Family Therapy in Galax, VA

Photo of Joy Groves, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galax, VA
Joy Groves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Galax, VA 24333
I am an experienced counselor who is truly invested in helping individuals and families make their lives better and find joy in life. Whether you have concerns for your child, teen, or for yourself, rest assured that life can feel better than it does for you right now. I am a compassionate listener who will help you develop new perspectives and skills to navigate the challenges affecting you and your family. I will encourage you, help you grow into your best self, and enhance your significant relationships. My approach is holistic, incorporating the spiritual values that are important to you.
I am an experienced counselor who is truly invested in helping individuals and families make their lives better and find joy in life. Whether you have concerns for your child, teen, or for yourself, rest assured that life can feel better than it does for you right now. I am a compassionate listener who will help you develop new perspectives and skills to navigate the challenges affecting you and your family. I will encourage you, help you grow into your best self, and enhance your significant relationships. My approach is holistic, incorporating the spiritual values that are important to you.
(276) 496-2642 View (276) 496-2642
Photo of Ashley J Parlier, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galax, VA
Ashley J Parlier
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Galax, VA 24333  (Online Only)
Ashley has focused on providing services to youth, young adults, and families. She utilized evidence-based approaches within her therapy practices and encourages the building of a therapeutic alliance between counselor and individuals. She has been approved by the board to provide Clinical Supervision to Residents in Counseling since 2019.
Ashley has focused on providing services to youth, young adults, and families. She utilized evidence-based approaches within her therapy practices and encourages the building of a therapeutic alliance between counselor and individuals. She has been approved by the board to provide Clinical Supervision to Residents in Counseling since 2019.
(276) 378-9013 View (276) 378-9013
Photo of Jennifer Estep, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galax, VA
Jennifer Estep
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, QMHP-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Galax, VA 24333
Do you feel misunderstood, unheard, or unappreciated by others? Have difficulty forming relationships and seeing your own unique value as a human? If you are ready to go on the journey to personal growth to re-write these negative stories in your mind; I will provide you a safe and judgement free space to work through these challenges. My therapeutic approach is integrative; I do not believe that humans are intended to fit into a therapeutic mold, therapy should instead be tailored to meet the individual need.
Do you feel misunderstood, unheard, or unappreciated by others? Have difficulty forming relationships and seeing your own unique value as a human? If you are ready to go on the journey to personal growth to re-write these negative stories in your mind; I will provide you a safe and judgement free space to work through these challenges. My therapeutic approach is integrative; I do not believe that humans are intended to fit into a therapeutic mold, therapy should instead be tailored to meet the individual need.
(276) 859-4499 View (276) 859-4499
Photo of Body and Mindfully Healthy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galax, VA
Body and Mindfully Healthy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Galax, VA 24333
Everyone has their own definition of healthy, however, healthy is not a destination. Healthy is a practice, much like mindfulness is a practice. Small, daily healthy tasks or habits can lead to powerful changes in someone's life. Small, but powerful, changes look different for everyone. At Body and Mindfully Healthy, we offer a variety of treatment options for depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, substance use disorders, and more. This is a group practice with several practitioners.
Everyone has their own definition of healthy, however, healthy is not a destination. Healthy is a practice, much like mindfulness is a practice. Small, daily healthy tasks or habits can lead to powerful changes in someone's life. Small, but powerful, changes look different for everyone. At Body and Mindfully Healthy, we offer a variety of treatment options for depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, substance use disorders, and more. This is a group practice with several practitioners.
(276) 208-8569 View (276) 208-8569
Photo of Kim Adams Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Galax, VA
Kim Adams Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCQS, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Galax, VA 24333
Not accepting new clients
Life can feel overwhelming for a number of reasons. You may feel that it is out of control and you are not functioning at your optimal state. Stress from school, work, and life transitions can sometimes leave you feeling "stuck" or burned-out. Relationships are complex. Grief and loss can feel unbearable. Depression and anxiety are often road blocks to success. Your feelings are valid. Your experience is real, and should be handled with respect and care. Counseling is a unique expereince where you will be provided with non-judgemental, uncondtional positive regard and a safe place and time dedicated just to your wellbeing.
Life can feel overwhelming for a number of reasons. You may feel that it is out of control and you are not functioning at your optimal state. Stress from school, work, and life transitions can sometimes leave you feeling "stuck" or burned-out. Relationships are complex. Grief and loss can feel unbearable. Depression and anxiety are often road blocks to success. Your feelings are valid. Your experience is real, and should be handled with respect and care. Counseling is a unique expereince where you will be provided with non-judgemental, uncondtional positive regard and a safe place and time dedicated just to your wellbeing.
