There are no results for therapists in Gunter

Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in Texas below.

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Chris Bedard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gunter, TX
Dr. Chris Bedard
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Van Alstyne, TX 75495  (Online Only)
I strive to help clients receive healing, become transformed, and learn to thrive in the life God intended for them. I specialize in working with couples at any stage or place in life. It is my desire to help create safe and secure connections that are both healing and transformative. This starts by having a safe and secure place to talk. I am sensitive to the needs of my clients and tailor my therapy to use both my experience and training to address client goals. My unique approach integrates faith-based beliefs with proven clinical practice. (Not currently taking Insurance Clients)
I strive to help clients receive healing, become transformed, and learn to thrive in the life God intended for them. I specialize in working with couples at any stage or place in life. It is my desire to help create safe and secure connections that are both healing and transformative. This starts by having a safe and secure place to talk. I am sensitive to the needs of my clients and tailor my therapy to use both my experience and training to address client goals. My unique approach integrates faith-based beliefs with proven clinical practice. (Not currently taking Insurance Clients)
(817) 945-6930 View (817) 945-6930

Online Therapists

Photo of Wright Wellness, Psychologist in Gunter, TX
Wright Wellness
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, TX 76015
Our providers use a wide variety of evidenced-based treatment approaches to address individual needs and goals, including Cognitive-Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solutions-Focused, EMDR, Trauma-Informed, Family Systems, and more.
Our providers at Wright Wellness are trained to work with a wide variety of mental health conditions and struggles, including anxiety, depression, mood, trauma, adjustments, grief, adolescent, young adult, substance use, eating disorders, health psychology, medication management, and more. Please visit our website to learn more, we are here to help.
Our providers use a wide variety of evidenced-based treatment approaches to address individual needs and goals, including Cognitive-Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Solutions-Focused, EMDR, Trauma-Informed, Family Systems, and more.
Our providers at Wright Wellness are trained to work with a wide variety of mental health conditions and struggles, including anxiety, depression, mood, trauma, adjustments, grief, adolescent, young adult, substance use, eating disorders, health psychology, medication management, and more. Please visit our website to learn more, we are here to help.
(682) 301-4883 View (682) 301-4883
Photo of Isabella Cerritos, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Gunter, TX
Isabella Cerritos
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230
By attending to your relationship dynamics, family messages, and your identity and relationship goals, we will help you access your power and find a sense of safety and calmness.
Are you ready to be more vulnerable but aren’t sure where to start? Have you found yourself struggling to share honestly with those around you? Or maybe you’ve tried sharing more of yourself with others, but you aren’t sure where you belong or if others will accept you? Our families can have a big impact on how we show up in our adult relationships. Cultural messages often impact how safe we feel to be fully ourselves. Shame and guilt can hold us back from experiencing intimacy and connection with ourselves and others. Together we will help you heal from any past wounds so you can feel more aligned in the present.
By attending to your relationship dynamics, family messages, and your identity and relationship goals, we will help you access your power and find a sense of safety and calmness.
Are you ready to be more vulnerable but aren’t sure where to start? Have you found yourself struggling to share honestly with those around you? Or maybe you’ve tried sharing more of yourself with others, but you aren’t sure where you belong or if others will accept you? Our families can have a big impact on how we show up in our adult relationships. Cultural messages often impact how safe we feel to be fully ourselves. Shame and guilt can hold us back from experiencing intimacy and connection with ourselves and others. Together we will help you heal from any past wounds so you can feel more aligned in the present.
(469) 654-4399 View (469) 654-4399
Photo of Tracy Dianne Newton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gunter, TX
Tracy Dianne Newton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Dallas, TX 75254
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. TELEHEALTH AND FACE TO FACE. My approach to counseling focuses on how the influences of the past affect the decisions and interactions you are having today. Throughout our therapy, together, you and I will look at the different aspects of your personality, how you were raised, and the messages you received from you parent(s), and how you functioned in the family system. In addition, both of us will work on counseling goals, which will govern the direction of your counseling process.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS. TELEHEALTH AND FACE TO FACE. My approach to counseling focuses on how the influences of the past affect the decisions and interactions you are having today. Throughout our therapy, together, you and I will look at the different aspects of your personality, how you were raised, and the messages you received from you parent(s), and how you functioned in the family system. In addition, both of us will work on counseling goals, which will govern the direction of your counseling process.
