Photo of Janet K. Look, Psychologist in 98105, WA
Janet K. Look
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
Dr. Look provides individual, family and group psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. Sometimes, it is difficult to talk to our family or friends about our problems. Meeting with Dr. Janet can help you to assess the seriousness of a problem and the best way to cope with it. Dr. Look is trained in assessment and psychotherapeutic techniques that can help you to answer your questions and manage your problems. You will learn to develop an individualized plan based on your strengths for dealing with your personal, educational and occupational needs.
Dr. Look provides individual, family and group psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults. Sometimes, it is difficult to talk to our family or friends about our problems. Meeting with Dr. Janet can help you to assess the seriousness of a problem and the best way to cope with it. Dr. Look is trained in assessment and psychotherapeutic techniques that can help you to answer your questions and manage your problems. You will learn to develop an individualized plan based on your strengths for dealing with your personal, educational and occupational needs.
(206) 759-8733 View (206) 759-8733
Photo of Dr. Emily L. Andresen- Seattle Couples Counseling, Psychologist in 98105, WA
Dr. Emily L. Andresen- Seattle Couples Counseling
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
APRIL 2022- Accepting new clients. Welcome! I am a Stanford trained clinical psychologist who specializes in working with couples struggling with communication, a lack of physical intimacy or emotional connection, a difference in attachment style or issues related to trust. I also work with couples in their second marriage as they navigate the challenges of a blended family and with married couples contemplating divorce or couples who would like support as they decouple.
APRIL 2022- Accepting new clients. Welcome! I am a Stanford trained clinical psychologist who specializes in working with couples struggling with communication, a lack of physical intimacy or emotional connection, a difference in attachment style or issues related to trust. I also work with couples in their second marriage as they navigate the challenges of a blended family and with married couples contemplating divorce or couples who would like support as they decouple.
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Photo of Blair Morgan-Livingston, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98105, WA
Blair Morgan-Livingston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
I also incorporate a sex positive lens to my work and am a welcoming advocate for people of all genders, family structures, and orientations.
I believe in the importance of helping individuals seeking to show up authentically in all parts of their lives. Through compassion, non-judgmental guidance, and by challenging patterns where you find yourself stuck, we are able to promote personal growth and change. I work with individuals and couples to better understand their boundaries and how to strengthen their ability to communicate them. My approach to counseling is informed by CBT, ACT, Psychodynamic, and EMDR. EMDR therapy is an effective therapy method that supports healing from trauma, ingrained negative core beliefs, and other distressing life experiences.
I also incorporate a sex positive lens to my work and am a welcoming advocate for people of all genders, family structures, and orientations.
I believe in the importance of helping individuals seeking to show up authentically in all parts of their lives. Through compassion, non-judgmental guidance, and by challenging patterns where you find yourself stuck, we are able to promote personal growth and change. I work with individuals and couples to better understand their boundaries and how to strengthen their ability to communicate them. My approach to counseling is informed by CBT, ACT, Psychodynamic, and EMDR. EMDR therapy is an effective therapy method that supports healing from trauma, ingrained negative core beliefs, and other distressing life experiences.
(206) 823-3277 View (206) 823-3277
Photo of Makoto Fujisaki, Counselor in 98105, WA
Makoto Fujisaki
Counselor, LMHCA, MS, MPhilEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
I work with many clients who struggle understanding emotions, managing anxiety and stress, depressed moods, career uncertainties, and relationship/family issues.
Accepting new clients. Asian therapist who understands and will work with you to manage anxiety, relationship issues, boost your confidence and guide you to identify deeper root causes. Accepting Premera, BCBS, Anthem and Lifewise. Japanese available. Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Are you struggling with low self-esteem? Have you ever wondered where your anxieties and other challenges are coming from? I understand the toll that these hurdles can take on your well-being. Whether you’re facing challenges dealing with and understanding your emotions or everyday life struggles, you are not alone and I’m here for you.
I work with many clients who struggle understanding emotions, managing anxiety and stress, depressed moods, career uncertainties, and relationship/family issues.
Accepting new clients. Asian therapist who understands and will work with you to manage anxiety, relationship issues, boost your confidence and guide you to identify deeper root causes. Accepting Premera, BCBS, Anthem and Lifewise. Japanese available. Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed? Are you struggling with low self-esteem? Have you ever wondered where your anxieties and other challenges are coming from? I understand the toll that these hurdles can take on your well-being. Whether you’re facing challenges dealing with and understanding your emotions or everyday life struggles, you are not alone and I’m here for you.