(704) 686-8320 View (704) 686-8320

Online Therapists

Photo of Holly McCloud, Marriage & Family Therapist in Galax, VA
Holly McCloud
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24018
Hello, I am currently accepting clients ages 3 and up. I have experience in a wide variety of mental health, and family issues. I would love to assist you in reaching your personal goals. I also offer Online Counseling if you prefer to stay in the comfort of your home. I am the owner of star city therapy services. We were recently awarded 2022 Best Mental Health Practice for Roanoke. We have a team of therapist who are eager to get you started on the path to a healthier you! www.starcitytherapyservices.org. I also provide Licensure supervision.
Hello, I am currently accepting clients ages 3 and up. I have experience in a wide variety of mental health, and family issues. I would love to assist you in reaching your personal goals. I also offer Online Counseling if you prefer to stay in the comfort of your home. I am the owner of star city therapy services. We were recently awarded 2022 Best Mental Health Practice for Roanoke. We have a team of therapist who are eager to get you started on the path to a healthier you! www.starcitytherapyservices.org. I also provide Licensure supervision.
(540) 518-0957 View (540) 518-0957
Photo of Charlotte B. Miller Counseling Services LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galax, VA
Charlotte B. Miller Counseling Services LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Danville, VA 24541
In addition, my practice focuses on individual therapy, relationships, couples counseling as well as family and adolescent parenting issues.
Emotional distress often surfaces in many different life situations including grief, loss of a job, infidelity, relationship issues, parenting concerns, constant worry, anxiety and depression and is often triggered by everyday life situations. I empathize with your need to get past your distressing thoughts and memories, and I will diligently and caringly work side-by- side with you to feel calm and safe again.
In addition, my practice focuses on individual therapy, relationships, couples counseling as well as family and adolescent parenting issues.
Emotional distress often surfaces in many different life situations including grief, loss of a job, infidelity, relationship issues, parenting concerns, constant worry, anxiety and depression and is often triggered by everyday life situations. I empathize with your need to get past your distressing thoughts and memories, and I will diligently and caringly work side-by- side with you to feel calm and safe again.
(434) 329-7081 View (434) 329-7081
Photo of Mary Struzinsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Galax, VA
Mary Struzinsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, CTS
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
Mary uses an eclectic approach including family systems therapy, narrative therapy, mindfulness and self-compassion, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), combined with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and trauma specific phase oriented therapeutic approaches when appropriate.
Mary Struzinsky is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Trauma Specialist (CTS) with over 30 years of experience working in counseling settings such as private practice, serving as a counselor and administrator for agencies providing foster care and adoption, youth residential, and outpatient mental health services for adults and families. In Mary's free time, she spends time with her family including her husband, three kids, four cats, and a new puppy. Mary completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Syracuse University.
Mary uses an eclectic approach including family systems therapy, narrative therapy, mindfulness and self-compassion, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), combined with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and trauma specific phase oriented therapeutic approaches when appropriate.
Mary Struzinsky is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Certified Trauma Specialist (CTS) with over 30 years of experience working in counseling settings such as private practice, serving as a counselor and administrator for agencies providing foster care and adoption, youth residential, and outpatient mental health services for adults and families. In Mary's free time, she spends time with her family including her husband, three kids, four cats, and a new puppy. Mary completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Syracuse University.
(540) 501-6948 View (540) 501-6948
Photo of Jane Cole Rose, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Galax, VA
Jane Cole Rose
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Danville, VA 24540  (Online Only)
We will explore establishing appropriate boundaries, setting limits & modeling for a healthier family life.
Our goal in therapy is to help you improve coping skills. We will help you identify current and past stressors. We will learn to talk about feelings rather than internalizing feelings, thereby, decreasing your risk of becoming sick. Verbalizing your goals can prevent you from “acting out” our feelings; “What We Say & What We Do Will Match Up.” We live in a stressful, fast paced, changing world with constant losses daily; no wonder we all feel anxious. Psychotherapy can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves & others. Being conscious of patterns in our lives can be one of the first steps towards change.
We will explore establishing appropriate boundaries, setting limits & modeling for a healthier family life.
