Photo of Flor Fernandez Barrios, Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Flor Fernandez Barrios
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
I have a strong background in psychodynamics,cognitive behavioral, family systems and cross-cultural modalities.
" We are all broken and wounded in this world. Some choose to grow at the broken places." ~Harold J. Duarte-Bernhardt.~ You had the courage to travel this far in your quest for healing. As a Transpersonal therapist, I believe you are wise and that within you resides the ability to heal from pain and trauma. My role is to be a guide, a facilitator in your process of healing unhealthy patterns of behaviors causing you to feel anxious and depressed. My approach is holistic. I blend many disciplines in search of the most effective way to work with you.
I have a strong background in psychodynamics,cognitive behavioral, family systems and cross-cultural modalities.
" We are all broken and wounded in this world. Some choose to grow at the broken places." ~Harold J. Duarte-Bernhardt.~ You had the courage to travel this far in your quest for healing. As a Transpersonal therapist, I believe you are wise and that within you resides the ability to heal from pain and trauma. My role is to be a guide, a facilitator in your process of healing unhealthy patterns of behaviors causing you to feel anxious and depressed. My approach is holistic. I blend many disciplines in search of the most effective way to work with you.
(206) 922-8165 View (206) 922-8165
Photo of Ashley Fleit - South Seattle Therapy, Pre-Licensed Professional in Seattle, WA
Ashley Fleit - South Seattle Therapy
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98118
I utilize the following theories in our work: Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman, Internal Family Systems, Gestalt, Attachment Theory, Solutions Focused Brief Therapy, and Somatics.
I specialize in therapy for relationships and am a trained sex therapist. I offer therapy in person in Seward Park, and online via telehealth. My priority is creating a safe, space for my clients to share what is present for them and supporting their connection, intimacy, acceptance, growth, and healing process. We will work together to create the therapy sessions that you need. I work with all gender, sexual, romantic and relationship identities. I am sex positive and HAES-aligned.
I utilize the following theories in our work: Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman, Internal Family Systems, Gestalt, Attachment Theory, Solutions Focused Brief Therapy, and Somatics.
I specialize in therapy for relationships and am a trained sex therapist. I offer therapy in person in Seward Park, and online via telehealth. My priority is creating a safe, space for my clients to share what is present for them and supporting their connection, intimacy, acceptance, growth, and healing process. We will work together to create the therapy sessions that you need. I work with all gender, sexual, romantic and relationship identities. I am sex positive and HAES-aligned.
(206) 401-8276 View (206) 401-8276
Photo of Caitlin A Jesse, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Caitlin A Jesse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
I utilize a number of grief frameworks and psychotherapies including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, CBT, and Internal Family Systems in order to best serve you and your goals for therapy.
I specialize in the areas of grief and loss, particularly in working with young widows and bereaved men, and caregivers of those who are ill. I hope you will find working with me to be a safe, compassionate space in which to explore your experience, the story of your loss, the impact of grief in your everyday life, and progress towards building a life around your grief. My clients come to me with many areas of grief; challenging relationship dynamics or divorce, loss of a job or hope, change in health, or other significant life transition. My practice also addresses other areas of mental health, including anxiety and depression.
I utilize a number of grief frameworks and psychotherapies including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, CBT, and Internal Family Systems in order to best serve you and your goals for therapy.
I specialize in the areas of grief and loss, particularly in working with young widows and bereaved men, and caregivers of those who are ill. I hope you will find working with me to be a safe, compassionate space in which to explore your experience, the story of your loss, the impact of grief in your everyday life, and progress towards building a life around your grief. My clients come to me with many areas of grief; challenging relationship dynamics or divorce, loss of a job or hope, change in health, or other significant life transition. My practice also addresses other areas of mental health, including anxiety and depression.
