Photo of Kendra F. Dunlap, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Kendra F. Dunlap
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT, PPSC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
I utilize IFS (Internal Family Systems), EMDR, Attachment-based, Cognitive Behavioral, and Sensorimotor modalities in my work.
Clients seeking my services are looking for a safe and supportive space where they can bring their authentic whole “self” and explore and discuss issues centered on intersectional oppressions, identity exploration, trauma exploration, managing anxiety and stress, depression reduction, relational and attachment struggles, managing imposter syndrome, improving self-esteem, increasing communications skills and learning to identify and set healthy boundaries.
I utilize IFS (Internal Family Systems), EMDR, Attachment-based, Cognitive Behavioral, and Sensorimotor modalities in my work.
Clients seeking my services are looking for a safe and supportive space where they can bring their authentic whole “self” and explore and discuss issues centered on intersectional oppressions, identity exploration, trauma exploration, managing anxiety and stress, depression reduction, relational and attachment struggles, managing imposter syndrome, improving self-esteem, increasing communications skills and learning to identify and set healthy boundaries.
(510) 944-1004 View (510) 944-1004
Photo of Caitlin Finnell, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Caitlin Finnell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
Gender related issues, family therapy, children and youth, trauma, anxiety, depression, self esteem, ADD, emotional distress from learning and physical disabilities, adoption and foster youth, and self care.
While I work with a diversity of people, I specialize in working with LGBTQ individuals, couples and youth. As a Marriage and Family psychotherapist, I seek to help my clients find their way through the hardships that life can bring. I believe in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship as well as each individual having the power to heal themselves. I believe in a strength based, solution focused approach to therapy and work with my clients to not only overcome their current circumstances but to also develop tools and strategies that they can use moving forward in their lives.
Gender related issues, family therapy, children and youth, trauma, anxiety, depression, self esteem, ADD, emotional distress from learning and physical disabilities, adoption and foster youth, and self care.
While I work with a diversity of people, I specialize in working with LGBTQ individuals, couples and youth. As a Marriage and Family psychotherapist, I seek to help my clients find their way through the hardships that life can bring. I believe in the healing power of the therapeutic relationship as well as each individual having the power to heal themselves. I believe in a strength based, solution focused approach to therapy and work with my clients to not only overcome their current circumstances but to also develop tools and strategies that they can use moving forward in their lives.
(415) 630-6595 View (415) 630-6595
Photo of Charles I Flores, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 94704, CA
Charles I Flores
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, LPCC, LAADC-S, MAC, Q-SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
I use Lazarus' multimodal approach, Wilber’s integral theory, Gorski/CBT, transpersonal/Buddhist psychology, family systems, EMDR, biofeedback and other technologies that may aid in Recovery.
For 25 years, I have assisted people with a variety of addictions, from the exogenous abuse of drugs and alcohol, to the ones that stem from the chemicals already inside the brain, such as sex and love addiction, abandonment patterns, sexual compulsions, gambling, internet, and workaholism. Unlike most psychotherapists, I’m a Board Certified Addiction Specialist, well versed in both abstinence and harm reduction strategies. Unlike most addiction professionals, I am also psychotherapist who also treats the anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues that often manifest after being uncovered through recovery.
I use Lazarus' multimodal approach, Wilber’s integral theory, Gorski/CBT, transpersonal/Buddhist psychology, family systems, EMDR, biofeedback and other technologies that may aid in Recovery.
For 25 years, I have assisted people with a variety of addictions, from the exogenous abuse of drugs and alcohol, to the ones that stem from the chemicals already inside the brain, such as sex and love addiction, abandonment patterns, sexual compulsions, gambling, internet, and workaholism. Unlike most psychotherapists, I’m a Board Certified Addiction Specialist, well versed in both abstinence and harm reduction strategies. Unlike most addiction professionals, I am also psychotherapist who also treats the anxiety, depression, and other psychological issues that often manifest after being uncovered through recovery.
