Photo of Phyllis Agyapong, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Phyllis Agyapong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Open for Online and In-Person Sessions- Hey there! My name is Phyllis and I'm a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist. I am a level-2 certified Gottman Couples Therapist providing counseling for couples, adults, and families. I help clients improve communication, trust, and security in their relationships. I work collaboratively with my clients and believe they are the expert on their lives. I focus on their strengths and help build upon them to overcome difficulties. I identify what is already working well for them and we build the skills that they can implement and use in their everyday lives.
Open for Online and In-Person Sessions- Hey there! My name is Phyllis and I'm a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist. I am a level-2 certified Gottman Couples Therapist providing counseling for couples, adults, and families. I help clients improve communication, trust, and security in their relationships. I work collaboratively with my clients and believe they are the expert on their lives. I focus on their strengths and help build upon them to overcome difficulties. I identify what is already working well for them and we build the skills that they can implement and use in their everyday lives.
(301) 690-9369 View (301) 690-9369
Photo of Anne Elizabeth Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Anne Elizabeth Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20895
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Substance Abuse treatment, and Family Counseling.
Finding the right therapist can be challenging - but I believe that we can collaborate together to empower you to work towards improving your mental health and quality of life. I have worked with ethnically diverse populations and have experience in treating a wide range of mental health issues. I provide empathetic supportive/counseling to help you make sustainable changes in your life, and to find more balance in your mental, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being. I work with ages 8 - 68 years old. My primary experience has been working with kids/teens and their families to help manage mental health and behavioral issues.
I specialize in Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Substance Abuse treatment, and Family Counseling.
Finding the right therapist can be challenging - but I believe that we can collaborate together to empower you to work towards improving your mental health and quality of life. I have worked with ethnically diverse populations and have experience in treating a wide range of mental health issues. I provide empathetic supportive/counseling to help you make sustainable changes in your life, and to find more balance in your mental, emotional, spiritual, and social well-being. I work with ages 8 - 68 years old. My primary experience has been working with kids/teens and their families to help manage mental health and behavioral issues.
(240) 297-6284 View (240) 297-6284
Photo of Kerrian McKay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Kerrian McKay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
I coach women and adolescent girls 16+ who struggle with people pleasing, fixer syndrome, and perfectionism to build emotional wellness skills to tackle unhealthy relationships that trigger anxiety and depression. I teach research based skills to help you overcome cycles of toxic relationships, family drama, codependency, rescue syndrome, self-doubt, and burn out. I understand the stress of feeling consumed by life and overbearing relationships. I can relate to life feeling too much, relationships feeling burdensome and overwhelmingly exhausting, wanting to leave everything, everyone behind and disappear. I'm here to support you.
I coach women and adolescent girls 16+ who struggle with people pleasing, fixer syndrome, and perfectionism to build emotional wellness skills to tackle unhealthy relationships that trigger anxiety and depression. I teach research based skills to help you overcome cycles of toxic relationships, family drama, codependency, rescue syndrome, self-doubt, and burn out. I understand the stress of feeling consumed by life and overbearing relationships. I can relate to life feeling too much, relationships feeling burdensome and overwhelmingly exhausting, wanting to leave everything, everyone behind and disappear. I'm here to support you.
(571) 701-1594 View (571) 701-1594
Photo of Derwin Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Derwin Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
My integrative training allows me to assist a client and family members dealing with mental health and substance abuse issues.
I believe in meeting clients where they are and empowering them to explore their own path. I specialize in mental health and substance abuse interventions. I've found that a client-centered approach, coupled with Solution Focused Therapy, is effective. My integrative approach addresses issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic violence, and substance abuse in individuals, couples, and families. I'm trained in applying ASAM criteria for appropriate recommendations. Together, let's shape the narrative of your story and work towards the recovery you desire. If needed, I'm here to make referrals for additional support.
My integrative training allows me to assist a client and family members dealing with mental health and substance abuse issues.
I believe in meeting clients where they are and empowering them to explore their own path. I specialize in mental health and substance abuse interventions. I've found that a client-centered approach, coupled with Solution Focused Therapy, is effective. My integrative approach addresses issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, domestic violence, and substance abuse in individuals, couples, and families. I'm trained in applying ASAM criteria for appropriate recommendations. Together, let's shape the narrative of your story and work towards the recovery you desire. If needed, I'm here to make referrals for additional support.
