Therapists in Chelsea, New York, NY
Leora Ellison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chelsea, New York, NY 10001 (Online Only)
As a professional therapist, I helped individuals and couples through life transitions, grief and loss, self-discovery, depression, anxiety, trauma, finding motivation, and coping with challenging family dynamics. Through this process we can work together to learn new skills and tools to help connect the past with the present, to gain insight into your life, and challenge any maladaptive thinking patterns that might not be serving you. My therapeutic style utilizes a collaborative approach. I will work in a warm, empathetic, and creative way providing motivation and encouragement.
As a professional therapist, I helped individuals and couples through life transitions, grief and loss, self-discovery, depression, anxiety, trauma, finding motivation, and coping with challenging family dynamics. Through this process we can work together to learn new skills and tools to help connect the past with the present, to gain insight into your life, and challenge any maladaptive thinking patterns that might not be serving you. My therapeutic style utilizes a collaborative approach. I will work in a warm, empathetic, and creative way providing motivation and encouragement.
Dena Michnowich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chelsea, New York, NY 10011 (Online Only)
I have over 25 years of experience helping clients heal from and cope with anxiety (including social anxiety), depression, Bipolar Disorder, low self esteem, PTSD and complex trauma, grief, relationship challenges, life transitions, self destructive tendencies as well as understanding how the dynamics in your family of origin continue to impact you.
My primary focus is to help you attain a more peaceful mind, make desired changes in your life and cope with the current challenges that are getting in your way. I will help you manage and reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and the emotional and psychological effects of complex trauma. My clients report significant changes in their overall well being, life fulfillment including better relationships, and improved self esteem. I welcome all ethnicities as well as LGBTQA+.
I have over 25 years of experience helping clients heal from and cope with anxiety (including social anxiety), depression, Bipolar Disorder, low self esteem, PTSD and complex trauma, grief, relationship challenges, life transitions, self destructive tendencies as well as understanding how the dynamics in your family of origin continue to impact you.
My primary focus is to help you attain a more peaceful mind, make desired changes in your life and cope with the current challenges that are getting in your way. I will help you manage and reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and the emotional and psychological effects of complex trauma. My clients report significant changes in their overall well being, life fulfillment including better relationships, and improved self esteem. I welcome all ethnicities as well as LGBTQA+.
Cora Goldfarb
Licensed Psychoanalyst, LCAT, LP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chelsea, New York, NY 10011
My work focuses on how one's family dynamics and past are affecting one's current life.
Through both my psychoanalytic training and my training as a creative arts therapist, I treat each person as an individual and we come up with a treatment plan together. My patients are often dealing with depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, identity formation, trauma, and attachment issues. My view of therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to help you increase your self-esteem, have a greater understanding of yourself, and be able to have healthy and long-lasting friendships and romantic relationships.
My work focuses on how one's family dynamics and past are affecting one's current life.
Through both my psychoanalytic training and my training as a creative arts therapist, I treat each person as an individual and we come up with a treatment plan together. My patients are often dealing with depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, identity formation, trauma, and attachment issues. My view of therapy is a collaborative process where we work together to help you increase your self-esteem, have a greater understanding of yourself, and be able to have healthy and long-lasting friendships and romantic relationships.
Barbara Freedgood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chelsea, New York, NY 10011
My practice is informed by training in many different modalities including Object Relations and psychodynamic thinking, Marriage and Family Systems Theory, and Kinetic Awareness.
People enter therapy looking for results and relief. I like to identify issues quickly and focus on alleviating distress. In addition to couples counseling and general practice with individuals, I run support groups for adoptive parents. Parenting is a challenge. Adoptive parenting has additional challenges. My groups offer a safe space to explore issues and receive support. I take great pleasure in engaging people and offering an environment that allows people to arrive at unique solutions to their lives. I work with individuals, couples and groups.
My practice is informed by training in many different modalities including Object Relations and psychodynamic thinking, Marriage and Family Systems Theory, and Kinetic Awareness.
