Family Therapy in Portland, OR

Photo of Gianna Russo-Mitma, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Gianna Russo-Mitma
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Are you dealing with family of origin or generational issues that you can't seem to work through? Are you feeling overwhelmed by the world and navigating challenging family dynamics? Does the world feel like a lot of pressure on your heart and mind, or feel like you're not enough? That's where our work together starts. Our sessions will be collaborative, strengths-based, and non-judgmental, and we'll work from a family systems and feminist lens. It is important that you feel safe going into this new chapter, and I am glad we're here together.
Are you dealing with family of origin or generational issues that you can't seem to work through? Are you feeling overwhelmed by the world and navigating challenging family dynamics? Does the world feel like a lot of pressure on your heart and mind, or feel like you're not enough? That's where our work together starts. Our sessions will be collaborative, strengths-based, and non-judgmental, and we'll work from a family systems and feminist lens. It is important that you feel safe going into this new chapter, and I am glad we're here together.
(971) 260-4813 View (971) 260-4813
Photo of Lavinia Paola Magliocco, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Lavinia Paola Magliocco
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CRC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with folx with chronic illness, disability, and C-PTSD. I offer individual counseling for adults and age 14+; family/couples counseling for working with chronic illness within relationships. Other issues include depression, anxiety, life transitions including end of life, grief, ADHD, career and empowerment, creativity and expression, identity issues, performance enhancement, sexuality, spiritual explorations. My experience confirms that each of us has innate wisdom longing to guide our lives towards greater freedom, connection, and well-being.
I specialize in working with folx with chronic illness, disability, and C-PTSD. I offer individual counseling for adults and age 14+; family/couples counseling for working with chronic illness within relationships. Other issues include depression, anxiety, life transitions including end of life, grief, ADHD, career and empowerment, creativity and expression, identity issues, performance enhancement, sexuality, spiritual explorations. My experience confirms that each of us has innate wisdom longing to guide our lives towards greater freedom, connection, and well-being.
(971) 290-2570 View (971) 290-2570
Photo of Gillian Boudreau, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Gillian Boudreau
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
I use insight-oriented, mindfulness-based, trauma-informed and ND affirming approaches including Internal Family Systems therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and a licensed school psychologist. I hold a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Long Island University in Brooklyn, NY. Urban and rural, inpatient and outpatient work settings have taught me about the many challenges an individual may face including experiences of oppression and injustice, as well as a deep appreciation for the richness of the human experience. My style is described as warm, analytical and collaborative, balancing deep emotional work with elements of humor and lightness when appropriate. I aim to help clients address the root of complex challenges, in a safe and supported way.
I use insight-oriented, mindfulness-based, trauma-informed and ND affirming approaches including Internal Family Systems therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and a licensed school psychologist. I hold a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Long Island University in Brooklyn, NY. Urban and rural, inpatient and outpatient work settings have taught me about the many challenges an individual may face including experiences of oppression and injustice, as well as a deep appreciation for the richness of the human experience. My style is described as warm, analytical and collaborative, balancing deep emotional work with elements of humor and lightness when appropriate. I aim to help clients address the root of complex challenges, in a safe and supported way.
(971) 306-4786 View (971) 306-4786
Photo of Simone Lichty, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Simone Lichty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
I help people understand the roadblocks to more fulfilling relationships, family lives, community connections, and careers.
I help people access greater psychological and emotional wellness by working through trauma, unhealthy relational patterns, and old beliefs. If you find that family or romantic relationships are difficult, you are socially isolated, your career or school performance is suffering, or you struggle with anxiety, depression or loss, therapy can help. Our work together can allow you to cultivate deeper self-understanding and acceptance, which are the stepping-stones to a more vital, engaged, and fulfilling life.
I help people understand the roadblocks to more fulfilling relationships, family lives, community connections, and careers.
I help people access greater psychological and emotional wellness by working through trauma, unhealthy relational patterns, and old beliefs. If you find that family or romantic relationships are difficult, you are socially isolated, your career or school performance is suffering, or you struggle with anxiety, depression or loss, therapy can help. Our work together can allow you to cultivate deeper self-understanding and acceptance, which are the stepping-stones to a more vital, engaged, and fulfilling life.