(415) 992-8260 View (415) 992-8260
Photo of Adam Rochmes, Psychologist in 94704, CA
Adam Rochmes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I also counsel persons diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and their family members and lead groups for caregivers, care receivers, and couples.
I am a clinical psychologist practicing in Berkeley, California. I specialize in adult counseling and psychotherapy, working collaboratively to guide clients in achieving greater psychological freedom and self-mastery through mindfulness and understanding. I earned degrees from Harvard and UC Berkeley & have practiced for over 45 years.
I also counsel persons diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and their family members and lead groups for caregivers, care receivers, and couples.
I am a clinical psychologist practicing in Berkeley, California. I specialize in adult counseling and psychotherapy, working collaboratively to guide clients in achieving greater psychological freedom and self-mastery through mindfulness and understanding. I earned degrees from Harvard and UC Berkeley & have practiced for over 45 years.
(510) 671-8119 View (510) 671-8119
Photo of Dr. Brett Gaynor Psychotherapy and Consultation, Psychologist in 94704, CA
Dr. Brett Gaynor Psychotherapy and Consultation
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I am passionate about child development and have specialty in working with numerous childhood disorders presenting in early childhood (5 years-old) and onto adulthood, trauma disorders, challenges to family functioning such as intergenerational difficulties and parent-child relationship problems.
I strive to facilitate a dialogue that both empowers and engages clients in their own self-healing, valuing the co-creation of a transformative narrative and experience. As a licensed clinical psychologist, experienced in treating both children and adults, I view emotional and behavioral challenges as a dynamic outcome that develops as a result of complex interactions across time, as opposed to something inherently "broken" inside an individual.
I am passionate about child development and have specialty in working with numerous childhood disorders presenting in early childhood (5 years-old) and onto adulthood, trauma disorders, challenges to family functioning such as intergenerational difficulties and parent-child relationship problems.
I strive to facilitate a dialogue that both empowers and engages clients in their own self-healing, valuing the co-creation of a transformative narrative and experience. As a licensed clinical psychologist, experienced in treating both children and adults, I view emotional and behavioral challenges as a dynamic outcome that develops as a result of complex interactions across time, as opposed to something inherently "broken" inside an individual.
(415) 936-8748 View (415) 936-8748
Photo of Ilona Hrebennikova, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Ilona Hrebennikova
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a certified RLT therapist (Relational Life Therapy).
Are you struggling with relationships? Are you having the same fight with your partner over and over? Have you lost the emotional connection you used to have? Intimate relationships touch our deepest relational wounds. That's why we can be overwhelmed with the pain they bring and often, at points, feel like giving up. We can heal those wounds and help each other in that process. The kind of couples therapy/marriage counseling and individual therapy that I provide combines deep experiential work with teaching, coaching and practicing many specific relational skills that will set you up for success in all your relationships.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a certified RLT therapist (Relational Life Therapy).
Are you struggling with relationships? Are you having the same fight with your partner over and over? Have you lost the emotional connection you used to have? Intimate relationships touch our deepest relational wounds. That's why we can be overwhelmed with the pain they bring and often, at points, feel like giving up. We can heal those wounds and help each other in that process. The kind of couples therapy/marriage counseling and individual therapy that I provide combines deep experiential work with teaching, coaching and practicing many specific relational skills that will set you up for success in all your relationships.
(510) 726-0823 View (510) 726-0823
Photo of Sara Grunstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94704, CA
Sara Grunstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I work with children, adolescents and adults, helping to support them and to make meaning as they respond to life's challenges, such as childbirth, adoption, loss of a child, death of a family member, infertility, early childhood trauma, and other life transitions. In addition to working with adults and parents in individual therapy, I specialize in Child-Parent Psychotherapy, working with the dyad to develop a mutually satisfying and enriching relationship. I work individually with children and adolescents, including infants and fussy babies.
