Photo of Natalie Peterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Travis County, TX
Natalie Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78722  (Online Only)
I've enjoyed years of counseling- with adolescents in an alternative high school, in inpatient rehab for substance use, with adults in hospitals (trauma unit, women's unit, and abortion clinic), and with parents and children in the family court system.
Have you found yourself overwhelmed lately? Given our social climate, you are in good company! Perhaps you're navigating relationship difficulties, a big life change, past trauma, or a significant loss. Feelings of anxiety and depression can drain our energies and become isolating. Trusted support is critical! I'd love to offer a safe space to process the heavy issues and uncover new ways forward. I'm happy to meet my clients where they are in life, without judgment. I work from a trauma-informed and strengths-based background, using training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and EFT.
I've enjoyed years of counseling- with adolescents in an alternative high school, in inpatient rehab for substance use, with adults in hospitals (trauma unit, women's unit, and abortion clinic), and with parents and children in the family court system.
Have you found yourself overwhelmed lately? Given our social climate, you are in good company! Perhaps you're navigating relationship difficulties, a big life change, past trauma, or a significant loss. Feelings of anxiety and depression can drain our energies and become isolating. Trusted support is critical! I'd love to offer a safe space to process the heavy issues and uncover new ways forward. I'm happy to meet my clients where they are in life, without judgment. I work from a trauma-informed and strengths-based background, using training in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and EFT.
(737) 210-3422 View (737) 210-3422
Photo of Derek Leighton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Travis County, TX
Derek Leighton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT-S, LPC-S, CST, EMDR
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78703
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, and an EMDR Approved Consultant.
AASECT Certified Sex Therapist available to help you experience relationships and sexuality in self-defined, healthy ways. Are you looking for more satisfaction in life? Or maybe struggling with out-of-control sexual behaviors? I believe it's important that you find a therapist that is the right fit for you. I offer counseling services to Couples, Individuals, and Families. After spending 23 years in high tech, my passion for helping others develop their careers and seek personal growth led to a natural transition to working as a psychotherapist.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist, and an EMDR Approved Consultant.
AASECT Certified Sex Therapist available to help you experience relationships and sexuality in self-defined, healthy ways. Are you looking for more satisfaction in life? Or maybe struggling with out-of-control sexual behaviors? I believe it's important that you find a therapist that is the right fit for you. I offer counseling services to Couples, Individuals, and Families. After spending 23 years in high tech, my passion for helping others develop their careers and seek personal growth led to a natural transition to working as a psychotherapist.
(512) 649-0216 View (512) 649-0216
Photo of Inner Warrior Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Travis County, TX
Inner Warrior Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78750
Feelings of hopelessness and anxiety can become paralyzing, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and stuck. It’s easy to resort to unhealthy thoughts and behaviors to cope with life’s endless challenges. Are you using drugs, alcohol, shopping or food to avoid your fears and emotions? Are you drowning in the should haves and what if’s? I work with clients pre-teen and up who are looking for help with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, codependency, stress, relationships, sleep disorders, work/life balance and life transitions. I also specialize in working with military-connected clients, first responders and their family members.
Feelings of hopelessness and anxiety can become paralyzing, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and stuck. It’s easy to resort to unhealthy thoughts and behaviors to cope with life’s endless challenges. Are you using drugs, alcohol, shopping or food to avoid your fears and emotions? Are you drowning in the should haves and what if’s? I work with clients pre-teen and up who are looking for help with anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, codependency, stress, relationships, sleep disorders, work/life balance and life transitions. I also specialize in working with military-connected clients, first responders and their family members.
(512) 559-1057 View (512) 559-1057
Photo of Kristin Sharp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Travis County, TX
Kristin Sharp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78756
I specialize in working with teens and young adults around the issues of trauma, adoption, substance use, depression, self-harm, family conflict, and life transitions. I know these time periods in life are especially challenging, and no problem is too big or too small for therapy. I am here as a resource to handle the extreme life events, or if you simply need to process. If you are feeling like you don't know what could possibly make life more manageable or how to stop behaviors that are no longer helpful, I can be of help. Teens and young adults are my passion, and I have seen I am able to deeply connect with them.
I specialize in working with teens and young adults around the issues of trauma, adoption, substance use, depression, self-harm, family conflict, and life transitions. I know these time periods in life are especially challenging, and no problem is too big or too small for therapy. I am here as a resource to handle the extreme life events, or if you simply need to process. If you are feeling like you don't know what could possibly make life more manageable or how to stop behaviors that are no longer helpful, I can be of help. Teens and young adults are my passion, and I have seen I am able to deeply connect with them.
