Photo of Shawn Lee Reagan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Shawn Lee Reagan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pipe Creek, TX 78063
I specialize in helping people navigate both family and spouse relationship dynamics focusing mainly on communication strategies, boundaries and intimacy.
Asking for help is a sign of strength. People mistake the feeling of vulnerability for weakness, allowing this feeling to surface means we are facing something painful. This takes courage. Learning to experience feelings without judging them is a foundational part of the healing process. Acceptance is a sign of bravery and leads to developing what is called emotional intelligence. When you engage in the development of your emotional intelligence you are increasing self-awareness and personal freedom by creating choice where there was none before.
I specialize in helping people navigate both family and spouse relationship dynamics focusing mainly on communication strategies, boundaries and intimacy.
Asking for help is a sign of strength. People mistake the feeling of vulnerability for weakness, allowing this feeling to surface means we are facing something painful. This takes courage. Learning to experience feelings without judging them is a foundational part of the healing process. Acceptance is a sign of bravery and leads to developing what is called emotional intelligence. When you engage in the development of your emotional intelligence you are increasing self-awareness and personal freedom by creating choice where there was none before.
(830) 541-7360 View (830) 541-7360
Photo of Maureen Ann Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Maureen Ann Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pipe Creek, TX 78063
I specialize in working with codependent women and men. Codependency is not always related to addiction, it is often referred to as a self-love deficit disorder because most codependent clients have a difficult time identifying and focusing on their own needs. They often spend a lifetime being people-pleasers, but eventually feel anger and resentment for neglecting themselves and not receiving the appreciation/love they desire from others. Breaking free from codependency requires individuals to step away from their denial, to honor themselves, and to set boundaries. Then they can love and nurture others in a healthy manner.
I specialize in working with codependent women and men. Codependency is not always related to addiction, it is often referred to as a self-love deficit disorder because most codependent clients have a difficult time identifying and focusing on their own needs. They often spend a lifetime being people-pleasers, but eventually feel anger and resentment for neglecting themselves and not receiving the appreciation/love they desire from others. Breaking free from codependency requires individuals to step away from their denial, to honor themselves, and to set boundaries. Then they can love and nurture others in a healthy manner.
(210) 900-3096 View (210) 900-3096
Photo of Eric R Cardwell, Psychologist in Bandera County, TX
Eric R Cardwell
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bandera, TX 78003
As a psychologist, I strive to develop relationships with people that will allow them to make changes in their lives as quickly as possible. I believe that each one of us is in charge of the story of our lives and because of this we have the power to change our lives for the better. Through a gentle, firm, and compassionate approach you will find resolution to life's challenges in a way that will bring peace,support, understanding,and direction.
As a psychologist, I strive to develop relationships with people that will allow them to make changes in their lives as quickly as possible. I believe that each one of us is in charge of the story of our lives and because of this we have the power to change our lives for the better. Through a gentle, firm, and compassionate approach you will find resolution to life's challenges in a way that will bring peace,support, understanding,and direction.
(830) 446-3949 View (830) 446-3949
Omni Layne Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Medina, TX 78055
"Our primary focus is Client centered. We believe Counseling is about the Client and not the Counselor. We help Clients develop skills collaboratively to alleviate anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and other symptoms. Omni Layne Counseling has both male and female counselors".
"Our primary focus is Client centered. We believe Counseling is about the Client and not the Counselor. We help Clients develop skills collaboratively to alleviate anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and other symptoms. Omni Layne Counseling has both male and female counselors".
(210) 774-6840 View (210) 774-6840

Online Therapists

Photo of Kimberly Reiss, Marriage & Family Therapist in Bandera County, TX
Kimberly Reiss
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759
I also work with clients who are facing life transitions (a new job, becoming a parent) and those struggling with challenging family members.
The therapeutic process is about becoming most fully ourselves. The more we come to know ourselves in an authentic and true way, the more fulfilling our lives and our relationships become. Change occurs when there is a new understanding, not just in our intellectual mind, but in our bodies and spirits as well. This kind of work, though difficult, and sometimes painful, is also deeply rewarding. It can also seem like a scary idea to some, not knowing if making lasting change is even possible.
I also work with clients who are facing life transitions (a new job, becoming a parent) and those struggling with challenging family members.
The therapeutic process is about becoming most fully ourselves. The more we come to know ourselves in an authentic and true way, the more fulfilling our lives and our relationships become. Change occurs when there is a new understanding, not just in our intellectual mind, but in our bodies and spirits as well. This kind of work, though difficult, and sometimes painful, is also deeply rewarding. It can also seem like a scary idea to some, not knowing if making lasting change is even possible.