(214) 692-2167 View (214) 692-2167
Photo of Lifeologie Midlothian, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gunter, TX
Lifeologie Midlothian
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Midlothian, TX 76065
Our team has specialists in individual, marital, family and group therapy, mindfulness, child/play therapy, addictions trichotillomania, cross-cultural issues, trauma recovery, adolescents, life transitions, depression, anxiety, eating disorders.
Creative Solutions to Stuck Problems® is what we provide. Our counselors work with adults, kids, couples, families, and the LGBTQ+ community. The mission of Lifeologie Counseling is to help you address and overcome any emotional issues, communication problems, relationship struggles, or personal traumas that you may be facing or have faced. Our counselors bring to each session enthusiasm, honesty, common sense, professionalism, and a sense of humor. Contact us today to get started on your new path.
Our team has specialists in individual, marital, family and group therapy, mindfulness, child/play therapy, addictions trichotillomania, cross-cultural issues, trauma recovery, adolescents, life transitions, depression, anxiety, eating disorders.
Creative Solutions to Stuck Problems® is what we provide. Our counselors work with adults, kids, couples, families, and the LGBTQ+ community. The mission of Lifeologie Counseling is to help you address and overcome any emotional issues, communication problems, relationship struggles, or personal traumas that you may be facing or have faced. Our counselors bring to each session enthusiasm, honesty, common sense, professionalism, and a sense of humor. Contact us today to get started on your new path.
(972) 975-5904 View (972) 975-5904
Photo of Yavierlis Cartagena, LPC Associate in Gunter, TX
Yavierlis Cartagena
LPC Associate, MPsy
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76110  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience with trauma treatment, grief and loss, relationship issues, family conflict, life transitions, chronic illness, maternal mental health and reproductive challenges and generational trauma.
I am a trauma informed latina, fully bilingual -Spanish/English- professional. I have an integrated view of the individual; body, mind, feelings and spirit and the impact this has on how we see and experience life. Also, I acknowledge how trauma could impacted your life and your relationships. I work with individuals and couples to process past experiences and move forward to be the self they deserve to be and strengthen their relationships.
I have extensive experience with trauma treatment, grief and loss, relationship issues, family conflict, life transitions, chronic illness, maternal mental health and reproductive challenges and generational trauma.
I am a trauma informed latina, fully bilingual -Spanish/English- professional. I have an integrated view of the individual; body, mind, feelings and spirit and the impact this has on how we see and experience life. Also, I acknowledge how trauma could impacted your life and your relationships. I work with individuals and couples to process past experiences and move forward to be the self they deserve to be and strengthen their relationships.
View
Photo of Patricia Boylen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gunter, TX
Patricia Boylen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
Hello! I am the founder of Willow Counseling & Wellness LLC, a licensed professional counselor and a board certified supervisor. As a trauma informed therapist, I specialize in working with individuals, grief and loss, depression management, life transitions, stress and anxiety reduction, multicultural experiences, and PTSD. I incorporate a variety of therapeutic techniques including EMDR therapy, Internal Family Systems, somatic experiencing, and mindfulness. I am trained in expressive arts, mindfulness based therapy, mental health diagnosis, and trauma treatment.
Hello! I am the founder of Willow Counseling & Wellness LLC, a licensed professional counselor and a board certified supervisor. As a trauma informed therapist, I specialize in working with individuals, grief and loss, depression management, life transitions, stress and anxiety reduction, multicultural experiences, and PTSD. I incorporate a variety of therapeutic techniques including EMDR therapy, Internal Family Systems, somatic experiencing, and mindfulness. I am trained in expressive arts, mindfulness based therapy, mental health diagnosis, and trauma treatment.
(469) 336-3144 View (469) 336-3144
Photo of Edward G Furst, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gunter, TX
Edward G Furst
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76126  (Online Only)
Ed's diverse background provides a rich blend of experience to his clients. He is dual licensed as a Professional Counselor and Marriage & Family Therapist. He is an expert with youth, families, and individuals, and a Clinical Supervisor/Mentor for inpatient care. Edward has counseled clients for 32 years as a Therapist, Sports Psychology Consultant (coaches/athletes), and Life Balance/Career Coach. He gladly sees people from all faiths and walks of life and provides wisdom for anyone who seeks it: individuals, families, youth, couples, parents, pastors, professionals, athletes, coaches, and performing artists.
