Photo of Estelle Johnson, MA, LPC-MH, Counselor
Estelle Johnson
Counselor, MA, LPC-MH
Verified Verified
Yankton, SD 57078
As a licensed professional mental health counselor, I strive to help couples, families and individuals find the resources to work together, communicate and find the harmonious balance that will foster a healthy relationship in a marriage or family setting. Couples and families who are experiencing distress often play the "blame game" and experience difficulty in communication. As a counselor and third party, I strive to help clients listen to each other, find healthy communication techniques, and accept responsibility for their roles in the relationship in turn encouraging love and respect to grow within the family system.
As a licensed professional mental health counselor, I strive to help couples, families and individuals find the resources to work together, communicate and find the harmonious balance that will foster a healthy relationship in a marriage or family setting. Couples and families who are experiencing distress often play the "blame game" and experience difficulty in communication. As a counselor and third party, I strive to help clients listen to each other, find healthy communication techniques, and accept responsibility for their roles in the relationship in turn encouraging love and respect to grow within the family system.
(605) 277-4682 View (605) 277-4682

Online Therapists

Photo of Jennie Mayer, MS, QMHP, LPC-MH, LAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennie Mayer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, QMHP, LPC-MH, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
I am experienced and passionate in providing therapy for trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, secondary trauma, substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, anger management, relational/marital issues, family of origin issues, grief and loss, miscarriage/pregnancy loss, self-esteem, pregnancy/postpartum issues, stress, legal issues, and parenting.
I approach therapy and treatment of individuals, couples, groups and families in a manner consistent with principles of integrity, cooperation and connectedness. I am dedicated to assisting individuals in improving the quality of their lives and in addressing mental health and substance use disorders with compassion.
I am experienced and passionate in providing therapy for trauma, sexual abuse, domestic violence, secondary trauma, substance use disorders, anxiety, depression, anger management, relational/marital issues, family of origin issues, grief and loss, miscarriage/pregnancy loss, self-esteem, pregnancy/postpartum issues, stress, legal issues, and parenting.
I approach therapy and treatment of individuals, couples, groups and families in a manner consistent with principles of integrity, cooperation and connectedness. I am dedicated to assisting individuals in improving the quality of their lives and in addressing mental health and substance use disorders with compassion.
(605) 250-6911 View (605) 250-6911
Photo of Paola Martinez, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paola Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57103  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. My therapeutic focus is to help women and teens work through life’s difficulties including faith transitions, coming out to family/friends (LGBTQIA), difficult family dynamics or relationship concerns. Additionally, I provide support for academic and educational needs for K-12 students including coping skills for academic settings. My sessions are focused on you and your needs. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, traumatic events, transitions and you notice these are holding you back, reach out. I am happy to provide a safe space for you to process and achieve your goals.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here. My therapeutic focus is to help women and teens work through life’s difficulties including faith transitions, coming out to family/friends (LGBTQIA), difficult family dynamics or relationship concerns. Additionally, I provide support for academic and educational needs for K-12 students including coping skills for academic settings. My sessions are focused on you and your needs. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety, traumatic events, transitions and you notice these are holding you back, reach out. I am happy to provide a safe space for you to process and achieve your goals.
(385) 481-7552 View (385) 481-7552
Photo of Krystal Lohff, CSW-PIP, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krystal Lohff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW-PIP, QMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57110
e: CBT, DBT, social skills training, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, problem solving ther, supportive therapy, marital therapy, family, and individual therapy for all ages.
I feel fortunate to have the experiences that I have had in working with a diverse group of individuals with various stories. I am able to build rapport quickly, making the client feel comfortable, and can assist in guiding the client in meeting their goals. I bring a unique experience as I look at the whole person to explore what all is, or has impacted them. We don't focus on disease management but strive to focus on overall wellness-mind, body, and soul. I enjoy helping clients find passion again in their life and to truly start living life-not just surviving each day. This is only a chapter of your life. Let's write a new one.
e: CBT, DBT, social skills training, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, problem solving ther, supportive therapy, marital therapy, family, and individual therapy for all ages.
I feel fortunate to have the experiences that I have had in working with a diverse group of individuals with various stories. I am able to build rapport quickly, making the client feel comfortable, and can assist in guiding the client in meeting their goals. I bring a unique experience as I look at the whole person to explore what all is, or has impacted them. We don't focus on disease management but strive to focus on overall wellness-mind, body, and soul. I enjoy helping clients find passion again in their life and to truly start living life-not just surviving each day. This is only a chapter of your life. Let's write a new one.