(512) 886-9758 View (512) 886-9758
Photo of Ben Meyers, LPC Associate in Travis County, TX
Ben Meyers
LPC Associate
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
We all strive to live a good life, but sometimes we feel directionless, hopeless or feel like we're holding ourselves back. Specializing in low self esteem, identity issues, relationship issues, and trauma, I utilize a combination of Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment Theory, and EMDR to empower you to be your authentic self. Working towards alignment looks like exploring our thoughts, feelings, and body experiences, and paying attention to where we disconnect.
We all strive to live a good life, but sometimes we feel directionless, hopeless or feel like we're holding ourselves back. Specializing in low self esteem, identity issues, relationship issues, and trauma, I utilize a combination of Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment Theory, and EMDR to empower you to be your authentic self. Working towards alignment looks like exploring our thoughts, feelings, and body experiences, and paying attention to where we disconnect.
(512) 714-2275 View (512) 714-2275
Photo of Mona Ghosheh -Online Psychologist, Psychologist in Travis 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 Elizabeth-Anne Rains, Licensed Professional Counselor in Travis 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
Photo of Merri Isom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Travis 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 Jack Reed, Licensed Professional Counselor in Travis County, TX
Jack Reed
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAHS, LPC, MAC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78735
distress can take many forms, depression, excessive use of drugs and alcohol, anxiety or troubled relationships. Usually, we can make the necessary adjustments and carry on with well adjusted lives and careers. Sometimes, try as we might, things will not fall in to place; and that might be time to get some help. I offer EMDR, Hypnosis, Mindfulness and family of origin based therapies, as well as Addiction and relapse management therapies.
distress can take many forms, depression, excessive use of drugs and alcohol, anxiety or troubled relationships. Usually, we can make the necessary adjustments and carry on with well adjusted lives and careers. Sometimes, try as we might, things will not fall in to place; and that might be time to get some help. I offer EMDR, Hypnosis, Mindfulness and family of origin based therapies, as well as Addiction and relapse management therapies.
(512) 746-7289 View (512) 746-7289
Photo of Pamela Gates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Travis County, TX
Pamela Gates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, LCDC, ADCIII
Verified Verified
Lakeway, TX 78734  (Online Only)
Do you need someone to talk to and to find solutions to painful emotions and behaviors that are hurting you, your relationships and negatively impacting your quality of life? Call me, I can help. I have experience with most psychological disorders and difficult life circumstances and have helped individuals and families successfully cope with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma recovery, and substance abuse and addiction issues both within self or in the family. I have worked in a variety of settings as a clinician, supervisor, manager and director both before and after starting my own private practice in 2000.
Do you need someone to talk to and to find solutions to painful emotions and behaviors that are hurting you, your relationships and negatively impacting your quality of life? Call me, I can help. I have experience with most psychological disorders and difficult life circumstances and have helped individuals and families successfully cope with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma recovery, and substance abuse and addiction issues both within self or in the family. I have worked in a variety of settings as a clinician, supervisor, manager and director both before and after starting my own private practice in 2000.
(512) 607-7221 View (512) 607-7221
Photo of Mary Webb-Tafoya, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Travis County, TX
Mary Webb-Tafoya, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LPCC, NCC, CMS-CHt
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78732  (Online Only)
Texas, Arizona, and Washington licensed in working with crisis, trauma intervention, prevention, grief, bereavement, clinical hypnotherapy, disease, illness, and chronic pain, sexual assault and abuse, domestic violence, physical abuse, combat trauma, reintegration issues, GLBT issues, sexual dysfunction, marriage, family, stress and anger management.
Currently only accepting clients for Teletherapy. The individual who seeks to improve their quality of life would greatly benefit from having me as their counselor. Each session is goal-oriented and an educational process towards insight and awareness which can greatly improve a client's perspective of themselves; the world; and themselves in the world. I believe in short term, brief solution focused therapy to maximize time and therapeutic interventions. I strive to form a therapeutic alliance with my clients and act as a guide and mentor through all of life's challenges. For more information, go to marywebbtafoyapllc.com
Texas, Arizona, and Washington licensed in working with crisis, trauma intervention, prevention, grief, bereavement, clinical hypnotherapy, disease, illness, and chronic pain, sexual assault and abuse, domestic violence, physical abuse, combat trauma, reintegration issues, GLBT issues, sexual dysfunction, marriage, family, stress and anger management.