Ed's diverse background provides a rich blend of experience to his clients. He is dual licensed as a Professional Counselor and Marriage & Family Therapist. He is an expert with youth, families, and individuals, and a Clinical Supervisor/Mentor for inpatient care. Edward has counseled clients for 32 years as a Therapist, Sports Psychology Consultant (coaches/athletes), and Life Balance/Career Coach. He gladly sees people from all faiths and walks of life and provides wisdom for anyone who seeks it: individuals, families, youth, couples, parents, pastors, professionals, athletes, coaches, and performing artists.
(248) 988-9294 View (248) 988-9294
Photo of Samantha Sample, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gunter, TX
Samantha Sample
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75230
Welcome. My name is Samatha and I specialize in areas often related to interpersonal trauma such as post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship problems, and issues of social inequity. Interpersonal trauma can include anything from childhood trauma that occurs in the family of origin, to ongoing discrimination in everyday life. Often times, trauma interferes with our ability to trust others and the world around us. This makes it very difficult to feel safe and secure in our own skin. It can be challenging to engage in the present moment and feel fulfilled, and it can compromise our health in many ways.
Welcome. My name is Samatha and I specialize in areas often related to interpersonal trauma such as post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship problems, and issues of social inequity. Interpersonal trauma can include anything from childhood trauma that occurs in the family of origin, to ongoing discrimination in everyday life. Often times, trauma interferes with our ability to trust others and the world around us. This makes it very difficult to feel safe and secure in our own skin. It can be challenging to engage in the present moment and feel fulfilled, and it can compromise our health in many ways.
(972) 316-9889 View (972) 316-9889
Photo of Katrina Lane LLC, Counselor in Gunter, TX
Katrina Lane LLC
Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75080
Do you feel anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed? Are you having a difficult time right now? You may have been through a lot and find that your past may be interfering with your current relationships or with your work. Would you like to be more at peace with yourself and understand yourself better? Maybe you want to be comfortable in your own skin, or maybe you just want to be a better person for yourself, your family, or your partner. Copy katrina-lane.clientsecure.me into your browser to schedule a consultation.
Do you feel anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed? Are you having a difficult time right now? You may have been through a lot and find that your past may be interfering with your current relationships or with your work. Would you like to be more at peace with yourself and understand yourself better? Maybe you want to be comfortable in your own skin, or maybe you just want to be a better person for yourself, your family, or your partner. Copy katrina-lane.clientsecure.me into your browser to schedule a consultation.
(214) 919-5339 View (214) 919-5339
Photo of Kathryn Oden, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gunter, TX
Kathryn Oden, PhD, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75069
The way we look at and think about our lives has a profound impact on the way we experience our lives. It is necessary to shift our thoughts in order to effectively relieve anxiety, depression, and our inability to move forward from past disappointments and traumatic experiences. I utilize Cognitive Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and Internal Family Systems. These approaches are offered within a setting of compassion and nonjudgment. I have found the integration of mental, spiritual, and physical experience important in improving psychological health and helping people connect with their own inner guidance.
The way we look at and think about our lives has a profound impact on the way we experience our lives. It is necessary to shift our thoughts in order to effectively relieve anxiety, depression, and our inability to move forward from past disappointments and traumatic experiences. I utilize Cognitive Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, and Internal Family Systems. These approaches are offered within a setting of compassion and nonjudgment. I have found the integration of mental, spiritual, and physical experience important in improving psychological health and helping people connect with their own inner guidance.
(972) 597-2525 View (972) 597-2525
Photo of Melody Brooke, MA, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Gunter, TX
Melody Brooke, MA, LPC, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grapevine, TX 76051  (Online Only)
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, counselor, life coach, career consultant, and national expert on the bedroom, and at work. ​For thirty years, I have helped couples find their way back to each other. Many of the clients I've worked with have been to multiple other counselors before finding me. I have been where you are emotionally. I am a survivor of sexual trauma, emotional neglect, and have had relationship problems. This has put me in a unique position to help you. My own experience with neurodivergence, trauma and failed relationships informs my approach to your advantage.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, counselor, life coach, career consultant, and national expert on the bedroom, and at work. ​For thirty years, I have helped couples find their way back to each other. Many of the clients I've worked with have been to multiple other counselors before finding me. I have been where you are emotionally. I am a survivor of sexual trauma, emotional neglect, and have had relationship problems. This has put me in a unique position to help you. My own experience with neurodivergence, trauma and failed relationships informs my approach to your advantage.
