Photo of Alexandra Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Algonquin, IL
Alexandra Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the states of IL & CA who specializes in working with pregnant & postpartum moms and families, Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs), and sexual assault survivors. I also have experience helping clients with premarital and marital problems (e.g., communication and trust issues, helping partners connect deeper with one another), blended family issues, challenges in pregnancy & postpartum (including perinatal anxiety and depression), grief and loss, various life transitions, trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, and depression.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the states of IL & CA who specializes in working with pregnant & postpartum moms and families, Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs), and sexual assault survivors. I also have experience helping clients with premarital and marital problems (e.g., communication and trust issues, helping partners connect deeper with one another), blended family issues, challenges in pregnancy & postpartum (including perinatal anxiety and depression), grief and loss, various life transitions, trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, and depression.
(847) 961-4086 View (847) 961-4086
Photo of Ben Gesing, Psychologist in Algonquin, IL
Ben Gesing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
I have worked extensively with adults aged 18 to 65+ in both private practice and hospital settings providing individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy.
I work collaboratively with my clients to expand their insight into all the relevant factors and/or influences that are keeping them from reaching their full potential. These factors often include, but are not limited to; the identified stressor(s) that brought them into therapy; the effectiveness (or lack of effectiveness) of their current coping strategies; the influence past experiences and physical discomfort can have on their decision making and behavior; and increasing his or her awareness of their individual strengths and weakness. Simply put, I systematically help my clients make appropriate changes needed to meet their identified treatment goals.
I have worked extensively with adults aged 18 to 65+ in both private practice and hospital settings providing individual therapy, family therapy, and group therapy.
I work collaboratively with my clients to expand their insight into all the relevant factors and/or influences that are keeping them from reaching their full potential. These factors often include, but are not limited to; the identified stressor(s) that brought them into therapy; the effectiveness (or lack of effectiveness) of their current coping strategies; the influence past experiences and physical discomfort can have on their decision making and behavior; and increasing his or her awareness of their individual strengths and weakness. Simply put, I systematically help my clients make appropriate changes needed to meet their identified treatment goals.
(815) 317-4213 View (815) 317-4213
Photo of Martin Montoya, Counselor in Algonquin, IL
Martin Montoya
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
I also speak Spanish or hablo español for anyone that is looking for individual, couples, or family therapy with someone where English is not their first language.
At times we find ourselves experiencing problems and difficulties. We may respond in ways to barely get by and keep moving forward. Sometimes we struggle to feel a sense of belonging or feel consumed with negative thoughts and emotions. Maybe it’s our past that is keeping us from being in the present moment or it’s adding to our overall stress. In therapy, we can identify new ways to cope with difficulties and other life struggles that may be hurting our overall health or relationships.
I also speak Spanish or hablo español for anyone that is looking for individual, couples, or family therapy with someone where English is not their first language.
At times we find ourselves experiencing problems and difficulties. We may respond in ways to barely get by and keep moving forward. Sometimes we struggle to feel a sense of belonging or feel consumed with negative thoughts and emotions. Maybe it’s our past that is keeping us from being in the present moment or it’s adding to our overall stress. In therapy, we can identify new ways to cope with difficulties and other life struggles that may be hurting our overall health or relationships.
(708) 419-3917 View (708) 419-3917
Photo of ProActive Behavioral Services - Dr Todd R Lendvay, Psychologist in Algonquin, IL
ProActive Behavioral Services - Dr Todd R Lendvay
Psychologist, PsyD, LCPC, CCJS, MAC, AMS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102
There are times when our life, or the lives of family members are no longer as enjoyable as planned. Sadness, arguments, anxiety, and substance use often occur when we experience ourselves going into a direction we don't like. During these challenges, the core of disagreements may simply be a different viewpoint on how a person should live and think. When your challenges become chronic, despite efforts to change, its time to involve professionals. When your way of thinking/behaving no longer progress you towards your goals....it may be time to make the call you frequently thought of making.
There are times when our life, or the lives of family members are no longer as enjoyable as planned. Sadness, arguments, anxiety, and substance use often occur when we experience ourselves going into a direction we don't like. During these challenges, the core of disagreements may simply be a different viewpoint on how a person should live and think. When your challenges become chronic, despite efforts to change, its time to involve professionals. When your way of thinking/behaving no longer progress you towards your goals....it may be time to make the call you frequently thought of making.