Our goal in therapy is to help you improve coping skills. We will help you identify current and past stressors. We will learn to talk about feelings rather than internalizing feelings, thereby, decreasing your risk of becoming sick. Verbalizing your goals can prevent you from “acting out” our feelings; “What We Say & What We Do Will Match Up.” We live in a stressful, fast paced, changing world with constant losses daily; no wonder we all feel anxious. Psychotherapy can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves & others. Being conscious of patterns in our lives can be one of the first steps towards change.
(434) 216-2935 View (434) 216-2935
Photo of Amanda Saoit, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Galax, VA
Amanda Saoit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, EDMR, CBT, Trauma
Verified Verified
Salem, VA 24153  (Online Only)
Hi there! My name is Amanda and I'm grateful for your courage to take this step. I’ve spent over a decade helping adults, youth (14 & older on case-by-case basis) and families overcome many different challenges: PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, and major life transitions. I also offer therapeutic support to those who want to grow their family through adoption. I use CBT, mindfulness, substance use recovery methods, strengths-based approach and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR). EMDR is scientifically proven as an effective form of treatment for PTSD, depression/anxiety and distressing events.
Hi there! My name is Amanda and I'm grateful for your courage to take this step. I’ve spent over a decade helping adults, youth (14 & older on case-by-case basis) and families overcome many different challenges: PTSD, trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, and major life transitions. I also offer therapeutic support to those who want to grow their family through adoption. I use CBT, mindfulness, substance use recovery methods, strengths-based approach and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy (EMDR). EMDR is scientifically proven as an effective form of treatment for PTSD, depression/anxiety and distressing events.
(469) 747-0398 View (469) 747-0398
Photo of Emily Crutchfield, Resident in Couseling in Galax, VA
Emily Crutchfield
Resident in Couseling, MA Ed, NCC
Verified Verified
Cave Spring, VA 24018
I am able to offer services including individual counseling, couples counseling, marriage counseling, and family counseling.
I am currently accepting new clients that may be struggling with a range of issues including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, behavioral concerns, relational issues, challenges in the school or work setting, grief, and self-esteem. I am able to offer both in-person and telehealth sessions in Virginia. I would love to hear your story, chat with you about your goals, and support you on your journey of healing and growth.
I am able to offer services including individual counseling, couples counseling, marriage counseling, and family counseling.
I am currently accepting new clients that may be struggling with a range of issues including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, behavioral concerns, relational issues, challenges in the school or work setting, grief, and self-esteem. I am able to offer both in-person and telehealth sessions in Virginia. I would love to hear your story, chat with you about your goals, and support you on your journey of healing and growth.
(540) 305-3552 View (540) 305-3552
Photo of Megan Ellis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galax, VA
Megan Ellis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LSATP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24014
I'm excited to talk with you and discuss how I might be a valuable resource for you or a family member along your journey to wellness! So, what are you waiting for? Let's get started together!.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with the problems in your life? Or dealing with an issue that is bigger than what you can handle on your own? You have made a great choice today in reaching out for help. Enduring the difficult times in life can be daunting unless we have the right people surrounding us. You may be experiencing a COVID related problem such as grief and loss, relationship issues, increased anxiety level, or changes in your mood and energy level. Whatever the issue or stress in your life right now, I want you to know that you don't have to go it alone. You are taking the right step in reaching out for help!
I'm excited to talk with you and discuss how I might be a valuable resource for you or a family member along your journey to wellness! So, what are you waiting for? Let's get started together!.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with the problems in your life? Or dealing with an issue that is bigger than what you can handle on your own? You have made a great choice today in reaching out for help. Enduring the difficult times in life can be daunting unless we have the right people surrounding us. You may be experiencing a COVID related problem such as grief and loss, relationship issues, increased anxiety level, or changes in your mood and energy level. Whatever the issue or stress in your life right now, I want you to know that you don't have to go it alone. You are taking the right step in reaching out for help!
(540) 258-4065 View (540) 258-4065
Photo of Sherry L. Shuler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galax, VA
Sherry L. Shuler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, AFCC, ACA, VCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Christiansburg, VA 24073
Waitlist for new clients
Sherry specializes in the following service areas: individual, couples, family and group therapy, stress management & self care, domestic violence & trauma recovery, conflict resolution, psychological assessment, custody evaluation, substance abuse counseling, suboxone treatment counseling, grief therapy, & treatment of mood disorders.