(323) 680-4981 View (323) 680-4981
Photo of Erin Nicole Ingram, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bandera County, TX
Erin Nicole Ingram
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ingram, TX 78025
Together we can work on self-esteem, self sabotaging thoughts, insecurities, anger, family conflict, life transitions, anxiety and depression.
Life can be hard. Whether it is transitioning from one phase of life to another or financial and work stressors there is always something that we have to learn to cope with and it can be very easy to start feeling overwhelmed and stuck. I believe every experience in life has a purpose. Nothing happens by chance. Failure, conflict or ending a relationship isn't meant to break us but to provide valuable lessons for us to learn, grow, gain insight, become stronger and live happier. I can support and guide you in your search for inner strength needed to regain your sense of control, purpose and joy.
Together we can work on self-esteem, self sabotaging thoughts, insecurities, anger, family conflict, life transitions, anxiety and depression.
Life can be hard. Whether it is transitioning from one phase of life to another or financial and work stressors there is always something that we have to learn to cope with and it can be very easy to start feeling overwhelmed and stuck. I believe every experience in life has a purpose. Nothing happens by chance. Failure, conflict or ending a relationship isn't meant to break us but to provide valuable lessons for us to learn, grow, gain insight, become stronger and live happier. I can support and guide you in your search for inner strength needed to regain your sense of control, purpose and joy.
(214) 753-8311 View (214) 753-8311
Photo of Timothy Scott Crumley, Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Timothy Scott Crumley
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78747
I have experience working with the LGBTQ community, specifically trans folks (adults, children, and their families), mood and anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, as well as family dynamics.
At times, it can feel like the world is spinning out of control. Whether it be our personal and professional lives, interpersonal relationships, navigating a series of collective and systemic traumas, or a mixture of these things. Sometimes we are looking for ways to improve our situation, other times we are looking to find acceptance and to sit with what's out of our control. Sometimes we can find ways to distract from these things, and then there are instances where we need to face them head on. How do we know what we need to do, and when?
I have experience working with the LGBTQ community, specifically trans folks (adults, children, and their families), mood and anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, as well as family dynamics.
At times, it can feel like the world is spinning out of control. Whether it be our personal and professional lives, interpersonal relationships, navigating a series of collective and systemic traumas, or a mixture of these things. Sometimes we are looking for ways to improve our situation, other times we are looking to find acceptance and to sit with what's out of our control. Sometimes we can find ways to distract from these things, and then there are instances where we need to face them head on. How do we know what we need to do, and when?
(518) 897-3554 View (518) 897-3554
Photo of F. Sean Redeker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
F. Sean Redeker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78750
I provide individual, couples (romantic and professional), and family therapy, and have expertise in working with adolescents and with anxiety/depression disorders.
My role as a therapist is to facilitate growth and change by assisting my clients in realizing and exploring the primary concerns in their lives. My job is to help them get "unstuck," so that they can choose other ways to live. I offer tools that can help them communicate better, establish necessary and healthy boundaries, manage anger and fear healthily, and eliminate self-destructive and self-harming behavior. Most importantly, I offer assistance in improving the self, which can enrich and increase the joy in my client's lives.
I provide individual, couples (romantic and professional), and family therapy, and have expertise in working with adolescents and with anxiety/depression disorders.
My role as a therapist is to facilitate growth and change by assisting my clients in realizing and exploring the primary concerns in their lives. My job is to help them get "unstuck," so that they can choose other ways to live. I offer tools that can help them communicate better, establish necessary and healthy boundaries, manage anger and fear healthily, and eliminate self-destructive and self-harming behavior. Most importantly, I offer assistance in improving the self, which can enrich and increase the joy in my client's lives.
(512) 649-8144 View (512) 649-8144
Photo of Carly Kay Friedman, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Bandera County, TX
Carly Kay Friedman
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MA
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
This can be a difficult time of year. Family obligations, financial stress, and balancing work and family can be especially stressful. It's the perfect time to change our cognitions and behavior to improve our daily experience. Together, we can move towards better coping and optimism. I take joy in working with clients to develop skills, gain self-awareness, experience growth, & appreciate their strengths. My affirmative approach includes changing beliefs & behaviors that are no longer serving you in a supportive and accepting environment. Immediate openings for virtual & in-person counseling with teens, adults, and couples.