(301) 450-6094 View (301) 450-6094
Photo of Ardelia Hayward, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Ardelia Hayward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, life’s transitions, and a host of existential issues inherent to the human experience. If you are looking to be heard, seeking meaning in your life, coping with life’s challenges in a safe and confidential environment, welcome to my culturally competent private practice.
I work with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, grief and loss, life’s transitions, and a host of existential issues inherent to the human experience. If you are looking to be heard, seeking meaning in your life, coping with life’s challenges in a safe and confidential environment, welcome to my culturally competent private practice.
(240) 201-9683 View (240) 201-9683
Photo of Jasmin Sias, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Jasmin Sias
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
Life presents challenges that make us feel stuck, mad, or hopeless. A lot of people believe therapy is about one-sided conversations that lead to a "cure." Change starts from within, and sometimes, people need support to begin moving forward and healing. You are the expert in your life, and my purpose is to facilitate the process. I use an integrative approach to fit your needs and allow you to fulfill your need for meaningful change. Everyone has a story. You may be experiencing an emotional injury or psychological distress, but this does not communicate brokenness.
Life presents challenges that make us feel stuck, mad, or hopeless. A lot of people believe therapy is about one-sided conversations that lead to a "cure." Change starts from within, and sometimes, people need support to begin moving forward and healing. You are the expert in your life, and my purpose is to facilitate the process. I use an integrative approach to fit your needs and allow you to fulfill your need for meaningful change. Everyone has a story. You may be experiencing an emotional injury or psychological distress, but this does not communicate brokenness.
(240) 512-8921 View (240) 512-8921
Photo of Laurieann Frazier-Duarte, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Laurieann Frazier-Duarte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I offer couple's and individual counseling. For those who are curious, I am African American. As a couple, are you seeking help to resolve the continuing conflict or unresolved differences in your relationship? As an individual, do you want to explore feelings that create a sense of overwhelm? Are you challenged with understanding how to move forward with or through events in your life? Explore new ways to better manage your life. I believe you can do this. I provide a warm and safe environment. No judgment here; only encouragement and hope. View my website for further information.
I offer couple's and individual counseling. For those who are curious, I am African American. As a couple, are you seeking help to resolve the continuing conflict or unresolved differences in your relationship? As an individual, do you want to explore feelings that create a sense of overwhelm? Are you challenged with understanding how to move forward with or through events in your life? Explore new ways to better manage your life. I believe you can do this. I provide a warm and safe environment. No judgment here; only encouragement and hope. View my website for further information.
(240) 292-6127 View (240) 292-6127
Photo of Krystal M. Lewis, Psychologist in North Bethesda, MD
Krystal M. Lewis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
Are you or your child feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed? Do you find yourself avoiding people, places, or activities? Is anxiety, stress, depression, or behavioral issues interfering with you or your family's daily life? Then therapy could be a great help.
Are you or your child feeling anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed? Do you find yourself avoiding people, places, or activities? Is anxiety, stress, depression, or behavioral issues interfering with you or your family's daily life? Then therapy could be a great help.
(240) 847-0581 View (240) 847-0581
Photo of Sharelle Langaigne, Art Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Sharelle Langaigne
Art Therapist, MPS, LGPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20895
My approach to therapy is integrative, working from a meaning and strengths based approach. While tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs, I focus on self-exploration, self-expression and developing self-trust. I believe in the creative process as a powerful tool for self-discovery and healing. Even if you are not specifically seeking art therapy, incorporating art-making into talk therapy can be highly effective and beneficial in challenging thoughts and facilitating expression.
My approach to therapy is integrative, working from a meaning and strengths based approach. While tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs, I focus on self-exploration, self-expression and developing self-trust. I believe in the creative process as a powerful tool for self-discovery and healing. Even if you are not specifically seeking art therapy, incorporating art-making into talk therapy can be highly effective and beneficial in challenging thoughts and facilitating expression.
(443) 282-9119 View (443) 282-9119
Photo of Monique Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Monique Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20852  (Online Only)
I work with adults experiencing mental health challenges, and trouble navigating life in general. Utilizing a strengths based solutions focused approach, I help those seeking clinical guidance see their problem from a different lens and take action for change.
I work with adults experiencing mental health challenges, and trouble navigating life in general. Utilizing a strengths based solutions focused approach, I help those seeking clinical guidance see their problem from a different lens and take action for change.