(847) 997-2037 View (847) 997-2037
Photo of Shelby Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Algonquin, IL
Shelby Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, parenting concerns, family conflict, and trauma.
Life can be an overwhelming and a confusing puzzle at times. Therapy allows you to take the time to carefully pick up those pieces and create a life that you can be at peace with. My therapeutic style is one that balances real connection with honest conversations. I collaborate with clients to create a judgement free space that will also challenge you directly to reach the goals you want to achieve. Together, we can find the right tools to help you cope with stress and navigate relationship dynamics. By exploring patterns and learning new skills in therapy, you can gain a renewed sense of confidence and strength.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, parenting concerns, family conflict, and trauma.
Life can be an overwhelming and a confusing puzzle at times. Therapy allows you to take the time to carefully pick up those pieces and create a life that you can be at peace with. My therapeutic style is one that balances real connection with honest conversations. I collaborate with clients to create a judgement free space that will also challenge you directly to reach the goals you want to achieve. Together, we can find the right tools to help you cope with stress and navigate relationship dynamics. By exploring patterns and learning new skills in therapy, you can gain a renewed sense of confidence and strength.
(847) 242-2460 View (847) 242-2460
Photo of Claire Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Algonquin, IL
Claire Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
Do you find yourself always questioning your decisions? Not being able to be assertive in your work, with your family, or friends, affects your relationships.
Are you feeling that your marriage could use a makeover? Concerned about the lack of intimacy in the relationship? Couples will be able to learn how to establish a solid friendship by creating love maps, increasing the fondness and admiration and creating more emotional connection. Another key will be how to deal with conflict, so issues can be dealt with instead of letting them get buried Many different tools will be used to get the same old argument into a different experience and hopefully a different ending. I am a certified Gottman therapist, having trained in Seattle with John and Julie Gottman. (Gottman.com) .
Do you find yourself always questioning your decisions? Not being able to be assertive in your work, with your family, or friends, affects your relationships.
Are you feeling that your marriage could use a makeover? Concerned about the lack of intimacy in the relationship? Couples will be able to learn how to establish a solid friendship by creating love maps, increasing the fondness and admiration and creating more emotional connection. Another key will be how to deal with conflict, so issues can be dealt with instead of letting them get buried Many different tools will be used to get the same old argument into a different experience and hopefully a different ending. I am a certified Gottman therapist, having trained in Seattle with John and Julie Gottman. (Gottman.com) .
(815) 290-0908 View (815) 290-0908
Center for Collaborative Counseling & Psychiatry
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102
At the Center for Collaborative Counseling and Psychiatry, our experts provide you, your child and family with comprehensive resources, support, and relief. We take a holistic approach to treatment and treat you as a whole and unique person and not just a list of symptoms. We provide evaluations, assessments, medication management, therapy and the skilled support and guidance of highly qualified professionals who will work collaboratively with you to create a treatment plan that best addresses your specific needs and therapy goals. And, our staff works together as a cohesive team to provide you with the best possible care every step of the way.
At the Center for Collaborative Counseling and Psychiatry, our experts provide you, your child and family with comprehensive resources, support, and relief. We take a holistic approach to treatment and treat you as a whole and unique person and not just a list of symptoms. We provide evaluations, assessments, medication management, therapy and the skilled support and guidance of highly qualified professionals who will work collaboratively with you to create a treatment plan that best addresses your specific needs and therapy goals. And, our staff works together as a cohesive team to provide you with the best possible care every step of the way.
(847) 737-8865 View (847) 737-8865
Photo of Nicole Patterson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Algonquin, IL
Nicole Patterson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
I integrate aspects of Gottman’s Couples Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I specialize in working with various ages ranging from children, teenagers, and adults. Services include individual, family, and couples' therapy. I am able to help clients that are struggling with relationships/marriages, pre-marital issues, infidelity, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, conflict, parenting, trauma, and life transitions. Facing these challenges are never easy, but with the proper help and support, positive change can be made, which is what I strive to help achieve.