This can be a difficult time of year. Family obligations, financial stress, and balancing work and family can be especially stressful. It's the perfect time to change our cognitions and behavior to improve our daily experience. Together, we can move towards better coping and optimism. I take joy in working with clients to develop skills, gain self-awareness, experience growth, & appreciate their strengths. My affirmative approach includes changing beliefs & behaviors that are no longer serving you in a supportive and accepting environment. Immediate openings for virtual & in-person counseling with teens, adults, and couples.
(210) 941-1252 View (210) 941-1252
Photo of Diane Cook Darby, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bandera County, TX
Diane Cook Darby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blanco, TX 78606  (Online Only)
I also have extensive training and study in EMDR, Polyvagal theory, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Sensory integration, Somatic therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
I believe you are exactly where you need to be.... Right now. Rumi said it best: "The wound is the place where the light enters you." The suffering, the vulnerability, the anger and the fear are perfect opportunities to shine a light of awareness and begin healing. I offer a safe space for each awareness to unfold without judgement. My approach tends to be ecclectic and holistic, incorporating spiritual practices to raise your consciousness in order to create alignment with your heart, body, and soul so that healing may begin.
I also have extensive training and study in EMDR, Polyvagal theory, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Sensory integration, Somatic therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
I believe you are exactly where you need to be.... Right now. Rumi said it best: "The wound is the place where the light enters you." The suffering, the vulnerability, the anger and the fear are perfect opportunities to shine a light of awareness and begin healing. I offer a safe space for each awareness to unfold without judgement. My approach tends to be ecclectic and holistic, incorporating spiritual practices to raise your consciousness in order to create alignment with your heart, body, and soul so that healing may begin.
(865) 406-6084 View (865) 406-6084
Photo of Natalie Brunelle-Tran, LPC Associate in Bandera County, TX
Natalie Brunelle-Tran
LPC Associate, MS, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78723
My counseling approach centers the client through compassionate presence and I draw from a mix of humanistic orientation, multicultural counseling, career counseling, feminist theory, relational-cultural theory, Internal Family Systems, positive psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, spirituality, creativity, mindfulness, and trauma-informed theory.
Finding the right therapist can be difficult, maybe you have asked yourself questions like “will they “get” me?”, “do they know what it’s like to feel torn in multiple directions?” Or maybe, if you are anything like me, you have asked yourself “is there something wrong with me?”, “where are the therapists that look, even vaguely, like me?” As a half-Asian, bicultural woman of color, I’m passionate about supporting others who live at the intersection of multiple identities.
My counseling approach centers the client through compassionate presence and I draw from a mix of humanistic orientation, multicultural counseling, career counseling, feminist theory, relational-cultural theory, Internal Family Systems, positive psychology, cognitive behavioral therapy, spirituality, creativity, mindfulness, and trauma-informed theory.
Finding the right therapist can be difficult, maybe you have asked yourself questions like “will they “get” me?”, “do they know what it’s like to feel torn in multiple directions?” Or maybe, if you are anything like me, you have asked yourself “is there something wrong with me?”, “where are the therapists that look, even vaguely, like me?” As a half-Asian, bicultural woman of color, I’m passionate about supporting others who live at the intersection of multiple identities.
(512) 877-6682 View (512) 877-6682
Photo of Heights Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Heights Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LPA, CST, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alamo Heights, TX 78209
Our belief is to establish a therapeutic relationship for each client to feel comfortable & heard, in a caring & judgment-free manner. We are a boutique counseling practice located in the Houston Heights. We understand the importance of being able to treat the entire family. Whether it is giving support and guidance for a parent, teen counseling for a struggling adolescent, or play therapy, we believe in a systems approach to unify the family, build communication, & provide peace and harmony in the home.
Our belief is to establish a therapeutic relationship for each client to feel comfortable & heard, in a caring & judgment-free manner. We are a boutique counseling practice located in the Houston Heights. We understand the importance of being able to treat the entire family. Whether it is giving support and guidance for a parent, teen counseling for a struggling adolescent, or play therapy, we believe in a systems approach to unify the family, build communication, & provide peace and harmony in the home.
(210) 750-3148 View (210) 750-3148
Photo of Thad Martin Cox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Thad Martin Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
With 9 years of doctoral-level training and years experience providing individual, couples, and family services for a diverse range of presenting life issues, I endeavor to create the optimal therapeutic space to assist my clients in confronting the interpersonal challenges and inevitable confrontations with self that life, at times, presents.
