Photo of Shore Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cape Charles, VA
Shore Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSOTP, LSAT
Verified Verified
Cape Charles, VA 23310
I am a Culturally competent Psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience working with diverse populations providing treatment using various evidence-based, person-centered treatment modalities. I do not believe in stigmatizing or judging people, nor do I believe that people "are" their diagnosis. I believe that the relationship between client and therapist is one of the most important tools of change, so I strive to create a safe space where the client feels free to be their authentic self. I have experience working with individuals, groups, couples, polyamorous, unions, and justice involved clients.
I am a Culturally competent Psychotherapist with over 15 years of experience working with diverse populations providing treatment using various evidence-based, person-centered treatment modalities. I do not believe in stigmatizing or judging people, nor do I believe that people "are" their diagnosis. I believe that the relationship between client and therapist is one of the most important tools of change, so I strive to create a safe space where the client feels free to be their authentic self. I have experience working with individuals, groups, couples, polyamorous, unions, and justice involved clients.
(757) 801-3797 View (757) 801-3797
Photo of Life Domains and Eudaimonia Tessellation Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cape Charles, VA
Life Domains and Eudaimonia Tessellation Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, LMFT, LSATP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cape Charles, VA 23310  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
The first step towards figuring out what is wrong is getting in touch with your life domains—exploring different aspects of life we experience through living well and covering all the surfaces. As an innovative therapist, I can help you work through these tough times in the comfort of your personal space. I have experience working with adults and couples. As a professional mental health care provider, I am familiar with animal-assisted therapies. I can help you get a certification for your pet or locate a program or animal that is right for you.
The first step towards figuring out what is wrong is getting in touch with your life domains—exploring different aspects of life we experience through living well and covering all the surfaces. As an innovative therapist, I can help you work through these tough times in the comfort of your personal space. I have experience working with adults and couples. As a professional mental health care provider, I am familiar with animal-assisted therapies. I can help you get a certification for your pet or locate a program or animal that is right for you.
(757) 330-1780 View (757) 330-1780

Online Therapists

Photo of Open Mind Health , Marriage & Family Therapist in Cape Charles, VA
Open Mind Health
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, isolation, relationship/family issues? At Open Mind Health, we get to the “root cause” of what’s actually leading to your emotional challenges, while treating the resulting issues and developing lasting solutions to help you feel optimistic and hopeful. With ease-of-access to our advanced telehealth platform or in-person visits, our expert psychiatrists and therapists offer highly individualized care wherever you are and whenever you need it. Our therapists and life coaches are compassionate and forward-thinkers. Call us today at 855-550-6063 to get started!
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, loss, trauma, isolation, relationship/family issues? At Open Mind Health, we get to the “root cause” of what’s actually leading to your emotional challenges, while treating the resulting issues and developing lasting solutions to help you feel optimistic and hopeful. With ease-of-access to our advanced telehealth platform or in-person visits, our expert psychiatrists and therapists offer highly individualized care wherever you are and whenever you need it. Our therapists and life coaches are compassionate and forward-thinkers. Call us today at 855-550-6063 to get started!
(619) 279-5464 View (619) 279-5464
Photo of Epiphany Sutton, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cape Charles, VA
Epiphany Sutton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midlothian, VA 23112  (Online Only)
However, I welcome any concerns from anxiety, depression, family conflict, life transition, stress and a range of other topics.
I've engaged in mental health services approximately 15 years and have been counseling about 8 years. I am a solution focused therapist that utilizes a person centered approach. My goal is to help you work through you problem in the way that best works for you. At this time I am only offering Telehealth services.
However, I welcome any concerns from anxiety, depression, family conflict, life transition, stress and a range of other topics.
I've engaged in mental health services approximately 15 years and have been counseling about 8 years. I am a solution focused therapist that utilizes a person centered approach. My goal is to help you work through you problem in the way that best works for you. At this time I am only offering Telehealth services.
