Family Therapy in Annapolis, MD

Photo of Emery Jefferies, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Emery Jefferies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21409  (Online Only)
Dedicated and committed, I am a qualified and experienced therapist, helping individuals make positive changes in their lives. My main focus is on supporting clients struggling with depression and anxiety, and those who may be experiencing panic attacks or post-traumatic stress disorder. I also work with individuals who are dealing with unresolved issues from past traumas or challenging family relationships, as well as those coping with the loss of a loved one.
Dedicated and committed, I am a qualified and experienced therapist, helping individuals make positive changes in their lives. My main focus is on supporting clients struggling with depression and anxiety, and those who may be experiencing panic attacks or post-traumatic stress disorder. I also work with individuals who are dealing with unresolved issues from past traumas or challenging family relationships, as well as those coping with the loss of a loved one.
(410) 604-8283 View (410) 604-8283
Photo of Lorraine Mcdermott, Psychologist in Annapolis, MD
Lorraine Mcdermott
Psychologist, PhD, CAGS, MA
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
My specialties are couples' issues; family dysfunction including adult children of alcoholics; addictions; depression; anxiety; geriatric issues; adult ADD; and stress.
I have practiced psychology in the Annapolis area for almost 29 years. Currently I have offices in Annapolis and Kent Island. The slogan you will see in my telephone directory ads is: "Life's too Short to be Unhappy.'' I live by this slogan and encourage patients to do the same. I do my best work with patients who are motivated to make changes and who are open to a direct approach. I always provide input to patients and encourage interaction with the goal of solving problems. I work with adults of all ages and adolescents. I have enjoyed many successful treatment outcomes.
My specialties are couples' issues; family dysfunction including adult children of alcoholics; addictions; depression; anxiety; geriatric issues; adult ADD; and stress.
I have practiced psychology in the Annapolis area for almost 29 years. Currently I have offices in Annapolis and Kent Island. The slogan you will see in my telephone directory ads is: "Life's too Short to be Unhappy.'' I live by this slogan and encourage patients to do the same. I do my best work with patients who are motivated to make changes and who are open to a direct approach. I always provide input to patients and encourage interaction with the goal of solving problems. I work with adults of all ages and adolescents. I have enjoyed many successful treatment outcomes.
(410) 263-5300 View (410) 263-5300
Photo of Lee Anne Woomert, Psychologist in Annapolis, MD
Lee Anne Woomert
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Woomert understands that it can be difficult for a family to know how to proceed when someone suggests you seek psychological services.
Dr. Woomert is a Licensed Psychologist who provides psychological assessment and therapeutic services. Evaluations are designed to bridge the gap between difficulties a young person faces and the services or interventions they need to reach their full potential. Dr. Woomert has extensive experience in collaborative assessment, which emphasizes the importance of your perspective and wisdom when it comes to the difficulties your child or family is experiencing. After an evaluation, families can expect to have a much clearer idea of their child's strengths and weaknesses, as well as how to move forward and improve their lives.
Woomert understands that it can be difficult for a family to know how to proceed when someone suggests you seek psychological services.
Dr. Woomert is a Licensed Psychologist who provides psychological assessment and therapeutic services. Evaluations are designed to bridge the gap between difficulties a young person faces and the services or interventions they need to reach their full potential. Dr. Woomert has extensive experience in collaborative assessment, which emphasizes the importance of your perspective and wisdom when it comes to the difficulties your child or family is experiencing. After an evaluation, families can expect to have a much clearer idea of their child's strengths and weaknesses, as well as how to move forward and improve their lives.
(443) 775-3475 View (443) 775-3475
Photo of Nancy Graham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Nancy Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
My practice can help with: Adolescent/Child Services, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Grief, Child Abuse, Stress, Crisis Intervention, Domestic Violence, LGBTQ Issues, Gender Identity, Depression, PTSD, Learning Differences, Life Management Counseling, Family Therapy, Divorce, Mediation, Workplace Conflict/EAP, Mood Disorders & Parenting Issues.