(605) 824-6527 View (605) 824-6527
Photo of Leah S Weins, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leah S Weins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
Waitlist for new clients
During a first session, clients often comment how easy it is to talk to me. My priority is for you to get something out of our time together that impacts your daily life. This includes, but is not limited to: increased sense of security and self esteem; a more clear vision about your life (past, present, future); decreased symptoms related to anxiety/depression and past trauma; and an awareness of and influence over destructive patterns in your life. And for those seeking relationship counseling: better communication and renewed intimacy with your partner or spouse leading to enhanced satisfaction in family life.
During a first session, clients often comment how easy it is to talk to me. My priority is for you to get something out of our time together that impacts your daily life. This includes, but is not limited to: increased sense of security and self esteem; a more clear vision about your life (past, present, future); decreased symptoms related to anxiety/depression and past trauma; and an awareness of and influence over destructive patterns in your life. And for those seeking relationship counseling: better communication and renewed intimacy with your partner or spouse leading to enhanced satisfaction in family life.
(605) 519-2083 View (605) 519-2083
Photo of Sandi Lynn Forsythe, LMFT, EDIT, BSP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sandi Lynn Forsythe
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EDIT, BSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brandon, SD 57005  (Online Only)
Do you struggle with your relationship with food and body? Do you talk down to the reflection in the mirror? Is it possible that you have an eating disorder? It can be difficult to navigate the journey of recovery without help. I believe a trusting therapeutic relationship is the first step in beginning your healing journey! I offer a unique and integrative approach to healing, while working with individuals, and families. I specialize in navigating the complexities of eating disorders within the family system using IFS and EDIT as treatment modalities.
Do you struggle with your relationship with food and body? Do you talk down to the reflection in the mirror? Is it possible that you have an eating disorder? It can be difficult to navigate the journey of recovery without help. I believe a trusting therapeutic relationship is the first step in beginning your healing journey! I offer a unique and integrative approach to healing, while working with individuals, and families. I specialize in navigating the complexities of eating disorders within the family system using IFS and EDIT as treatment modalities.
(605) 674-6894 View (605) 674-6894
Photo of Sherry L. Bartels, MA, QMHP, LPC-MH, LAC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sherry L. Bartels
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, QMHP, LPC-MH, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
I am experienced in counseling mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, addictions, spiritual development, trauma and relational or family issues.
I am a Qualified Mental Health Professional, Licensed Professional Counselor - Mental Health, Licensed Addiction Counselor, Approved Clinical Supervisor, Approved Supervisor Status, and National Certified Counselor. I have over 30 years of experience in working with individuals, couples, and families (children, adolescents and adults). I have also provided counseling and education to healthcare professionals, legal professionals, athletes, educational organizations, workplace environments, and community groups.
I am experienced in counseling mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, addictions, spiritual development, trauma and relational or family issues.
I am a Qualified Mental Health Professional, Licensed Professional Counselor - Mental Health, Licensed Addiction Counselor, Approved Clinical Supervisor, Approved Supervisor Status, and National Certified Counselor. I have over 30 years of experience in working with individuals, couples, and families (children, adolescents and adults). I have also provided counseling and education to healthcare professionals, legal professionals, athletes, educational organizations, workplace environments, and community groups.
(605) 988-8369 View (605) 988-8369
Photo of Mike Falconer, CSW-PIP, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mike Falconer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW-PIP, SAP
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
Includes, but are not limited to: * Depression * Anxiety * OCD * Physical/Sexual Abuse * Trauma * Family Issues * Conduct/Behavioral Issues * Sports Performance * Relationship Issues * Sexual Identity Issues * Sexual Performance Issues * Adjustment Disorders * Career Issues * Stress Management * PTSD * Grief/loss * and Crisis Prevention.
I once worked with a client who said "Life is like the Hokey Pokey; sometimes you feel in, and other times you feel out...and we all need to turn ourselves around once in a while". Through my 20 years in behavioral health I've found my passion helping those that need a little "turning around". My skill set has been developed working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages within the school, inpatient, and outpatient settings. My door has always been open to any individual seeking comfort, reassurance, validation, and progress. I work with clients to identify troublesome issues, set goals, and create action plans.