(804) 391-8027 View (804) 391-8027
Photo of Jessica Eddins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cape Charles, VA
Jessica Eddins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPRS, CSAC
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320  (Online Only)
I am a Professional Counselor licensed in Virginia. I am also a LSATP, CSAC, and RPRS with years of experience working with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, addiction, OCD, and family problems. I’ve also guided people on how to reach goals, make important life decisions, and helped them achieve their goals for a greater purpose for their lives. My counseling style is person centered, collaborative, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). To contact Jessica Eddins at Recovery Journal please email, call, or simply go to recoveryjournalllc.com
I am a Professional Counselor licensed in Virginia. I am also a LSATP, CSAC, and RPRS with years of experience working with clients with a wide range of concerns including anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, addiction, OCD, and family problems. I’ve also guided people on how to reach goals, make important life decisions, and helped them achieve their goals for a greater purpose for their lives. My counseling style is person centered, collaborative, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). To contact Jessica Eddins at Recovery Journal please email, call, or simply go to recoveryjournalllc.com
(757) 260-4982 View (757) 260-4982
Photo of Bloom and Blossom Counseling Services LLC., Resident in Counseling in Cape Charles, VA
Bloom and Blossom Counseling Services LLC.
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, VA 23703
With experience in working with families and children as young as the age of 3, I am able to provide family therapy, play therapy and creative modalities to help families build a stronger foundation.
I am LPC-Resident who has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who experience a wide range of mental health concerns. My theoretical orientation as a counselor is firmly grounded in humanistic practices and person-centered approaches. I believe that building an authentic, empowering, and positive relationship with my clients is one of the most critical aspects of the therapeutic process. I believe that through therapy we are all able to bloom into the individuals we aspire to be and in turn, our life will blossom and flourish even when there is rain.
With experience in working with families and children as young as the age of 3, I am able to provide family therapy, play therapy and creative modalities to help families build a stronger foundation.
I am LPC-Resident who has experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who experience a wide range of mental health concerns. My theoretical orientation as a counselor is firmly grounded in humanistic practices and person-centered approaches. I believe that building an authentic, empowering, and positive relationship with my clients is one of the most critical aspects of the therapeutic process. I believe that through therapy we are all able to bloom into the individuals we aspire to be and in turn, our life will blossom and flourish even when there is rain.
(757) 792-8629 View (757) 792-8629
Photo of Sadie F Sheafe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cape Charles, VA
Sadie F Sheafe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, ABSDip, BCD
Verified Verified
Newport News, VA 23608
Board Certified Sex Therapist, Marriage-Family Counselor; Chairman, Mental Health Board, City of Portsmouth; elected, State Board of Directors for NASW; Chairman of the Department of Veterans Affairs Social Work Professional Standards Board.
I am Licensed Psychotherapist and Psychoanalyst, Board Certified Clinical Sexologist, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am also a Diplomate, Board of Clinical Sexology. I have been a therapist for over 30 years. My team of Psychiatrists,Psychologists & clinicians service over 500 clients monthly. This team approach affords you an opportunity to capitalize on the 150 years of therapeutic expertise of the entire staff. Their specialties include: Marriage/Couple/divorce, Work Related Stress, Depression, Addictions, Gay/Lesbian/Gender Issues, Sex counseling & therapy, Anger Management, PTSD, Juveniles & Adolescent, Physical -Emotional-Verbal Abuse, Grief, Attention functioning & learning disorders
Board Certified Sex Therapist, Marriage-Family Counselor; Chairman, Mental Health Board, City of Portsmouth; elected, State Board of Directors for NASW; Chairman of the Department of Veterans Affairs Social Work Professional Standards Board.
I am Licensed Psychotherapist and Psychoanalyst, Board Certified Clinical Sexologist, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am also a Diplomate, Board of Clinical Sexology. I have been a therapist for over 30 years. My team of Psychiatrists,Psychologists & clinicians service over 500 clients monthly. This team approach affords you an opportunity to capitalize on the 150 years of therapeutic expertise of the entire staff. Their specialties include: Marriage/Couple/divorce, Work Related Stress, Depression, Addictions, Gay/Lesbian/Gender Issues, Sex counseling & therapy, Anger Management, PTSD, Juveniles & Adolescent, Physical -Emotional-Verbal Abuse, Grief, Attention functioning & learning disorders
(888) 657-2343 View (888) 657-2343
Photo of Family Guidance Centers - Telehealth, Psychologist in Cape Charles, VA
Family Guidance Centers - Telehealth
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Since 1980, Family Guidance Centers have provided counseling for adults, adolescents, children, and marriages. Our licensed therapists provide a wide array of therapy services. We are a steady, experienced group ready to join with you to build personal health.
Since 1980, Family Guidance Centers have provided counseling for adults, adolescents, children, and marriages. Our licensed therapists provide a wide array of therapy services. We are a steady, experienced group ready to join with you to build personal health.
