Photo of Steven Myers, Psychologist in River Edge, NJ
Steven Myers
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Edge, NJ 07661
In my practice I work with adults coping with depression, anxiety, parenting issues, relationship struggles, substance abuse and other problems of adjustment. My work with children and adolescents include: learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, oppositional defiance, anxiety, depression, and family conflict. I believe that a collaborative alliance based on mutual respect and understanding is the cornerstone of therapeutic change. I encourage client's to take an active role in the therapeutic process, while I aspire to remain as transparent as possible in this collaborative partnership.
In my practice I work with adults coping with depression, anxiety, parenting issues, relationship struggles, substance abuse and other problems of adjustment. My work with children and adolescents include: learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, oppositional defiance, anxiety, depression, and family conflict. I believe that a collaborative alliance based on mutual respect and understanding is the cornerstone of therapeutic change. I encourage client's to take an active role in the therapeutic process, while I aspire to remain as transparent as possible in this collaborative partnership.
(201) 499-7550 View (201) 499-7550
Photo of Steven Santangelo, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in River Edge, NJ
Steven Santangelo
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LCADC, LSW
Verified Verified
River Edge, NJ 07661
Has opening up about things in your life you are struggling with been difficult? Have drugs or alcohol become more and more of a problem than a solution? Perhaps you have felt there is no way out, or maybe you’ve done the hard work to make it this far but are looking for that final push to really begin living your life to its fullest again. Addiction is complicated, much bigger than substance alone, and therapy is a major component to addressing addictions from all sides, assisting you in taking back control of your life once and for all.
Has opening up about things in your life you are struggling with been difficult? Have drugs or alcohol become more and more of a problem than a solution? Perhaps you have felt there is no way out, or maybe you’ve done the hard work to make it this far but are looking for that final push to really begin living your life to its fullest again. Addiction is complicated, much bigger than substance alone, and therapy is a major component to addressing addictions from all sides, assisting you in taking back control of your life once and for all.
(201) 904-0178 View (201) 904-0178
Photo of Amy Consovoy, Licensed Professional Counselor in River Edge, NJ
Amy Consovoy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, NCC
Verified Verified
River Edge, NJ 07661  (Online Only)
Ever wonder if drinking, substance use, or disordered eating are starting to become a problem? Look no further. People come to me to figure out how to heal their relationship with food and their bodies - to overcome perfectionism and people pleasing - to stop relying on alcohol and drugs to make the pain stop. Taking the first step towards asking for help is hard, but know that I will welcome you without judgement. I know that you’re here because you want the cycle to stop. I want to help you develop the skills to stop obsessing, to stop beating yourself up, and to remove the things that get in the way of you living your life.
Ever wonder if drinking, substance use, or disordered eating are starting to become a problem? Look no further. People come to me to figure out how to heal their relationship with food and their bodies - to overcome perfectionism and people pleasing - to stop relying on alcohol and drugs to make the pain stop. Taking the first step towards asking for help is hard, but know that I will welcome you without judgement. I know that you’re here because you want the cycle to stop. I want to help you develop the skills to stop obsessing, to stop beating yourself up, and to remove the things that get in the way of you living your life.
(551) 244-6277 View (551) 244-6277
Photo of Saadia Parvez, MPS, ATR-BC, LPAT , Art Therapist in River Edge, NJ
Saadia Parvez, MPS, ATR-BC, LPAT
Art Therapist, MPS, ATR-BC, LPAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
River Edge, NJ 07661
Welcome to the beginning of therapy. You have made an important choice for yourself—starting the process of exploring what brings you distress and wanting relief. Together, with your therapist, you will have a private space to wonder out loud and make connections between your past, present and important relationships. If this is your first time in therapy, then this beginning may bring up a lot of questions. If you are coming back to therapy remind yourself what worked for you. Each person is unique with their presenting problem and their story. You are the expert on your situation and you can find the right help for you.
Welcome to the beginning of therapy. You have made an important choice for yourself—starting the process of exploring what brings you distress and wanting relief. Together, with your therapist, you will have a private space to wonder out loud and make connections between your past, present and important relationships. If this is your first time in therapy, then this beginning may bring up a lot of questions. If you are coming back to therapy remind yourself what worked for you. Each person is unique with their presenting problem and their story. You are the expert on your situation and you can find the right help for you.