Sherry L. Shuler is a licensed therapist who prioritizes understanding your individual situation and who works to tailor treatment to address your specific needs while maintaining a welcoming, and comfortable atmosphere. Sherry is committed to providing clients with the highest quality care regardless of economic status, religion, race, ethnicity, lifestyle preferences or cultural differences.
Sherry specializes in the following service areas: individual, couples, family and group therapy, stress management & self care, domestic violence & trauma recovery, conflict resolution, psychological assessment, custody evaluation, substance abuse counseling, suboxone treatment counseling, grief therapy, & treatment of mood disorders.
Sherry L. Shuler is a licensed therapist who prioritizes understanding your individual situation and who works to tailor treatment to address your specific needs while maintaining a welcoming, and comfortable atmosphere. Sherry is committed to providing clients with the highest quality care regardless of economic status, religion, race, ethnicity, lifestyle preferences or cultural differences.
(540) 215-7190 View (540) 215-7190
Photo of Dr. Jeannie B Berger, Psychologist in Galax, VA
Dr. Jeannie B Berger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
As a Certified Internal Family Systems therapist, I'll help you navigate complex relationships inside yourself and with those around you.
Are you feeling anxious, stressed, or stuck? Are you and your partner trapped in repetitive arguments that go nowhere? Juggling work, finances, and parenting children leaves little room to prioritize your relationship. Your emotional and physical connection suffers. You’re caught in unhealthy patterns but don’t know how to change them. Or perhaps you’re redefining your relationship with adult children or caring for aging parents. Negotiating new family roles can be challenging. You crave healthier connections with your family, but you aren’t sure where to start. Therapy provides a soothing refuge amid life's chaos.
As a Certified Internal Family Systems therapist, I'll help you navigate complex relationships inside yourself and with those around you.
Are you feeling anxious, stressed, or stuck? Are you and your partner trapped in repetitive arguments that go nowhere? Juggling work, finances, and parenting children leaves little room to prioritize your relationship. Your emotional and physical connection suffers. You’re caught in unhealthy patterns but don’t know how to change them. Or perhaps you’re redefining your relationship with adult children or caring for aging parents. Negotiating new family roles can be challenging. You crave healthier connections with your family, but you aren’t sure where to start. Therapy provides a soothing refuge amid life's chaos.
(540) 302-2682 View (540) 302-2682
Photo of Richard Villa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galax, VA
Richard Villa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24012
Hi there, I'm Richard, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am bilingual (English and Spanish) and certified in the areas of substance abuse and mental health. I am also a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, a Master Addictions Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and a Certified School Counselor. I have experience working with adults and adolescents on issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, behavioral issues, coping skills, and more. Most recently, I have been working as a Military and Family Life Counselor in Japan. My approach focuses on motivational interviewing, client centered therapy and positive psychology.
Hi there, I'm Richard, a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am bilingual (English and Spanish) and certified in the areas of substance abuse and mental health. I am also a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, a Master Addictions Counselor, National Certified Counselor, and a Certified School Counselor. I have experience working with adults and adolescents on issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, behavioral issues, coping skills, and more. Most recently, I have been working as a Military and Family Life Counselor in Japan. My approach focuses on motivational interviewing, client centered therapy and positive psychology.
(540) 889-3455 View (540) 889-3455
Photo of Bobbie-jo Hurt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galax, VA
Bobbie-jo Hurt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012
I work with people who want more for their lives-whether that's more happiness, more peace, more self-confidence, more enjoyable relationships, etc. I'm a laidback person who prefers cozy sweaters over suits. I love to laugh and connect. When you come to my office, I want you feel comfortable and cared about. You're not "another client" to me; this is a passion, not "just" a career. Logistics: In counseling field for 15+ years, working with adults/teens; providing couples therapy, family therapy, group therapy and individual therapy. Many speciality trainings: DBT, Anxiety/Phobias, Families/Adoption, Domestic Violence, Trauma, etc.
I work with people who want more for their lives-whether that's more happiness, more peace, more self-confidence, more enjoyable relationships, etc. I'm a laidback person who prefers cozy sweaters over suits. I love to laugh and connect. When you come to my office, I want you feel comfortable and cared about. You're not "another client" to me; this is a passion, not "just" a career. Logistics: In counseling field for 15+ years, working with adults/teens; providing couples therapy, family therapy, group therapy and individual therapy. Many speciality trainings: DBT, Anxiety/Phobias, Families/Adoption, Domestic Violence, Trauma, etc.