(206) 401-5763 View (206) 401-5763
Photo of Jill Cole, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98105, WA
Jill Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
My initial training was in family therapy, and I later completed Seattle's first ever child therapy program.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (with a doctorate from Columbia University) with over 40 years of practice experience with children, families, couples, and adults. My approach to our work is "psychodynamic" and I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. I am open to consultation, crisis intervention, short term therapy, and more intensive, insight oriented treatment. The "ideal client" is the one who is willing to work hard. So am I!
My initial training was in family therapy, and I later completed Seattle's first ever child therapy program.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (with a doctorate from Columbia University) with over 40 years of practice experience with children, families, couples, and adults. My approach to our work is "psychodynamic" and I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. I am open to consultation, crisis intervention, short term therapy, and more intensive, insight oriented treatment. The "ideal client" is the one who is willing to work hard. So am I!
(855) 463-3711 View (855) 463-3711
Photo of Cassady Kintner PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98105, WA
Cassady Kintner PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, MDFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
Specialized training in Medical Family Therapy (MDFT) and experiences as someone with T1D allow me to collaborate with health care teams and speak for organizations including ConnecT1D, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, American Diabetes Association, and College Diabetes Network.
I am passionate about helping people with complex, highly demanding medical conditions, particularly diabetes, to face the emotional and behavioral challenges that so often accompany chronic health problems. I also enjoy working with 15+ teens and young women struggling with feelings of being "too much" and still "not enough". There is hope, and I can help you overcome frustration and discouragement to find peace, balance and a sense of purpose. You are not alone, and you don't have to do this alone.
Specialized training in Medical Family Therapy (MDFT) and experiences as someone with T1D allow me to collaborate with health care teams and speak for organizations including ConnecT1D, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, American Diabetes Association, and College Diabetes Network.
I am passionate about helping people with complex, highly demanding medical conditions, particularly diabetes, to face the emotional and behavioral challenges that so often accompany chronic health problems. I also enjoy working with 15+ teens and young women struggling with feelings of being "too much" and still "not enough". There is hope, and I can help you overcome frustration and discouragement to find peace, balance and a sense of purpose. You are not alone, and you don't have to do this alone.
(206) 202-6615 View (206) 202-6615
Photo of Leyla Welkin, Counselor in 98105, WA
Leyla Welkin
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
I provide psychotherapy in Seattle and coaching for clients around the world. Special focus on couples, cultural adjustment issues and sexuality. With more than 30 years of experience, my approach is based on your strengths, focused on empowering you, centered on your goals, and connects you with other resources. I was born in Turkey and have lived and worked in the US, Turkey and Europe. I provide individual, couple, family and group therapy, consultation and training from Seattle's University District.
I provide psychotherapy in Seattle and coaching for clients around the world. Special focus on couples, cultural adjustment issues and sexuality. With more than 30 years of experience, my approach is based on your strengths, focused on empowering you, centered on your goals, and connects you with other resources. I was born in Turkey and have lived and worked in the US, Turkey and Europe. I provide individual, couple, family and group therapy, consultation and training from Seattle's University District.
(206) 489-3471 View (206) 489-3471
Photo of Katina J Gould, Counselor in 98105, WA
Katina J Gould
Counselor, MAEd, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
As a counselor, I am experienced and devoted to supporting individuals, children, teens, couples and families who present with a variety of concerns including relationship issues, spiritual trauma/abuse, adjustment issues, crisis, loss and grief, fears, depression, relational issues, negative self-talk, family conflict, the need for coping skills, self-esteem and self-worth struggles, life transitions, anxiety, childhood trauma/recent trauma in adults and children, and those wanting to explore their cultural identity and issues of spirituality.
As a counselor, I am experienced and devoted to supporting individuals, children, teens, couples and families who present with a variety of concerns including relationship issues, spiritual trauma/abuse, adjustment issues, crisis, loss and grief, fears, depression, relational issues, negative self-talk, family conflict, the need for coping skills, self-esteem and self-worth struggles, life transitions, anxiety, childhood trauma/recent trauma in adults and children, and those wanting to explore their cultural identity and issues of spirituality.
(206) 752-4316 View (206) 752-4316
Photo of Amal Abdulrahman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98105, WA
Amal Abdulrahman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
There are many reasons why someone starts to look for a therapist. In addition to alleviating the symptoms of uncomfortable emotions and pain, there is a great opportunity for healing and personal growth. I specialize in helping my clients to regain confidence in their ability to manage overwhelming emotions and to work through personal, family, and career challenges. My clinical area of expertise is treating anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders.