(503) 782-1926 View (503) 782-1926
Photo of Rebecca Francesconi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Rebecca Francesconi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
I have a specific focus working with individuals (including children and adolescents/teens), couples and families on issues ranging from eating disorder/body image concerns, depression, anxiety, parenting struggles, couples/pre-marital and marriage counseling and family conflict as it relates to parent/child dynamics.
I believe that every person, no matter the age, has a story to tell about their lives and it takes a tremendous amount of courage to begin to share this story. As your therapist, my hope is to help you find your voice, speak your truth, begin the healing process and ultimately feel a sense of personal accomplishment along the way. I seek to provide you with clarity of thought and peace of mind and heart.
I have a specific focus working with individuals (including children and adolescents/teens), couples and families on issues ranging from eating disorder/body image concerns, depression, anxiety, parenting struggles, couples/pre-marital and marriage counseling and family conflict as it relates to parent/child dynamics.
I believe that every person, no matter the age, has a story to tell about their lives and it takes a tremendous amount of courage to begin to share this story. As your therapist, my hope is to help you find your voice, speak your truth, begin the healing process and ultimately feel a sense of personal accomplishment along the way. I seek to provide you with clarity of thought and peace of mind and heart.
(503) 379-9529 View (503) 379-9529
Photo of Willamette Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Willamette Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Some of our most sought after therapies include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Processing Therapy, CBT, Couples Counseling, Somatic Work, Psychedelic Psychotherapy, Health at Every Size, Hypnotherapy, and many others.
WWC now has psychiatric medication services available for OR and WA! WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of Oregon and Washington. We have a wide range of specialties including medication management, eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, post partum work, bariatric surgery letters, psychedelic psychotherapy, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
Some of our most sought after therapies include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Processing Therapy, CBT, Couples Counseling, Somatic Work, Psychedelic Psychotherapy, Health at Every Size, Hypnotherapy, and many others.
WWC now has psychiatric medication services available for OR and WA! WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of Oregon and Washington. We have a wide range of specialties including medication management, eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, post partum work, bariatric surgery letters, psychedelic psychotherapy, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
(971) 803-4515 View (971) 803-4515
Photo of Casey Chow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Casey Chow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
As a 2nd gen Asian-American born to immigrant parents, my cultural identity has been one of depth and confusion. Holding values from my parent’s home countries, mixed with my American values; it has widened my understanding of mental health from a cultural lens. I'd like to provide a space for those exploring their identities and culture and how it has played a part in your upbringing and development. I understand family values are important, but sometimes can conflict with our own individual goals and experiences. In the space, I hope you can feel comfortable to casually show up as you are. I am an intermediate ABCantonese speaker.
As a 2nd gen Asian-American born to immigrant parents, my cultural identity has been one of depth and confusion. Holding values from my parent’s home countries, mixed with my American values; it has widened my understanding of mental health from a cultural lens. I'd like to provide a space for those exploring their identities and culture and how it has played a part in your upbringing and development. I understand family values are important, but sometimes can conflict with our own individual goals and experiences. In the space, I hope you can feel comfortable to casually show up as you are. I am an intermediate ABCantonese speaker.
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Photo of Bettina G Jensen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Bettina G Jensen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
If you are struggling with relationships in your life, maybe with your intimate partner/spouse or family members, or perhaps at work, you might feel the need to talk with someone. I am a psychotherapist practicing in Oregon and Washington, and in Europe. I enjoy assisting people in the exploration of new ways to manage challenges that invariably arise in life. If you struggle with anxiety or depression, or if you are experiencing activation related to past traumatic events I can help you learn new ways of relating to yourself and to others.
If you are struggling with relationships in your life, maybe with your intimate partner/spouse or family members, or perhaps at work, you might feel the need to talk with someone. I am a psychotherapist practicing in Oregon and Washington, and in Europe. I enjoy assisting people in the exploration of new ways to manage challenges that invariably arise in life. If you struggle with anxiety or depression, or if you are experiencing activation related to past traumatic events I can help you learn new ways of relating to yourself and to others.
(503) 755-8598 View (503) 755-8598
Photo of Julie Hassler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Julie Hassler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Our relationships can provide us feelings of connection and safety, and give our lives meaning and purpose. They can also bring us pain and disappointment. Is your relationship in trouble? I specialize with issues that can result within relationships, from premarital to divorce, as well as blended family concerns. Whether communication issues, unresolvable conflict, infidelity/affair, addiction, abuse or mental health issues have affected your connection and attunement, I can give you the tools to turn things around in the present and the techniques to provide consistent connection in the future.