(973) 821-3909 View (973) 821-3909

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Cory Chargo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Edge, NJ
Cory Chargo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MARE
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in family, couple, group and individual settings for over 25 years. My sub-specialty is with children and adolescents, as I have served as an elementary and middle school Principal, a non-formal Educator, and a teacher in addition to my many years as a Mental Health Clinician. I have led workshops in schools on the topic of bullying.
I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults in family, couple, group and individual settings for over 25 years. My sub-specialty is with children and adolescents, as I have served as an elementary and middle school Principal, a non-formal Educator, and a teacher in addition to my many years as a Mental Health Clinician. I have led workshops in schools on the topic of bullying.
(201) 654-4003 View (201) 654-4003
Photo of Judy H. Gurfein, Psychologist in River Edge, NJ
Judy H. Gurfein
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Many years of experience with marriage, family and individual therapy enables me to help patients achieve success.
For over 25 years I have been privileged to become closely involved with patients and their challenges. I value my relationship with each patient and couple, and provide a safe, warm environment. My goal is to bring about positive change by alleviating problems and providing relief from symptoms. Extensive training and experience combined with warmth and individualized attention are the ingredients which enable me to help my patients successfully achieve their goals. Since every individual and situation is different, I match the treatment to the patient, and not the patient to the treatment.
Many years of experience with marriage, family and individual therapy enables me to help patients achieve success.
For over 25 years I have been privileged to become closely involved with patients and their challenges. I value my relationship with each patient and couple, and provide a safe, warm environment. My goal is to bring about positive change by alleviating problems and providing relief from symptoms. Extensive training and experience combined with warmth and individualized attention are the ingredients which enable me to help my patients successfully achieve their goals. Since every individual and situation is different, I match the treatment to the patient, and not the patient to the treatment.
(201) 254-0758 View (201) 254-0758
Photo of The Ctr for Integrative Psychiatry & Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in River Edge, NJ
The Ctr for Integrative Psychiatry & Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601
with the following available treatment modalities: Psychiatric Services~ *Psychopharmacology~ Medication evaluation & monitoring * School/child study team evaluations * Diagnosis differentiation *Risk Assessment *Pharmacological Education Psychological Services~ * Individual therapy * Family therapy * Couples therapy *Group therapy *Play therapy * Self hypnosis and guided imagery * EMDR *Brief therapy *Breath work & meditation * CBT * DBD.
At the Center for Integrative Psychiatry and Counseling, we take pride in the collaboration of a highly respected group of licensed professionals . Our approach to mental healthcare embraces both conventional and complementary treatment modalities. Being skilled at seeing each individual as unique with their own strengths, our staff uses a wide array of medical and clinical experience to offer a proactive approach to treatment that promotes self-awareness as a vehicle to emotional well-being. Our clinicians are passionate and attentive to a persons physical, emotional, interpersonal, behavioral, nutritional, environmental and spiritual dimensions.
with the following available treatment modalities: Psychiatric Services~ *Psychopharmacology~ Medication evaluation & monitoring * School/child study team evaluations * Diagnosis differentiation *Risk Assessment *Pharmacological Education Psychological Services~ * Individual therapy * Family therapy * Couples therapy *Group therapy *Play therapy * Self hypnosis and guided imagery * EMDR *Brief therapy *Breath work & meditation * CBT * DBD.
At the Center for Integrative Psychiatry and Counseling, we take pride in the collaboration of a highly respected group of licensed professionals . Our approach to mental healthcare embraces both conventional and complementary treatment modalities. Being skilled at seeing each individual as unique with their own strengths, our staff uses a wide array of medical and clinical experience to offer a proactive approach to treatment that promotes self-awareness as a vehicle to emotional well-being. Our clinicians are passionate and attentive to a persons physical, emotional, interpersonal, behavioral, nutritional, environmental and spiritual dimensions.
