Photo of Jordana B Ravick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Jordana B Ravick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I have extensive experience helping adolescents, providing perinatal support, and am certified in family and couples therapy practice by the Ackerman Institute for the Family.
We all face stressors in life that can become overwhelming. Feeling stuck with our own negative thoughts or anxiety about new changes; repeatedly engaging in the same fights with our partner or spouse; worrying that we cannot support our children in the way we want - these are all universal experiences. Everyone faces obstacles, but not everyone has to remain feeling helpless, hopeless, or stagnant. It is at these times when it makes the most sense to reach out for support and when therapy can be most effective.
I have extensive experience helping adolescents, providing perinatal support, and am certified in family and couples therapy practice by the Ackerman Institute for the Family.
We all face stressors in life that can become overwhelming. Feeling stuck with our own negative thoughts or anxiety about new changes; repeatedly engaging in the same fights with our partner or spouse; worrying that we cannot support our children in the way we want - these are all universal experiences. Everyone faces obstacles, but not everyone has to remain feeling helpless, hopeless, or stagnant. It is at these times when it makes the most sense to reach out for support and when therapy can be most effective.
(347) 215-3060 View (347) 215-3060
Photo of Shea Pines, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Shea Pines
Marriage & Family Therapist, LGMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20817  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Shea Pines, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Are you tired of just existing in life? My goal is to help you live in the present, making choices that align with your goals and values. I’ve worked with couples, young adults, teens and adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, IPV (intimate partner violence), physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. Let’s work together to get you the life you desire.
Hello! My name is Shea Pines, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Are you tired of just existing in life? My goal is to help you live in the present, making choices that align with your goals and values. I’ve worked with couples, young adults, teens and adults. I specialize in anxiety, depression, IPV (intimate partner violence), physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. Let’s work together to get you the life you desire.
(301) 234-7610 x38 View (301) 234-7610 x38
Photo of Stuart Warren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Stuart Warren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20815
I offer individual and family therapy to individuals struggling with life transitions, relationship issues, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, substance abuse issues, and trauma.
The therapeutic relationship is the foundation of the growth and healing process. My primary goal is to cultivate trust, comfort and connection with my clients. This relationship is essential to whatever challenge has caused you to seek help. I have a true passion for helping others and have spent my career learning from world class clinicians and mental health professionals of various disciplines. I offer a range of different therapies that effectively treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, substance use issues and other compulsive behaviors.
I offer individual and family therapy to individuals struggling with life transitions, relationship issues, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, substance abuse issues, and trauma.
The therapeutic relationship is the foundation of the growth and healing process. My primary goal is to cultivate trust, comfort and connection with my clients. This relationship is essential to whatever challenge has caused you to seek help. I have a true passion for helping others and have spent my career learning from world class clinicians and mental health professionals of various disciplines. I offer a range of different therapies that effectively treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma, substance use issues and other compulsive behaviors.
(561) 782-4405 View (561) 782-4405
Photo of Bethesda Counseling Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Bethesda Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20817
Are you having difficulty connecting with your loved one? Are you experiencing a recent major life change? Are you having trouble sleeping or concentrating because of an unresolved family conflict or other stressor? Do you feel like there's no room in your schedule to relax because you are always taking care of others or working on a never-ending "to-do list"? ​ Whether you have experienced a sudden unexpected event or you are going through a new change in your life, we can help! We specialize in working with individuals, couples and families who are going through a challenging time in their life or are trying to make sense of neg
Are you having difficulty connecting with your loved one? Are you experiencing a recent major life change? Are you having trouble sleeping or concentrating because of an unresolved family conflict or other stressor? Do you feel like there's no room in your schedule to relax because you are always taking care of others or working on a never-ending "to-do list"? ​ Whether you have experienced a sudden unexpected event or you are going through a new change in your life, we can help! We specialize in working with individuals, couples and families who are going through a challenging time in their life or are trying to make sense of neg
(240) 292-8977 View (240) 292-8977
Photo of Toni Session, Counselor in Bethesda, MD
Toni Session
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I am experienced in providing Marriage, Couples and Family Therapy and in crisis intervention with children ages 5-18 years old.