There are many reasons why someone starts to look for a therapist. In addition to alleviating the symptoms of uncomfortable emotions and pain, there is a great opportunity for healing and personal growth. I specialize in helping my clients to regain confidence in their ability to manage overwhelming emotions and to work through personal, family, and career challenges. My clinical area of expertise is treating anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorders.
(206) 899-0465 View (206) 899-0465
Photo of Yasha Carpentier, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98105, WA
Yasha Carpentier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
I have over 20 years of experience in pediatric medical and mental health field with a focus on working with the family as they go through this difficult journey.
I assist clients in processing through feelings and symptoms related to traumas or negative experiences that impact your life today. I believe that every individual possesses the ability to make positive changes in their lives and I would like to be a part of that journey with you. It takes strength and courage to face your problems and together we can take on this challenge. The treatment I provide is individualized to the person or couple I am working with. Because change is constant, we each go through phases of challenges and peace, and my attention will be on supporting you and/or your family in this process.
I have over 20 years of experience in pediatric medical and mental health field with a focus on working with the family as they go through this difficult journey.
I assist clients in processing through feelings and symptoms related to traumas or negative experiences that impact your life today. I believe that every individual possesses the ability to make positive changes in their lives and I would like to be a part of that journey with you. It takes strength and courage to face your problems and together we can take on this challenge. The treatment I provide is individualized to the person or couple I am working with. Because change is constant, we each go through phases of challenges and peace, and my attention will be on supporting you and/or your family in this process.
(206) 202-2059 View (206) 202-2059
Photo of Spencer Wallis, Marriage & Family Therapist in 98105, WA
Spencer Wallis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
Waitlist for new clients
I use approaches based on theory in family systems, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and other evidence-based approaches.
I work with couples and individuals who wish to address emotional, relational, and identity conflict. This involves tailoring my treatment approach to the unique needs of each client. In my couple and family work, I aim to nurture clients' skills related to intimacy, shared understanding, communication, and connectedness, while respecting each partner's need for independent growth. I believe in the healing power of human connection, and that this bond can be a path to fulfillment and meaning in everyday life. My work with individuals addresses issues related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, sexuality, dating, and career.
I use approaches based on theory in family systems, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and other evidence-based approaches.
I work with couples and individuals who wish to address emotional, relational, and identity conflict. This involves tailoring my treatment approach to the unique needs of each client. In my couple and family work, I aim to nurture clients' skills related to intimacy, shared understanding, communication, and connectedness, while respecting each partner's need for independent growth. I believe in the healing power of human connection, and that this bond can be a path to fulfillment and meaning in everyday life. My work with individuals addresses issues related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, grief, sexuality, dating, and career.
(253) 509-7168 View (253) 509-7168
Photo of Arren Lenau, Social Worker Associate in 98105, WA
Arren Lenau
Social Worker Associate, LSWAIC, MSW, MHP, MFA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
My interests are in working with adults that have experienced trauma, grief and loss, religious trauma, family of origin issues, people diagnosed with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, and Depression, as well as LGBTQIA+ people and people experiencing gender dysphoria and/or seeking gender affirming surgery. As a social worker, I believe it is important to name systemic oppressions, such as racism, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, classism, capitalism and the ways they intersect in order to acknowledge the harm we continue to experience on a daily basis.
My interests are in working with adults that have experienced trauma, grief and loss, religious trauma, family of origin issues, people diagnosed with ADHD, Autism, Anxiety, and Depression, as well as LGBTQIA+ people and people experiencing gender dysphoria and/or seeking gender affirming surgery. As a social worker, I believe it is important to name systemic oppressions, such as racism, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, classism, capitalism and the ways they intersect in order to acknowledge the harm we continue to experience on a daily basis.
(206) 895-7326 View (206) 895-7326
Photo of Dr. Alice Huang, Psychologist in 98105, WA
Dr. Alice Huang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
I have learned much from working with people of multicultural backgrounds, as well as the LGBT community, Veterans & their partners, cancer patients and their family, and more.
Welcoming couples clients! Relationship problems are common, and you have taken a courageous step by seeking therapy. As one of the few psychologists specializing in couple therapy, I have supported hundreds of couples by providing effective, evidence-based treatments that scientific research has shown to bring significant and lasting improvement. My own research on relationships has been published in peer-reviewed journals, and featured here in Psychology Today, international media outlets such as Business Insider Germany and New York Times Best Seller Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown.
