Photo of HorizonView Health, Licensed Professional Counselor in Puyallup, WA
HorizonView Health
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98371
We are an independent clinic offering Family Practice, Bariatric Medicine, Nutrition, and Behavioral Health Services.
Counseling is a brave and wonderful step and finding a positive therapeutic relationship without judgement is necessary for change and growth. Our counselors believe in a client centered, strength-based approach. They have training and experience in several modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, solutions focused treatment and are experienced in the emotional, physical, and spiritual impacts of trauma.
We are an independent clinic offering Family Practice, Bariatric Medicine, Nutrition, and Behavioral Health Services.
Counseling is a brave and wonderful step and finding a positive therapeutic relationship without judgement is necessary for change and growth. Our counselors believe in a client centered, strength-based approach. They have training and experience in several modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, solutions focused treatment and are experienced in the emotional, physical, and spiritual impacts of trauma.
(253) 331-2547 View (253) 331-2547
Photo of Cornelia A. Thomas, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Cornelia A. Thomas
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
Christian Morden, our new intern is seeing clients at reduced rates. Only $75 for Individual Sessions and $95 for Family/Couples- HOPE is the only thing stronger than fear. Are you looking for a therapist to hope with you? I will. Have you found yourself bound and unable to move past your hurting circumstances? Facing challenges in your home & family life? What is the condition of your heart? You're reading this because you are ready for CHANGE! Learn how to apply LASTING solutions to the issues in your life. I'll help you envision, fall in love with, and then create your best future. Aim for change. Hope with me. Let's get started!
Christian Morden, our new intern is seeing clients at reduced rates. Only $75 for Individual Sessions and $95 for Family/Couples- HOPE is the only thing stronger than fear. Are you looking for a therapist to hope with you? I will. Have you found yourself bound and unable to move past your hurting circumstances? Facing challenges in your home & family life? What is the condition of your heart? You're reading this because you are ready for CHANGE! Learn how to apply LASTING solutions to the issues in your life. I'll help you envision, fall in love with, and then create your best future. Aim for change. Hope with me. Let's get started!
(253) 242-6809 View (253) 242-6809
Photo of Pathway to Change Counseling Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Pathway to Change Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98371
We provide individual, couples, group, and family counseling specializing in treatment for: depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse, ADHD/ADD, anger, mood disorder, behavioral problems, conflict resolution, OCD, grief counseling, parenting support, LGBTQ, gender identity, stress management and more.
We have immediate openings for new clients! Today is your first step on the pathway to change and together we will make the transformation you are seeking in your life. Pathway to Change is unique in that we offer several therapists to choose from who can work collaboratively with you to accomplish the change you want to see. With over 40 years of combined therapy experience each therapist offers a different approach within the therapeutic relationship. We are excited to now offer Life Coaching through our partnership with Simply You LLC. To schedule life coaching sessions please visit the following website: www.simply-you-llc.com.
We provide individual, couples, group, and family counseling specializing in treatment for: depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse, ADHD/ADD, anger, mood disorder, behavioral problems, conflict resolution, OCD, grief counseling, parenting support, LGBTQ, gender identity, stress management and more.
We have immediate openings for new clients! Today is your first step on the pathway to change and together we will make the transformation you are seeking in your life. Pathway to Change is unique in that we offer several therapists to choose from who can work collaboratively with you to accomplish the change you want to see. With over 40 years of combined therapy experience each therapist offers a different approach within the therapeutic relationship. We are excited to now offer Life Coaching through our partnership with Simply You LLC. To schedule life coaching sessions please visit the following website: www.simply-you-llc.com.
(253) 218-4176 View (253) 218-4176
Photo of Laura M Schulz, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Laura M Schulz
Counselor, PhD, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98374  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is grounded in Family Systems Therapy, Client Centered, and Strength Based, but I also integrate elements from other modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy to meet each client's unique needs.
Life can be hard; therapy can help you remove roadblocks & work toward a happier you. Many people have answers to their challenges within them but are blocked by overwhelm & self-doubt. For many, our childhood wasn't perfect. Examining that foundation, deciding what parts of it you want to continue carrying, and what parts you want to let go of can help you toward a calmer and happier life. If you're feeling stressed out or stuck, let's find out what's at the root of those emotions so you can get to a happier & healthier life.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in Family Systems Therapy, Client Centered, and Strength Based, but I also integrate elements from other modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy to meet each client's unique needs.
