Photo of Kayla Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Kayla Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LGMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
Are you or a loved one burdened by the weight of overwhelming emotions, struggling to find balance in life, or haunted by intrusive thoughts that cloud your days? The journey through reproductive trauma and maternal mental health struggles can be profoundly isolating and emotionally draining. Meanwhile, family trauma can leave lasting scars, impacting your relationships and emotional well-being in ways that feel insurmountable. You don't have to carry these burdens alone. I'm here to extend a compassionate hand, to provide support and understanding, and to help you rediscover the equilibrium, resilience, and hope that you deserve.
Are you or a loved one burdened by the weight of overwhelming emotions, struggling to find balance in life, or haunted by intrusive thoughts that cloud your days? The journey through reproductive trauma and maternal mental health struggles can be profoundly isolating and emotionally draining. Meanwhile, family trauma can leave lasting scars, impacting your relationships and emotional well-being in ways that feel insurmountable. You don't have to carry these burdens alone. I'm here to extend a compassionate hand, to provide support and understanding, and to help you rediscover the equilibrium, resilience, and hope that you deserve.
(301) 450-5837 View (301) 450-5837
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 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 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 Lory A. Cosner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Lory A. Cosner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21403  (Online Only)
I know that a lot of these profiles look the same, so I’ll skip the things that everyone says. Here’s the truth: I can’t help you on my own. Therapy takes teamwork. I will listen to you, I will validate you, and I will give you tools. The choice is yours of whether you pick them up and use them. I have been providing therapy in a variety of settings for over the past 15 years- community mental health, residential facilities, military clinics, and via telehealth. I have seen a broad range of issues- anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, life changes, postpartum struggles, family violence, struggles with identity, and many more.
I know that a lot of these profiles look the same, so I’ll skip the things that everyone says. Here’s the truth: I can’t help you on my own. Therapy takes teamwork. I will listen to you, I will validate you, and I will give you tools. The choice is yours of whether you pick them up and use them. I have been providing therapy in a variety of settings for over the past 15 years- community mental health, residential facilities, military clinics, and via telehealth. I have seen a broad range of issues- anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, life changes, postpartum struggles, family violence, struggles with identity, and many more.
(667) 200-1389 View (667) 200-1389
Photo of Waypoint Wellness Center, Psychologist in Annapolis, MD
Waypoint Wellness Center
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, MD, LCSW, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Waypoint Wellness Center was founded in 2015 and offers individual, family, and couples psychotherapy as well as medication management in a welcoming, private practice setting. In addition, Waypoint offers psychological, neuropsychological, and psycho-educational testing. Our providers utilize evidence-based approaches such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to provide therapy and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. We have offices in Annapolis, Severna Park, and Linthicum and provide telehealth services.
Waypoint Wellness Center was founded in 2015 and offers individual, family, and couples psychotherapy as well as medication management in a welcoming, private practice setting. In addition, Waypoint offers psychological, neuropsychological, and psycho-educational testing. Our providers utilize evidence-based approaches such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy) to provide therapy and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. We have offices in Annapolis, Severna Park, and Linthicum and provide telehealth services.
(443) 981-2036 View (443) 981-2036
Photo of Anne Arundel Counseling, Inc., Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Anne Arundel Counseling, Inc.
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, CFC, BCTMH
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Our current active partnerships and collaborations include: Sheppard Pratt Health System, Anne Arundel Medical Center, Pathways, Baltimore Washington Hospitals, Anne Arundel County Public Schools, private school systems, local family and criminal law attorney's as well and many others.
Anne Arundel Counseling is a highly recognized and regarded MD State Certified provider offering six convenient locations throughout the Annapolis, Baltimore & Washington areas (Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Edgewater, Bowie, Stevensville & Centreville). We pride ourselves on being a diverse group of licensed and experiences psychological, psycho therapeutic and clinical specialists. We are dedicated to the well-being of each client and empowering them to achieve in a warm, supportive and inviting environment. For additional information please visit our website at: www.annearundelcounseling.com To schedule with on one of our experienced male or female providers, please call our office to speak with any one of our administrative staff members: Allison O'Hanlon, Client Coordinator, Michele Kline, Office Manager or Connie Thomas, Practice Manager. Our administrative staff will complete an informal screening to have you scheduled with the most appropriate clinician for your area of need. They will also answer any questions you may have regarding the counseling process, AAC, your clinician or any other related item. Lastly, they will take any insurance or EAP information to perform the billing as appropriate. We look forward to hearing from you and ensure your counseling experience is positive and beneficial.