I have learned much from working with people of multicultural backgrounds, as well as the LGBT community, Veterans & their partners, cancer patients and their family, and more.
Welcoming couples clients! Relationship problems are common, and you have taken a courageous step by seeking therapy. As one of the few psychologists specializing in couple therapy, I have supported hundreds of couples by providing effective, evidence-based treatments that scientific research has shown to bring significant and lasting improvement. My own research on relationships has been published in peer-reviewed journals, and featured here in Psychology Today, international media outlets such as Business Insider Germany and New York Times Best Seller Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown.
(425) 906-7157 View (425) 906-7157
Photo of Alyse Bradway, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 98105, WA
Alyse Bradway
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
Therapy is a vulnerable process, and my goal is to meet clients where they’re at and work with them in a warm, engaging, and direct manner. I work with clients collaboratively, seeing you as the expert of your own life and me as a third party to help see patterns, ask questions, and hold difficult things with you. My goal is to see holistic change for each client. I work from a systems perspective, meaning I incorporate the way your family, friends, community, work, etc. affect who you are. With this knowledge, we can build healthy frameworks and relationships.
Therapy is a vulnerable process, and my goal is to meet clients where they’re at and work with them in a warm, engaging, and direct manner. I work with clients collaboratively, seeing you as the expert of your own life and me as a third party to help see patterns, ask questions, and hold difficult things with you. My goal is to see holistic change for each client. I work from a systems perspective, meaning I incorporate the way your family, friends, community, work, etc. affect who you are. With this knowledge, we can build healthy frameworks and relationships.
(206) 203-1554 View (206) 203-1554
Photo of Jamie Zhou, Counselor in 98105, WA
Jamie Zhou
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
My primary school of practice is Schema Therapy, with integrative perspectives from the Internal Family System, Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Feminist Therapy.
I graduated from the Graduate School of Education of the University of Pennsylvania with a master’s in counseling and mental health services (M.S.Ed.) and a master’s in professional counseling (M.Phil.Ed.). I have experience working with adults with diverse backgrounds, providing bilingual services (i.e., Mandarin and English), addressing a wide range of client problems, and managing different platforms for conducting therapy.
My primary school of practice is Schema Therapy, with integrative perspectives from the Internal Family System, Humanistic, Cognitive Behavioral, and Feminist Therapy.
I graduated from the Graduate School of Education of the University of Pennsylvania with a master’s in counseling and mental health services (M.S.Ed.) and a master’s in professional counseling (M.Phil.Ed.). I have experience working with adults with diverse backgrounds, providing bilingual services (i.e., Mandarin and English), addressing a wide range of client problems, and managing different platforms for conducting therapy.
(206) 809-8430 View (206) 809-8430
Photo of Claire Hipkens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98105, WA
Claire Hipkens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
I'm open to a broad client base but my predominant experience is with first gen college students, pro athletes & their family members. I ran the mental health services for UW athletics and am currently the consulting clinician for the Seattle Mariners and the NHL. I work best with driven people experiencing a big change. Perhaps, despite your best efforts, things aren’t working out as you’d hoped. Or perhaps you’ve gotten all you wanted and it doesn’t satisfy the way you thought it might. Though I often work with athletes I am not a Sports Psych. In fact, I don’t even follow sports! I’m here for the rest of your life and identity.
I'm open to a broad client base but my predominant experience is with first gen college students, pro athletes & their family members. I ran the mental health services for UW athletics and am currently the consulting clinician for the Seattle Mariners and the NHL. I work best with driven people experiencing a big change. Perhaps, despite your best efforts, things aren’t working out as you’d hoped. Or perhaps you’ve gotten all you wanted and it doesn’t satisfy the way you thought it might. Though I often work with athletes I am not a Sports Psych. In fact, I don’t even follow sports! I’m here for the rest of your life and identity.
(206) 752-2461 View (206) 752-2461
Photo of Julia N. Bonnheim, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in 98105, WA
Julia N. Bonnheim
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
I have experience working with people struggling to navigate complicated family, romantic, peer, and work relationships; manage anxiety and depression; cope with fertility issues, pregnancy, and the postpartum period; examine identity and sense of self; and navigate life transitions like marriage, parenthood, career changes and more.