People enter therapy looking for results and relief. I like to identify issues quickly and focus on alleviating distress. In addition to couples counseling and general practice with individuals, I run support groups for adoptive parents. Parenting is a challenge. Adoptive parenting has additional challenges. My groups offer a safe space to explore issues and receive support. I take great pleasure in engaging people and offering an environment that allows people to arrive at unique solutions to their lives. I work with individuals, couples and groups.
David Kelly Gwin, Licensed Psychotherapist
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chelsea, New York, NY 10001
I am an interactive psychotherapist with advanced experience in Couples Therapy, Cognitive Therapy and Modern Psychodynamic Therapy. I help individuals and couples suffering from symptoms of depression, anxiety or problems in their relationships. Often clients come to me feeling stuck or confused about relationships and careers that keep them from engaging more fully in life. I help them to understand the problems, remove the obstacles, and live a life more in tune with their true nature. Having grown up in a family of therapists and worked through many of my own similar issues, I know personally and professionally the vast rewards of good therapy.
I am an interactive psychotherapist with advanced experience in Couples Therapy, Cognitive Therapy and Modern Psychodynamic Therapy. I help individuals and couples suffering from symptoms of depression, anxiety or problems in their relationships. Often clients come to me feeling stuck or confused about relationships and careers that keep them from engaging more fully in life. I help them to understand the problems, remove the obstacles, and live a life more in tune with their true nature. Having grown up in a family of therapists and worked through many of my own similar issues, I know personally and professionally the vast rewards of good therapy.
Nellya Akilova
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chelsea, New York, NY 10119
Waitlist for new clients
I work with people who are dealing with stress, relationship issues, and family conflicts. Some are afraid they are "not good enough", or struggle with people pleasing, which comes at a great cost to themselves. There are those who have a hard time figuring out who they are and what they want in life. My job is to help you manage stress, improve relationships, find out your wants and needs, and gain more self-confidence. The first step is to get a sense of one each other, in order to gain comfort and figure out what interventions will work best.
I work with people who are dealing with stress, relationship issues, and family conflicts. Some are afraid they are "not good enough", or struggle with people pleasing, which comes at a great cost to themselves. There are those who have a hard time figuring out who they are and what they want in life. My job is to help you manage stress, improve relationships, find out your wants and needs, and gain more self-confidence. The first step is to get a sense of one each other, in order to gain comfort and figure out what interventions will work best.
Lowell Marissa VanBiene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Chelsea, New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Common approaches I incorporate include: EFT (emotion focused therapy), IFS (internal family systems), Sex Therapy, and Attachment Theory.
Knowing the challenges of finding a therapist who can understand your life experiences, I prioritize working with communities with whom I share personal experience. This includes, but is not limited to: LGBTQIA+, polyamorous/ENM, BDSM/kink, SW, neurodivergent, & chronicaIly ill/disabled folks. I work with clients on a variety of topics, but special interests include: Unpacking attachment wounds using IFS; Transition stages in Poly/ENM; Navigating adult industries; Freedom from shame regarding sex & kink; Impacts of disability; Relationships to health, body image, and/or fatness from a fat liberatory and body neutrality lens.
Common approaches I incorporate include: EFT (emotion focused therapy), IFS (internal family systems), Sex Therapy, and Attachment Theory.
Knowing the challenges of finding a therapist who can understand your life experiences, I prioritize working with communities with whom I share personal experience. This includes, but is not limited to: LGBTQIA+, polyamorous/ENM, BDSM/kink, SW, neurodivergent, & chronicaIly ill/disabled folks. I work with clients on a variety of topics, but special interests include: Unpacking attachment wounds using IFS; Transition stages in Poly/ENM; Navigating adult industries; Freedom from shame regarding sex & kink; Impacts of disability; Relationships to health, body image, and/or fatness from a fat liberatory and body neutrality lens.
