been hard on everyone - if you're struggling right now, you're not alone.
(323) 310-1153 View (323) 310-1153
Photo of Stephanie Drotman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91604, CA
Stephanie Drotman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
DBT Family Classes are also available to families and loved ones of those struggling with BPD, SUD, or Bipolar Disorder.
Is your daily life chaotic and distressing? Do you struggle to navigate friendships or romantic relationships? Are there days you feel like you just cannot stop your thoughts from spiraling out of control? I am an intensively trained DBT therapist specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Complex Trauma, Addictive and Co-Occurring Disorders. I utilize a non-judgmental, person-centered, strengths-based approach, incorporating additional evidence-based modalities such as ACT, CBT, Prolonged Exposure, TF-CBT, and IFS to help you begin to build your life worth living.
DBT Family Classes are also available to families and loved ones of those struggling with BPD, SUD, or Bipolar Disorder.
Is your daily life chaotic and distressing? Do you struggle to navigate friendships or romantic relationships? Are there days you feel like you just cannot stop your thoughts from spiraling out of control? I am an intensively trained DBT therapist specializing in Borderline Personality Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Complex Trauma, Addictive and Co-Occurring Disorders. I utilize a non-judgmental, person-centered, strengths-based approach, incorporating additional evidence-based modalities such as ACT, CBT, Prolonged Exposure, TF-CBT, and IFS to help you begin to build your life worth living.
(424) 334-2290 View (424) 334-2290
Photo of Marielle Skouras, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Marielle Skouras
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
Asking for help from another person can be hard, but I see it as a sign of strength. Whether you have reached a point of crisis in your life or are simply looking for a safe space to explore your inner world, I want to help. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relationship issues, or are feeling stuck and frustrated by painful patterns that keep repeating in your life. Perhaps the vulnerable parts that have been kept hidden in the dark are ready to come out into the light.
Asking for help from another person can be hard, but I see it as a sign of strength. Whether you have reached a point of crisis in your life or are simply looking for a safe space to explore your inner world, I want to help. You may be experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relationship issues, or are feeling stuck and frustrated by painful patterns that keep repeating in your life. Perhaps the vulnerable parts that have been kept hidden in the dark are ready to come out into the light.
(747) 204-3329 View (747) 204-3329
Photo of Rebecca Stevens, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 91604, CA
Rebecca Stevens
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
It can be difficult to ask for help. As a therapist at Life After Birth, I work with women and couples facing all phases of parenthood, from conception and pregnancy through birth and beyond. The transition to motherhood is a profound shift in identity. Mothers and couples often need guidance and support to navigate their new world. Life after having a baby can be overwhelming, chaotic, and unmanageable, and so much of the emotional reality of motherhood is avoided in day-to-day conversation because of shame, fear, or embarrassment.
It can be difficult to ask for help. As a therapist at Life After Birth, I work with women and couples facing all phases of parenthood, from conception and pregnancy through birth and beyond. The transition to motherhood is a profound shift in identity. Mothers and couples often need guidance and support to navigate their new world. Life after having a baby can be overwhelming, chaotic, and unmanageable, and so much of the emotional reality of motherhood is avoided in day-to-day conversation because of shame, fear, or embarrassment.
View
Photo of Bryce McDavitt, Psychologist in 91604, CA
Bryce McDavitt
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
With over twenty years experience in LGBTQ counseling, research, and teaching, I have a deep understanding of our community. Among LGBTQ individuals anxiety and depression may involve feelings of emptiness, relationship problems, interpersonal sensitivity, or addictions. The roots of these struggles can vary, but it helps to have a therapist who grasps the alienating impact of growing up in a world that disavows the core of who we are. I will help you address these issues, and others, through a deeper approach that can feel energizing, challenging, and even liberating.
With over twenty years experience in LGBTQ counseling, research, and teaching, I have a deep understanding of our community. Among LGBTQ individuals anxiety and depression may involve feelings of emptiness, relationship problems, interpersonal sensitivity, or addictions. The roots of these struggles can vary, but it helps to have a therapist who grasps the alienating impact of growing up in a world that disavows the core of who we are. I will help you address these issues, and others, through a deeper approach that can feel energizing, challenging, and even liberating.
(323) 801-8123 View (323) 801-8123
Photo of Shannon Algeo, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 91604, CA
Shannon Algeo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604  (Online Only)
One of the highest predictors of successful outcomes in psychotherapy is the therapeutic relationship. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the scientific research of attachment theory and the ancient wisdom of community: we do not heal alone by ourselves; healing occurs relationally—through rupture and repair—and by having new and corrective emotional experiences. I am a therapist who works with my clients as a collaborator, soul friend, and deep listener. I believe in the power of evocative empathy—the radical notion that it can be powerfully healing to be deeply moved by one another.