(469) 995-8304 View (469) 995-8304
Photo of DeLisa Deutsch Perry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gunter, TX
DeLisa Deutsch Perry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, CEDS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grapevine, TX 76051  (Online Only)
I am an experienced marriage and family therapist and maintain a speciality as a Certified Eating Disorders Specialist (CEDS). I worked for many years at major eating disorder facilities in the DFW area, providing education and support to individuals and families at various stages in the recovery journey. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore issues together with my clients. I see the role of therapist as a facilitator to join, collaborate, and achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes. I work from a systems perspective to address the individual as a whole.
I am an experienced marriage and family therapist and maintain a speciality as a Certified Eating Disorders Specialist (CEDS). I worked for many years at major eating disorder facilities in the DFW area, providing education and support to individuals and families at various stages in the recovery journey. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore issues together with my clients. I see the role of therapist as a facilitator to join, collaborate, and achieve optimal therapeutic outcomes. I work from a systems perspective to address the individual as a whole.
(214) 717-6852 View (214) 717-6852
Photo of Heather Toby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gunter, TX
Heather Toby
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McKinney, TX 75070  (Online Only)
Specialties include: General Mental Health, Depression/Anxiety, Personal Growth and Self-Esteem, General relationship challenges (family, friends, co-workers), Marriage and Partnerships.
Heather Toby is a licensed professional counselor with a decade of experience treating clients in the areas of general anxiety, depression, relationships, couples therapy, and parenting. She has a warm and interactive therapy style, treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. She will tailor the dialog and treatment plan to meet your needs.
Specialties include: General Mental Health, Depression/Anxiety, Personal Growth and Self-Esteem, General relationship challenges (family, friends, co-workers), Marriage and Partnerships.
Heather Toby is a licensed professional counselor with a decade of experience treating clients in the areas of general anxiety, depression, relationships, couples therapy, and parenting. She has a warm and interactive therapy style, treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. She will tailor the dialog and treatment plan to meet your needs.
(972) 640-7634 View (972) 640-7634
Photo of Brandy Porche, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gunter, TX
Brandy Porche
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, CAMS-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75070
If you are struggling with dysfunctional family issues, trauma, toxic shame, anxiety, depression, codependency, spirituality, narcissistic abuse, relationship issues or more, call me today.
Licensed in Texas and Illinois. As we navigate our unique journey in life, sometimes additional support is needed along the way. My interactions with clients are grounded in compassion, respect, empathy, and an understanding of cultural impacts. My role as a therapist is to help educate and empower clients so that they develop the insight and skills necessary to overcome their own personal and situational challenges. Examining the core of your presenting symptoms can be challenging but you are worth the life changing experience. I work with couples, families, & individuals including adults and adolescents ages 14+.
If you are struggling with dysfunctional family issues, trauma, toxic shame, anxiety, depression, codependency, spirituality, narcissistic abuse, relationship issues or more, call me today.
Licensed in Texas and Illinois. As we navigate our unique journey in life, sometimes additional support is needed along the way. My interactions with clients are grounded in compassion, respect, empathy, and an understanding of cultural impacts. My role as a therapist is to help educate and empower clients so that they develop the insight and skills necessary to overcome their own personal and situational challenges. Examining the core of your presenting symptoms can be challenging but you are worth the life changing experience. I work with couples, families, & individuals including adults and adolescents ages 14+.
(469) 436-9298 View (469) 436-9298
Photo of Debra Ellis - Ellis Counseling Agency, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gunter, TX
Debra Ellis - Ellis Counseling Agency
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LBSW, ACBSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, TX 76012
Welcome to Ellis Counseling Agency! As a skilled behavioral specialist, I am here to provide comprehensive support for a wide range of challenges that you and your family may encounter. My expertise lies in fostering personal well-being, both at an individual level and within the family unit. With the aim of guiding, you towards fulfilling your true potential, I am proud to hold dual licenses as a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a Licensed Social Worker. Throughout my extensive 25-year career in behavioral health, substance abuse, case management, and medical social work, I have acquired invaluable experience.
Welcome to Ellis Counseling Agency! As a skilled behavioral specialist, I am here to provide comprehensive support for a wide range of challenges that you and your family may encounter. My expertise lies in fostering personal well-being, both at an individual level and within the family unit. With the aim of guiding, you towards fulfilling your true potential, I am proud to hold dual licenses as a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and a Licensed Social Worker. Throughout my extensive 25-year career in behavioral health, substance abuse, case management, and medical social work, I have acquired invaluable experience.