My approach is informed by the Family Systems model, which encourages an exploration of the roles, patterns, conflicts in one's family of origin and how they continue to affect you.
People look for a therapist when they are experiencing anxiety,difficulties in relationships, confusion around issues related to sexuality and/or identity. Others feel depressed,struggle with addiction, or have a sense that something is not right in their lives. Often people are trying to cope with old hurts or injuries, and find that their old ways of coping with them are no longer successful,or that these strategies are the very thing that brings them pain or frustration.Often these symptoms and problems are connected with early painful experiences,or from ideas and beliefs which have been formed in rigid, or dysfunctional family systems.
My approach is informed by the Family Systems model, which encourages an exploration of the roles, patterns, conflicts in one's family of origin and how they continue to affect you.
People look for a therapist when they are experiencing anxiety,difficulties in relationships, confusion around issues related to sexuality and/or identity. Others feel depressed,struggle with addiction, or have a sense that something is not right in their lives. Often people are trying to cope with old hurts or injuries, and find that their old ways of coping with them are no longer successful,or that these strategies are the very thing that brings them pain or frustration.Often these symptoms and problems are connected with early painful experiences,or from ideas and beliefs which have been formed in rigid, or dysfunctional family systems.
Aditi Vidyasagar
EdM, MA, MSc, (Oxon), LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chelsea, New York, NY 10001
I am trained in and use various techniques such as REBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Imago, Structural Family Therapy etc.
Are you feeling unsatisfied in your life? Are you experiencing relationship issues or struggling with difficult feelings? Perhaps you are eager to break out of your situation and ready for a change - I can help. Working with me, you have someone on your side, who is completely invested in your personal success. I am non-judgmental, compassionate and always meet my clients exactly where they are. As your therapist, I will assist you in a journey to become your very best version of yourself. Together we will create a safe place to address issues that are holding you back from creating the life you want.
I am trained in and use various techniques such as REBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Imago, Structural Family Therapy etc.
Are you feeling unsatisfied in your life? Are you experiencing relationship issues or struggling with difficult feelings? Perhaps you are eager to break out of your situation and ready for a change - I can help. Working with me, you have someone on your side, who is completely invested in your personal success. I am non-judgmental, compassionate and always meet my clients exactly where they are. As your therapist, I will assist you in a journey to become your very best version of yourself. Together we will create a safe place to address issues that are holding you back from creating the life you want.
Put simply, I'd like to help you and/or your family member(s), feel less worried, less sad, and, in general, less distressed. With over 40 years of experience, I feel that I've been able to provide that to many hundreds of people with whom I've worked. Whether it's your child or teen who is suffering (I work with all manner of child and adolescent issues, including ADHD, academic underachievement, oppositional defiance, anxiety, depression and limitations in social skills) or whether it's you, your relationship or your family that is troubled, I have the experience to help resolve issues.
Put simply, I'd like to help you and/or your family member(s), feel less worried, less sad, and, in general, less distressed. With over 40 years of experience, I feel that I've been able to provide that to many hundreds of people with whom I've worked. Whether it's your child or teen who is suffering (I work with all manner of child and adolescent issues, including ADHD, academic underachievement, oppositional defiance, anxiety, depression and limitations in social skills) or whether it's you, your relationship or your family that is troubled, I have the experience to help resolve issues.
As a firm believer in a mind-body-spirit approach to psychological health, I incorporate a long history of multi-disciplinary spiritual practice and investigation with my graduate training in relationship / family therapy into a holistic perspective that utilizes transitions and crises as opportunities to deepen insight and life skills that better navigate and manage them. In terms of couples work, I help with communications, developing conflict resolution strategies, healing from infidelities, addiction/codependency, and other sexual issues by examining your familial/relational histories and teaching a variety of guideposts to help you be your best selves, together and individually.