Includes, but are not limited to: * Depression * Anxiety * OCD * Physical/Sexual Abuse * Trauma * Family Issues * Conduct/Behavioral Issues * Sports Performance * Relationship Issues * Sexual Identity Issues * Sexual Performance Issues * Adjustment Disorders * Career Issues * Stress Management * PTSD * Grief/loss * and Crisis Prevention.
I once worked with a client who said "Life is like the Hokey Pokey; sometimes you feel in, and other times you feel out...and we all need to turn ourselves around once in a while". Through my 20 years in behavioral health I've found my passion helping those that need a little "turning around". My skill set has been developed working with individuals, couples, and families of all ages within the school, inpatient, and outpatient settings. My door has always been open to any individual seeking comfort, reassurance, validation, and progress. I work with clients to identify troublesome issues, set goals, and create action plans.
(605) 303-6484 View (605) 303-6484
Photo of Margaret McCloud, LCSW, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret McCloud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57104
I provide services for individuals ages 12 and up as well as family therapy.
Transformation, change, growth, metamorphosis, sounds pretty easy right? I wish! My name is Margaret. I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist and Qualified Mental Health Professional practicing in Sioux Falls, SD. I am passionate about helping others through their journey one day at a time. I believe in empowering my clients and seeking clarity in all things that seem “not so figure-outable”.
I provide services for individuals ages 12 and up as well as family therapy.
Transformation, change, growth, metamorphosis, sounds pretty easy right? I wish! My name is Margaret. I am a Licensed Clinical Therapist and Qualified Mental Health Professional practicing in Sioux Falls, SD. I am passionate about helping others through their journey one day at a time. I believe in empowering my clients and seeking clarity in all things that seem “not so figure-outable”.
(605) 205-8720 View (605) 205-8720
Photo of Rebecca Sather Durr, MSW, LCSWPIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Sather Durr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWPIP
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57103
As a therapist I enjoy meeting clients where they are and together designing a plan of action that will put their life in line with their goals. I use a strengths based, solution focused perspective. I help my clients learn tactics of cognitive behavioral therapy that they can use comfortably to obtain desired results in their life. I use a variety of family therapy techniques to help my clients understand relationships within a family. From this analysis, the client can safely explore these subjects and work towards resolution of the issue. I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work from The Ohio State University.
As a therapist I enjoy meeting clients where they are and together designing a plan of action that will put their life in line with their goals. I use a strengths based, solution focused perspective. I help my clients learn tactics of cognitive behavioral therapy that they can use comfortably to obtain desired results in their life. I use a variety of family therapy techniques to help my clients understand relationships within a family. From this analysis, the client can safely explore these subjects and work towards resolution of the issue. I hold a Master's Degree in Social Work from The Ohio State University.
(605) 988-8737 View (605) 988-8737
Photo of Elizabeth Crabtree - Little Bird Wellness Services; Elizabeth Crabtree, LCSW, CSW-PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Little Bird Wellness Services; Elizabeth Crabtree
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSW-PIP
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57108  (Online Only)
Everyone in life experiences stress, grief, loss and pain in various ways and I am honored to work alongside individuals to help navigate the storms of life. While pain and stress are inevitable, it is my goal to help discover ways of coping and mitigating the pain and struggle to help people find and live out their purpose happily and healthily. My close family and friends would say that I have been counseling my whole life; beginning with being elected the peer helper of my 4th grade class. I continued to follow that calling throughout my path and became a licensed social worker/therapist.
Everyone in life experiences stress, grief, loss and pain in various ways and I am honored to work alongside individuals to help navigate the storms of life. While pain and stress are inevitable, it is my goal to help discover ways of coping and mitigating the pain and struggle to help people find and live out their purpose happily and healthily. My close family and friends would say that I have been counseling my whole life; beginning with being elected the peer helper of my 4th grade class. I continued to follow that calling throughout my path and became a licensed social worker/therapist.
(605) 702-4652 View (605) 702-4652
Photo of Jason VanRuler, MA, LPC-MH, QMHP, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason VanRuler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MH, QMHP, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
I specialize in working with clients seeking to better understand themselves and foster deeper connections in their relationships. Many of my clients find themselves excelling at many areas of their life while still feeling alone, discontent, and disconnected. This can lead to destructive behaviors as well as depression, anxiety, and addiction. Through a holistic approach, we will get to the heart of the matter and begin to identify and build a life that has more happiness, connection, and contentment. Sessions are a curated experience and conducted with the utmost discretion and regard for confidentiality.