Hi there, I am Toni. One word used to describe me would be genuine. I am a therapist and life coach who is all about her client. My goal is to learn everything I can about you so I can help you become your best self. I practice from a person-centered approach with a focus in Solution Focused Therapy as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Also, by listening and building a therapeutic alliance with you. I incorporate techniques specifically catered to you. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to work with you.
I am experienced in providing Marriage, Couples and Family Therapy and in crisis intervention with children ages 5-18 years old.
Hi there, I am Toni. One word used to describe me would be genuine. I am a therapist and life coach who is all about her client. My goal is to learn everything I can about you so I can help you become your best self. I practice from a person-centered approach with a focus in Solution Focused Therapy as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Also, by listening and building a therapeutic alliance with you. I incorporate techniques specifically catered to you. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to work with you.
(240) 641-1047 View (240) 641-1047
Photo of Dr. Jay Rhodes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Dr. Jay Rhodes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Jay Rhodes, and I am a board-certified, Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist in Maryland, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in other states as well. I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures in various settings such as military bases, combat zones, hospitals, schools, embassies, consulates, to nonprofit homeless ministries. I have helped individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, and groups deal with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, traumatic stress, and relationships. I have helped others worldwide, I can help you.
My name is Dr. Jay Rhodes, and I am a board-certified, Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist in Maryland, and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in other states as well. I have worked with clients from diverse backgrounds and cultures in various settings such as military bases, combat zones, hospitals, schools, embassies, consulates, to nonprofit homeless ministries. I have helped individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, and groups deal with a wide range of issues such as anxiety, depression, traumatic stress, and relationships. I have helped others worldwide, I can help you.
(240) 716-6992 View (240) 716-6992
Photo of Gelisa Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Gelisa Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker and trauma specialist that has been practicing for over 7 years. As my client, I want to empower you, to empower yourself. My goal in practice is to empower you to restore balance in your life. To help you to combat depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues or trauma. My background is in individual, family, and crisis counseling. I work with children, adolescents, families, couples, and adults. I use a person-centered approach to helping individuals and families, and in order to promote coping, healing, and personal growth.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and trauma specialist that has been practicing for over 7 years. As my client, I want to empower you, to empower yourself. My goal in practice is to empower you to restore balance in your life. To help you to combat depression, anxiety, stress, self-esteem issues or trauma. My background is in individual, family, and crisis counseling. I work with children, adolescents, families, couples, and adults. I use a person-centered approach to helping individuals and families, and in order to promote coping, healing, and personal growth.
(240) 257-7885 View (240) 257-7885
Photo of Lindsey Hoskins & Associates, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Lindsey Hoskins & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
My individual clients include those dealing with mental health challenges; making decisions about career or relationships; or pursuing more fulfilling approaches to life. I work with couples of all ages, stages, and compositions, addressing communication, infidelity, loss of passion, infertility, parenting, strengthening relationships, and deciding. I work with couples struggling to decide if and how to continue to work on deeply troubled relationships and solidifying commitment. I see families dealing with communication issues, creating appropriate boundaries, and working through separation, divorce, and blended family issues .
My individual clients include those dealing with mental health challenges; making decisions about career or relationships; or pursuing more fulfilling approaches to life. I work with couples of all ages, stages, and compositions, addressing communication, infidelity, loss of passion, infertility, parenting, strengthening relationships, and deciding. I work with couples struggling to decide if and how to continue to work on deeply troubled relationships and solidifying commitment. I see families dealing with communication issues, creating appropriate boundaries, and working through separation, divorce, and blended family issues .
(301) 234-6398 View (301) 234-6398
Photo of Shelby Willoughby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Shelby Willoughby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I provide services predominately through individual therapy but believe in bringing in chosen family systems to promote healing in the form of couples and family therapy.