As a firm believer in a mind-body-spirit approach to psychological health, I incorporate a long history of multi-disciplinary spiritual practice and investigation with my graduate training in relationship / family therapy into a holistic perspective that utilizes transitions and crises as opportunities to deepen insight and life skills that better navigate and manage them. In terms of couples work, I help with communications, developing conflict resolution strategies, healing from infidelities, addiction/codependency, and other sexual issues by examining your familial/relational histories and teaching a variety of guideposts to help you be your best selves, together and individually.
15 Second Videos
Mindful Living, PLLC
Amos Wolff
Linda Turner
CommonSense Wellness Network, IPA, LLC
Lisa Sabath, LCSW-R
BirthRight Therapy
Baker Street Behavioral Health
Marc A Blank
Ellen Shewmaker
State of Balance Mental Health Counseling Svcs
Zachary Alti
Gregoire Leigh Ware
A Jordan Wright
Jonathan Sibley
Asya Rivinson
Emily Aranda
Daniel Torrecilla
Racquel P Jones
Angela W Yeung
Alexandra Grundleger
Joie A DeRitis
Lily Ostler
Mandolin Moody
Malia Rogers
Mark O'Connell
Nataliya Rusetskaya
spiral2grow Marriage Family Therapy
Embracing Joy Psychotherapy
Jonathan Schnapp
Sharna Striar
Matthew Singer
Charlene C. Chow
Anna J. Hindell
Kyle William McEvoy
Michelle Pyrka
Aspire Counseling and Coaching by Mary Testa, LMHC
Ina Grix
Inner Lakes Therapy LCSW, PLLC
Michael Burke
Noderea John
Wendy Levine
Hansol Lee
Alicia Feldman
Kathleen Foster
Linda Edwards
Daniel Smigiel
Vanina Kala Waizmann
I am NYS Board Qualified Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Family Therapist and NYS Certified Gestalt Psychotherapist specializing in bilingual (Spanish/English) adolescents and their families, couples and individuals suffering from relationship dysfunction, attachment trauma, self dys-regulation, intergenerational issues, mood disorders, trauma related disorders, addiction, personality disorders and problems with acculturation. As a professional I bring perseverance and dedication to my chosen field, as well as a deep regard for personal improvement and the hope that my dedication and sense of justice make even a small but meaningful difference in the lives of the families I treat. .
I am NYS Board Qualified Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Family Therapist and NYS Certified Gestalt Psychotherapist specializing in bilingual (Spanish/English) adolescents and their families, couples and individuals suffering from relationship dysfunction, attachment trauma, self dys-regulation, intergenerational issues, mood disorders, trauma related disorders, addiction, personality disorders and problems with acculturation. As a professional I bring perseverance and dedication to my chosen field, as well as a deep regard for personal improvement and the hope that my dedication and sense of justice make even a small but meaningful difference in the lives of the families I treat. .
Mindful Living, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chelsea, New York, NY 10001 (Online Only)
Behavioral Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality, Depression, Divorce Emotional Disturbance Family Conflict Grief Life Coaching Men's Issues Parenting Peer Relationships Relationship Issues School Issues Self Esteem Self-Harming Stress Trauma and PTSD.
Max Guttman is the owner of Recovery Now, a private mental health practice in New York City. Through his work as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, therapist, and disability rights advocate, Max fights for those without a voice in various New York City care systems. He received a ‘2020 Bearcats of the Last Decade 10 Under 10’ award from the Binghamton University Alumni Association. Guttman treats clients with anxiety and depression but specializes in issues related to psychosis or schizoaffective spectrum disorders.
Behavioral Issues, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality, Depression, Divorce Emotional Disturbance Family Conflict Grief Life Coaching Men's Issues Parenting Peer Relationships Relationship Issues School Issues Self Esteem Self-Harming Stress Trauma and PTSD.
Max Guttman is the owner of Recovery Now, a private mental health practice in New York City. Through his work as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, therapist, and disability rights advocate, Max fights for those without a voice in various New York City care systems. He received a ‘2020 Bearcats of the Last Decade 10 Under 10’ award from the Binghamton University Alumni Association. Guttman treats clients with anxiety and depression but specializes in issues related to psychosis or schizoaffective spectrum disorders.