Our current active partnerships and collaborations include: Sheppard Pratt Health System, Anne Arundel Medical Center, Pathways, Baltimore Washington Hospitals, Anne Arundel County Public Schools, private school systems, local family and criminal law attorney's as well and many others.
Anne Arundel Counseling is a highly recognized and regarded MD State Certified provider offering six convenient locations throughout the Annapolis, Baltimore & Washington areas (Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Edgewater, Bowie, Stevensville & Centreville). We pride ourselves on being a diverse group of licensed and experiences psychological, psycho therapeutic and clinical specialists. We are dedicated to the well-being of each client and empowering them to achieve in a warm, supportive and inviting environment. For additional information please visit our website at: www.annearundelcounseling.com To schedule with on one of our experienced male or female providers, please call our office to speak with any one of our administrative staff members: Allison O'Hanlon, Client Coordinator, Michele Kline, Office Manager or Connie Thomas, Practice Manager. Our administrative staff will complete an informal screening to have you scheduled with the most appropriate clinician for your area of need. They will also answer any questions you may have regarding the counseling process, AAC, your clinician or any other related item. Lastly, they will take any insurance or EAP information to perform the billing as appropriate. We look forward to hearing from you and ensure your counseling experience is positive and beneficial.
(410) 415-1851 View (410) 415-1851
Photo of Annie Rabinovitch, Psychologist in Annapolis, MD
Annie Rabinovitch
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21403  (Online Only)
I adopt highly effective, evidence-based treatment approaches, which include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), mindfulness interventions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Functional Family Therapy (FFT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has been in practice for over 10 years. I completed my Clinical Internship and Post-doctoral Fellowship at the Kennedy Krieger Institute/John Hopkins University School of Medicine, and prior to that, received my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University. I am passionate about working with children, teens, adults, and families experiencing a wide range of behavioral, emotional, and interpersonal issues. My approach is collaborative, research-informed, and is designed to meet the unique needs of clients.
I adopt highly effective, evidence-based treatment approaches, which include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), mindfulness interventions, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Functional Family Therapy (FFT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has been in practice for over 10 years. I completed my Clinical Internship and Post-doctoral Fellowship at the Kennedy Krieger Institute/John Hopkins University School of Medicine, and prior to that, received my Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University. I am passionate about working with children, teens, adults, and families experiencing a wide range of behavioral, emotional, and interpersonal issues. My approach is collaborative, research-informed, and is designed to meet the unique needs of clients.
(505) 337-3413 View (505) 337-3413
Photo of Chesapeake Bay Psychological Services LLC in Annapolis, MD
Chesapeake Bay Psychological Services LLC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
We have been providing outpatient mental healthcare, including therapy and counseling, to children, adults, and families since 2006. Our team includes licensed psychologists, professional counselors, and clinical social workers. Our mission is to provide excellent mental healthcare to our community, while keeping our services affordable by accepting most insurance. It is our belief that every client and every family deserves to be treated equitably, with genuine care and respect. Visit our website to learn more or to schedule an appointment. We will do our best to help.
We have been providing outpatient mental healthcare, including therapy and counseling, to children, adults, and families since 2006. Our team includes licensed psychologists, professional counselors, and clinical social workers. Our mission is to provide excellent mental healthcare to our community, while keeping our services affordable by accepting most insurance. It is our belief that every client and every family deserves to be treated equitably, with genuine care and respect. Visit our website to learn more or to schedule an appointment. We will do our best to help.
(410) 609-9782 View (410) 609-9782
Photo of Yvonka De Ridder, Marriage & Family Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Yvonka De Ridder
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
If you are tired of finding yourself in the same patterns and cycles unable to break free or unable to identify how, I can help! I specialize in couples/relationship counseling, marital counseling, sex therapy, life coaching, career counseling, and family therapy.
***Not Accepting new clients a the moment - on Maternity leave****
If you are tired of finding yourself in the same patterns and cycles unable to break free or unable to identify how, I can help! I specialize in couples/relationship counseling, marital counseling, sex therapy, life coaching, career counseling, and family therapy.
***Not Accepting new clients a the moment - on Maternity leave****
(443) 775-2617 View (443) 775-2617
Photo of Micheline Shields, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Micheline Shields
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401  (Online Only)
By changing our inner self-talk & learning skills to better deal with life stressors and past traumas, we can begin to live a more peaceful life. I am passionate and dedicated to assisting all of my clients find more peace in their lives. I have experience providing counseling services to adults and adolescents with a variety of other presenting concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger, family conflict, self harm, and trauma.