Our relationships can provide us feelings of connection and safety, and give our lives meaning and purpose. They can also bring us pain and disappointment. Is your relationship in trouble? I specialize with issues that can result within relationships, from premarital to divorce, as well as blended family concerns. Whether communication issues, unresolvable conflict, infidelity/affair, addiction, abuse or mental health issues have affected your connection and attunement, I can give you the tools to turn things around in the present and the techniques to provide consistent connection in the future.
(503) 694-3203 View (503) 694-3203
Photo of Joseph M Cereghino, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Joseph M Cereghino
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Sessions are collaborative, focused on the unique needs and goals of the individual or family while working with relevant emotional, cognitive and behavioral experiences.
I work with growth-oriented people striving for better ways to: grow as individuals, manage stress, connect more fully with others and achieve better balance in daily life. Common therapy focuses include acute and long-term concerns with feeling overwhelmed with anxiety, struggling to tame an overly self-critical internal voice, being unable to process sadness with confidence and ease, feeling stuck in grief and feeling unable to work through conflicts in important relationships.
Sessions are collaborative, focused on the unique needs and goals of the individual or family while working with relevant emotional, cognitive and behavioral experiences.
I work with growth-oriented people striving for better ways to: grow as individuals, manage stress, connect more fully with others and achieve better balance in daily life. Common therapy focuses include acute and long-term concerns with feeling overwhelmed with anxiety, struggling to tame an overly self-critical internal voice, being unable to process sadness with confidence and ease, feeling stuck in grief and feeling unable to work through conflicts in important relationships.
(503) 487-3985 View (503) 487-3985
Photo of Kate L Reece, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kate L Reece
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
My background is in Family Structural Therapy, which places value on and examines an individual’s relationships, both past and present.
Helping others discover peace, connection, and confidence in the face of turmoil has long been a passion of mine. I believe everyone is capable of growth and healing if they are provided sufficient encouragement, support, and effective strategies. My therapeutic style is conversational and relaxed. I encourage clients to identify and communicate their unique needs and concerns in order to improve interpersonal relationships, manage bothersome emotions or behaviors, and develop healthier family connections. No matter their goal, I strongly believe in the client’s right to decide the focus of therapy.
My background is in Family Structural Therapy, which places value on and examines an individual’s relationships, both past and present.
Helping others discover peace, connection, and confidence in the face of turmoil has long been a passion of mine. I believe everyone is capable of growth and healing if they are provided sufficient encouragement, support, and effective strategies. My therapeutic style is conversational and relaxed. I encourage clients to identify and communicate their unique needs and concerns in order to improve interpersonal relationships, manage bothersome emotions or behaviors, and develop healthier family connections. No matter their goal, I strongly believe in the client’s right to decide the focus of therapy.
(503) 487-5114 View (503) 487-5114
Photo of Noelle Ferguson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Noelle Ferguson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Family Connections Counseling is a fat-positive and identity affirming space and I am committed to my own continued work toward allyship both in the therapy space and in my personal life.
Despite what Instagram, TikTok, or an opinionated in-law may have us believe, none of us are born knowing how to parent, and many of us are actively working on changing intergenerational patterns in our own families in order to better support the growth and development of our children, in essence, reparenting ourselves. This process is a difficult one, and not meant to be done in isolation. Together we can look at how you were parented, how you want to parent, and how to bridge any gaps in between.
Family Connections Counseling is a fat-positive and identity affirming space and I am committed to my own continued work toward allyship both in the therapy space and in my personal life.
Despite what Instagram, TikTok, or an opinionated in-law may have us believe, none of us are born knowing how to parent, and many of us are actively working on changing intergenerational patterns in our own families in order to better support the growth and development of our children, in essence, reparenting ourselves. This process is a difficult one, and not meant to be done in isolation. Together we can look at how you were parented, how you want to parent, and how to bridge any gaps in between.
(503) 461-1025 View (503) 461-1025
Photo of Ascent Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Ascent Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97220
Accepting new clients now! I’m Rylan, I’m a licensed therapist (LMFT) who works with children, teens, and adults from a client-centered approach focused on mindfulness and self-compassion. Therapy is a collaborative process, so we’re going to build your ideal outcomes together. I specialize in working with both children and adults with ADHD, depression, social anxiety, isolation, motivation and school/work problems, as well as family and relationship stress, and divorce/separation issues. I often work with creative and artistic folks, and professionals of all types.