I specialize in working with clients seeking to better understand themselves and foster deeper connections in their relationships. Many of my clients find themselves excelling at many areas of their life while still feeling alone, discontent, and disconnected. This can lead to destructive behaviors as well as depression, anxiety, and addiction. Through a holistic approach, we will get to the heart of the matter and begin to identify and build a life that has more happiness, connection, and contentment. Sessions are a curated experience and conducted with the utmost discretion and regard for confidentiality.
(605) 210-5945 View (605) 210-5945
Photo of Robyn Niewenhuis, MSW, CSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn Niewenhuis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
Everyone has emotional challenges. Solutions to these challenges are available to everyone. No one needs to suffer alone and helping people cope with their experiences is something I am passionate about. Anyone can enjoy the benefits of therapy, if you simply want to set life goals or establish healthy relationships or feel you are in crisis, let’s collaboratively work together to stabilize your situation and find the skills necessary to improve your quality of life. The nonjudgmental therapeutic environment I strive to create is one of acceptance, compassion, and partnership.
Everyone has emotional challenges. Solutions to these challenges are available to everyone. No one needs to suffer alone and helping people cope with their experiences is something I am passionate about. Anyone can enjoy the benefits of therapy, if you simply want to set life goals or establish healthy relationships or feel you are in crisis, let’s collaboratively work together to stabilize your situation and find the skills necessary to improve your quality of life. The nonjudgmental therapeutic environment I strive to create is one of acceptance, compassion, and partnership.
(605) 203-4166 View (605) 203-4166
Photo of Amber Chan - Mindful DBT , LPC-MH, QMHP, CSW, LBC-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mindful DBT
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MH, QMHP, CSW, LBC-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
Waitlist for new clients
Mindful DBT is a group practice in Southeastern South Dakota that prides itself in offering Evidence Based Treatments. Our team of clinicians go through extensive trainings for their specific specialty. We pride ourself on being the only adherent and comprehensive DBT group practice in the area. We also have the only adolescent (13-17) DBT program in our area. At Mindful DBT we offer not only DBT but other forms of therapies to meet your needs such as compassion focused, Prolonged Exposure, EMDR, and Mindfulness based treatments. Let us help you on your journey today.
Mindful DBT is a group practice in Southeastern South Dakota that prides itself in offering Evidence Based Treatments. Our team of clinicians go through extensive trainings for their specific specialty. We pride ourself on being the only adherent and comprehensive DBT group practice in the area. We also have the only adolescent (13-17) DBT program in our area. At Mindful DBT we offer not only DBT but other forms of therapies to meet your needs such as compassion focused, Prolonged Exposure, EMDR, and Mindfulness based treatments. Let us help you on your journey today.
(605) 956-3442 View (605) 956-3442
Photo of Holly Merrick-Liston - Yellow Brick Road Counseling and Therapy, LPC-MH, NCC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yellow Brick Road Counseling and Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MH, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
Life can be better! Yellow Brick Road Counseling and Therapy is a safe and comfortable place to address your concerns. Many of us carry hurt and pain for years but choosing therapy to address it helps your life to become better. With a passion for helping people through difficult times in their lives, I use a refreshing approach to address crisis, hurt, and pain. I enjoy working with all ages, individuals, couples and groups with a special interest in adolescents and young adults. I use a variety of tools to address anxiety, depression, behavior and relationship issues. Let's begin your journey to healing for a better life!
Life can be better! Yellow Brick Road Counseling and Therapy is a safe and comfortable place to address your concerns. Many of us carry hurt and pain for years but choosing therapy to address it helps your life to become better. With a passion for helping people through difficult times in their lives, I use a refreshing approach to address crisis, hurt, and pain. I enjoy working with all ages, individuals, couples and groups with a special interest in adolescents and young adults. I use a variety of tools to address anxiety, depression, behavior and relationship issues. Let's begin your journey to healing for a better life!