Life can be hard; therapy can help you remove roadblocks & work toward a happier you. Many people have answers to their challenges within them but are blocked by overwhelm & self-doubt. For many, our childhood wasn't perfect. Examining that foundation, deciding what parts of it you want to continue carrying, and what parts you want to let go of can help you toward a calmer and happier life. If you're feeling stressed out or stuck, let's find out what's at the root of those emotions so you can get to a happier & healthier life.
(425) 276-6479 View (425) 276-6479
Photo of Andrea Tuliao, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Andrea Tuliao
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Andrea is experienced working with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, groups, and families who are navigating: adjustment issues, low self-esteem, family relationships, compassion fatigue, work stressors, relationship conflicts, trauma (sexual, physical, and emotional), suicidal thoughts, grief and loss, substance use stressors, medical diagnoses/health concerns impacting mental health & well-being, and feeling anxious/down/unsure of how you are feeling. As a clinical social worker, she has 13 years of experience in community mental health, primary care settings, teletherapy, and management clinical social worker.
Andrea is experienced working with individuals (adolescents and adults), couples, groups, and families who are navigating: adjustment issues, low self-esteem, family relationships, compassion fatigue, work stressors, relationship conflicts, trauma (sexual, physical, and emotional), suicidal thoughts, grief and loss, substance use stressors, medical diagnoses/health concerns impacting mental health & well-being, and feeling anxious/down/unsure of how you are feeling. As a clinical social worker, she has 13 years of experience in community mental health, primary care settings, teletherapy, and management clinical social worker.
(253) 465-4502 View (253) 465-4502
Photo of Kate Konzelman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Kate Konzelman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98371
Waitlist for new clients
We all experience difficulties and have barriers in our lives that keep us from experiencing the fullness of freedom we desire. Whether you are having difficulties with a relationship, wrestling through identity and family of origin questions, or healing from a trauma or painful loss, I want WELL Counseling to be a safe and peaceful place for you to process and begin your healing.
We all experience difficulties and have barriers in our lives that keep us from experiencing the fullness of freedom we desire. Whether you are having difficulties with a relationship, wrestling through identity and family of origin questions, or healing from a trauma or painful loss, I want WELL Counseling to be a safe and peaceful place for you to process and begin your healing.
(253) 650-1510 View (253) 650-1510
Photo of Caren Osborn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Caren Osborn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
I specialize in Focusing Oriented Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Emotion Focused Therapy, and Brief Solution Focused Therapy where I can address depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders as well as communication, self esteem issues, life cycle transitions & conflict resolution between couples and/or families.
You can heal by recognizing how important your thoughts and feelings are in navigating this world. We often use our minds to solve everything and sometimes we "solve" ourselves into trouble. We become fragmented when we problem solve without taking the time to tend to our whole self. Use all of you to integrate what has been fragmented by trauma, be it divorce, depression, anxiety, family issues, grief, etc. In a Christian setting I will be guide you to access your thoughts, feelings, and spirituality to help you become more authentically yourself, allowing you to use your strengths and create more peace in your life.
I specialize in Focusing Oriented Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Emotion Focused Therapy, and Brief Solution Focused Therapy where I can address depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders as well as communication, self esteem issues, life cycle transitions & conflict resolution between couples and/or families.
You can heal by recognizing how important your thoughts and feelings are in navigating this world. We often use our minds to solve everything and sometimes we "solve" ourselves into trouble. We become fragmented when we problem solve without taking the time to tend to our whole self. Use all of you to integrate what has been fragmented by trauma, be it divorce, depression, anxiety, family issues, grief, etc. In a Christian setting I will be guide you to access your thoughts, feelings, and spirituality to help you become more authentically yourself, allowing you to use your strengths and create more peace in your life.
(253) 200-6391 View (253) 200-6391
Photo of Jessica Grout, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Jessica Grout
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CMHS, EMMHS
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373  (Online Only)
I grew up in a multiracial family.
Currently accepting new clients! Serving BIPOC and multiracial individuals, couples and families in WA and OR. Our mission is to address the gap of specialty in working with those whose backgrounds and identities originate from multiple cultures, countries, etc. and embrace the nuance our stories bring that is often not captured by traditional cultural competency. The balance between the multiple important parts of ourselves takes on new meanings in the context of our relationships- especially with our partners and families-both the ones we came from and the ones we are now building.
I grew up in a multiracial family.