(240) 512-6554 View (240) 512-6554
Photo of Dr. Mirta Innis-Thompson Psychotherapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Dr. Mirta Innis-Thompson Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Bethesda, MD 20852
Not accepting new clients
I specializing in issues spanning from family disruption, nearing divorce, sleep concerns, self-esteem, anger, and simply feeling“stuck” due to loss, anxiety and depression.
At Elite Behavioral Therapy, I believe you are the author of your own experience and the expert on your own life. But sometimes even experts need advice. Perhaps you have wondered why there isn’t a how-to manual for your own life. Or thought that others seem to know the secret ingredient to the recipe for a successful relationship. There is no magical formula for happiness. But I can be your guide, and help you dispel the myths and negative stories that you have told yourself that's getting in the way of your happiness. Worries, stresses, joy, and hopes? I can help you better manage the conflicts everyone struggles.
I specializing in issues spanning from family disruption, nearing divorce, sleep concerns, self-esteem, anger, and simply feeling“stuck” due to loss, anxiety and depression.
At Elite Behavioral Therapy, I believe you are the author of your own experience and the expert on your own life. But sometimes even experts need advice. Perhaps you have wondered why there isn’t a how-to manual for your own life. Or thought that others seem to know the secret ingredient to the recipe for a successful relationship. There is no magical formula for happiness. But I can be your guide, and help you dispel the myths and negative stories that you have told yourself that's getting in the way of your happiness. Worries, stresses, joy, and hopes? I can help you better manage the conflicts everyone struggles.
(301) 690-0336 View (301) 690-0336
Photo of Lottena Wolters, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Lottena Wolters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Bethesda, MD 20895
Not accepting new clients
Many patients struggle with the fact that they seek therapy. However, I applaud your choice to begin the significant process of self exploration and growth. I believe that in spite of pitfalls and stressors, we are all faced with the opportunity to choose how we live our life. By validating feelings I help my clients fully accept themselves while encouraging and motivating them to do their best. Together we will gain acceptance of the choices that lead you to therapy, then collaboratively develop and implement a plan that will allow you to seek better and more rewarding opportunities.
Many patients struggle with the fact that they seek therapy. However, I applaud your choice to begin the significant process of self exploration and growth. I believe that in spite of pitfalls and stressors, we are all faced with the opportunity to choose how we live our life. By validating feelings I help my clients fully accept themselves while encouraging and motivating them to do their best. Together we will gain acceptance of the choices that lead you to therapy, then collaboratively develop and implement a plan that will allow you to seek better and more rewarding opportunities.
(202) 978-1413 View (202) 978-1413

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Catherine Ladson, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Catherine Ladson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LPCS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockville, MD 20852  (Online Only)
Are you a first or second-generation immigrant woman feeling torn between the expectations of your family and the yearnings of your own heart? Do you find yourself grappling with the weight of cultural obligations while striving to pursue your own dreams? You're not alone, and I want you to know that there is a safe space where your voice can be heard and your journey embraced. As a licensed therapist and a second-generation immigrant woman, I intimately understand the unique struggles you face, including cultural identity conflicts, and acculturation stress. It's possible to find clarity and empowerment amidst the complexity.
Are you a first or second-generation immigrant woman feeling torn between the expectations of your family and the yearnings of your own heart? Do you find yourself grappling with the weight of cultural obligations while striving to pursue your own dreams? You're not alone, and I want you to know that there is a safe space where your voice can be heard and your journey embraced. As a licensed therapist and a second-generation immigrant woman, I intimately understand the unique struggles you face, including cultural identity conflicts, and acculturation stress. It's possible to find clarity and empowerment amidst the complexity.
(571) 496-8803 View (571) 496-8803
Photo of Jeanily Cruz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Jeanily Cruz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I am a trauma-informed therapist who is deeply passionate about working with communities of color, those in the LGBTQ community and other marginalized individuals. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, relational issues, self esteem, boundaries or you come from a family or culture where mental health is swept under the rug. If you find yourself stuck, shrinking, or sometimes unable to use your voice- I am here to help gently guide you back to your authentic self by creating a safe space to process and make meaning of your experiences. Healing is a birth right. No matter what you've experienced and gone through-you deserve joy!
I am a trauma-informed therapist who is deeply passionate about working with communities of color, those in the LGBTQ community and other marginalized individuals. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, relational issues, self esteem, boundaries or you come from a family or culture where mental health is swept under the rug. If you find yourself stuck, shrinking, or sometimes unable to use your voice- I am here to help gently guide you back to your authentic self by creating a safe space to process and make meaning of your experiences. Healing is a birth right. No matter what you've experienced and gone through-you deserve joy!