(605) 546-9331 View (605) 546-9331
Photo of Tina M Gunn, LIMHP, Mrs, LPC, LMHP, LMHC, Counselor
Tina M Gunn
Counselor, LIMHP, Mrs, LPC, LMHP, LMHC
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57104
Mission: Specializing in ASD and Neurodiversity, I assist and guide to relieve mental discomfort & improve well-being. I provide support in a safe environment for individuals to gain the skills that allow them to interact in the world surrounding them. I specialize in autism, trauma, sexual behaviors, anxiety, adoption and families affected by these. I want you to succeed. My experience is professional and personal. I understand how frustrating and difficult life gets. I mostly work with adults, assisting them in navigating the daily life. I've helped adults work through anxiety, depression, & trauma.
Mission: Specializing in ASD and Neurodiversity, I assist and guide to relieve mental discomfort & improve well-being. I provide support in a safe environment for individuals to gain the skills that allow them to interact in the world surrounding them. I specialize in autism, trauma, sexual behaviors, anxiety, adoption and families affected by these. I want you to succeed. My experience is professional and personal. I understand how frustrating and difficult life gets. I mostly work with adults, assisting them in navigating the daily life. I've helped adults work through anxiety, depression, & trauma.
(605) 540-1102 View (605) 540-1102
Photo of Becca Dravland, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becca Dravland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57106
I am licensed in South Dakota with over 15 years of professional work experience. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Most of my experience is working with teens and adolescents but I am open to working with adult women as well.
I am licensed in South Dakota with over 15 years of professional work experience. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started! Most of my experience is working with teens and adolescents but I am open to working with adult women as well.
(605) 309-4950 View (605) 309-4950
Photo of Kristen Ericsson, MS, NCC, LPC-MH, QMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen Ericsson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC-MH, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
As a licensed mental health practitioner in private practice, I meet each client and situation with openness and authenticity. My office provides a safe and welcoming space for vulnerability, healing, and personal growth. I utilize a client-centered approach combined with effective psychotherapy interventions to help clients reach their desired level of fulfillment and functioning. Combining a variety of therapeutic interventions with my holistic integrative training offers clients a personalized treatment approach to promote healing and optimal holistic health.
As a licensed mental health practitioner in private practice, I meet each client and situation with openness and authenticity. My office provides a safe and welcoming space for vulnerability, healing, and personal growth. I utilize a client-centered approach combined with effective psychotherapy interventions to help clients reach their desired level of fulfillment and functioning. Combining a variety of therapeutic interventions with my holistic integrative training offers clients a personalized treatment approach to promote healing and optimal holistic health.
(605) 789-6064 View (605) 789-6064
Photo of Amanda K Boer, Intern, BA, RYT-200, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amanda K Boer
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern, BA, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
Hi all! I am a 2nd year MSW graduate student at USD working as an intern mental health therapist at Linking the Gap Counseling. My ideal clients are women and teen girls who are struggling or feeling as if they do not fit in. Specialty areas to process include parental/caregiver burnout, ongoing health issues, depression, anxiety, perfectionism, neurodiversity, ADHD, creative burnout, navigating health issues of children, homeschooling, attachment issues from childhood, and unexpected life disruptions. I also am happy to work with couples navigating relationship issues. My office is LGBTQ+ friendly.
Hi all! I am a 2nd year MSW graduate student at USD working as an intern mental health therapist at Linking the Gap Counseling. My ideal clients are women and teen girls who are struggling or feeling as if they do not fit in. Specialty areas to process include parental/caregiver burnout, ongoing health issues, depression, anxiety, perfectionism, neurodiversity, ADHD, creative burnout, navigating health issues of children, homeschooling, attachment issues from childhood, and unexpected life disruptions. I also am happy to work with couples navigating relationship issues. My office is LGBTQ+ friendly.
(605) 640-6782 View (605) 640-6782
Photo of Marquette Brandner, MS, NCC, QMHP, LPCMH, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marquette Brandner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, QMHP, LPCMH, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57110
My main mission is to help my clients create their own life worth living as whatever that looks like to them in addition to working on building different skill sets to help them get to where they want to be. I utilize a holistic approach to help them reach their goals as I believe many aspects of that often get forgotten and are yet so essential.
My main mission is to help my clients create their own life worth living as whatever that looks like to them in addition to working on building different skill sets to help them get to where they want to be. I utilize a holistic approach to help them reach their goals as I believe many aspects of that often get forgotten and are yet so essential.
(605) 349-1681 View (605) 349-1681

See more therapy options for Yankton

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.