Lissa Hunsicker Kenney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chelsea, New York, NY 10001
I have 15 years experience working with adults, children and couples In the NYC area. I believe therapy should be a safe space for the full expression of thoughts and feelings. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, parenting problems, infertility, issues around adoption, relationship issues, or career problems, I will be invested in helping you gain relief from pain, cope with life's stress, move forward toward your goals and create the life you want to live.
My approach is eclectic, drawing from Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, Trauma-Focused, Jungean Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems and Family Systems theories.
I have 15 years experience working with adults, children and couples In the NYC area. I believe therapy should be a safe space for the full expression of thoughts and feelings. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, parenting problems, infertility, issues around adoption, relationship issues, or career problems, I will be invested in helping you gain relief from pain, cope with life's stress, move forward toward your goals and create the life you want to live.
My approach is eclectic, drawing from Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, Trauma-Focused, Jungean Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems and Family Systems theories.
Keisha Nacole Terry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chelsea, New York, NY 10001 (Online Only)
I have an innovative and eclectic approach that is based on the individual, couple, or family.
Ever feel like you’re stuck circling the same territory over and over? You may feel stagnated, simply standing still while life seems to be passing you by. But you were created to grow… Somewhere along the way, you’ve lost your sense of self. Perhaps you’re lacking purpose, looking to discover your creativity, or connect with your tribe of support. The reality of where you are has you anxious, fearful, hurt, or simply just lost. Deep down inside you believe there’s got to be more and you’re on a journey to find it.
I have an innovative and eclectic approach that is based on the individual, couple, or family.
Ever feel like you’re stuck circling the same territory over and over? You may feel stagnated, simply standing still while life seems to be passing you by. But you were created to grow… Somewhere along the way, you’ve lost your sense of self. Perhaps you’re lacking purpose, looking to discover your creativity, or connect with your tribe of support. The reality of where you are has you anxious, fearful, hurt, or simply just lost. Deep down inside you believe there’s got to be more and you’re on a journey to find it.
The Hamilton Practice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chelsea, New York, NY 10011
The best description of what I do after 30 years of success is that I am a stress management expert for ages 2 and up. After having the life changing experience of studying with Monica McGoldrick, author of Ethnicity & Family Therapy, at Fordham University, my mother and I founded The Hamilton Practice in 1995. Working with survivors of childhood abuse and trauma in Harlem for a combined 17 years, we were stunned by the miracles that unfolded as we applied the powers of connection and support. My mother left her body in 2021, so you will see only me, but you will be benefiting from the wisdom and synergy of two generations.
The best description of what I do after 30 years of success is that I am a stress management expert for ages 2 and up. After having the life changing experience of studying with Monica McGoldrick, author of Ethnicity & Family Therapy, at Fordham University, my mother and I founded The Hamilton Practice in 1995. Working with survivors of childhood abuse and trauma in Harlem for a combined 17 years, we were stunned by the miracles that unfolded as we applied the powers of connection and support. My mother left her body in 2021, so you will see only me, but you will be benefiting from the wisdom and synergy of two generations.
John C. Abreu, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chelsea, New York, NY 10001
The modalities which I often use in practice include comprehensive bio-psycho-social (BPS), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Motivational (MI), Trauma focused CBT (TFCBT), psych first-aid, elements of dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), exposure response prevention, family-based therapies, couples counseling, mindfulness, play & art therapies.
Hello, and welcome! I work with: Males, females, LGBTQIA+, teens, adults, aging, victims of DV, substance abuse, families, couples, cross-cultured client, and first responders. I work with a wide range of mental health complexities including but not limited to: Addiction, ADHD, anger management, anxiety, depression, impulsivity, bipolar disorder, co-dependency, life coaching, men’s issues, OCD, race related issues, self-esteem, DV, divorce, family conflict, spirituality, trauma, and vocational stress. I am a warm, empathic, passionate, eclectic, professionally, and culturally competent therapist. I look forward to hearing from you!