Whether one seeks relief from anxiety, trauma, relational impasses, or life disillusionment, therapy can help. It is unfortunate that insufficiently engaged approaches to therapy, prohibitive rates, and the unconscionable reluctance of most clinicians to accept insurance fail so many clients, who in good faith seek to discover a healing of heart and mind. As a psychodynamic therapist, I view my role as an empathic change agent employed to help bring about a fuller knowledge of self and a more liberated experience of life and relationship. I also supervise highly promising interns from NWU available for as low as $15-30 per session.
With 9 years of doctoral-level training and years experience providing individual, couples, and family services for a diverse range of presenting life issues, I endeavor to create the optimal therapeutic space to assist my clients in confronting the interpersonal challenges and inevitable confrontations with self that life, at times, presents.
Whether one seeks relief from anxiety, trauma, relational impasses, or life disillusionment, therapy can help. It is unfortunate that insufficiently engaged approaches to therapy, prohibitive rates, and the unconscionable reluctance of most clinicians to accept insurance fail so many clients, who in good faith seek to discover a healing of heart and mind. As a psychodynamic therapist, I view my role as an empathic change agent employed to help bring about a fuller knowledge of self and a more liberated experience of life and relationship. I also supervise highly promising interns from NWU available for as low as $15-30 per session.
Photo of Ann Gilbert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bandera County, TX
Ann Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701
Hi, and welcome! My name is Ann and I'm a Licensed Master of Social Work or LMSW. I support children, teens, couples, and pregnant and postpartum people in navigating through life transitions. Therapy is a creative process that empowers us to be the authors of our stories. I collaborate with my clients to write new narratives as we explore overwhelming thoughts and feelings, conflict and relationships, and grief and traumatic loss. You are the expert of your experiences. We'll work together to discover what works best for you and your family.
Hi, and welcome! My name is Ann and I'm a Licensed Master of Social Work or LMSW. I support children, teens, couples, and pregnant and postpartum people in navigating through life transitions. Therapy is a creative process that empowers us to be the authors of our stories. I collaborate with my clients to write new narratives as we explore overwhelming thoughts and feelings, conflict and relationships, and grief and traumatic loss. You are the expert of your experiences. We'll work together to discover what works best for you and your family.
(737) 258-7961 View (737) 258-7961
Photo of Tonya M Boyd, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Tonya M Boyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC
Verified Verified
New Braunfels, TX 78132  (Online Only)
I come from a diverse family and am a LBGTQ+ allied therapist and an active social justice, BLM, and equality advocate.
We all deserve to feel at home and safe in our bodies and minds, and it’s my passion to help others find this place. Are you in need of affordable and flexible counseling? Do you feel stressed, overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated with life? Are you seeking support, guidance, and understanding? Do you feel you have little support, and no one to talk to or listen? Are you seeking self-empowerment? Are you seeking to overcome life’s challenges and reach your personal goals? You came to the right profile. Here at Ellie Mental Heath, we accept self-pay and insurance. Hit me up to schedule your appointment.
I come from a diverse family and am a LBGTQ+ allied therapist and an active social justice, BLM, and equality advocate.
We all deserve to feel at home and safe in our bodies and minds, and it’s my passion to help others find this place. Are you in need of affordable and flexible counseling? Do you feel stressed, overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated with life? Are you seeking support, guidance, and understanding? Do you feel you have little support, and no one to talk to or listen? Are you seeking self-empowerment? Are you seeking to overcome life’s challenges and reach your personal goals? You came to the right profile. Here at Ellie Mental Heath, we accept self-pay and insurance. Hit me up to schedule your appointment.
(210) 417-4809 View (210) 417-4809
Photo of Zachary Mortus, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Bandera County, TX
Zachary Mortus
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232
Have you felt overwhelmed by your child's anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues or big feelings? Do you feel like you have tried everything and can't find the solution? You don't have to continue to feel exhausted, frustrated, and discouraged. I specialize in working with children and families to identify the best way to solve problems and learn new coping skills. My training in play therapy and problem teen behaviors will help you have a family that is connected, peaceful, and thriving again. Together we will work to help your child gain new skills, express emotions, and connect again. You are not alone and I will help you get there!
Have you felt overwhelmed by your child's anxiety, ADHD, behavioral issues or big feelings? Do you feel like you have tried everything and can't find the solution? You don't have to continue to feel exhausted, frustrated, and discouraged. I specialize in working with children and families to identify the best way to solve problems and learn new coping skills. My training in play therapy and problem teen behaviors will help you have a family that is connected, peaceful, and thriving again. Together we will work to help your child gain new skills, express emotions, and connect again. You are not alone and I will help you get there!