(202) 868-8056 View (202) 868-8056
Photo of Alyson Davis, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Alyson Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kensington, MD 20895  (Online Only)
Presenting problems: can include but are not limited to healthy relationships, self esteem, confidence, self talk, suicidal ideation, breaking generational patterns, spiritual trauma, empowerment, motivation, racial justice, and family dynamics.
I am honored to be entrusted with your story and am excited to coauthor this journey with you. My name is Alyson Davis and I believe in the power of storytelling. It is my understanding that the most powerful story we tell ourselves is our personal narrative. I began practicing therapy in 2015 with the primary goal to support individuals with suicidal thoughts, intrusive ideas, hopelessness and despair. This support is rooted in the knowledge that life's storms are impermanent and have the option of either contributing to either our growth, or our destruction. We get to make that choice.
Presenting problems: can include but are not limited to healthy relationships, self esteem, confidence, self talk, suicidal ideation, breaking generational patterns, spiritual trauma, empowerment, motivation, racial justice, and family dynamics.
I am honored to be entrusted with your story and am excited to coauthor this journey with you. My name is Alyson Davis and I believe in the power of storytelling. It is my understanding that the most powerful story we tell ourselves is our personal narrative. I began practicing therapy in 2015 with the primary goal to support individuals with suicidal thoughts, intrusive ideas, hopelessness and despair. This support is rooted in the knowledge that life's storms are impermanent and have the option of either contributing to either our growth, or our destruction. We get to make that choice.
(301) 888-6240 View (301) 888-6240
Photo of Octavia Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Octavia Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20902  (Online Only)
Octavia Specializes ADHD & Neurodiversity; Family/Ancestral Trauma; Racial Trauma & Identity; Body Liberation/Body Love; Domestic Violence; Narcissistic Abuse Recovery; Healing work with Healers; and Spirituality.
Octavia Brown, LCSW-C has dedicated her clinical practice to restoring the lives of those who live with one or more marginalized identities. She believes in healing the whole self (mind, body, and spirit) and utilizes indigenous techniques which include; but, are not limited to: insight-oriented practice; mindfulness techniques & awareness of self; ancestral healing; and spiritual practice (upon request). Octavia challenges each individual she works with to decolonize their way of existing and to boldly live in their own uniqueness and true authenticity.
Octavia Specializes ADHD & Neurodiversity; Family/Ancestral Trauma; Racial Trauma & Identity; Body Liberation/Body Love; Domestic Violence; Narcissistic Abuse Recovery; Healing work with Healers; and Spirituality.
Octavia Brown, LCSW-C has dedicated her clinical practice to restoring the lives of those who live with one or more marginalized identities. She believes in healing the whole self (mind, body, and spirit) and utilizes indigenous techniques which include; but, are not limited to: insight-oriented practice; mindfulness techniques & awareness of self; ancestral healing; and spiritual practice (upon request). Octavia challenges each individual she works with to decolonize their way of existing and to boldly live in their own uniqueness and true authenticity.
(240) 560-5294 View (240) 560-5294
Photo of Orlesa Poole, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Orlesa Poole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20817  (Online Only)
Together, we'll develop skills to handle challenging behaviors and improve family dynamics, creating a more nurturing and positive home environment.
You're a mom who loves her kids deeply, yet you often feel swamped by the non-stop demands of parenting and the tough behaviors your children show. You want to handle stress and emotional outbursts better—not just yours but your kids' too. You're searching for down-to-earth, proven strategies to help calm and stabilize your home life. You need someone who gets both the rewards and challenges of being a mom, someone who can equip you with the right tools to create a more peaceful and understanding atmosphere at home, improving life for both you and your children.
Together, we'll develop skills to handle challenging behaviors and improve family dynamics, creating a more nurturing and positive home environment.
You're a mom who loves her kids deeply, yet you often feel swamped by the non-stop demands of parenting and the tough behaviors your children show. You want to handle stress and emotional outbursts better—not just yours but your kids' too. You're searching for down-to-earth, proven strategies to help calm and stabilize your home life. You need someone who gets both the rewards and challenges of being a mom, someone who can equip you with the right tools to create a more peaceful and understanding atmosphere at home, improving life for both you and your children.