(804) 709-3746 View (804) 709-3746
Photo of Adrienne Loker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cape Charles, VA
Adrienne Loker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, SE
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Henrico, VA 23238
We work with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, substance use, disordered eating, family dynamics, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Cutting edge trauma therapy that uproots symptoms at the source - our clients come to us after years of therapy that didn't get them to where they wanted to go. They're exhausted, fed up, and sometimes feel like they're broken. This is because their treatment only addressed 20% of the brain - and not even the part where mental health symptoms are born. Our trauma treatment specialists use innovative modalities to work directly with the brainstem to renegotiate our nervous system responses. Join our free site membership to receive weekly guided videos and educational resources.
We work with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, substance use, disordered eating, family dynamics, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Cutting edge trauma therapy that uproots symptoms at the source - our clients come to us after years of therapy that didn't get them to where they wanted to go. They're exhausted, fed up, and sometimes feel like they're broken. This is because their treatment only addressed 20% of the brain - and not even the part where mental health symptoms are born. Our trauma treatment specialists use innovative modalities to work directly with the brainstem to renegotiate our nervous system responses. Join our free site membership to receive weekly guided videos and educational resources.
(804) 636-3224 View (804) 636-3224
Photo of Neda Lopez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cape Charles, VA
Neda Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320  (Online Only)
Every person has worth, purpose and the skills they need to overcome the barriers in their life. I believe individuals have great capacity for resiliency, strength, hope and courage. Are you having difficulty seeing these characteristics in yourself? Does life have you feeling upside down? With 20 years of experience, I assist children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families to heal from symptoms of depression, trauma, addiction, substance use, family conflict, relationship discord, parenting, anxiety, low self-esteem, life transitions, grief and loss, and severe mental illness. Today is the right time for a better you.
Every person has worth, purpose and the skills they need to overcome the barriers in their life. I believe individuals have great capacity for resiliency, strength, hope and courage. Are you having difficulty seeing these characteristics in yourself? Does life have you feeling upside down? With 20 years of experience, I assist children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families to heal from symptoms of depression, trauma, addiction, substance use, family conflict, relationship discord, parenting, anxiety, low self-esteem, life transitions, grief and loss, and severe mental illness. Today is the right time for a better you.
(757) 992-9682 View (757) 992-9682
Photo of Adina Silvestri, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cape Charles, VA
Adina Silvestri
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23229
Hi, I'm Dr. Adina Silvestri, the founder at Life Cycles Counseling. I offer a variety of counseling services to help you achieve balance and authenticity. Services include Individual Counseling, Family Counseling, Couples Counseling, and Group Counseling. My practice style is spontaneous, creative and designed to fit your needs - which may be different each session. I have 20 years of experience helping individuals, children and families with a variety of needs, but I specialize in treating women with substance abuse issues. Please visit my website at www.adinasilvestri.com for more information.
Hi, I'm Dr. Adina Silvestri, the founder at Life Cycles Counseling. I offer a variety of counseling services to help you achieve balance and authenticity. Services include Individual Counseling, Family Counseling, Couples Counseling, and Group Counseling. My practice style is spontaneous, creative and designed to fit your needs - which may be different each session. I have 20 years of experience helping individuals, children and families with a variety of needs, but I specialize in treating women with substance abuse issues. Please visit my website at www.adinasilvestri.com for more information.
(804) 621-7126 View (804) 621-7126
Photo of Staci Nicole Dungee, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cape Charles, VA
Staci Nicole Dungee
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Tappahannock, VA 22560
I provide individual, couples and family therapy.
"Instead of saying I'm damaged, I'm broken, say I'm healing, I'm rediscovering myself, I'm starting over."- The Healing Place. Oftentimes we find ourselves having negative thoughts or making self-disparaging statements, not realizing the impact it has our everyday life. By coming to therapy, we will work on changing these thought patterns and improving your overall outlook on life. Additionally, we will examine past trauma or underlying causes that may be affecting your ability to function and work towards reducing and/or resolving the impact of the underlying problems on your overall functioning.
I provide individual, couples and family therapy.