Currently accepting new clients! Serving BIPOC and multiracial individuals, couples and families in WA and OR. Our mission is to address the gap of specialty in working with those whose backgrounds and identities originate from multiple cultures, countries, etc. and embrace the nuance our stories bring that is often not captured by traditional cultural competency. The balance between the multiple important parts of ourselves takes on new meanings in the context of our relationships- especially with our partners and families-both the ones we came from and the ones we are now building.
(253) 366-8074 View (253) 366-8074
Photo of Anahita F Armin, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Anahita F Armin
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
I worked on a variety of issues including Domestic Violence, Depression, Adolescence issues, Relationship counseling, Family counseling and more.
Life is hard; no one said it would be easy. Nothing that has value comes easily. It seems the things that can bring us lasting joy are the things we have to work to achieve. We are all unique in history. Where we come from, which family, which culture, impacted who we are and who we will or have become. Yet, all of us are the same in that we need human interaction. We come into this world seeking others, touch, interaction. We are neither meant to be or have to be completely alone. *(I am an approved WA State Supervisor and am currently taking on LMHCA supervisees).
I worked on a variety of issues including Domestic Violence, Depression, Adolescence issues, Relationship counseling, Family counseling and more.
Life is hard; no one said it would be easy. Nothing that has value comes easily. It seems the things that can bring us lasting joy are the things we have to work to achieve. We are all unique in history. Where we come from, which family, which culture, impacted who we are and who we will or have become. Yet, all of us are the same in that we need human interaction. We come into this world seeking others, touch, interaction. We are neither meant to be or have to be completely alone. *(I am an approved WA State Supervisor and am currently taking on LMHCA supervisees).
(253) 218-1731 View (253) 218-1731
Photo of Northwest Counsel, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Northwest Counsel
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LMFT, BCPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
Throughout my professional career I have focused on men and men's issues, relationship struggles, marriage and family issues, issues of faith and spirituality, depression and anxiety, sexual issues and identity, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), grief and loss, career, parenting, and adolescent issues.
Change comes through relationship and at Northwest Counsel I desire for you to see real, positive change in your life and your personal relationships. To give you an idea of what to expect, your first appointment is your chance to explain special circumstances and ask any questions about therapy. You will get a feel for who I am and how I can serve you, and together we can determine if I will help guide you to the next step on your journey of wellness. Sessions typically last 45-55 minutes and are custom tailored to your situation and your needs.
Throughout my professional career I have focused on men and men's issues, relationship struggles, marriage and family issues, issues of faith and spirituality, depression and anxiety, sexual issues and identity, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), grief and loss, career, parenting, and adolescent issues.
Change comes through relationship and at Northwest Counsel I desire for you to see real, positive change in your life and your personal relationships. To give you an idea of what to expect, your first appointment is your chance to explain special circumstances and ask any questions about therapy. You will get a feel for who I am and how I can serve you, and together we can determine if I will help guide you to the next step on your journey of wellness. Sessions typically last 45-55 minutes and are custom tailored to your situation and your needs.
(253) 256-2520 View (253) 256-2520
Shawna Surface
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372
Accepting new patients. Shawna is attending Grand Canyon Arizona University where she will obtain her masters in Counseling. She is taking courses to work with children and families. She enjoys working with the family system and is personable and easy to talk to. She has lots of experience ranging from care giver to case worker in the field of counseling and is a great asset to our group practice.
Accepting new patients. Shawna is attending Grand Canyon Arizona University where she will obtain her masters in Counseling. She is taking courses to work with children and families. She enjoys working with the family system and is personable and easy to talk to. She has lots of experience ranging from care giver to case worker in the field of counseling and is a great asset to our group practice.
(253) 465-2685 View (253) 465-2685
Photo of Margaret Goodrum, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Puyallup, WA
Margaret Goodrum
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98371
I have my Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology with a concentration in Ethnology from the University of New Mexico.
Taking a client-centered approach, I work to assist individuals, couples and families in reaching the goals that they bring with them to therapy. I believe that trust and compassion are essential to the success of therapy and my role is to facilitate that relationship of trust. I strive to be culturally aware and humble, recognizing that no two people experience life the same way. My goal is to help clients find their strengths and resources in a brief, systemic way. Some of the models that inform my approach include Narrative Family Therapy and Collaborative Therapy.
I have my Master of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Capella University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Anthropology with a concentration in Ethnology from the University of New Mexico.