(240) 269-2429 View (240) 269-2429
Photo of Georgina S Arhin, Counselor in North Bethesda, MD
Georgina S Arhin
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, ACS, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I employ cognitive-behavioral, family systems, psychodynamic, short-term solution focus, supportive reflection, dialectical behavior, grief and loss therapy, and mindfulness models in my practice.
There is nothing like being listened to and understood on a deep level, with genuine interest, unconditional positive regard, congruence, empathy and acceptance. This is what I strive to offer in therapy, as we explore together your hopes and dreams, your losses and regrets, your longings and fears. Many people come to therapy to free themselves from self-defeating patterns, maladaptive behaviors and the legacy of past traumas, so they can be more truly themselves in relation to others and live with greater satisfaction and meaning.
I employ cognitive-behavioral, family systems, psychodynamic, short-term solution focus, supportive reflection, dialectical behavior, grief and loss therapy, and mindfulness models in my practice.
There is nothing like being listened to and understood on a deep level, with genuine interest, unconditional positive regard, congruence, empathy and acceptance. This is what I strive to offer in therapy, as we explore together your hopes and dreams, your losses and regrets, your longings and fears. Many people come to therapy to free themselves from self-defeating patterns, maladaptive behaviors and the legacy of past traumas, so they can be more truly themselves in relation to others and live with greater satisfaction and meaning.
(240) 713-5995 View (240) 713-5995
Photo of Halimah Adarra Hargett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Halimah Adarra Hargett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20902  (Online Only)
I use narrative therapy to address anger in women, conflict in family relationships, codependency, sexuality and setting boundaries.
Paul Coelho says, “Maybe the journey isn’t so much about becoming anything. Maybe it’s about unbecoming everything that isn’t really you, so you can be who you were meant to be in the first place.” I support clients on the journey back to themselves. We often put pressure on ourselves to “be” a certain way - so much that life can feel like acting instead of living. This acting can feel draining and lead to increased stress, anxiety and depression. I believe that therapy is a space where you can take off the facade and reconnect with your genuine, whole self - finding freedom and renewed vitality. I invite you to begin your journey.
I use narrative therapy to address anger in women, conflict in family relationships, codependency, sexuality and setting boundaries.
Paul Coelho says, “Maybe the journey isn’t so much about becoming anything. Maybe it’s about unbecoming everything that isn’t really you, so you can be who you were meant to be in the first place.” I support clients on the journey back to themselves. We often put pressure on ourselves to “be” a certain way - so much that life can feel like acting instead of living. This acting can feel draining and lead to increased stress, anxiety and depression. I believe that therapy is a space where you can take off the facade and reconnect with your genuine, whole self - finding freedom and renewed vitality. I invite you to begin your journey.
(443) 873-2601 View (443) 873-2601
Photo of Tiffani Taylor-Jenkins (TJ)—Teens & Young Adults, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Bethesda, MD
Tiffani Taylor-Jenkins (TJ)—Teens & Young Adults
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Rockville, MD 20852
With a dual-focused MSW and a BA in Child Development and Family Studies, and significant practical experience working with children, adolescents, families, parents, young adults, and adults, you can expect practical help that makes your life better in tangible ways.
Do you, your child, your teenager, or your young adult feel like you are alone even when you are surrounded by others? Do you feel like everyone is better than you, and there is no way you could ever measure up? Are you struggling to understand who you are and your place in the world? Do you feel your family doesn't understand what you are going through? All of these thoughts and feelings are normal. You do not need to process this alone! Therapy is a safe space to ponder these questions and their implications. In therapy, you can learn coping skills to feel more secure and confident in yourself, and your relationships.
With a dual-focused MSW and a BA in Child Development and Family Studies, and significant practical experience working with children, adolescents, families, parents, young adults, and adults, you can expect practical help that makes your life better in tangible ways.
Do you, your child, your teenager, or your young adult feel like you are alone even when you are surrounded by others? Do you feel like everyone is better than you, and there is no way you could ever measure up? Are you struggling to understand who you are and your place in the world? Do you feel your family doesn't understand what you are going through? All of these thoughts and feelings are normal. You do not need to process this alone! Therapy is a safe space to ponder these questions and their implications. In therapy, you can learn coping skills to feel more secure and confident in yourself, and your relationships.
(301) 381-4144 View (301) 381-4144

See more therapy options for North Bethesda

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.