(830) 581-0819 View (830) 581-0819
Photo of Merri Isom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Merri Isom
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78702  (Online Only)
I relate to all demographics as from one human being family.
Clients normally describe me as someone that they feel is compassionate and actively interested in their well-being, non-judgmental, and with whom they feel accepted and comfortable around. I am on the path to help people heal holistically with mindfulness and presence, with tools that can be used for deeper self-understanding, finding answers within, and releasing psychological blockages. I am always on the lookout for where we can facilitate neurological body/brain healing of the psyche using the latest neuroscience-based, whole body protocols for anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, depression, and PTSD.
I relate to all demographics as from one human being family.
Clients normally describe me as someone that they feel is compassionate and actively interested in their well-being, non-judgmental, and with whom they feel accepted and comfortable around. I am on the path to help people heal holistically with mindfulness and presence, with tools that can be used for deeper self-understanding, finding answers within, and releasing psychological blockages. I am always on the lookout for where we can facilitate neurological body/brain healing of the psyche using the latest neuroscience-based, whole body protocols for anxiety, trauma, relationship difficulties, depression, and PTSD.
(737) 204-8767 View (737) 204-8767
Photo of Mona Ghosheh -Online Psychologist, Psychologist in Bandera County, TX
Mona Ghosheh -Online Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78741  (Online Only)
You were brought up to talk a certain way, live a certain way, look a certain way and love a certain way. But deep down, you don't believe much of that anymore. So, you hide. You don't want to be a disappointment to your friends & family. The constant pushing down of your beliefs, thoughts, and feelings is killing you and getting harder and harder to keep from spilling onto every part of your life. I help millennials dig out from under the mess. To accept & celebrate all aspects of their identities and to improve their relationships both in and out.
You were brought up to talk a certain way, live a certain way, look a certain way and love a certain way. But deep down, you don't believe much of that anymore. So, you hide. You don't want to be a disappointment to your friends & family. The constant pushing down of your beliefs, thoughts, and feelings is killing you and getting harder and harder to keep from spilling onto every part of your life. I help millennials dig out from under the mess. To accept & celebrate all aspects of their identities and to improve their relationships both in and out.
(512) 710-1031 View (512) 710-1031
Photo of Austin Hudson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Austin Hudson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
So, whether you are a single adult, a couple, a family, or a single teen, I am always cognizant that what you likely need the most is a non-judgmental, warm, and listening ear.
As a therapist specializing in teens, I've found the most impactful thing I can be is a non-judgmental, encouraging, and authentic voice. Teens need validation and a warm and caring adult who will work to understand the difficulties they experience. In my time providing these services, I've realized that we never grow out of needing these qualities. In other words, my work with teens has guided me to approach my work with adults in a more holistic and compassionate fashion.
So, whether you are a single adult, a couple, a family, or a single teen, I am always cognizant that what you likely need the most is a non-judgmental, warm, and listening ear.
As a therapist specializing in teens, I've found the most impactful thing I can be is a non-judgmental, encouraging, and authentic voice. Teens need validation and a warm and caring adult who will work to understand the difficulties they experience. In my time providing these services, I've realized that we never grow out of needing these qualities. In other words, my work with teens has guided me to approach my work with adults in a more holistic and compassionate fashion.
(512) 559-8879 View (512) 559-8879
Photo of Elizabeth-Anne Rains, Licensed Professional Counselor in Bandera County, TX
Elizabeth-Anne Rains
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I have dedicated the last 20 years to issues uniquely related to women struggling with overwhelming life transitions, painful family dynamics, grief and loss, and mood disorders. I strive to provide a safe place where you can speak freely without fear of judgement and be fully understood. It is from this emotionally safe place that you will gain insight into yourself and your relationships. Often, what we believe about ourselves is inaccurate, and the resulting misplaced guilt is common among women. We will explore and develop new ways of perceiving yourself and others, while practicing new communication styles and strategies.
I have dedicated the last 20 years to issues uniquely related to women struggling with overwhelming life transitions, painful family dynamics, grief and loss, and mood disorders. I strive to provide a safe place where you can speak freely without fear of judgement and be fully understood. It is from this emotionally safe place that you will gain insight into yourself and your relationships. Often, what we believe about ourselves is inaccurate, and the resulting misplaced guilt is common among women. We will explore and develop new ways of perceiving yourself and others, while practicing new communication styles and strategies.
(512) 270-6441 View (512) 270-6441

See more therapy options for Bandera County

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.