(540) 696-5574 View (540) 696-5574
Photo of Scott Cundiff, Marriage & Family Therapist in Galax, VA
Scott Cundiff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
Waitlist for new clients
I work with older children, tweens, adolescents, young adults and their parents. I also see individuals struggling with a variety of concerns. I provide couples therapy as well for highly motivated couples who are eager to improve their relationship. Common problem situations I often see: Parenting anxiety, impulse control issues (gaming, pornography etc.), anger control, burn-out, relationship fatigue, difficult family dynamics, anxiety and depression which comes from many sources including traumatic experiences. I also help individuals of all types, often feeling burdoned discover the preferred path that they wish to walk in life.
I work with older children, tweens, adolescents, young adults and their parents. I also see individuals struggling with a variety of concerns. I provide couples therapy as well for highly motivated couples who are eager to improve their relationship. Common problem situations I often see: Parenting anxiety, impulse control issues (gaming, pornography etc.), anger control, burn-out, relationship fatigue, difficult family dynamics, anxiety and depression which comes from many sources including traumatic experiences. I also help individuals of all types, often feeling burdoned discover the preferred path that they wish to walk in life.
(540) 889-3229 x810 View (540) 889-3229 x810
Photo of Jacob L Goldshteyn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galax, VA
Jacob L Goldshteyn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
I take an integrative approach to therapy, using CBT, mindfulness, Internal Family Systems model, psychodynamic approach and other eclectic tools consistent with self-understanding and self-acceptance.
It is one of my primary goals to create a safe, trusting, and non-judgmental environment that will allow you to explore difficult topics and gain greater knowledge of yourself, others, and your relationships. I'm a licensed professional counselor experienced in dealing with a range of life issues, including depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, relationship issues, and identity concerns. The steps needed to make meaningful changes in our lives can be difficult. It is my passion to support others in making such meaningful changes. Change is a journey--you don't have to walk alone.
I take an integrative approach to therapy, using CBT, mindfulness, Internal Family Systems model, psychodynamic approach and other eclectic tools consistent with self-understanding and self-acceptance.
It is one of my primary goals to create a safe, trusting, and non-judgmental environment that will allow you to explore difficult topics and gain greater knowledge of yourself, others, and your relationships. I'm a licensed professional counselor experienced in dealing with a range of life issues, including depression, anxiety, addictions, trauma, relationship issues, and identity concerns. The steps needed to make meaningful changes in our lives can be difficult. It is my passion to support others in making such meaningful changes. Change is a journey--you don't have to walk alone.
(540) 208-5983 View (540) 208-5983
Photo of Sierra H Gray, LPC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galax, VA
Sierra H Gray, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ACS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073  (Online Only)
I have spent 10 years working with clients who struggle with mental health and/or addiction. Client "specialties" are as follows (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, personality disorders, mood disorders, trauma, substance use, parenting/attachment, ineffective communication, career counseling and relationship or family systems issues.
I have spent 10 years working with clients who struggle with mental health and/or addiction. Client "specialties" are as follows (but not limited to) depression, anxiety, personality disorders, mood disorders, trauma, substance use, parenting/attachment, ineffective communication, career counseling and relationship or family systems issues.
(540) 269-5535 View (540) 269-5535
Photo of Keith Alan Medeiros, Licensed Professional Counselor in Galax, VA
Keith Alan Medeiros
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Abingdon, VA 24210
I have worked with clients experiencing a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, low self esteem, family conflict, addiction issues, relationship conflict, ADHD and parenting concerns.
I believe we all should be able to live as full a life as possible, rich with positive experiences and relationships. Unfortunately, sometimes things get in the way of that goal. When this happens, we may need help getting back on track. That help can come from many forms, and this is where I may be of assistance. As a counselor for eight years working with children, adolescents, adults and families, I have developed an eclectic style utilizing evidence-based treatments including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Structural Family Therapy and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
I have worked with clients experiencing a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, low self esteem, family conflict, addiction issues, relationship conflict, ADHD and parenting concerns.
I believe we all should be able to live as full a life as possible, rich with positive experiences and relationships. Unfortunately, sometimes things get in the way of that goal. When this happens, we may need help getting back on track. That help can come from many forms, and this is where I may be of assistance. As a counselor for eight years working with children, adolescents, adults and families, I have developed an eclectic style utilizing evidence-based treatments including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Structural Family Therapy and Solution Focused Brief Therapy.
(276) 254-8743 View (276) 254-8743

See more therapy options for Galax

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.