(201) 383-5387 View (201) 383-5387
Photo of Patricia Ann Mahmarian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Edge, NJ
Patricia Ann Mahmarian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dumont, NJ 07628
I believe in the inherent strength we all have within us to work to overcome adversity in our lives. If you, a family member of any age, or someone you may know are struggling with depression, anxiety, family dynamic challenges, or any life stressor that is keeping you from living the authentic and happy life you deserve, I am here to give you the help and guidance needed to overcome those obstacles and challenges. Sometimes adversity is a call to action to make changes in our lives we are all capable of doing with commitment and effort. The choice to ask for help is a choice made in strength, and I am here to support your journey!
I believe in the inherent strength we all have within us to work to overcome adversity in our lives. If you, a family member of any age, or someone you may know are struggling with depression, anxiety, family dynamic challenges, or any life stressor that is keeping you from living the authentic and happy life you deserve, I am here to give you the help and guidance needed to overcome those obstacles and challenges. Sometimes adversity is a call to action to make changes in our lives we are all capable of doing with commitment and effort. The choice to ask for help is a choice made in strength, and I am here to support your journey!
(201) 984-1573 View (201) 984-1573
Photo of Melissa Brickley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Edge, NJ
Melissa Brickley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652  (Online Only)
When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, friends, and my dogs.
Here you are exploring the possibility of going to therapy. You are likely going through something. Chances are you have been feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed. Possibly having conflict with loved ones. Decision making is difficult. Motivation decreased. Short-tempered. Drinking increased. Or perhaps you have a child that is struggling with peers or giving you a hard time. No matter what it is that has brought you to this place, call me. Let's sort through it together. You can feel better and you are worth it! I provide a safe, non-judgmental place for you to share what's on your mind and in your heart.
When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with my family, friends, and my dogs.
Here you are exploring the possibility of going to therapy. You are likely going through something. Chances are you have been feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed. Possibly having conflict with loved ones. Decision making is difficult. Motivation decreased. Short-tempered. Drinking increased. Or perhaps you have a child that is struggling with peers or giving you a hard time. No matter what it is that has brought you to this place, call me. Let's sort through it together. You can feel better and you are worth it! I provide a safe, non-judgmental place for you to share what's on your mind and in your heart.
(201) 583-4760 View (201) 583-4760
Photo of Melissa Cramutolo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Edge, NJ
Melissa Cramutolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Bergenfield, NJ 07621
I am trained in many trauma focused therapies that facilitate this deeper healing process - EMDR, Internal Family Systems, NARM, Somatic Experiencing-but above all consider myself to be a relational and relatable therapist who prioritizes the relationship with my clients as the primary healing agent.
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
I am trained in many trauma focused therapies that facilitate this deeper healing process - EMDR, Internal Family Systems, NARM, Somatic Experiencing-but above all consider myself to be a relational and relatable therapist who prioritizes the relationship with my clients as the primary healing agent.
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
(201) 389-2223 View (201) 389-2223
Photo of Cathy Gilio, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Edge, NJ
Cathy Gilio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hackensack, NJ 07601
Welcome to the first step on the path toward a more fulfilled you. Your journey may have twists and turns, hills and valleys. The right therapist by your side will help you safely unpack your bags and ease your load. As a seasoned clinician with over 25 years of experience in various settings, I will be your partner. Therapy in my office means less repetition of the story, and more active engagement with techniques that are gentle yet powerful. Drawing on extensive training and practice with EMDR, somatic processing, internal family systems models, and play therapy, I am prepared to guide you or your child along the road.
Welcome to the first step on the path toward a more fulfilled you. Your journey may have twists and turns, hills and valleys. The right therapist by your side will help you safely unpack your bags and ease your load. As a seasoned clinician with over 25 years of experience in various settings, I will be your partner. Therapy in my office means less repetition of the story, and more active engagement with techniques that are gentle yet powerful. Drawing on extensive training and practice with EMDR, somatic processing, internal family systems models, and play therapy, I am prepared to guide you or your child along the road.