Currently only accepting clients for Teletherapy. The individual who seeks to improve their quality of life would greatly benefit from having me as their counselor. Each session is goal-oriented and an educational process towards insight and awareness which can greatly improve a client's perspective of themselves; the world; and themselves in the world. I believe in short term, brief solution focused therapy to maximize time and therapeutic interventions. I strive to form a therapeutic alliance with my clients and act as a guide and mentor through all of life's challenges. For more information, go to marywebbtafoyapllc.com
(915) 228-2153 View (915) 228-2153
Photo of Ann Gilbert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Travis 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 Rhiannon Hedrick in Travis County, TX
Rhiannon Hedrick
BS, Intern
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
Waitlist for new clients
My internship experience begins at Austin Family Care, a group practice that works through a systemic lens offering individual, family, children/adolescent, couples, and group therapy. Whether you've already identified your therapeutic goals or are simply seeking a collaborative space for reflection and support, I'm here for you. In sessions together, we'll explore the quality of the relationships in your life so we can better understand the complex, multi-faceted relationship with yourself. I believe that deepening our connection to self, and to others, empowers us to live with authenticity, empathy, and radical acceptance.
My internship experience begins at Austin Family Care, a group practice that works through a systemic lens offering individual, family, children/adolescent, couples, and group therapy. Whether you've already identified your therapeutic goals or are simply seeking a collaborative space for reflection and support, I'm here for you. In sessions together, we'll explore the quality of the relationships in your life so we can better understand the complex, multi-faceted relationship with yourself. I believe that deepening our connection to self, and to others, empowers us to live with authenticity, empathy, and radical acceptance.
(512) 865-6490 View (512) 865-6490
Photo of Deena Graham, Marriage & Family Therapist in Travis County, TX
Deena Graham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, JD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703  (Online Only)
In working with individuals, I use Internal Family Systems therapy to help clients resolve inner conflicts, making space for seemingly contradictory feelings and thoughts.
"Why is this so hard? We love each other, but we can't stop fighting." I understand the hopelessness of living in a cycle of conflict. I became a couples therapist because I believe deeply in the importance of having a supportive and loving relationship--with yourself and with your partner. I will help you learn how to stop when anger, fear and hurt cause you to react in defensive and aggressive ways toward your partner. By slowing down and taking care of yourself first, you will gradually learn how to connect from a more vulnerable and honest place, creating a more satisfying and peaceful relationship together.
In working with individuals, I use Internal Family Systems therapy to help clients resolve inner conflicts, making space for seemingly contradictory feelings and thoughts.
"Why is this so hard? We love each other, but we can't stop fighting." I understand the hopelessness of living in a cycle of conflict. I became a couples therapist because I believe deeply in the importance of having a supportive and loving relationship--with yourself and with your partner. I will help you learn how to stop when anger, fear and hurt cause you to react in defensive and aggressive ways toward your partner. By slowing down and taking care of yourself first, you will gradually learn how to connect from a more vulnerable and honest place, creating a more satisfying and peaceful relationship together.
(512) 942-2172 View (512) 942-2172
Photo of Ellen Pace, Licensed Professional Counselor in Travis County, TX
Ellen Pace
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT, LPC, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
I have worked with hundreds of clients and have seen each individual, couple or family grow and heal in the security of our therapeutic relationship.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or difficulty in relationships? Have you tried therapy, but not gotten the results you desire? The cause could be unresolved trauma that is blocking your ability to move forward. Our past can contaminate the present, which causes our future to replicate our past, leaving one stuck. Do you and your partner struggle discussing issues, feel disconnected, or are drifting apart? The failure to communicate is the greatest cause of marital problems. Using Gottman Couples Therapy, I will help you learn effective skills to manage conflict and find new meaning in your relationships.
I have worked with hundreds of clients and have seen each individual, couple or family grow and heal in the security of our therapeutic relationship.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or difficulty in relationships? Have you tried therapy, but not gotten the results you desire? The cause could be unresolved trauma that is blocking your ability to move forward. Our past can contaminate the present, which causes our future to replicate our past, leaving one stuck. Do you and your partner struggle discussing issues, feel disconnected, or are drifting apart? The failure to communicate is the greatest cause of marital problems. Using Gottman Couples Therapy, I will help you learn effective skills to manage conflict and find new meaning in your relationships.
(737) 210-4084 View (737) 210-4084
Photo of Julia Asbra, Licensed Professional Counselor in Travis County, TX
Julia Asbra
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78748
Feeling overwhelmed? The stress of relationships, family, finances, and work can often reduce our ability to enjoy life. These stresses and experiences can leave us drained and feeling helpless. You can experience a healthier, happier life. Together we can create a healthy balance.
Feeling overwhelmed? The stress of relationships, family, finances, and work can often reduce our ability to enjoy life. These stresses and experiences can leave us drained and feeling helpless. You can experience a healthier, happier life. Together we can create a healthy balance.