"Instead of saying I'm damaged, I'm broken, say I'm healing, I'm rediscovering myself, I'm starting over."- The Healing Place. Oftentimes we find ourselves having negative thoughts or making self-disparaging statements, not realizing the impact it has our everyday life. By coming to therapy, we will work on changing these thought patterns and improving your overall outlook on life. Additionally, we will examine past trauma or underlying causes that may be affecting your ability to function and work towards reducing and/or resolving the impact of the underlying problems on your overall functioning.
(804) 656-5619 View (804) 656-5619
Photo of Alan Von Kleiss, Psychologist in Cape Charles, VA
Alan Von Kleiss
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Chesterfield, VA 23235
I stand ready to serve you and/or your family to the best of my ability.
No matter how strong we are in meeting the challenges of life sometimes what happens to us heaps upon us a mountain of stress and we can do little but feel the pain of all that weight. Our goal is to help those we serve be effective in resolving personal pain through the empowerment of their natural strengths. Step by measured step, we work to build durability, and self-respect through skill building to overcome the pains that make life less enjoyable. We want to help you to move that mountain of pain one stone a time- by skillful means.
I stand ready to serve you and/or your family to the best of my ability.
No matter how strong we are in meeting the challenges of life sometimes what happens to us heaps upon us a mountain of stress and we can do little but feel the pain of all that weight. Our goal is to help those we serve be effective in resolving personal pain through the empowerment of their natural strengths. Step by measured step, we work to build durability, and self-respect through skill building to overcome the pains that make life less enjoyable. We want to help you to move that mountain of pain one stone a time- by skillful means.
(804) 292-2302 View (804) 292-2302
Photo of Tamika Bennett-Walker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cape Charles, VA
Tamika Bennett-Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23323
Tamika believes everyone has the ability to achieve their personal best. She believes her approach of being a good listener and motivator inspires others. She is currently accepting clients aged 5 and up with the following needs: ADHD, Relationship issues, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Career Counseling, Coping Skills, Dual Diagnosis, Depression, Family Conflict, ​Marital Problems, Oppositional Defiance, Parenting, Peer Relationships, School Issues, Self Esteem, Trauma and PTSD.
Tamika believes everyone has the ability to achieve their personal best. She believes her approach of being a good listener and motivator inspires others. She is currently accepting clients aged 5 and up with the following needs: ADHD, Relationship issues, Anger Management, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Career Counseling, Coping Skills, Dual Diagnosis, Depression, Family Conflict, ​Marital Problems, Oppositional Defiance, Parenting, Peer Relationships, School Issues, Self Esteem, Trauma and PTSD.
(757) 210-5811 View (757) 210-5811
Photo of Complete Adult & Family Care, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cape Charles, VA
Complete Adult & Family Care
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAC, CSAC, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23510  (Online Only)
In today's world, the demands from work and family often leave no time to manage the things that are constantly on your mind. Do you often feel that parenting is a constant demand? Do you seem to overthink a lot of your decisions? Do you have thoughts and anxieties that keep you from getting to sleep or have nagging thoughts? Has our current world left you feeling isolated and unsupported?
In today's world, the demands from work and family often leave no time to manage the things that are constantly on your mind. Do you often feel that parenting is a constant demand? Do you seem to overthink a lot of your decisions? Do you have thoughts and anxieties that keep you from getting to sleep or have nagging thoughts? Has our current world left you feeling isolated and unsupported?
(757) 993-4261 View (757) 993-4261
Photo of Kieshara Matthews, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cape Charles, VA
Kieshara Matthews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23513
Hello, my name is Kieshara Matthews. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have experience in mental health and career counseling. I'm passionate about helping people heal from childhood trauma and break generational curses. I currently provide therapy to young adults and adults who seek support in managing the demands of adulting, relationship distress, and family relationships. Providing a non-judgmental, client-centered, and strength-based approach, I provide a warm and safe environment that allows my clients to process their thoughts and feelings to provide clarity when they need it the most.
Hello, my name is Kieshara Matthews. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have experience in mental health and career counseling. I'm passionate about helping people heal from childhood trauma and break generational curses. I currently provide therapy to young adults and adults who seek support in managing the demands of adulting, relationship distress, and family relationships. Providing a non-judgmental, client-centered, and strength-based approach, I provide a warm and safe environment that allows my clients to process their thoughts and feelings to provide clarity when they need it the most.