During my 30 years in the social work profession I have had an array of experiences that have focused on crisis work with families and individuals experiencing: trauma, loss, depression, grief, anxiety, low self-esteem, housing & employment issues, and family challenges. In my more recent practice years, I have enjoyed working with the LGBTQ community as a straight ally, and advocating for equal rights and fair treatment for all. I am also certified as a divorce mediator, and I provide clinical supervision to graduate level social work professionals seeking their LCSW-C licensure. Licensed in: MD/VA/FL.
My practice can help with: Adolescent/Child Services, Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Grief, Child Abuse, Stress, Crisis Intervention, Domestic Violence, LGBTQ Issues, Gender Identity, Depression, PTSD, Learning Differences, Life Management Counseling, Family Therapy, Divorce, Mediation, Workplace Conflict/EAP, Mood Disorders & Parenting Issues.
During my 30 years in the social work profession I have had an array of experiences that have focused on crisis work with families and individuals experiencing: trauma, loss, depression, grief, anxiety, low self-esteem, housing & employment issues, and family challenges. In my more recent practice years, I have enjoyed working with the LGBTQ community as a straight ally, and advocating for equal rights and fair treatment for all. I am also certified as a divorce mediator, and I provide clinical supervision to graduate level social work professionals seeking their LCSW-C licensure. Licensed in: MD/VA/FL.
(410) 401-4909 View (410) 401-4909
Photo of Amanda Valltos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Amanda Valltos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Her ability to break through message barriers and uncertainties is based on a working collaboration with clients, their family and in the school if applicable.
Amanda Valltos is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience, primarily working with children and adolescents. She is a caring advocate for her clients, patiently working through their anxieties and concerns by using a variety of mental health approaches that benefit clients individual needs. Amanda completed her Master’s degree in Social Work at Salisbury University. She has always been drawn to kids and teens, especially those who are struggling. Amanda has experienced struggles socially and with her own self-confidence.
Her ability to break through message barriers and uncertainties is based on a working collaboration with clients, their family and in the school if applicable.
Amanda Valltos is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 5 years of experience, primarily working with children and adolescents. She is a caring advocate for her clients, patiently working through their anxieties and concerns by using a variety of mental health approaches that benefit clients individual needs. Amanda completed her Master’s degree in Social Work at Salisbury University. She has always been drawn to kids and teens, especially those who are struggling. Amanda has experienced struggles socially and with her own self-confidence.
(410) 431-0971 View (410) 431-0971
Photo of Rebecca Austin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Rebecca Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
I wanted to get into the mental health field from a young age, as I was always surrounded by friends and family who struggled with mental health.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
I wanted to get into the mental health field from a young age, as I was always surrounded by friends and family who struggled with mental health.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a passion for decreasing the stigma surrounding mental health and promoting the health and well being of my clients. For my undergraduate degree, I moved from Central Jersey (Yes! It exists!) to South Jersey to attend Stockton University. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work with a Minor in Behavioral Neuroscience from Stockton, and then moved on to attend graduate school in Philadelphia. I received my Master of Social Work Degree with a clinical concentration from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy and Practice in May of 2020.
(667) 326-9031 View (667) 326-9031
Photo of Jessica Snell-Johns, Psychologist in Annapolis, MD
Jessica Snell-Johns
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
My ideal client is anyone who is seeking to make positive changes in their life. I am an active therapist who collaborates with my clients. I believe in research about "what works". I also believe it is my job as a therapist to adapt my approach based on the needs of each client. Given my extensive background in couples, family and parenting work, I bring a wholistic approach to working with my individual clients. I am compassionate, hard working, and determined to help you assess the root causes because I believe a good understanding of the problem leads to a good understanding of the solution!
My ideal client is anyone who is seeking to make positive changes in their life. I am an active therapist who collaborates with my clients. I believe in research about "what works". I also believe it is my job as a therapist to adapt my approach based on the needs of each client. Given my extensive background in couples, family and parenting work, I bring a wholistic approach to working with my individual clients. I am compassionate, hard working, and determined to help you assess the root causes because I believe a good understanding of the problem leads to a good understanding of the solution!