I integrate aspects of Gottman’s Couples Therapy, Structural Family Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I specialize in working with various ages ranging from children, teenagers, and adults. Services include individual, family, and couples' therapy. I am able to help clients that are struggling with relationships/marriages, pre-marital issues, infidelity, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, conflict, parenting, trauma, and life transitions. Facing these challenges are never easy, but with the proper help and support, positive change can be made, which is what I strive to help achieve.
(815) 240-8423 View (815) 240-8423
Photo of David P Cook, Marriage & Family Therapist in Algonquin, IL
David P Cook
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102
Does if feel like you're at a loss for how to make things better? Are you struggling with a relationship problem, and individual challenge or family conflict? Are you not "feeling the love" in your marriage, stressed over a life event, or trying to keep your family from falling apart? If you answered "yes" to any of this questions, it might be time to give me a call. I am confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges.
Does if feel like you're at a loss for how to make things better? Are you struggling with a relationship problem, and individual challenge or family conflict? Are you not "feeling the love" in your marriage, stressed over a life event, or trying to keep your family from falling apart? If you answered "yes" to any of this questions, it might be time to give me a call. I am confident that together we can work to help equip you with the necessary tools to help you face and overcome these challenges.
(815) 768-4712 View (815) 768-4712
Photo of Brandi Janisch, Counselor in Algonquin, IL
Brandi Janisch
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
I specialize in individual and family counseling for all ages- this includes: anxiety and depressive disorders, women's issues, perinatal mood disorders (postpartum depression/anxiety), Marriage and Family Counseling, and counseling for children/teens struggling with peer relationships, self-esteem, anxiety, body image, academics and family issues.
I believe we all need someone to talk to who will listen and accept us. I provide clients with a warm, non-judgmental environment- a safe place to explore real life issues. If you're ready to commit to making positive changes, I encourage you to take the first step. I work with individuals, couples and families of all ages to manage and reduce anxiety, depression, stress and trauma that is interfering with everyday life and relationships.
I specialize in individual and family counseling for all ages- this includes: anxiety and depressive disorders, women's issues, perinatal mood disorders (postpartum depression/anxiety), Marriage and Family Counseling, and counseling for children/teens struggling with peer relationships, self-esteem, anxiety, body image, academics and family issues.
I believe we all need someone to talk to who will listen and accept us. I provide clients with a warm, non-judgmental environment- a safe place to explore real life issues. If you're ready to commit to making positive changes, I encourage you to take the first step. I work with individuals, couples and families of all ages to manage and reduce anxiety, depression, stress and trauma that is interfering with everyday life and relationships.
(773) 716-3592 View (773) 716-3592
Photo of Brian S. McCallum, Counselor in Algonquin, IL
Brian S. McCallum
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102
Many people go through times when they have trouble with even the simple tasks in life. Relationships, work, family and life purpose can become overwhelming at times. Imagine if you didn’t have to feel that way. Connect to your joy and sense of worth. Counseling is a conversation about thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and the collaboration between counselor and client to co-create goals for change. I will work with you to help you change the way you think and feel about yourself and the world. By exploring what you value we will collaborate to overcome the difficulty you have been facing.
Many people go through times when they have trouble with even the simple tasks in life. Relationships, work, family and life purpose can become overwhelming at times. Imagine if you didn’t have to feel that way. Connect to your joy and sense of worth. Counseling is a conversation about thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and the collaboration between counselor and client to co-create goals for change. I will work with you to help you change the way you think and feel about yourself and the world. By exploring what you value we will collaborate to overcome the difficulty you have been facing.
(847) 553-4283 View (847) 553-4283
Photo of Judy A Carlson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Algonquin, IL
Judy A Carlson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
I have over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups addressing the following: anxiety, depression, addiction and recovery, substance use disorders, co-dependency, adolescent issues, relationship/family issues, grief and loss, adjustment issues, stress management and mood disorders.
I believe in working collaboratively with a client to help them work through problems and barriers so that they can reach their unique potential. I believe in a positive, solution focused approach, which encourages hope and gratitude related to all of life's lessons.
I have over 30 years of experience working with adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups addressing the following: anxiety, depression, addiction and recovery, substance use disorders, co-dependency, adolescent issues, relationship/family issues, grief and loss, adjustment issues, stress management and mood disorders.