(757) 798-7667 View (757) 798-7667
Photo of Douglas Muller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cape Charles, VA
Douglas Muller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LMFT, CSAC
Verified Verified
Newport News, VA 23608
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), a licensed professional counselor (LPC), a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) and a certified substance abuse counselor (CSAC). I earned an MA in Social Work, MA in Correctional Counseling and a Ph.D. in Urban Services/Counseling. I provide therapy in a number of areas: serious mentally ill, marriage & family, drug/alcohol, adult Attention Deficit Disorder & family therapy. I also work with the LGBTQIA community.
I am a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), a licensed professional counselor (LPC), a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) and a certified substance abuse counselor (CSAC). I earned an MA in Social Work, MA in Correctional Counseling and a Ph.D. in Urban Services/Counseling. I provide therapy in a number of areas: serious mentally ill, marriage & family, drug/alcohol, adult Attention Deficit Disorder & family therapy. I also work with the LGBTQIA community.
(757) 926-0286 View (757) 926-0286
Photo of Ellen Barnes Velissarios, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cape Charles, VA
Ellen Barnes Velissarios
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CSAC, ADC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Newport News, VA 23606  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
*CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. PLEASE CONTACT US TO BE PLACED ON THE WAITING LIST* I have been practicing counseling for over 15 years in acute, inpatient, outpatient, group home, not-for-profit, school, in-home, private, and residential facilities. My counseling theories most often practiced include solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapy, reality therapy, family systems, and client-centered. However, techniques used are drawn from different counseling perspectives in order to meet the clients' individual needs and strengths. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
*CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. PLEASE CONTACT US TO BE PLACED ON THE WAITING LIST* I have been practicing counseling for over 15 years in acute, inpatient, outpatient, group home, not-for-profit, school, in-home, private, and residential facilities. My counseling theories most often practiced include solution-focused, cognitive behavioral therapy, reality therapy, family systems, and client-centered. However, techniques used are drawn from different counseling perspectives in order to meet the clients' individual needs and strengths. I work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families.
(757) 320-0817 View (757) 320-0817
Photo of Kessler Psychological, LLC, Psychologist in Cape Charles, VA
Kessler Psychological, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23510
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that everyone is capable of improving their life circumstances with guided work, and that all should be free from suffering. I evaluate and treat life satisfaction and interpersonal problems, as well as diagnosable mental illnesses. I offer individual, couple, family, and group psychotherapy. I am empathetic, warm, and non-judgmental with appropriate professional boundaries, and use a variety of perspectives and techniques to help clients meet their goals. I do not discriminate on any basis. Dr. Kohn and I are working off a waitlist at this time.
I believe that everyone is capable of improving their life circumstances with guided work, and that all should be free from suffering. I evaluate and treat life satisfaction and interpersonal problems, as well as diagnosable mental illnesses. I offer individual, couple, family, and group psychotherapy. I am empathetic, warm, and non-judgmental with appropriate professional boundaries, and use a variety of perspectives and techniques to help clients meet their goals. I do not discriminate on any basis. Dr. Kohn and I are working off a waitlist at this time.
(757) 622-1060 View (757) 622-1060
Photo of Mehgan O'Donnell, Pre-Licensed Professional in Cape Charles, VA
Mehgan O'Donnell
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA, MA
Verified Verified
Newport News, VA 23606  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you're struggling with your sexuality, coming out to family or friends, gender identity, transitioning, I am here to help guide you during your journey.
There are many different challenges in our busy day-to-day lives. It is my goal to assist individuals who are struggling to find their way, cope with a recent loss, build their strengths, and focus on empowering people to facilitate change. By offering a safe & supportive environment for my clients, I provide a holistic approach to therapy that helps individuals become aware of the mind-body connection. I have thorough knowledge & experience counseling children and adolescents, where I am able to connect with them at their level in order to help nurture their growth and help navigate them as they achieve their emotional milestones.
Whether you're struggling with your sexuality, coming out to family or friends, gender identity, transitioning, I am here to help guide you during your journey.
There are many different challenges in our busy day-to-day lives. It is my goal to assist individuals who are struggling to find their way, cope with a recent loss, build their strengths, and focus on empowering people to facilitate change. By offering a safe & supportive environment for my clients, I provide a holistic approach to therapy that helps individuals become aware of the mind-body connection. I have thorough knowledge & experience counseling children and adolescents, where I am able to connect with them at their level in order to help nurture their growth and help navigate them as they achieve their emotional milestones.
(757) 801-2761 View (757) 801-2761

See more therapy options for Cape Charles

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.