By changing our inner self-talk & learning skills to better deal with life stressors and past traumas, we can begin to live a more peaceful life. I am passionate and dedicated to assisting all of my clients find more peace in their lives. I have experience providing counseling services to adults and adolescents with a variety of other presenting concerns such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger, family conflict, self harm, and trauma.
(443) 917-3984 View (443) 917-3984
Photo of Kirsty Wheelton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Kirsty Wheelton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LGMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Accepting new clients! Kirsty is a Licensed Graduated Marriage and Family Therapist who offers a person-centered, individualized approach to treatment that combines Strategic Family Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, as well as Mindfulness. Kirsty has experience working with individuals from all walks of life. She completed her internship working with children and families using a variety of approaches and has spent the past several years working with individuals in the young adult population. Kirsty works with children, adults, couples and families.
Accepting new clients! Kirsty is a Licensed Graduated Marriage and Family Therapist who offers a person-centered, individualized approach to treatment that combines Strategic Family Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, as well as Mindfulness. Kirsty has experience working with individuals from all walks of life. She completed her internship working with children and families using a variety of approaches and has spent the past several years working with individuals in the young adult population. Kirsty works with children, adults, couples and families.
(443) 234-0750 View (443) 234-0750
Photo of Nina Boyd, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Nina Boyd
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
I am a strong believer in therapy being a collaborative, healing, and restorative experience. As Pema Chödrön once said, “Let difficulty transform you. And it will. In my experience, we just need help in learning how to not run away.” But that’s easier said than done – what are the steps to getting to a better place? Where do you even start? You are not alone in this journey. I take great pride in building a therapeutic connection and a safe space for you to be your genuine self so that you may find that resiliency within.
I am a strong believer in therapy being a collaborative, healing, and restorative experience. As Pema Chödrön once said, “Let difficulty transform you. And it will. In my experience, we just need help in learning how to not run away.” But that’s easier said than done – what are the steps to getting to a better place? Where do you even start? You are not alone in this journey. I take great pride in building a therapeutic connection and a safe space for you to be your genuine self so that you may find that resiliency within.
(443) 665-8295 View (443) 665-8295
Photo of Mary W Cima, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Mary W Cima
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, LLC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Waitlist for new clients
My professional career began in 1978, joining Harvard Clinical Faculty in Psychiatry. Throughout the years I’ve continued my training in emerging evidence-based treatments that has enabled me to provide an empathetic, eclectic approach to my work with Adult, Child, and Active Duty Clients & Families in outpatient, inpatient, school and Military settings.
My professional career began in 1978, joining Harvard Clinical Faculty in Psychiatry. Throughout the years I’ve continued my training in emerging evidence-based treatments that has enabled me to provide an empathetic, eclectic approach to my work with Adult, Child, and Active Duty Clients & Families in outpatient, inpatient, school and Military settings.
(410) 204-2280 View (410) 204-2280
Photo of Kendra Jackson-Ralph - Love Sex And Intimacy, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Kendra Jackson-Ralph - Love Sex And Intimacy
Counselor, LPC, CST, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Kendra Jackson-Ralph is a licensed professional counselor in DC, MD, and VA. She is also a practicing AASECT certified Sex Therapist and certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. In addition, for years she began advocating against domestic violence with survivors and treating the batterers for change within intimate relationships. Mrs. Ralph works with individuals and couples to address mental health issues; in addition, to rebuild and improve what's missing in the intimate relationship. Do you need to rebuild trust or communication in your relationship, create a satisfying sexual connection or decrease sexual dysfunctions?
Kendra Jackson-Ralph is a licensed professional counselor in DC, MD, and VA. She is also a practicing AASECT certified Sex Therapist and certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. In addition, for years she began advocating against domestic violence with survivors and treating the batterers for change within intimate relationships. Mrs. Ralph works with individuals and couples to address mental health issues; in addition, to rebuild and improve what's missing in the intimate relationship. Do you need to rebuild trust or communication in your relationship, create a satisfying sexual connection or decrease sexual dysfunctions?
(757) 568-7277 View (757) 568-7277
Photo of Joselyn Brown, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Joselyn Brown
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
My ideal client presents depressive symptoms related to trauma & grief. They express that they want to process unresolved childhood issues. They express that the issues have prevented close relationships with their adult children. They want forgiveness and help in creating better ties. The goal may be to explore & resolve issues related to traumatic events and improve overall mood. Interventions may include sharing details of the event and how it has affected their relationships, using positive self-talk, developing positive coping skills, and identifying effective strategies to communicate thoughts and feelings.