Taking a client-centered approach, I work to assist individuals, couples and families in reaching the goals that they bring with them to therapy. I believe that trust and compassion are essential to the success of therapy and my role is to facilitate that relationship of trust. I strive to be culturally aware and humble, recognizing that no two people experience life the same way. My goal is to help clients find their strengths and resources in a brief, systemic way. Some of the models that inform my approach include Narrative Family Therapy and Collaborative Therapy.
(253) 352-4795 View (253) 352-4795
Photo of Beverly Polhamus, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Beverly Polhamus
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CHT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372
I provide therapy to individuals (teen & adult), couples and families and specialize in the following areas: - Anxiety - Depression - Phobias - Trauma and PTSD - Sexual Abuse - Relationship Issues - Family and parenting concerns - Presentations - SA survivors groups.
Congratulations! You have taken the first step toward healing by seeking help. It is important that the relationship between you and your therapist is a good fit, based on mutual respect and trust. I use a strength-based and practical approach. I have a sense of humor which seems to help clients feel more comfortable. Therapy's primary focus is on the present with an understanding of the effects of past events on current behaviors and the need to process unresolved issues. "The turmoil of the past is never wholly forgotten, unresolved it seeps through even the strongest foundation."
I provide therapy to individuals (teen & adult), couples and families and specialize in the following areas: - Anxiety - Depression - Phobias - Trauma and PTSD - Sexual Abuse - Relationship Issues - Family and parenting concerns - Presentations - SA survivors groups.
Congratulations! You have taken the first step toward healing by seeking help. It is important that the relationship between you and your therapist is a good fit, based on mutual respect and trust. I use a strength-based and practical approach. I have a sense of humor which seems to help clients feel more comfortable. Therapy's primary focus is on the present with an understanding of the effects of past events on current behaviors and the need to process unresolved issues. "The turmoil of the past is never wholly forgotten, unresolved it seeps through even the strongest foundation."
(253) 205-8220 View (253) 205-8220
Photo of Gamsa Counseling PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Gamsa Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98371  (Online Only)
Therapy was not something talked about in my family and I didn’t realize it was something available for me.
You need to feel like you can be fully yourself. To be able to set boundaries, thrive, and be healthy in your relationships. Therapy is for someone like you - a regular person, struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder... who sometimes doesn’t like how you feel about yourself or your relationships. Given the social pressures and systemic influences in your life, these feelings become more complex and painful with time. You don’t need someone to solve everything, fix you, or expect you to be happy, but you long to be authentic and vulnerable with yourself and for others to feel they can be the same with you.
Therapy was not something talked about in my family and I didn’t realize it was something available for me.
You need to feel like you can be fully yourself. To be able to set boundaries, thrive, and be healthy in your relationships. Therapy is for someone like you - a regular person, struggling with depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder... who sometimes doesn’t like how you feel about yourself or your relationships. Given the social pressures and systemic influences in your life, these feelings become more complex and painful with time. You don’t need someone to solve everything, fix you, or expect you to be happy, but you long to be authentic and vulnerable with yourself and for others to feel they can be the same with you.
(253) 242-9957 View (253) 242-9957
Photo of Brittany Salton, Pre-Licensed Professional in Puyallup, WA
Brittany Salton
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLMSW , LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98374  (Online Only)
Are you dealing with unforgiveness, abandonment, rejection, and trauma suffered in childhood? Do you need someone to talk to, but find it difficult to trust your friends or family? Do you have relationship problems? Are you depressed? Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? Do you feel you are failing in life, and need to regain normalcy? Are you ready to deal with the root cause of issues faced in your life? Are you looking for a safe place where you can share your challenges without fear of being judged?
Are you dealing with unforgiveness, abandonment, rejection, and trauma suffered in childhood? Do you need someone to talk to, but find it difficult to trust your friends or family? Do you have relationship problems? Are you depressed? Are you grieving the loss of a loved one? Do you feel you are failing in life, and need to regain normalcy? Are you ready to deal with the root cause of issues faced in your life? Are you looking for a safe place where you can share your challenges without fear of being judged?
(253) 600-2291 View (253) 600-2291
Photo of Isabel Huntsman, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Isabel Huntsman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98371
I believe connection is the energy of life. Whether it is intimacy with a loved one, the tender bond of family, spiritual connection with the Creator, insightful relationship with self, or avoidance of connection, it affects everyday life. Through therapeutic relationship, I work with you to discover your unique strengths and process your connections; empowering you to access healing and clarity. Together we will explore the internal and external messaging that keeps you from the progress you desire.