(214) 241-4093 View (214) 241-4093
Photo of Dr. Michael Contreras, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gunter, TX
Dr. Michael Contreras
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC, ADC, ICADC, DOT-SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, TX 76021  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical interests include: marriage and family counseling, school difficulties and behavior referrals, adolescent issues, crisis intervention, substance abuse, PTSD, and depression.
My client population includes children, adolescents and adults. I work with individuals as well as families. I facilitate numerous groups and skills training curriculum in various topics including adolescent first offenders, anger management, divorce and separation, parenting, and teen issues.
My clinical interests include: marriage and family counseling, school difficulties and behavior referrals, adolescent issues, crisis intervention, substance abuse, PTSD, and depression.
My client population includes children, adolescents and adults. I work with individuals as well as families. I facilitate numerous groups and skills training curriculum in various topics including adolescent first offenders, anger management, divorce and separation, parenting, and teen issues.
(817) 849-6835 View (817) 849-6835
Photo of Shannon Higgins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gunter, TX
Shannon Higgins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked in a youth and family clinic, a domestic violence & sexual abuse outreach center & provided in-home crisis counseling for at-risk youth and their families.
Welcome to the first and most courageous step of therapy - looking for help and support. I consider myself a compass helping adolescents, adults, families and parents by guiding them in the direction of health and well-being. People are already whole and complete. Sometimes life experiences, circumstances, illness and relationships can impose clouded judgment, maladaptive behavior, poor self esteem and obstacles from achieving what we truly desire and deserve. My approach is educative, supportive, trusting, safe, evidenced based and healing. Most importantly, I customize treatment plans unique to each client and at their pace..
I have worked in a youth and family clinic, a domestic violence & sexual abuse outreach center & provided in-home crisis counseling for at-risk youth and their families.
Welcome to the first and most courageous step of therapy - looking for help and support. I consider myself a compass helping adolescents, adults, families and parents by guiding them in the direction of health and well-being. People are already whole and complete. Sometimes life experiences, circumstances, illness and relationships can impose clouded judgment, maladaptive behavior, poor self esteem and obstacles from achieving what we truly desire and deserve. My approach is educative, supportive, trusting, safe, evidenced based and healing. Most importantly, I customize treatment plans unique to each client and at their pace..
(214) 838-1052 View (214) 838-1052
Photo of Think Tank Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Gunter, TX
Think Tank Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Now accepting new clients! Here at Think Tank Counseling, we understand that mental health needs are as unique as you are. Whether you are struggling with an ongoing issue or a recent hardship; there is help. We offer accessible, affordable therapy services, nutritional coaching, and psychological testing according to each individual's needs and circumstances.Think Tank Counseling is a family owned business that believes collaboration is the key to successful outcomes in treatment. We are not just here to listen but to work hand in hand with you to reach your goals. You have as much to offer in your own healing as we do.
Now accepting new clients! Here at Think Tank Counseling, we understand that mental health needs are as unique as you are. Whether you are struggling with an ongoing issue or a recent hardship; there is help. We offer accessible, affordable therapy services, nutritional coaching, and psychological testing according to each individual's needs and circumstances.Think Tank Counseling is a family owned business that believes collaboration is the key to successful outcomes in treatment. We are not just here to listen but to work hand in hand with you to reach your goals. You have as much to offer in your own healing as we do.
(469) 629-7266 View (469) 629-7266
Photo of Madison Filar, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Gunter, TX
Madison Filar
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Worth, TX 76104
I enjoy working with clients with diverse lived experiences. With neurodivergent clients, I work within the neurodiversity paradigm, recognizing neurodivergence as a component of identity, rather than pathology. Together we may explore gender and sexual identity, relationship dynamics, life transitions, burnout, perfectionism, people-pleasing tendencies, and a variety of mental health patterns . My approach is strengths-based, trauma-informed, and person-centered, meaning that I treat each client as the expert of their own life and emphasize the importance of the therapeutic relationship.
I enjoy working with clients with diverse lived experiences. With neurodivergent clients, I work within the neurodiversity paradigm, recognizing neurodivergence as a component of identity, rather than pathology. Together we may explore gender and sexual identity, relationship dynamics, life transitions, burnout, perfectionism, people-pleasing tendencies, and a variety of mental health patterns . My approach is strengths-based, trauma-informed, and person-centered, meaning that I treat each client as the expert of their own life and emphasize the importance of the therapeutic relationship.
(682) 628-0021 View (682) 628-0021

See more therapy options for Gunter

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.