Are you an adult or teen in the LGBTQIA+ community, affected by eating disorders self-discovery, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, grief, or relational and social difficulties? I have extensive history working with these individuals and those who have experienced intimate partner violence and substance abuse/dependency. If you are looking for bariatric evaluations that are required for the surgical process, I can assist you. I offer this service is to aid in determining readiness, addressing any concerns for underlying eating disorder behavior,pre/post therapeutic support, and exploring options outside of surgery.
I provide services predominately through individual therapy but believe in bringing in chosen family systems to promote healing in the form of couples and family therapy.
Are you an adult or teen in the LGBTQIA+ community, affected by eating disorders self-discovery, body dysmorphia, anxiety, depression, grief, or relational and social difficulties? I have extensive history working with these individuals and those who have experienced intimate partner violence and substance abuse/dependency. If you are looking for bariatric evaluations that are required for the surgical process, I can assist you. I offer this service is to aid in determining readiness, addressing any concerns for underlying eating disorder behavior,pre/post therapeutic support, and exploring options outside of surgery.
(240) 213-7612 View (240) 213-7612
Photo of Ilene Marto Atiyah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Ilene Marto Atiyah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
If you are struggling with emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, interpersonal/relationship difficulties, school/college challenges, work issues, substance use, trauma, or family conflict, I invite you to reach out to me.
I am deeply passionate about supporting every person I encounter to lead a life worth living. I offer a warm and mindful space to celebrate strengths and explore challenges while balancing the dialectics of acceptance and change.
If you are struggling with emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, interpersonal/relationship difficulties, school/college challenges, work issues, substance use, trauma, or family conflict, I invite you to reach out to me.
I am deeply passionate about supporting every person I encounter to lead a life worth living. I offer a warm and mindful space to celebrate strengths and explore challenges while balancing the dialectics of acceptance and change.
(240) 245-2563 View (240) 245-2563
Photo of Maureen McElroy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Maureen McElroy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Life may be harder than you expected. You may feel stressed, depressed, or anxious. You may be struggling with a decision. Relationships with your family are complex. You may want to improve communication with your partner. Parenting is tough. You may have suffered a loss, & you don't know why it still affects you. You may have put a dream on hold while you attended to family matters, & now you wonder if you are still capable of fulfilling that dream. You may feel you have been given gifts, but you aren't using them to their full potential.
Life may be harder than you expected. You may feel stressed, depressed, or anxious. You may be struggling with a decision. Relationships with your family are complex. You may want to improve communication with your partner. Parenting is tough. You may have suffered a loss, & you don't know why it still affects you. You may have put a dream on hold while you attended to family matters, & now you wonder if you are still capable of fulfilling that dream. You may feel you have been given gifts, but you aren't using them to their full potential.
(301) 683-5751 View (301) 683-5751
Photo of Anna White, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Anna White
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, CFTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Through individual, family, and play therapy, you and your family can feel healthy, empowered, and connected.
Among families, kids, adults, and couples alike, feeling healthy, happy, connected, and confident can be hard. For so many people and families today, the pressures of the world, fast changes in life, and challenging or traumatic experiences interrupt the connections we wish to have. Maybe for you or your family, this means more and more conflicts, feeling alone and unsupported, being unsure how to make things better, or not knowing what you want or need. Whether you feel lost and disconnected, frustrated, overwhelmed, angry, scared, or lonely, there are ways to restore your feelings of connection, purpose, confidence, and direction.
Through individual, family, and play therapy, you and your family can feel healthy, empowered, and connected.
Among families, kids, adults, and couples alike, feeling healthy, happy, connected, and confident can be hard. For so many people and families today, the pressures of the world, fast changes in life, and challenging or traumatic experiences interrupt the connections we wish to have. Maybe for you or your family, this means more and more conflicts, feeling alone and unsupported, being unsure how to make things better, or not knowing what you want or need. Whether you feel lost and disconnected, frustrated, overwhelmed, angry, scared, or lonely, there are ways to restore your feelings of connection, purpose, confidence, and direction.