(512) 412-3259 View (512) 412-3259
Photo of Hannah Milne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Travis County, TX
Hannah Milne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705
I believe in the importance of family involvement in treatment for long term sustainable change to take place with adolescents.
Hi there! My name is Hannah and I am LMSW and an LCDC. I am committed to creating a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients to help empower them to achieve their goals. I believe that everyone is doing the best they can, and that through work in therapy we have the capacity to learn how to have our needs met in healthier and more effective ways. We all have learned maladaptive coping skills, and we are capable of learning new ways to cope and interact with the world.
I believe in the importance of family involvement in treatment for long term sustainable change to take place with adolescents.
Hi there! My name is Hannah and I am LMSW and an LCDC. I am committed to creating a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients to help empower them to achieve their goals. I believe that everyone is doing the best they can, and that through work in therapy we have the capacity to learn how to have our needs met in healthier and more effective ways. We all have learned maladaptive coping skills, and we are capable of learning new ways to cope and interact with the world.
(512) 488-5676 View (512) 488-5676
Photo of Ian Christopher Hammonds, Marriage & Family Therapist in Travis County, TX
Ian Christopher Hammonds
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
, you want to fix a cutoff you have had with a family member, you and your partner are stuck in an unhealthy pattern that is tearing your relationship apart, you and your partner are struggling with intimacy.
If you are experiencing difficulty in communicating with those who matter most to you, you’ve come to the right place. I will provide you with a safe space and a non-judgmental environment. Regardless of how new or old these painful experiences are, I am here to help you and assure quality treatment so that your journey through life will be lighter and a more positive experience. I enjoy working with clients experiencing addiction, shame, grief, trauma, and familial abuse, families coping with new or existing illness, and clients in substance abuse recovery.
, you want to fix a cutoff you have had with a family member, you and your partner are stuck in an unhealthy pattern that is tearing your relationship apart, you and your partner are struggling with intimacy.
If you are experiencing difficulty in communicating with those who matter most to you, you’ve come to the right place. I will provide you with a safe space and a non-judgmental environment. Regardless of how new or old these painful experiences are, I am here to help you and assure quality treatment so that your journey through life will be lighter and a more positive experience. I enjoy working with clients experiencing addiction, shame, grief, trauma, and familial abuse, families coping with new or existing illness, and clients in substance abuse recovery.
(512) 661-0735 View (512) 661-0735
Photo of Dennis Doke, Marriage & Family Therapist in Travis County, TX
Dennis Doke
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78705  (Online Only)
I completed my Master's Degree in Agency Counseling from the University of Nebraska in Kearney in 1987. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. I trained in cognitive therapy and in the Gottman Couple's Method (I completed Levels 1 & 2). I use the Gottman Couples Method in relationship and marriage counseling. Doctors John and Julie Gottman conceptualize a healthy relationship as a "Sound Relationship House" with seven floors that need attention throughout a relationship history.
I completed my Master's Degree in Agency Counseling from the University of Nebraska in Kearney in 1987. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas. I trained in cognitive therapy and in the Gottman Couple's Method (I completed Levels 1 & 2). I use the Gottman Couples Method in relationship and marriage counseling. Doctors John and Julie Gottman conceptualize a healthy relationship as a "Sound Relationship House" with seven floors that need attention throughout a relationship history.
(737) 530-3371 View (737) 530-3371
Photo of Ben Bryant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Travis County, TX
Ben Bryant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731
I have experience working with individuals who may be dealing with a variety of issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, loneliness, relationship problems, self-criticism, life transitions, and family of origin issues.
The process of therapy can be a place to explore patterns that can keep us stuck or create suffering in our lives. My aim is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space that allows for this exploration to occur. This process tends to foster deeper insight and awareness, which leads to greater self-acceptance and more satisfying relationships. Part of our work together will be to identify patterns or obstacles that get in the way of your healing and progress. We will also collaborate to prioritize your goals and work at a pace that feels right for you.
I have experience working with individuals who may be dealing with a variety of issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, loneliness, relationship problems, self-criticism, life transitions, and family of origin issues.
The process of therapy can be a place to explore patterns that can keep us stuck or create suffering in our lives. My aim is to create a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space that allows for this exploration to occur. This process tends to foster deeper insight and awareness, which leads to greater self-acceptance and more satisfying relationships. Part of our work together will be to identify patterns or obstacles that get in the way of your healing and progress. We will also collaborate to prioritize your goals and work at a pace that feels right for you.
(737) 259-7529 View (737) 259-7529

See more therapy options for Travis 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.