(206) 825-6312 View (206) 825-6312
Photo of Amanda Rutledge, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Amanda Rutledge
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I provide in-person and virtual talk therapy for individual adults and teens. My clients struggle with self-esteem, anxiety, romantic relationship issues, family issues, social issues, trauma, and many other life challenges. We all face challenges in life but sometimes we get stuck. We can usually identify patterns that negatively impact our relationships, work, and overall health. I support clients in exploring their unique patterns, creating purposeful solutions, and developing the confidence they need to design a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I provide in-person and virtual talk therapy for individual adults and teens. My clients struggle with self-esteem, anxiety, romantic relationship issues, family issues, social issues, trauma, and many other life challenges. We all face challenges in life but sometimes we get stuck. We can usually identify patterns that negatively impact our relationships, work, and overall health. I support clients in exploring their unique patterns, creating purposeful solutions, and developing the confidence they need to design a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(253) 881-8755 View (253) 881-8755
Photo of Katina J Gould, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Katina J Gould
Counselor, MAEd, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
As a counselor, I am experienced and devoted to supporting individuals, children, teens, couples and families who present with a variety of concerns including relationship issues, spiritual trauma/abuse, adjustment issues, crisis, loss and grief, fears, depression, relational issues, negative self-talk, family conflict, the need for coping skills, self-esteem and self-worth struggles, life transitions, anxiety, childhood trauma/recent trauma in adults and children, and those wanting to explore their cultural identity and issues of spirituality.
As a counselor, I am experienced and devoted to supporting individuals, children, teens, couples and families who present with a variety of concerns including relationship issues, spiritual trauma/abuse, adjustment issues, crisis, loss and grief, fears, depression, relational issues, negative self-talk, family conflict, the need for coping skills, self-esteem and self-worth struggles, life transitions, anxiety, childhood trauma/recent trauma in adults and children, and those wanting to explore their cultural identity and issues of spirituality.
(206) 752-4316 View (206) 752-4316
Photo of Laura Zucker Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Laura Zucker Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS, MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
I currently have had to pause on accepting new patients. I will update my profile when that changes. Everyone experiences difficult times in their lives. Whether it's struggling with a difficult relationship, work or school, anxiety, depression, or problems in your family or social life, you're making an effort now to change. We will work together on ways to resolve the thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that have prevented you from being who you want and attaining the things in life you really want for yourself. I offer a warm, safe, and confidential setting where we determine what your therapy needs are and how to achieve them.
I currently have had to pause on accepting new patients. I will update my profile when that changes. Everyone experiences difficult times in their lives. Whether it's struggling with a difficult relationship, work or school, anxiety, depression, or problems in your family or social life, you're making an effort now to change. We will work together on ways to resolve the thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that have prevented you from being who you want and attaining the things in life you really want for yourself. I offer a warm, safe, and confidential setting where we determine what your therapy needs are and how to achieve them.
(206) 535-1755 View (206) 535-1755
Photo of Bryan Brown, Mental Health Counselor Associate in Seattle, WA
Bryan Brown
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Our relationship with self, family, culture, past and present traumas, friends, co-workers, finances, nature, spirituality, and more all have an impact on wellbeing.
I work alongside individuals, couples, and groups who are seeking to address experiences of grief, depression, anxiety, relational conflict, racial trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, spiritual abuse, PTSD, and COVID related issues. Together we will explore the ways that therapy can assist you towards achieving your personal goals for wellbeing. Healing and transformation is a lifestyle and we all require assistance in cultivating a life that will help us navigate unavoidable difficulties. Isolation works against these efforts which is why seeking therapy is truly one of the best things you can offer yourself.
Our relationship with self, family, culture, past and present traumas, friends, co-workers, finances, nature, spirituality, and more all have an impact on wellbeing.
I work alongside individuals, couples, and groups who are seeking to address experiences of grief, depression, anxiety, relational conflict, racial trauma, LGBTQIA+ issues, spiritual abuse, PTSD, and COVID related issues. Together we will explore the ways that therapy can assist you towards achieving your personal goals for wellbeing. Healing and transformation is a lifestyle and we all require assistance in cultivating a life that will help us navigate unavoidable difficulties. Isolation works against these efforts which is why seeking therapy is truly one of the best things you can offer yourself.
(206) 208-2356 View (206) 208-2356
Photo of Dan Fajans, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Dan Fajans
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
As a husband in a long-term marriage and a father of two young kids, I understand the challenges of balancing family, career, and community, while striving to maintain a vibrant relationship.