(201) 731-2183 View (201) 731-2183
Photo of Sheila Berard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Edge, NJ
Sheila Berard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
With 20+ years working with children, adults and families that face anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, loss, , ADHD, family and relationship issues.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
With 20+ years working with children, adults and families that face anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, loss, , ADHD, family and relationship issues.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(201) 885-4629 View (201) 885-4629
Photo of Mars & Venus Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Edge, NJ
Mars & Venus Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW, CPC
Verified Verified
Teaneck, NJ 07666
Tele-counseling available - TEANECK, Ramsey, ORADELL, Ridgewood, DENVILLE, Manhattan: Adult counseling - Couples counseling - Relationship counseling - Premarital counseling - Marriage counseling - Family counseling - Child counseling - Teen counseling - ADHD - Addiction counseling - Grief & bereavement - Pet loss therapy - Stress and anxiety - Depression - Low self-esteem - Perfectionism - Worry - Indecision - Procrastination - Phobias - Assertiveness issues - Panic - Life Coaching / Weekends available / Spanish-speaking / Most insurances welcomed / Professional and compassionate full-service counseling for over 35 years.
Tele-counseling available - TEANECK, Ramsey, ORADELL, Ridgewood, DENVILLE, Manhattan: Adult counseling - Couples counseling - Relationship counseling - Premarital counseling - Marriage counseling - Family counseling - Child counseling - Teen counseling - ADHD - Addiction counseling - Grief & bereavement - Pet loss therapy - Stress and anxiety - Depression - Low self-esteem - Perfectionism - Worry - Indecision - Procrastination - Phobias - Assertiveness issues - Panic - Life Coaching / Weekends available / Spanish-speaking / Most insurances welcomed / Professional and compassionate full-service counseling for over 35 years.
(201) 283-8187 View (201) 283-8187
Photo of Pascale Augustine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Edge, NJ
Pascale Augustine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hackensack, NJ 07601
I have worked to help clients in need of individual, group, couples counseling and/or family counseling.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor(LCADC) with over 24 years of experience working with both Adults and adolescents, I have seen a wide range of mental health diagnosis that do not need to define who my clients are, but rather are unique elements of their own journeys. As each journey is unique, my role is to help my clients on that journey to navigate those obstacles, build new skills, and seek personal insight on how those obstacles can be overcome or managed.
I have worked to help clients in need of individual, group, couples counseling and/or family counseling.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor(LCADC) with over 24 years of experience working with both Adults and adolescents, I have seen a wide range of mental health diagnosis that do not need to define who my clients are, but rather are unique elements of their own journeys. As each journey is unique, my role is to help my clients on that journey to navigate those obstacles, build new skills, and seek personal insight on how those obstacles can be overcome or managed.
(551) 239-9439 View (551) 239-9439
Photo of Doreen H. Greco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Edge, NJ
Doreen H. Greco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652  (Online Only)
Welcome and thank you for considering to use my counseling services. Whether you are feeling life stress from work, family or friends, are struggling to understand yourself or how to feel better, together in a warm supportive confidential environment, we can explore your concerns and discover how to help you find the best solutions. I work with individuals that are adults, children or adolescents, couples and families. People come for help for a variety of issues such as dealing with stage of life adjustments, parenting, overcoming anxiety, depression and addictions, improving relationships and reaching personal and professional goals.
Welcome and thank you for considering to use my counseling services. Whether you are feeling life stress from work, family or friends, are struggling to understand yourself or how to feel better, together in a warm supportive confidential environment, we can explore your concerns and discover how to help you find the best solutions. I work with individuals that are adults, children or adolescents, couples and families. People come for help for a variety of issues such as dealing with stage of life adjustments, parenting, overcoming anxiety, depression and addictions, improving relationships and reaching personal and professional goals.
(201) 297-6939 View (201) 297-6939
Photo of Donna Strauss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Edge, NJ
Donna Strauss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dumont, NJ 07628
Beyond individual, family and couples counseling we offer Men's, Teen, Anxiety, Grief, Social Skills, Women's, Cancer/Illness and other support groups as well as corporate training and LSW supervision.
Building on the clinical social work model of person-in-environment, Connect Counseling & Wellness offers services designed to create a healthy mind, body and spirit. Whether its stress, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem or any of life's problems that impair functioning and impede happiness, we help our clients to better understand themselves and others and to implement solutions designed to feel better and become their best selves.
Beyond individual, family and couples counseling we offer Men's, Teen, Anxiety, Grief, Social Skills, Women's, Cancer/Illness and other support groups as well as corporate training and LSW supervision.