I work with children, adolescents and adults, helping to support them and to make meaning as they respond to life's challenges, such as childbirth, adoption, loss of a child, death of a family member, infertility, early childhood trauma, and other life transitions. In addition to working with adults and parents in individual therapy, I specialize in Child-Parent Psychotherapy, working with the dyad to develop a mutually satisfying and enriching relationship. I work individually with children and adolescents, including infants and fussy babies.
(510) 661-3094 View (510) 661-3094
Photo of Molly Gales, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Molly Gales
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MAed
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
My therapeutic interventions include ACT, CBT, hypnotherapy family systems, animal assisted therapy, and attachment therapy.
These uncertain times can feel overwhelming. The world can seem frightening. Many folks feel isolated and exhausted. Others may feel anxious, depressed, or both. Now is a great time to seek therapy and find a safe place to connect, mine resources, discover tools and explore ways to help you manage challenges. I provide a warm, practical and comfortable practice where you can expect to be treated with respect, kindness, a sense of humor, compassion and over 25 years of experience with teens and families. I have a diverse practice and experience working with a variety of folx. Please contact me, I'm here to help.
My therapeutic interventions include ACT, CBT, hypnotherapy family systems, animal assisted therapy, and attachment therapy.
These uncertain times can feel overwhelming. The world can seem frightening. Many folks feel isolated and exhausted. Others may feel anxious, depressed, or both. Now is a great time to seek therapy and find a safe place to connect, mine resources, discover tools and explore ways to help you manage challenges. I provide a warm, practical and comfortable practice where you can expect to be treated with respect, kindness, a sense of humor, compassion and over 25 years of experience with teens and families. I have a diverse practice and experience working with a variety of folx. Please contact me, I'm here to help.
(510) 662-6162 View (510) 662-6162
Photo of Bobino Counseling & Assessment, Licensed Educational Psychologist in 94704, CA
Bobino Counseling & Assessment
Licensed Educational Psychologist, PsyD, LEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, frustrated, or stuck? I can help you find ways to cope with uncomfortable feelings so that you can feel more balance in your daily life and more fulfilling relationships and experiences. Many of us rely on friends and family to help us work through problems, but sometimes our friends or family are part of the problem itself. Or maybe we just don't feel comfortable talking about certain issues with them. Oftentimes we withdraw from our support systems and end up feeling more and more alone.
Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, frustrated, or stuck? I can help you find ways to cope with uncomfortable feelings so that you can feel more balance in your daily life and more fulfilling relationships and experiences. Many of us rely on friends and family to help us work through problems, but sometimes our friends or family are part of the problem itself. Or maybe we just don't feel comfortable talking about certain issues with them. Oftentimes we withdraw from our support systems and end up feeling more and more alone.
(510) 544-7674 View (510) 544-7674
Photo of DPRC veterans services,LLCp, Psychologist in 94704, CA
DPRC veterans services,LLCp
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
Seasoned licensed psychologist with a cognitive behavioral brief psychotherapy theoretical orientation. I serve as a mirror to our community and specialize in trauma, stress management, chemical dependency, domestic violence and family systems. Bienvenidos a mi practica. Somos un cucharon para servir al pueblo. Sirvo como espejo para ayudarle encontrar tu destino.
Seasoned licensed psychologist with a cognitive behavioral brief psychotherapy theoretical orientation. I serve as a mirror to our community and specialize in trauma, stress management, chemical dependency, domestic violence and family systems. Bienvenidos a mi practica. Somos un cucharon para servir al pueblo. Sirvo como espejo para ayudarle encontrar tu destino.
(559) 471-3501 View (559) 471-3501
Photo of Scott Leiker, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 94704, CA
Scott Leiker
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
I utilize many modalities, but especially the Emotionally Focused, Somatic Experiencing, and Internal Family Systems.