I believe in working collaboratively with a client to help them work through problems and barriers so that they can reach their unique potential. I believe in a positive, solution focused approach, which encourages hope and gratitude related to all of life's lessons.
(847) 813-7320 View (847) 813-7320
Photo of Katie Kronn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Algonquin, IL
Katie Kronn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
My therapeutic approach is adapted based on the client's needs and social systems. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and families, being mindful of change occurring within the individual and family dynamic. I collaborate with schools, families, doctors, and other sources to assist in advocating for my client's needs. My level of expertise includes individual, group, and family therapy. I implement mindfulness, assertiveness training, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and other methods to address substance dependence/abuse, anxiety, trauma, depression, and other emotional and behavior problem areas. I have specialized in bullying and self-esteem with adolescents.
My therapeutic approach is adapted based on the client's needs and social systems. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and families, being mindful of change occurring within the individual and family dynamic. I collaborate with schools, families, doctors, and other sources to assist in advocating for my client's needs. My level of expertise includes individual, group, and family therapy. I implement mindfulness, assertiveness training, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and other methods to address substance dependence/abuse, anxiety, trauma, depression, and other emotional and behavior problem areas. I have specialized in bullying and self-esteem with adolescents.
(623) 294-4109 View (623) 294-4109
Photo of BZA Behavioral Health-LITH Office, Counselor in Algonquin, IL
BZA Behavioral Health-LITH Office
Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60156
Our services range from therapy for depression and anxiety to medication management, parenting support, family counseling and life coaching.
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
Our services range from therapy for depression and anxiety to medication management, parenting support, family counseling and life coaching.
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
(224) 813-3175 View (224) 813-3175
Photo of Bonnie C Yates, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Algonquin, IL
Bonnie C Yates
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RN, MAC
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102  (Online Only)
We offer the highest level of individual, marriage, and family counseling services in West Dundee, Illinois.
At Yates and Associates, we are ready to assist you with individual, marriage, and family counseling. We are experienced in helping our clients understand and work through addiction, co-dependency, anxiety and panic disorder, depression, grief, eating disorders, and abuse. We can also help with communication issues, decision making, and the challenges you may face during times of major transition, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, job loss, and death.
We offer the highest level of individual, marriage, and family counseling services in West Dundee, Illinois.
At Yates and Associates, we are ready to assist you with individual, marriage, and family counseling. We are experienced in helping our clients understand and work through addiction, co-dependency, anxiety and panic disorder, depression, grief, eating disorders, and abuse. We can also help with communication issues, decision making, and the challenges you may face during times of major transition, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, job loss, and death.
(224) 802-3086 View (224) 802-3086
Photo of Salt'n'Pepper Consulting LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Algonquin, IL
Salt'n'Pepper Consulting LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CADC, CCTP-II, CCTHP
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
Please contact me, maybe I can provide what you or/and your family is looking for.
Hello, my name is Thomas Kaltenecker and I believe my skillset is best suited with adolescents, adults and elderly both male and female as well as couples, searching for someone to actively listen to, coach them through life's challenges. If you are looking for someone to support you through adjustment issues, to guide you working through debilitating anxiety and stopping paralyzing depressive thoughts, as well as unhealthy behavior patterns, my patient centered approach just might be what you need. Let's talk and see if I can help you, spice up your life again.
Please contact me, maybe I can provide what you or/and your family is looking for.
Hello, my name is Thomas Kaltenecker and I believe my skillset is best suited with adolescents, adults and elderly both male and female as well as couples, searching for someone to actively listen to, coach them through life's challenges. If you are looking for someone to support you through adjustment issues, to guide you working through debilitating anxiety and stopping paralyzing depressive thoughts, as well as unhealthy behavior patterns, my patient centered approach just might be what you need. Let's talk and see if I can help you, spice up your life again.
(224) 298-8216 View (224) 298-8216
Photo of Leida Woodham, Counselor in Algonquin, IL
Leida Woodham
Counselor, MA, CRC, LCPC, AMFT
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102  (Online Only)
Sometimes when clients seek to maximize their potentials through therapy, it becomes clear that his/her/they family patterns of behavior influence the individual and therefore the family may need to be a part of the treatment plan.