The modalities which I often use in practice include comprehensive bio-psycho-social (BPS), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Motivational (MI), Trauma focused CBT (TFCBT), psych first-aid, elements of dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), exposure response prevention, family-based therapies, couples counseling, mindfulness, play & art therapies.
Hello, and welcome! I work with: Males, females, LGBTQIA+, teens, adults, aging, victims of DV, substance abuse, families, couples, cross-cultured client, and first responders. I work with a wide range of mental health complexities including but not limited to: Addiction, ADHD, anger management, anxiety, depression, impulsivity, bipolar disorder, co-dependency, life coaching, men’s issues, OCD, race related issues, self-esteem, DV, divorce, family conflict, spirituality, trauma, and vocational stress. I am a warm, empathic, passionate, eclectic, professionally, and culturally competent therapist. I look forward to hearing from you!
Alex Fribourg
Counselor, MA, EdM, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chelsea, New York, NY 10001 (Online Only)
Are you experiencing anxiety, self-esteem issues, and/or communication problems with your partner, family, friends, or coworkers? Do you feel worried and overwhelmed? Are you disconnected from yourself or struggling with inner conflict? I work primarily with women in their 20s and 30s to develop effective communication and coping skills, improve relationships through increased self-esteem, and an expanded ability to set attainable goals and effective boundaries. My clients can expect to develop practical problem-solving and decision making skills, improved confidence, and a better sense of wellbeing through supportive therapy.
Are you experiencing anxiety, self-esteem issues, and/or communication problems with your partner, family, friends, or coworkers? Do you feel worried and overwhelmed? Are you disconnected from yourself or struggling with inner conflict? I work primarily with women in their 20s and 30s to develop effective communication and coping skills, improve relationships through increased self-esteem, and an expanded ability to set attainable goals and effective boundaries. My clients can expect to develop practical problem-solving and decision making skills, improved confidence, and a better sense of wellbeing through supportive therapy.
Welcome! I'm a licensed therapist with specialized training in trauma, relationships, identity, and family therapy. I work alongside folks working through life transitions, reprocessing traumatic experiences, exploring identity, and challenging codependent patterns in relationships. My practice focuses on building trust and safety so you can share and explore your own unique experience. As a biracial, feminist, and multicultural therapist, I also work to understand how external cultural, societal, and systemic factors can impact our relationship to ourselves and others.
Welcome! I'm a licensed therapist with specialized training in trauma, relationships, identity, and family therapy. I work alongside folks working through life transitions, reprocessing traumatic experiences, exploring identity, and challenging codependent patterns in relationships. My practice focuses on building trust and safety so you can share and explore your own unique experience. As a biracial, feminist, and multicultural therapist, I also work to understand how external cultural, societal, and systemic factors can impact our relationship to ourselves and others.
Amos Wolff
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chelsea, New York, NY 10001
Guided introspection leading to actionable connections is a tonic in an increasingly isolating, and volatile world. Whether this is your first time in therapy or another chapter on your quest for fulfillment in relationship with yourself and others, I am dedicated to meeting you where you are. Together we will bear witness to joys and challenges of being a human in our modern society, and celebrate the richness of humanity. As a trained couples and family therapist, I utilize a variety of theories integrating my past experience in both the performing arts and as a yoga instructor to provide a creative, holistic experience.
Guided introspection leading to actionable connections is a tonic in an increasingly isolating, and volatile world. Whether this is your first time in therapy or another chapter on your quest for fulfillment in relationship with yourself and others, I am dedicated to meeting you where you are. Together we will bear witness to joys and challenges of being a human in our modern society, and celebrate the richness of humanity. As a trained couples and family therapist, I utilize a variety of theories integrating my past experience in both the performing arts and as a yoga instructor to provide a creative, holistic experience.
See more therapy options for Chelsea, New York
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.