If you are struggling with finding meaning in your life, accessing basic joy and peace of mind, and wanting to build deep relationships with others, I want to help. My aim is to make sure you feel heard, and that we work on what you want to work on. I welcome you to address anxiety, addiction, trauma, depression, and pain in relationships in a way that will free you up to pursue your goals and realize your dreams and bring more love into your life.
I utilize many modalities, but especially the Emotionally Focused, Somatic Experiencing, and Internal Family Systems.
If you are struggling with finding meaning in your life, accessing basic joy and peace of mind, and wanting to build deep relationships with others, I want to help. My aim is to make sure you feel heard, and that we work on what you want to work on. I welcome you to address anxiety, addiction, trauma, depression, and pain in relationships in a way that will free you up to pursue your goals and realize your dreams and bring more love into your life.
(510) 398-4620 x541 View (510) 398-4620 x541
Photo of Sarika Bahl, Psychologist in 94704, CA
Sarika Bahl
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
Feeling anxious or a decrease in self esteem? Is your child/teen struggling or having problems in school? Looking for support to live the life you want? Psychotherapy can help you form a better relationship with yourself, your family, and others. I work collaboratively with clients, establishing a warm, empathic environment that feels safe and free of judgement. I provide individual psychotherapy and family therapy across the lifespan, and have training and experience working with children, adolescents, parents, and individual adult clients. I offer office (Berkeley), walk & talk (East Bay) and virtual (anywhere in CA) appts.
Feeling anxious or a decrease in self esteem? Is your child/teen struggling or having problems in school? Looking for support to live the life you want? Psychotherapy can help you form a better relationship with yourself, your family, and others. I work collaboratively with clients, establishing a warm, empathic environment that feels safe and free of judgement. I provide individual psychotherapy and family therapy across the lifespan, and have training and experience working with children, adolescents, parents, and individual adult clients. I offer office (Berkeley), walk & talk (East Bay) and virtual (anywhere in CA) appts.
(510) 241-4323 View (510) 241-4323
Photo of Gabriela Sanchez, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94704, CA
Gabriela Sanchez
Marriage & Family Therapist, License, IFS, Leve II, Spanish, English
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
Currently certified as a Level 2 - Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist and also informed in Psychedelic Assisted Integration.
We all go through life learning by trial and error and that's good. But when we feel stuck, we need to pause. It's time to address whatever challenges are in front of us instead of continuing to push them away where they affect us without our awareness. When we pause, we are able to listen to what's inside of us. This is how we learn and become more aware of how we came to be where we are. When we pay attention, we understand, and with that comes self knowledge and self acceptance. This compassionate presence brings us to a new level of connection with ourselves, others, and the world at large.
Currently certified as a Level 2 - Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist and also informed in Psychedelic Assisted Integration.
We all go through life learning by trial and error and that's good. But when we feel stuck, we need to pause. It's time to address whatever challenges are in front of us instead of continuing to push them away where they affect us without our awareness. When we pause, we are able to listen to what's inside of us. This is how we learn and become more aware of how we came to be where we are. When we pay attention, we understand, and with that comes self knowledge and self acceptance. This compassionate presence brings us to a new level of connection with ourselves, others, and the world at large.
(510) 241-4494 View (510) 241-4494
Photo of Baljeet Heyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94704, CA
Baljeet Heyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Berkeley, CA 94704
If you’re experiencing anxiety or trauma, I can help. Trauma, particularly from early childhood can have a deep impact on your self-esteem, relationships and functioning. You may struggle with perfectionism, people pleasing or codependency. Your nervous system may be dsyregulated which can lead to feeling flooded with emotions and or exhausted. This can lead to adaptions which may have serious consequences. Some interventions I use with clients include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, somatic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, art, sandplay and play therapy. Which interventions are based on your preferences and fit.