Accepting new clients now! I’m Rylan, I’m a licensed therapist (LMFT) who works with children, teens, and adults from a client-centered approach focused on mindfulness and self-compassion. Therapy is a collaborative process, so we’re going to build your ideal outcomes together. I specialize in working with both children and adults with ADHD, depression, social anxiety, isolation, motivation and school/work problems, as well as family and relationship stress, and divorce/separation issues. I often work with creative and artistic folks, and professionals of all types.
(971) 273-1228 View (971) 273-1228
Photo of Trinity Toft, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Trinity Toft
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211
Waitlist for new clients
Trinity is a psychotherapist in private practice offering individual and group therapy virtually through Rose City Family Wellness.
I specialize in perinatal therapy and have recently expanded my practice to include other kinds of life transitions. Focusing on ways in which we mother our babies, ourselves, and even our creative "births," I will help guide you on the way, with the belief that you already possess everything you need for the journey.
Trinity is a psychotherapist in private practice offering individual and group therapy virtually through Rose City Family Wellness.
I specialize in perinatal therapy and have recently expanded my practice to include other kinds of life transitions. Focusing on ways in which we mother our babies, ourselves, and even our creative "births," I will help guide you on the way, with the belief that you already possess everything you need for the journey.
(503) 217-6087 View (503) 217-6087
Photo of Coach4Parents in Portland, OR
Coach4Parents
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
How can we prioritize our children, protect them, and keep them emotionally safe, as we transition into shifting our relationship? As a Parent Educator for Family Court, I focus on positive strategies.
You try your best as a parent or teaming up as a couple, yet sometimes feel overwhelmed. You deserve a life which feels balanced, energized, and fun. Our goal is to work together to identify new tools for your "parenting or relationship toolkit" which you can use immediately to positively impact your life at home. Partnered or as a sole parent, we work to identify your unique parenting style and the challenges you are navigating. I have over 25 years of experience working with parents & couples in schools, court, or mental health settings. For parent or couples counseling, schedule a free 30 minute consult at Coach4Parents.com
How can we prioritize our children, protect them, and keep them emotionally safe, as we transition into shifting our relationship? As a Parent Educator for Family Court, I focus on positive strategies.
You try your best as a parent or teaming up as a couple, yet sometimes feel overwhelmed. You deserve a life which feels balanced, energized, and fun. Our goal is to work together to identify new tools for your "parenting or relationship toolkit" which you can use immediately to positively impact your life at home. Partnered or as a sole parent, we work to identify your unique parenting style and the challenges you are navigating. I have over 25 years of experience working with parents & couples in schools, court, or mental health settings. For parent or couples counseling, schedule a free 30 minute consult at Coach4Parents.com
(541) 490-1551 View (541) 490-1551
Photo of Alana J Duschane, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Alana J Duschane
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
LICENSED IN OREGON AND WASHINGTON STATE. I am a culturally informed person of color and an ANXIETY and CHILD/FAMILY EXPERT. I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Portland with over 10 years of clinical experience. I offer psychotherapy and psychological/educational testing to children, teens, and adults. I work from a client-centered approach utilizing evidence-based treatment approaches. I specialize in Anxiety Disorders, Trauma, OCD, Mood Disorders, Substance Use Issues, and Psychological Assessment for Children, Teens, and Adults.
LICENSED IN OREGON AND WASHINGTON STATE. I am a culturally informed person of color and an ANXIETY and CHILD/FAMILY EXPERT. I am a licensed clinical psychologist in Portland with over 10 years of clinical experience. I offer psychotherapy and psychological/educational testing to children, teens, and adults. I work from a client-centered approach utilizing evidence-based treatment approaches. I specialize in Anxiety Disorders, Trauma, OCD, Mood Disorders, Substance Use Issues, and Psychological Assessment for Children, Teens, and Adults.
(503) 868-0056 View (503) 868-0056
Photo of Sophia Fleming, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Sophia Fleming
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221
Sophia often incorporates therapy stemming from cognitive behavioral, attachment, family systems, humanistic, psychodynamic, and trauma theories.