My ideal client presents depressive symptoms related to trauma & grief. They express that they want to process unresolved childhood issues. They express that the issues have prevented close relationships with their adult children. They want forgiveness and help in creating better ties. The goal may be to explore & resolve issues related to traumatic events and improve overall mood. Interventions may include sharing details of the event and how it has affected their relationships, using positive self-talk, developing positive coping skills, and identifying effective strategies to communicate thoughts and feelings.
(667) 285-8908 View (667) 285-8908
Photo of Michelle Rene' Hammer, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Michelle Rene' Hammer
Counselor, LCPC, MS, BACS, CPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
You've made a brave decision! It takes a great deal of courage and strength to ask for help. I know it's not easy struggling with problems alone not knowing where to turn or who you can trust. Give me a call today and let's sort things out together! We can get from where you are to where you desire to be. You shouldn't suffer alone no matter what mistakes or messes life has brought you. Today is the day to take a leap of faith! Start your healing journey in a safe space and let's sort through your struggles and figure things out. Let's journey together.
You've made a brave decision! It takes a great deal of courage and strength to ask for help. I know it's not easy struggling with problems alone not knowing where to turn or who you can trust. Give me a call today and let's sort things out together! We can get from where you are to where you desire to be. You shouldn't suffer alone no matter what mistakes or messes life has brought you. Today is the day to take a leap of faith! Start your healing journey in a safe space and let's sort through your struggles and figure things out. Let's journey together.
(410) 457-3583 View (410) 457-3583
Photo of Lotus Psychotherapy , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Lotus Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21409
Our therapy practice embodies a variety of niches and areas of focus. Ideal client's for Lotus Psychotherapy are folks who are motivated to change and value the process of self awareness. We work with tweens, couples, and adults who might be struggling with a multitude of stressors, feelings and barriers. As a collective practice, we have experience with addiction, postpartum, adolescent behaviors, depression, trauma work, grief and anxiety.
Our therapy practice embodies a variety of niches and areas of focus. Ideal client's for Lotus Psychotherapy are folks who are motivated to change and value the process of self awareness. We work with tweens, couples, and adults who might be struggling with a multitude of stressors, feelings and barriers. As a collective practice, we have experience with addiction, postpartum, adolescent behaviors, depression, trauma work, grief and anxiety.
(410) 267-4566 View (410) 267-4566
Photo of Christa Welch Bellanca, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Annapolis, MD
Christa Welch Bellanca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annapolis, MD 21401
Warmth, authenticity and connection, plus a little bit (sometimes a lot) of laughter are the hallmarks of my practice. I focus on establishing and maintaining a safe, trusting relationship with every client because I believe through connection there is healing. I specialize in helping clients in transition - separation, divorce, empty nesting, college-to-adulting - the major life changes where we often find ourselves questioning, doubting, or just wondering. Helping others discover their own "Ah-ha" moments is what makes me a great therapist.
Warmth, authenticity and connection, plus a little bit (sometimes a lot) of laughter are the hallmarks of my practice. I focus on establishing and maintaining a safe, trusting relationship with every client because I believe through connection there is healing. I specialize in helping clients in transition - separation, divorce, empty nesting, college-to-adulting - the major life changes where we often find ourselves questioning, doubting, or just wondering. Helping others discover their own "Ah-ha" moments is what makes me a great therapist.
(410) 941-3328 View (410) 941-3328
Photo of Lauri McCormack, Counselor in Annapolis, MD
Lauri McCormack
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Annapolis, MD 21401
Taking the first step to a better you, or even a better relationship, is challenging- yet exciting! I have a deep desire to guide my clients to achieve their goals and ultimately improve their overall life satisfaction. I provide an environment where I seek to inspire my clients to learn, explore and grow throughout our therapy sessions. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Clinical Supervisor with experience treating a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety and mood disorders, couples therapy and grief.
Taking the first step to a better you, or even a better relationship, is challenging- yet exciting! I have a deep desire to guide my clients to achieve their goals and ultimately improve their overall life satisfaction. I provide an environment where I seek to inspire my clients to learn, explore and grow throughout our therapy sessions. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a Clinical Supervisor with experience treating a variety of issues such as depression, anxiety and mood disorders, couples therapy and grief.
(667) 660-4533 View (667) 660-4533
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.