Personal growth and soul-searching take courage. Therapy is a journey, and I am ready to begin that journey with those courageous clients. It takes courage to seek help and sit with a stranger, the therapist, and talk about what troubles you, what motivates you and what you love. Counseling is about you and for you. No matter the age and stage in your life seek help if you feel you need it. At times, what is going on in our lives seems insurmountable. Having someone to provide encouragement, listen without judgement, and helping you set goals and realistic expectations can ease the burden.
Sometimes when clients seek to maximize their potentials through therapy, it becomes clear that his/her/they family patterns of behavior influence the individual and therefore the family may need to be a part of the treatment plan.
Personal growth and soul-searching take courage. Therapy is a journey, and I am ready to begin that journey with those courageous clients. It takes courage to seek help and sit with a stranger, the therapist, and talk about what troubles you, what motivates you and what you love. Counseling is about you and for you. No matter the age and stage in your life seek help if you feel you need it. At times, what is going on in our lives seems insurmountable. Having someone to provide encouragement, listen without judgement, and helping you set goals and realistic expectations can ease the burden.
(224) 212-1309 View (224) 212-1309
Photo of Cindy Forster, Psychologist in Algonquin, IL
Cindy Forster
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102  (Online Only)
I have over 30 years experience providing outpatient therapy and providing integrated psychological services in a large area hospital system. I specialize in Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine. With an emphasis on behavioral health using supportive, cognitive-behavioral therapy, I see patients with anxiety, stress, depression, chronic pain and fibromyalgia, eating disorders, weight loss, smoking cessation, headaches, marital discord, family discord, issues of aging, grief and loss, the psychological aspects of cancer treatment, coping with medical conditions, and managing diabetes. I am also a DBT therapist.
I have over 30 years experience providing outpatient therapy and providing integrated psychological services in a large area hospital system. I specialize in Health Psychology and Behavioral Medicine. With an emphasis on behavioral health using supportive, cognitive-behavioral therapy, I see patients with anxiety, stress, depression, chronic pain and fibromyalgia, eating disorders, weight loss, smoking cessation, headaches, marital discord, family discord, issues of aging, grief and loss, the psychological aspects of cancer treatment, coping with medical conditions, and managing diabetes. I am also a DBT therapist.
(224) 263-0943 View (224) 263-0943
Photo of Jennifer Gosnell, Counselor in Algonquin, IL
Jennifer Gosnell
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
As a dedicated forensic psychotherapist, I am committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based therapy to individuals navigating the complexities of the legal system. My mission is to support clients in understanding the intersection of mental health and forensic issues, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives beyond their legal challenges. I hold a Masters in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling, Post-Masters Certificate in Addictions Counseling and undergraduate degrees in Legal Studies and Psychology. I am also a trained Mediator and SUPR licensed DUI Evaluator with approval from McHenry County Circuit Court.
As a dedicated forensic psychotherapist, I am committed to providing compassionate and evidence-based therapy to individuals navigating the complexities of the legal system. My mission is to support clients in understanding the intersection of mental health and forensic issues, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives beyond their legal challenges. I hold a Masters in Marriage, Couple, and Family Counseling, Post-Masters Certificate in Addictions Counseling and undergraduate degrees in Legal Studies and Psychology. I am also a trained Mediator and SUPR licensed DUI Evaluator with approval from McHenry County Circuit Court.
(815) 396-5469 View (815) 396-5469
Photo of Angela Yeates, Counselor in Algonquin, IL
Angela Yeates
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
We all go through times in our lives when we find ourselves a little lost and simply need someone to help us find our way. I have been helping adolescents, adults and families find their way through challenging times since 1996. Primarily I utilize a client centered approach that allows clients to be in charge of their therapy and decide what the course of treatment will be and what goals to focus on. I also encourage clients to find their motivation and passions in life that will empower them to continue growing beyond the time in counseling.
We all go through times in our lives when we find ourselves a little lost and simply need someone to help us find our way. I have been helping adolescents, adults and families find their way through challenging times since 1996. Primarily I utilize a client centered approach that allows clients to be in charge of their therapy and decide what the course of treatment will be and what goals to focus on. I also encourage clients to find their motivation and passions in life that will empower them to continue growing beyond the time in counseling.
(815) 992-4022 View (815) 992-4022
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.