If you’re experiencing anxiety or trauma, I can help. Trauma, particularly from early childhood can have a deep impact on your self-esteem, relationships and functioning. You may struggle with perfectionism, people pleasing or codependency. Your nervous system may be dsyregulated which can lead to feeling flooded with emotions and or exhausted. This can lead to adaptions which may have serious consequences. Some interventions I use with clients include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, somatic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, art, sandplay and play therapy. Which interventions are based on your preferences and fit.
(510) 254-3478 View (510) 254-3478
Photo of Jiyoung Kim, Associate Clinical Social Worker in 94704, CA
Jiyoung Kim
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I have expertise in couples and family therapy.
Do you find difficulties with feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship/family problems, and trauma? These emotional disruptions can have a significant impact on our lives. Coping with these events requires various approaches, and I can assist you in recognizing your emotions and identifying possible patterns in your relationships. I can also help you develop resilience and acceptance towards challenging emotions, and support you in setting meaningful goals. I utilize EMDR, CBT, trauma-informed care, mindfulness, & person-centered therapy to reduce anxiety and trauma symptoms, foster resilience, and enhance the quality of life.
I have expertise in couples and family therapy.
Do you find difficulties with feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship/family problems, and trauma? These emotional disruptions can have a significant impact on our lives. Coping with these events requires various approaches, and I can assist you in recognizing your emotions and identifying possible patterns in your relationships. I can also help you develop resilience and acceptance towards challenging emotions, and support you in setting meaningful goals. I utilize EMDR, CBT, trauma-informed care, mindfulness, & person-centered therapy to reduce anxiety and trauma symptoms, foster resilience, and enhance the quality of life.
(415) 692-3469 View (415) 692-3469
Photo of Veronica Ghabour, Counselor in 94704, CA
Veronica Ghabour
Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
Mental health challenges are due to the aftereffects of traumatic experiences. Trauma can place a strain on your family, work, relationships, and even cause issues with self-worth. I specialize in trauma therapy along with treating personality disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and addiction. All these disorders can look different from person to person, and that is where our therapeutic journey of empowerment and self-exploration begins. I concentrate on creating a safe space of growth and self-discovery through unconditional positive regard, emotional regulation, and guided activities.
(415) 942-6295 View (415) 942-6295
Photo of Sheron Gershelis, Pre-Licensed Professional in 94704, CA
Sheron Gershelis
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
Together, we delve into traumas, anxiety, depression, and family/relationship challenges, understanding how these stressors impact your life.
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
Together, we delve into traumas, anxiety, depression, and family/relationship challenges, understanding how these stressors impact your life.
Are you struggling with work, relational, and life stressors that have overwhelmed you and you are unsure what to do next? You're trying to open the next chapter in your life, but your past traumas and anxiety stop you. This is where I come in and help guide you in making YOUR right decision. I will help you through your journey in becoming worry-free and assist you in processing unresolved feelings and learning healthy coping skills for emotional distress
(415) 877-3405 View (415) 877-3405
Photo of Jose Luna, Associate Clinical Social Worker in 94704, CA
Jose Luna
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704  (Online Only)
My extensive clinical training includes working with children, teenagers, and adults with anxiety, depression, and family/childhood trauma.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
My extensive clinical training includes working with children, teenagers, and adults with anxiety, depression, and family/childhood trauma.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
(415) 969-7465 View (415) 969-7465
Photo of Heidi Xue, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94704, CA
Heidi Xue
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
I also specialize in couples/family therapy.
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
I also specialize in couples/family therapy.
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
(415) 949-3882 View (415) 949-3882
Photo of Sterling Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94704, CA
Sterling Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94704
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
Throughout our lives, we all have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger. These emotions leave you feeling insecure, shameful, lonely, unworthy and stuck in unhealthy patterns of behavior. Trauma can have negative emotional and physical effects and can lead to family/relationship issues. I specialize in solution-focused brief therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness and CBT. These approaches allow me to work with the client to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression and other health/behavioral issues.
(415) 712-1672 View (415) 712-1672

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.