Our lives are complicated. They’re full of complicated relationships, conflicts over what we want, struggles in how we see ourselves and others, and questions about satisfaction and meaning in life. In therapy, we have the opportunity to understand these painful dilemmas and better know our own minds. We can discover new ways of looking at our experiences, relationships, and internal world, and create a freer, more flexible, and more authentic life. I work with a wide variety of people and particularly enjoy working with those who are curious about themselves and interested in working collaboratively towards self-understanding.
I have experience working with people struggling to navigate complicated family, romantic, peer, and work relationships; manage anxiety and depression; cope with fertility issues, pregnancy, and the postpartum period; examine identity and sense of self; and navigate life transitions like marriage, parenthood, career changes and more.
Our lives are complicated. They’re full of complicated relationships, conflicts over what we want, struggles in how we see ourselves and others, and questions about satisfaction and meaning in life. In therapy, we have the opportunity to understand these painful dilemmas and better know our own minds. We can discover new ways of looking at our experiences, relationships, and internal world, and create a freer, more flexible, and more authentic life. I work with a wide variety of people and particularly enjoy working with those who are curious about themselves and interested in working collaboratively towards self-understanding.
(206) 202-9792 View (206) 202-9792
Photo of Jane Seelye Washington State Online Counseling, Counselor in 98105, WA
Jane Seelye Washington State Online Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
We all face challenges in life, but sometimes we get stuck, overwhelmed, or notice repeating patterns that negatively affect our relationships, work, and our overall health. I work with women who feel anxious, worried, lonely, sad, not good enough, or confused about what to do next. My clients struggle with self-esteem, anxiety, hurtful relationships, family issues, difficult transitions, trauma and many other life challenges. Most women I see are looking to build confidence, become empowered to make changes, break unhealthy patterns and form healthier relationships. Counseling can be a great resource we can use to heal and grow.
We all face challenges in life, but sometimes we get stuck, overwhelmed, or notice repeating patterns that negatively affect our relationships, work, and our overall health. I work with women who feel anxious, worried, lonely, sad, not good enough, or confused about what to do next. My clients struggle with self-esteem, anxiety, hurtful relationships, family issues, difficult transitions, trauma and many other life challenges. Most women I see are looking to build confidence, become empowered to make changes, break unhealthy patterns and form healthier relationships. Counseling can be a great resource we can use to heal and grow.
(206) 258-6397 View (206) 258-6397
Photo of Kat Chen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98105, WA
Kat Chen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
I work with individuals aged 16 and up, and I am committed to creating a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship. I believe that working together means uncovering your strengths, confronting challenges, and developing strategies that enhance your well-being and quality of life. Whether you're struggling with the pressures of school/family/society, the weight of past traumas, or the challenges of adapting to a new environment, I offer a personalized approach to help you navigate in the face of change.
I work with individuals aged 16 and up, and I am committed to creating a collaborative and empowering therapeutic relationship. I believe that working together means uncovering your strengths, confronting challenges, and developing strategies that enhance your well-being and quality of life. Whether you're struggling with the pressures of school/family/society, the weight of past traumas, or the challenges of adapting to a new environment, I offer a personalized approach to help you navigate in the face of change.
(206) 429-6798 View (206) 429-6798
Photo of Samar Ayyub, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 98105, WA
Samar Ayyub
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCAISW, MEd, RYT-500
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
Together, we will work within the lens of family history, genetics, imperfections, gifts, and your overall humanity to find an approach that best fits your specific needs.
I blend traditional, evidence-based practices with holistic practices, such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga (and a touch of humor!), to guide you on a path toward self-healing and understanding. I specialize in helping you manage feelings of stress, depression, and anxiety. I also provide executive function, self-regulation, and social skills support related to ADHD, autism, and other related challenges. Along with patient care, I work with parents and caretakers of children with disabilities to help them overcome everyday challenges, navigate the intricacies of special education, and discuss how to best support their child.
Together, we will work within the lens of family history, genetics, imperfections, gifts, and your overall humanity to find an approach that best fits your specific needs.
I blend traditional, evidence-based practices with holistic practices, such as mindfulness, meditation, and yoga (and a touch of humor!), to guide you on a path toward self-healing and understanding. I specialize in helping you manage feelings of stress, depression, and anxiety. I also provide executive function, self-regulation, and social skills support related to ADHD, autism, and other related challenges. Along with patient care, I work with parents and caretakers of children with disabilities to help them overcome everyday challenges, navigate the intricacies of special education, and discuss how to best support their child.
(206) 483-0592 View (206) 483-0592
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.