Building on the clinical social work model of person-in-environment, Connect Counseling & Wellness offers services designed to create a healthy mind, body and spirit. Whether its stress, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, self-esteem or any of life's problems that impair functioning and impede happiness, we help our clients to better understand themselves and others and to implement solutions designed to feel better and become their best selves.
(201) 374-8915 View (201) 374-8915
Photo of Joyce A Taormina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Edge, NJ
Joyce A Taormina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652  (Online Only)
I specialize in, but not limited to, areas of anxiety, depression, women’s issues, relationship issues, marital, family and grief.
Are you experiencing difficulties with life issues, circumstances and the current present-day crisis that may be provoking increased anxiety and frustration? Do you need to talk about your feelings, be heard and validated by a compassionate, trusted professional?
I specialize in, but not limited to, areas of anxiety, depression, women’s issues, relationship issues, marital, family and grief.
Are you experiencing difficulties with life issues, circumstances and the current present-day crisis that may be provoking increased anxiety and frustration? Do you need to talk about your feelings, be heard and validated by a compassionate, trusted professional?
(833) 975-2107 View (833) 975-2107
Photo of Prof. Robert E. Douglas II, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in River Edge, NJ
Prof. Robert E. Douglas II
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MACLP, LAMFT, LAPC, CLC
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07653
Robert takes the approach that all individuals and family systems are unique and should create a “space” that encompasses all of the salient components in their lives. Life has peaks and valleys and there is no one size fits all approach to therapy. Creating a safe, respectful therapeutic environment is his goal. He takes and eclectic approach and individualizes the interventions and treatment plans for the clients and families needs. He works with clients regarding family satisfaction, couples’ satisfaction, depression, anxiety, stress, grief and other psychological impairing issues.
Robert takes the approach that all individuals and family systems are unique and should create a “space” that encompasses all of the salient components in their lives. Life has peaks and valleys and there is no one size fits all approach to therapy. Creating a safe, respectful therapeutic environment is his goal. He takes and eclectic approach and individualizes the interventions and treatment plans for the clients and families needs. He works with clients regarding family satisfaction, couples’ satisfaction, depression, anxiety, stress, grief and other psychological impairing issues.
(201) 383-6174 View (201) 383-6174
Photo of Family Psychiatry and Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in River Edge, NJ
Family Psychiatry and Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652  (Online Only)
We strive to understand every child and adult as a whole individual with complex personalities and relationships within their family and society.
Michael is a Trilingual (English, Portuguese, and Spanish) counselor who graduated from Montclair State University with a Masters in Community Mental Health Counseling. Michael comes to Family Psychiatry and Therapy after years of experience treating adults, children, and adolescents in hospital, home, and community settings.
We strive to understand every child and adult as a whole individual with complex personalities and relationships within their family and society.
Michael is a Trilingual (English, Portuguese, and Spanish) counselor who graduated from Montclair State University with a Masters in Community Mental Health Counseling. Michael comes to Family Psychiatry and Therapy after years of experience treating adults, children, and adolescents in hospital, home, and community settings.
(551) 272-6904 View (551) 272-6904
Photo of Deirdre Comey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in River Edge, NJ
Deirdre Comey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAGCS, CEAP, SAP
Verified Verified
Oradell, NJ 07649
Have you lost a loved one to suicide and are now having difficulty finding anyone who understands what you are going through? Suicide loss survivors often feel significant guilt and responsibility for the suicide. They can also feel abandoned and betrayed by the deceased. Well-meaning friends, family members, and therapists may try their best to help but often exacerbate the pain and confusion the survivor is feeling. Imagine feeling understood by someone who has been there and can guide you along the path of recovering from the suicide of your loved one. I would like to be that person for you.
Have you lost a loved one to suicide and are now having difficulty finding anyone who understands what you are going through? Suicide loss survivors often feel significant guilt and responsibility for the suicide. They can also feel abandoned and betrayed by the deceased. Well-meaning friends, family members, and therapists may try their best to help but often exacerbate the pain and confusion the survivor is feeling. Imagine feeling understood by someone who has been there and can guide you along the path of recovering from the suicide of your loved one. I would like to be that person for you.
(201) 419-6647 View (201) 419-6647

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.