Sophia Fleming, LCSW, SEP offers virtual counseling sessions for adults throughout Oregon who are yearning to experience more peace and more joy in their lives. Typically, when one seeks counseling, he or she feels "stuck". Sophia has a knack for guiding clients to untangle the pieces. Sophia has had the honor of working and training at The Meadows, a world-renowned treatment center, and has received training from world-renowned therapists Pia Mellody on codependency, love addiction/ love avoidance, and inner child work, Claudia Black focusing on couples therapy, and Peter Levine developer of Somatic Experiencing.
Sophia often incorporates therapy stemming from cognitive behavioral, attachment, family systems, humanistic, psychodynamic, and trauma theories.
Sophia Fleming, LCSW, SEP offers virtual counseling sessions for adults throughout Oregon who are yearning to experience more peace and more joy in their lives. Typically, when one seeks counseling, he or she feels "stuck". Sophia has a knack for guiding clients to untangle the pieces. Sophia has had the honor of working and training at The Meadows, a world-renowned treatment center, and has received training from world-renowned therapists Pia Mellody on codependency, love addiction/ love avoidance, and inner child work, Claudia Black focusing on couples therapy, and Peter Levine developer of Somatic Experiencing.
(971) 290-2672 View (971) 290-2672
Photo of DANIEL Nishina, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
DANIEL Nishina
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
I also include in my grasp of any client appreciation for their family, social-cultural, and socioeconomic context.
A person considering counseling is already making the first step of trying to achieve, or return to, a healthier and happier equilibrium. I believe that “loosening up” and releasing the many things we hold, particularly unconsciously, allow us to activate that capacity and return to, or discover, a healthier state of being. Top-down, this would involve uncovering our various thought patterns, reactions, and story that we have about ourselves. Bottom-up, it involves noticing and feeling - the various ways our body is in relation to how we are mentally.
I also include in my grasp of any client appreciation for their family, social-cultural, and socioeconomic context.
A person considering counseling is already making the first step of trying to achieve, or return to, a healthier and happier equilibrium. I believe that “loosening up” and releasing the many things we hold, particularly unconsciously, allow us to activate that capacity and return to, or discover, a healthier state of being. Top-down, this would involve uncovering our various thought patterns, reactions, and story that we have about ourselves. Bottom-up, it involves noticing and feeling - the various ways our body is in relation to how we are mentally.
(503) 455-7871 View (503) 455-7871
Photo of Heart Thyself, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Heart Thyself, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
People who have experienced Narcissistic Abuse have been exploited, rejected and devalued. Often this begins with family of origin and in adulthood tends to carry over into romantic relationships and friendships. Kids who grow up with Narcissistic Abuse become adults with unresolved identity trauma and confusion. This is often displayed as self-hatred, harm and abandonment. The exploitation from Narcissistic Abuse makes boundary formation impossible for people experiencing this, leading to interpersonal struggles and difficulty forming secure attachments.
People who have experienced Narcissistic Abuse have been exploited, rejected and devalued. Often this begins with family of origin and in adulthood tends to carry over into romantic relationships and friendships. Kids who grow up with Narcissistic Abuse become adults with unresolved identity trauma and confusion. This is often displayed as self-hatred, harm and abandonment. The exploitation from Narcissistic Abuse makes boundary formation impossible for people experiencing this, leading to interpersonal struggles and difficulty forming secure attachments.
(503) 660-3668 View (503) 660-3668
Photo of Carie Arps, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Carie Arps
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
Either working with an individual, couple or family, I come from the perspective that every person is wired for connection and seeks growth to embody their wisdom and wholeness. Individuals can heal from past experiences, move through difficult transitions, and learn to tolerate the stresses of modern life. When we are disconnected from our natural capacity, we can experience life as intolerable and forget our inherent worth. I believe in a collaborative approach to not only find relief from problems, but also to restore health and a sense of internal wholeness.
Either working with an individual, couple or family, I come from the perspective that every person is wired for connection and seeks growth to embody their wisdom and wholeness. Individuals can heal from past experiences, move through difficult transitions, and learn to tolerate the stresses of modern life. When we are disconnected from our natural capacity, we can experience life as intolerable and forget our inherent worth. I believe in a collaborative approach to not only find relief from problems, but also to restore health and a sense of internal wholeness.
(971) 256-8032 View (971) 256-8032
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.