(443) 218-9833 View (443) 218-9833
Photo of Tim Holt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Tim Holt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21409
I have worked in the field of substance abuse and mental health since 2014; extensive experience working with athletes, adolescents, college students, and young professionals. Most recently I've worked with parents, families, and couples to help manage the emotional struggles of the family system. I'm wrapping up my credentialing as a Certified Arise Interventionist so I can share my passion with families coping with a loved one's addiction. Ideal client's might be teenagers who are feeling stuck, college aged males who are unsatisfied in life or family members needing support with boundaries and detachment.
I have worked in the field of substance abuse and mental health since 2014; extensive experience working with athletes, adolescents, college students, and young professionals. Most recently I've worked with parents, families, and couples to help manage the emotional struggles of the family system. I'm wrapping up my credentialing as a Certified Arise Interventionist so I can share my passion with families coping with a loved one's addiction. Ideal client's might be teenagers who are feeling stuck, college aged males who are unsatisfied in life or family members needing support with boundaries and detachment.
(443) 494-6114 View (443) 494-6114
Photo of Bridgitte Renae Hammaker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Bridgitte Renae Hammaker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21409  (Online Only)
My practice is built on teaching and supporting people who want to; reduce and manage their stress-worry-anxiety, improve their mood to move toward their authentically happier selves, improve their relationships with family-friends-co-workers, are going through life transitions and want to use it to be better aligned with where they want to be in their life, manage the flood of events in the world that are impacting their thoughts and feelings, people who are hard workers and care for others but then find it difficult to have time left over for their own self-care on a regular basis.
My practice is built on teaching and supporting people who want to; reduce and manage their stress-worry-anxiety, improve their mood to move toward their authentically happier selves, improve their relationships with family-friends-co-workers, are going through life transitions and want to use it to be better aligned with where they want to be in their life, manage the flood of events in the world that are impacting their thoughts and feelings, people who are hard workers and care for others but then find it difficult to have time left over for their own self-care on a regular basis.
(443) 282-1380 View (443) 282-1380
Photo of Katie Heinold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Katie Heinold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Do you have a child that struggles with anxiety, sadness, or behavioral concerns? Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to best support your child during this difficult time? As a therapist that is passionate about working with children and their families to promote emotional growth and positive behavioral change, I would be honored to assist your family in navigating this challenging chapter of life. One of my goals is to create a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgemental space during our sessions so that we can work together to create goals that feel comfortable for you and your family.
Do you have a child that struggles with anxiety, sadness, or behavioral concerns? Are you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of how to best support your child during this difficult time? As a therapist that is passionate about working with children and their families to promote emotional growth and positive behavioral change, I would be honored to assist your family in navigating this challenging chapter of life. One of my goals is to create a safe, welcoming, and nonjudgemental space during our sessions so that we can work together to create goals that feel comfortable for you and your family.
(667) 220-6359 View (667) 220-6359
Photo of Emily Coco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Emily Coco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Do you want to increase self-awareness, reduce symptoms of anxiety/depression, improve communication & relationships within your family, process grief, find balance in your maternal role, and learn effective stress management techniques? Ultimately, do you want to regain control over your life and cultivate greater resilience and happiness? My primary goal is to provide my clients with coping strategies, build resilience, foster a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships, & create a more fulfilling life.
Do you want to increase self-awareness, reduce symptoms of anxiety/depression, improve communication & relationships within your family, process grief, find balance in your maternal role, and learn effective stress management techniques? Ultimately, do you want to regain control over your life and cultivate greater resilience and happiness? My primary goal is to provide my clients with coping strategies, build resilience, foster a deeper understanding of themselves and their relationships, & create a more fulfilling life.
(667) 226-0443 View (667) 226-0443
Photo of Ruth Berlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Ruth Berlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
I bring my experience as a therapist of 45 years - integrating traditional, spiritual and energetic therapeutic approaches to my work with individuals, couples and families I specialize in Voice Dialogue and the Psychology of Selves as I have found it to be the most effective, clear and profound tool for real and long-standing growth and change.Voice Dialogue is a method for learning about, and working with our 'inner family of selves' that make up who we are. This work results in a transformative relationship with our "inner selves' and with our significant others.