(240) 541-5570 View (240) 541-5570
Photo of Michelle Goldstein, Counselor in Bethesda, MD
Michelle Goldstein
Counselor, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
Michelle utilizes techniques from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Positive Psychology, and mindfulness to address struggles her clients face, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and instability in relationships.
Michelle works with adolescents and adults to help them achieve the emotional and personal growth they want to see in their lives. Michelle specializes in helping teenagers and young adults navigate transitions and establish a strong sense of self. She also helps those struggling with fertility journeys and pregnancy loss, military families with their unique lifestyle struggles, and parents establishing healthy relational patterns. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to process their emotions, understand themselves, and further develop skills that help them heal and achieve their therapeutic goals.
Michelle utilizes techniques from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Positive Psychology, and mindfulness to address struggles her clients face, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and instability in relationships.
Michelle works with adolescents and adults to help them achieve the emotional and personal growth they want to see in their lives. Michelle specializes in helping teenagers and young adults navigate transitions and establish a strong sense of self. She also helps those struggling with fertility journeys and pregnancy loss, military families with their unique lifestyle struggles, and parents establishing healthy relational patterns. She creates a safe, non-judgmental space for individuals to process their emotions, understand themselves, and further develop skills that help them heal and achieve their therapeutic goals.
(240) 261-0676 View (240) 261-0676
Photo of Samantha Congdon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Samantha Congdon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I am Sam Congdon, a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist providing teletherapy in the states of Maryland, Virginia and California. My speciality is with adolescents, teens, young adults, and college students. I also have experience with adults, couples and families utilizing a collaborative approach to fit each client's individual needs. I grew up in California and went to school at the California State University of Chico, where I received my Bachelors of Art in Psychology, and Master's of Science in Marriage Family Therapy. My goal is to help you, be your best you.
I am Sam Congdon, a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist providing teletherapy in the states of Maryland, Virginia and California. My speciality is with adolescents, teens, young adults, and college students. I also have experience with adults, couples and families utilizing a collaborative approach to fit each client's individual needs. I grew up in California and went to school at the California State University of Chico, where I received my Bachelors of Art in Psychology, and Master's of Science in Marriage Family Therapy. My goal is to help you, be your best you.
(240) 713-5748 x105 View (240) 713-5748 x105
Photo of Jeannie Dougherty, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Bethesda, MD
Jeannie Dougherty
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MAPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Are you struggling to care for yourself and your family? Are you feeling burned out? Are you struggling to stay happy and healthy in your relationships? What's worked in the past isn't working now? Are you prepared for the future and know don't have the right tools? My job is to help you harness your power and develop the necessary coping skills and plans for today and your future. Exhaustion, frantic thinking, and limited coping skills are not enough. This won't get you through this year.
Are you struggling to care for yourself and your family? Are you feeling burned out? Are you struggling to stay happy and healthy in your relationships? What's worked in the past isn't working now? Are you prepared for the future and know don't have the right tools? My job is to help you harness your power and develop the necessary coping skills and plans for today and your future. Exhaustion, frantic thinking, and limited coping skills are not enough. This won't get you through this year.
(410) 777-5974 View (410) 777-5974
Photo of Robin S. Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Robin S. Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
At The Couple and Family Clinic, we consider our work to be both a great privilege and responsibility to provide the highest quality care for the people we work with.
Did you know that the quality of the relationship you have with your therapist is strongly linked to successful therapeutic outcomes? This is why my goal is to provide every person I see with an emotionally safe space, free of judgment. You want somebody who genuinely cares, who is curious and hopeful. I encourage people to explore new ways of thinking about their experiences and different ways of expressing themselves. I aim for the people I work with to leave each session feeling more empowered, with a sense of agency, and able to learn what they're capable of doing.
At The Couple and Family Clinic, we consider our work to be both a great privilege and responsibility to provide the highest quality care for the people we work with.
Did you know that the quality of the relationship you have with your therapist is strongly linked to successful therapeutic outcomes? This is why my goal is to provide every person I see with an emotionally safe space, free of judgment. You want somebody who genuinely cares, who is curious and hopeful. I encourage people to explore new ways of thinking about their experiences and different ways of expressing themselves. I aim for the people I work with to leave each session feeling more empowered, with a sense of agency, and able to learn what they're capable of doing.