I believe connection is the energy of life. Whether it is intimacy with a loved one, the tender bond of family, spiritual connection with the Creator, insightful relationship with self, or avoidance of connection, it affects everyday life. Through therapeutic relationship, I work with you to discover your unique strengths and process your connections; empowering you to access healing and clarity. Together we will explore the internal and external messaging that keeps you from the progress you desire.
(253) 300-2970 View (253) 300-2970
Photo of Anne M Eugenio, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Puyallup, WA
Anne M Eugenio
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
I help individuals, families, and couples create or restore secure secure bonds in family and intimate relationships. Relational counseling means that my relationship with you, my client, will be our best, most important tool for your healing. Before anything else, we will establish safety, trust, and connection. Then together we will uncover the path of healing for your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I also help those coping with the effects of anxiety and depression.
I help individuals, families, and couples create or restore secure secure bonds in family and intimate relationships. Relational counseling means that my relationship with you, my client, will be our best, most important tool for your healing. Before anything else, we will establish safety, trust, and connection. Then together we will uncover the path of healing for your mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. I also help those coping with the effects of anxiety and depression.
(253) 303-5880 View (253) 303-5880
Photo of Rebecca Schiltz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Puyallup, WA
Rebecca Schiltz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372  (Online Only)
I work with life phase issues (relationship transitions, beginning a family, job changes, empty nesters, etc).
Are you living the life you want? Do you have the relationship/relationships you want? I want to understand your life and support you in making your life and relationships all that you can imagine them to be. I would be honored to join you on your path to healthier relationships and more satisfying life. Relationship struggles, enhancements, and growth are my primary focus and that certainly includes relationship to self. Please see my website for further information, or email so we can discuss your particular concerns and how I can best support you. I work with adults 18+ only. Thanks, and I look forward to hearing from you!
I work with life phase issues (relationship transitions, beginning a family, job changes, empty nesters, etc).
Are you living the life you want? Do you have the relationship/relationships you want? I want to understand your life and support you in making your life and relationships all that you can imagine them to be. I would be honored to join you on your path to healthier relationships and more satisfying life. Relationship struggles, enhancements, and growth are my primary focus and that certainly includes relationship to self. Please see my website for further information, or email so we can discuss your particular concerns and how I can best support you. I work with adults 18+ only. Thanks, and I look forward to hearing from you!
(253) 655-1392 View (253) 655-1392
Photo of Christine Keys, Counselor in Puyallup, WA
Christine Keys
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
I also work with people suffering from loss and grief of babies and family members.
I have worked with families in need since 1996. These families have been in crisis for many reasons some of which have been:unexpected loss, job loss, domestic violence, homelessness, sexual and physical abuse. I have experience working with people dealing with trauma, suicide,betrayal, depression/anxiety, perinatal & postpartum depression, loss and grief. I work with adolescents and adults who have ADHD to help bring organization and peace to individuals and families that have been living in chaos.
I also work with people suffering from loss and grief of babies and family members.
I have worked with families in need since 1996. These families have been in crisis for many reasons some of which have been:unexpected loss, job loss, domestic violence, homelessness, sexual and physical abuse. I have experience working with people dealing with trauma, suicide,betrayal, depression/anxiety, perinatal & postpartum depression, loss and grief. I work with adolescents and adults who have ADHD to help bring organization and peace to individuals and families that have been living in chaos.
(253) 666-6949 View (253) 666-6949
Photo of Jessica L Flores, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Puyallup, WA
Jessica L Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98371
I'm a licensed marriage and family therapy associate specializing in providing mental health support to individuals and families. I cater my approach with each client I encounter to create an empathetic, non-judgmental, and collaborative therapeutic relationship. I take a holistic approach to therapy with the understanding that therapy is not one-size-fits all; utilizing an array of therapeutic approaches and models, I work with my clients to find the change and healing they are looking for with the belief that those who seek change, will find it.
I'm a licensed marriage and family therapy associate specializing in providing mental health support to individuals and families. I cater my approach with each client I encounter to create an empathetic, non-judgmental, and collaborative therapeutic relationship. I take a holistic approach to therapy with the understanding that therapy is not one-size-fits all; utilizing an array of therapeutic approaches and models, I work with my clients to find the change and healing they are looking for with the belief that those who seek change, will find it.
(253) 649-6029 View (253) 649-6029
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.