I bring my experience as a therapist of 45 years - integrating traditional, spiritual and energetic therapeutic approaches to my work with individuals, couples and families I specialize in Voice Dialogue and the Psychology of Selves as I have found it to be the most effective, clear and profound tool for real and long-standing growth and change.Voice Dialogue is a method for learning about, and working with our 'inner family of selves' that make up who we are. This work results in a transformative relationship with our "inner selves' and with our significant others.
(410) 941-0981 View (410) 941-0981
Photo of Dr. Lillian Sylvester, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Dr. Lillian Sylvester
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
"Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing is changed that is not faced." --James Baldwin. I have been in the field since 2003, licensed since 2009 and have worked with people aged 2-65. Whether in school systems, private homes or professional offices, my work is tailored to the needs of the individual with attention paid to the systems which impact them (family/relationships, school, community, religious affiliation).
"Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing is changed that is not faced." --James Baldwin. I have been in the field since 2003, licensed since 2009 and have worked with people aged 2-65. Whether in school systems, private homes or professional offices, my work is tailored to the needs of the individual with attention paid to the systems which impact them (family/relationships, school, community, religious affiliation).
(410) 343-7582 View (410) 343-7582
Photo of JoLynn Bitler, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Annapolis, MD
JoLynn Bitler
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
LPCMH, LCPC JoLynn, “Jo” brings over a decade of counseling experience. She obtained a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Liberty University. Her training encompasses families, couples, men and women, children, and adolescents from various walks of life. JoLynn is comfortable helping diverse populations and personalities. JoLynn is confident in her skill set to address stigmatized mental health concerns such as clinical depression, adjustment and anxiety disorders, bipolar, anger, trauma, and attachment issues from childhood.
LPCMH, LCPC JoLynn, “Jo” brings over a decade of counseling experience. She obtained a Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy at Liberty University. Her training encompasses families, couples, men and women, children, and adolescents from various walks of life. JoLynn is comfortable helping diverse populations and personalities. JoLynn is confident in her skill set to address stigmatized mental health concerns such as clinical depression, adjustment and anxiety disorders, bipolar, anger, trauma, and attachment issues from childhood.
(410) 538-1916 View (410) 538-1916
Photo of Marie Lauren Hartfield, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Annapolis, MD
Marie Lauren Hartfield
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LGMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
While offering solely virtual therapy, I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as Experiential Family Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, as well as encompassing Attachment Theory.
Finding happiness within ourselves and our relationships may seem unattainable at times. We are often faced with painful thoughts, emotions and behaviors that intercede, leaving us feeling disconnected and alone. My therapeutic approach allows clients to feel safe in order to explore these painful emotions and gain an understanding in how they affect client's self-worth and interpersonal relationships.
While offering solely virtual therapy, I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches, such as Experiential Family Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, as well as encompassing Attachment Theory.
Finding happiness within ourselves and our relationships may seem unattainable at times. We are often faced with painful thoughts, emotions and behaviors that intercede, leaving us feeling disconnected and alone. My therapeutic approach allows clients to feel safe in order to explore these painful emotions and gain an understanding in how they affect client's self-worth and interpersonal relationships.
(443) 775-3806 View (443) 775-3806
Photo of Eryn Kruger, Psychologist in Annapolis, MD
Eryn Kruger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I have expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Functional Family Therapy (FFT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is dedicated to helping others have the life of their choosing. As a part of my training, I completed a doctoral internship and postdoctoral fellowship at Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital. Currently, at the Annapolis Child and Family Therapy Center, I work with children, adolescents, and their families to navigate a range of problems. Problems that I treat and evaluate include depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment problems, anger/aggression, trauma, and family difficulties. I take a collaborative and individualized approach in the treatment process and value input from all members.
I have expertise in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Functional Family Therapy (FFT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who is dedicated to helping others have the life of their choosing. As a part of my training, I completed a doctoral internship and postdoctoral fellowship at Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital. Currently, at the Annapolis Child and Family Therapy Center, I work with children, adolescents, and their families to navigate a range of problems. Problems that I treat and evaluate include depression, anxiety, ADHD, adjustment problems, anger/aggression, trauma, and family difficulties. I take a collaborative and individualized approach in the treatment process and value input from all members.