(240) 398-3365 View (240) 398-3365
Photo of Rosario de Gregorio, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Rosario de Gregorio
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I am a bilingual Marriage and Family Therapist I believe therapy can help individuals find new ways of functioning and increase self-knowledge that can help them move forward in life. Every crisis, obstacle and challenge in life can offer an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery that can help us learn new things about ourselves. As an immigrant myself I know the individual and family challenges of living in a different culture. I enjoy working with immigrant families helping them navigate the benefits and challenges of living in a new culture.
I am a bilingual Marriage and Family Therapist I believe therapy can help individuals find new ways of functioning and increase self-knowledge that can help them move forward in life. Every crisis, obstacle and challenge in life can offer an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery that can help us learn new things about ourselves. As an immigrant myself I know the individual and family challenges of living in a different culture. I enjoy working with immigrant families helping them navigate the benefits and challenges of living in a new culture.
(240) 233-4407 View (240) 233-4407
Photo of Nina Tracy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Nina Tracy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
In my work I pull from a wide array of modalities including Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strategic Family Therapy, Solution Focused, and Intergenerational Family therapy. I have worked with children as young as four years old, teens, young adults, couples, and all kinds of families.  My experience includes providing therapy in a multitude of settings including Intensive In-Home, outpatient clinics, and private practice. In my over five years of clinical practice, I have worked with families where addiction is present.
In my work I pull from a wide array of modalities including Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Strategic Family Therapy, Solution Focused, and Intergenerational Family therapy. I have worked with children as young as four years old, teens, young adults, couples, and all kinds of families.  My experience includes providing therapy in a multitude of settings including Intensive In-Home, outpatient clinics, and private practice. In my over five years of clinical practice, I have worked with families where addiction is present.
(240) 312-2564 View (240) 312-2564
Photo of Victoria Alves, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Victoria Alves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I utilize my expertise in adoption-competency, attachment-based therapy, and trauma-informed therapy to provide interventions that are tailored to your unique child/teen and/or family.
Victoria was transracially adopted from China as an infant. Her previous work history includes: supervising visitation between parents and their children, working as a school counselor in a public charter school, providing intensive, home-based therapy to children with intense emotional and behavioral needs, and providing clinical case management to LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. Victoria believes strongly in client-oriented services and that everyone should have access to the opportunities and support that they need to succeed. Victoria is also passionate about self-improvement and continuing to learn throughout your life.
I utilize my expertise in adoption-competency, attachment-based therapy, and trauma-informed therapy to provide interventions that are tailored to your unique child/teen and/or family.
Victoria was transracially adopted from China as an infant. Her previous work history includes: supervising visitation between parents and their children, working as a school counselor in a public charter school, providing intensive, home-based therapy to children with intense emotional and behavioral needs, and providing clinical case management to LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. Victoria believes strongly in client-oriented services and that everyone should have access to the opportunities and support that they need to succeed. Victoria is also passionate about self-improvement and continuing to learn throughout your life.
(240) 716-5698 View (240) 716-5698
Photo of Lisa Luse, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bethesda, MD
Lisa Luse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
My areas of expertise include eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, attachment disorders, and family discord.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in Bethesda, MD and have provided psychotherapy to individuals and families since 2009. My approach is warm, direct, and engaging with an emphasis on building trust and using the therapeutic relationship as a medium for change. I strive to create a space to explore patterns in relationships, emotional expression, and practicing new ways of being.
My areas of expertise include eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-esteem, attachment disorders, and family discord.
I am a licensed clinical social worker in Bethesda, MD and have provided psychotherapy to individuals and families since 2009. My approach is warm, direct, and engaging with an emphasis on building trust and using the therapeutic relationship as a medium for change. I strive to create a space to explore patterns in relationships, emotional expression, and practicing new ways of being.
(202) 759-3895 View (202) 759-3895
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.