One of the highest predictors of successful outcomes in psychotherapy is the therapeutic relationship. My therapeutic approach is rooted in the scientific research of attachment theory and the ancient wisdom of community: we do not heal alone by ourselves; healing occurs relationally—through rupture and repair—and by having new and corrective emotional experiences. I am a therapist who works with my clients as a collaborator, soul friend, and deep listener. I believe in the power of evocative empathy—the radical notion that it can be powerfully healing to be deeply moved by one another.
(805) 386-9780 View (805) 386-9780
Photo of Kristina Lindsey, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Kristina Lindsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
Therapy works, and people can change. Living in a world that is highly relational, we often find that our toughest psychological problems are rooted in systemic relationship issues. I work with individuals and couples who are interested in developing healthier connections with themselves and with others. In order to make healthy relationships with others possible, one must foster a healthy relationship with oneself. In developing psychological health in ourselves, we become better able to interact with others in a way that does not cause us deep pain and ongoing frustration.
Therapy works, and people can change. Living in a world that is highly relational, we often find that our toughest psychological problems are rooted in systemic relationship issues. I work with individuals and couples who are interested in developing healthier connections with themselves and with others. In order to make healthy relationships with others possible, one must foster a healthy relationship with oneself. In developing psychological health in ourselves, we become better able to interact with others in a way that does not cause us deep pain and ongoing frustration.
(424) 342-5006 View (424) 342-5006
Photo of Kerstin Hern, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 91604, CA
Kerstin Hern
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Studio City, CA 91604
Do you seek relief from anxiety, low self worth, negative self-talk? Are you creative, highly sensitive, or feel like a "black sheep"? I can relate in both my being-human and therapy journeys... As a holistic therapist, I use brain science w/ tried and true coping tools plus somatic, Jungian, Parts Work, and expressive arts therapies. I believe we all have innate gifts + strengths that we "remember" and reactivate through meaningful connections that also birth self-trust. Together, we'll heal anxiety/stress, trauma, identity + relationship issues by exploring your stories, automatic beliefs, and emotions your brain/mind/body hold.
Do you seek relief from anxiety, low self worth, negative self-talk? Are you creative, highly sensitive, or feel like a "black sheep"? I can relate in both my being-human and therapy journeys... As a holistic therapist, I use brain science w/ tried and true coping tools plus somatic, Jungian, Parts Work, and expressive arts therapies. I believe we all have innate gifts + strengths that we "remember" and reactivate through meaningful connections that also birth self-trust. Together, we'll heal anxiety/stress, trauma, identity + relationship issues by exploring your stories, automatic beliefs, and emotions your brain/mind/body hold.
(818) 699-1192 View (818) 699-1192
Photo of Tannaz Alagheband, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 91604, CA
Tannaz Alagheband
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
Do any of these sound familiar? You are constantly “on” and have a hard time relaxing. You want to do it all and have difficulty saying no. You have achieved a lot and have the external signs of success. Yet, you continue to feel anxious and not good enough inside. You’re aware of having emotional wounds that impact the way you view yourself and show up in your relationships. You understand the “why” behind your responses, yet you continue to feel troubled by distressing past events and cope in ways that are no longer effective. If any of these statements with you, you are not alone, and therapy can help.
Do any of these sound familiar? You are constantly “on” and have a hard time relaxing. You want to do it all and have difficulty saying no. You have achieved a lot and have the external signs of success. Yet, you continue to feel anxious and not good enough inside. You’re aware of having emotional wounds that impact the way you view yourself and show up in your relationships. You understand the “why” behind your responses, yet you continue to feel troubled by distressing past events and cope in ways that are no longer effective. If any of these statements with you, you are not alone, and therapy can help.
(949) 771-8873 View (949) 771-8873
Photo of Rabbi Yael E. Saidoff, Marriage & Family Therapist in 91604, CA
Rabbi Yael E. Saidoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Verified Verified
Studio City, CA 91604
Find Your Center: Many of us today feel disconnected. Our days are filled with a steady stream of obligations and desires. We call that: ‘life.’ Directing our unique path in a proactive way can bring new meaning to our lives. Collaboratively, we'll find a path that leads to your truest self and to the person you want to become. Building Relationships: Cultivating intimacy with others requires developing intimacy with oneself. With compassion and guidance it is possible to learn to love oneself and, in turn, love others more deeply.
Find Your Center: Many of us today feel disconnected. Our days are filled with a steady stream of obligations and desires. We call that: ‘life.’ Directing our unique path in a proactive way can bring new meaning to our lives. Collaboratively, we'll find a path that leads to your truest self and to the person you want to become. Building Relationships: Cultivating intimacy with others requires developing intimacy with oneself. With compassion and guidance it is possible to learn to love oneself and, in turn, love others more deeply.
(747) 229-0746 View (747) 229-0746
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.