(410) 267-4936 View (410) 267-4936
Photo of John Persampiere, Psychologist in Annapolis, MD
John Persampiere
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and founder of the Annapolis Child and Family Therapy Center. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples with a wide range of mental health and family relationship concerns. Problems I treat include depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, tics, Tourette's, adjustment problems, noncompliance, anger/aggression, trauma, disruptive behavior, and family and couple relationship difficulties. My approach is collaborative and I view all of my clients as equal partners in the treatment process.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and founder of the Annapolis Child and Family Therapy Center. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, adults, families, and couples with a wide range of mental health and family relationship concerns. Problems I treat include depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, tics, Tourette's, adjustment problems, noncompliance, anger/aggression, trauma, disruptive behavior, and family and couple relationship difficulties. My approach is collaborative and I view all of my clients as equal partners in the treatment process.
(443) 775-2046 View (443) 775-2046
Photo of Darin R Ford, Marriage & Family Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Darin R Ford
Marriage & Family Therapist, LGMFT
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21403  (Online Only)
In addition, as a trauma-certified marriage and family therapist, I support teens, adults, and families by providing the space to process the steps of healing after experiencing a traumatic event.
Are you feeling hopeless and powerless? Have you lost interest in activities you used to enjoy? Do you feel dejected and trapped when you are alone and with others? Do you get test anxiety or find it difficult to start new relationships? Are you easily irritated and angered? Are you in need of support after experiencing the loss of a relationship or a loved one? Do you and your partner feel stuck in your relationship? Do you want to learn how to face challenges without fear? Do you want help with discovering how to live your best life?
In addition, as a trauma-certified marriage and family therapist, I support teens, adults, and families by providing the space to process the steps of healing after experiencing a traumatic event.
Are you feeling hopeless and powerless? Have you lost interest in activities you used to enjoy? Do you feel dejected and trapped when you are alone and with others? Do you get test anxiety or find it difficult to start new relationships? Are you easily irritated and angered? Are you in need of support after experiencing the loss of a relationship or a loved one? Do you and your partner feel stuck in your relationship? Do you want to learn how to face challenges without fear? Do you want help with discovering how to live your best life?
(667) 226-0883 View (667) 226-0883
Photo of Lisa Bridges, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Lisa Bridges
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I specialize in issues affecting members of the adoption community but love working with people from all family backgrounds and situations.
Are you feeling stuck? Maybe it's due to anxiety, a change in life circumstances, or relationship issues. Or maybe you've reached the limits of what you can figure out on your own. If you’re willing to show up, I’m here to help.
I specialize in issues affecting members of the adoption community but love working with people from all family backgrounds and situations.
Are you feeling stuck? Maybe it's due to anxiety, a change in life circumstances, or relationship issues. Or maybe you've reached the limits of what you can figure out on your own. If you’re willing to show up, I’m here to help.
(443) 775-2241 View (443) 775-2241
Photo of Lenda Dincer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Lenda Dincer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
She received her Bachelor of Science in Family Studies from The University of Maryland in College Park.
Lenda is a certified, licensed clinical social worker. She has worked in inpatient, outpatient, and military settings. Her experience is in working with individuals; adults and adolescence, families, and groups. She has treated people who have issues with relationships and self-esteem, mood, and thought disorders, substance abuse, PTSD, and brain injuries. During her time at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, she co-created and implemented an Intensive Outpatient Program and a women’s support group.
She received her Bachelor of Science in Family Studies from The University of Maryland in College Park.
Lenda is a certified, licensed clinical social worker. She has worked in inpatient, outpatient, and military settings. Her experience is in working with individuals; adults and adolescence, families, and groups. She has treated people who have issues with relationships and self-esteem, mood, and thought disorders, substance abuse, PTSD, and brain injuries. During her time at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, she co-created and implemented an Intensive Outpatient Program and a women’s support group.
(301) 708-0093 View (301) 708-0093
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.