Caught in a seemingly endless loop of arguments with your partner? Feeling like you're constantly walking on eggshells, afraid of triggering another conflict? You're not alone. Many couples experience challenging periods. But these patterns can and do change. I specialize in helping couples break free from their unhelpful conflict cycles, rekindle the spark that brought them together, and cultivate a relationship worth cherishing.
As a husband in a long-term marriage and a father of two young kids, I understand the challenges of balancing family, career, and community, while striving to maintain a vibrant relationship.
Caught in a seemingly endless loop of arguments with your partner? Feeling like you're constantly walking on eggshells, afraid of triggering another conflict? You're not alone. Many couples experience challenging periods. But these patterns can and do change. I specialize in helping couples break free from their unhelpful conflict cycles, rekindle the spark that brought them together, and cultivate a relationship worth cherishing.
(206) 452-4104 View (206) 452-4104
Photo of Kimberly Gerst, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Seattle, WA
Kimberly Gerst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSWA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
I provide Telehealth therapy for individuals 25+ years of age and couples counseling, including pre-marital. Symbis trained facilitator. I bring to therapy a diverse and expansive array of professional experiences. My experience has equipped me to work with clients with a wide range of issues including trauma, grief, loss, divorce, recovery and healing from emotional abuse, narcissistic abuse, marital issues, struggles with self-esteem, family of origin issues, anxiety, depression, attachment issues and those experiencing major life changes. I love working with those authentically ready for change.
I provide Telehealth therapy for individuals 25+ years of age and couples counseling, including pre-marital. Symbis trained facilitator. I bring to therapy a diverse and expansive array of professional experiences. My experience has equipped me to work with clients with a wide range of issues including trauma, grief, loss, divorce, recovery and healing from emotional abuse, narcissistic abuse, marital issues, struggles with self-esteem, family of origin issues, anxiety, depression, attachment issues and those experiencing major life changes. I love working with those authentically ready for change.
(206) 752-5477 View (206) 752-5477
Photo of Catherine Wetzel Larkin, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Catherine Wetzel Larkin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107  (Online Only)
Issues I work with include: Addiction and harm reduction; Managing stress, depression, anxiety; Mid-life issues and transitions; Couples, marriage and family counseling; Chronic illness; Professional development; Early marriage, pregnancy; Post-partum, early parenting; Adolescence and parenting of adolescents; Mindfulness practice and spiritual development.
I am a licensed Mental Health therapist ( WA license number: 00010994) with twenty five years of experience counseling individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. I have a special interest in neuroscience and attachment theory in the context of helping individuals cope and heal from stress, trauma, and grief. I am also passionate about assisting people in developing healthy, authentic relationships, and in carving out their own unique life course. I believe that the relationship that is built between client and therapist is an important part of therapeutic growth and change.
Issues I work with include: Addiction and harm reduction; Managing stress, depression, anxiety; Mid-life issues and transitions; Couples, marriage and family counseling; Chronic illness; Professional development; Early marriage, pregnancy; Post-partum, early parenting; Adolescence and parenting of adolescents; Mindfulness practice and spiritual development.
I am a licensed Mental Health therapist ( WA license number: 00010994) with twenty five years of experience counseling individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. I have a special interest in neuroscience and attachment theory in the context of helping individuals cope and heal from stress, trauma, and grief. I am also passionate about assisting people in developing healthy, authentic relationships, and in carving out their own unique life course. I believe that the relationship that is built between client and therapist is an important part of therapeutic growth and change.
(206) 347-8425 View (206) 347-8425
Photo of Susan Grunert, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Susan Grunert
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
I have over 28 years experience working with individuals, couples, and families experiencing: Work and family related stress; Child and adult attachment issues; Grief and loss issues; Anxiety; Emotional eating; Emotional spending; Loneliness; Addictions; Depression and other mood disorders; Parenting Problems; Toxic or abusive relationships; Childhood abuse issues; Life transitions; and Self-esteem issues.
Life is full of challenges and sometimes we just get stuck. Most of all, I want to help you feel better and enjoy life. My work with you is about finding a way to get unstuck and move forward. My goal is to help you work through challenges, find the meaning in life again, and ultimately, live life to its fullest! My approach is to connect with you in a way that allows you to freely discuss your challenges and struggles so that I can offer insight, suggestions, and resources that are uniquely helpful to you.
I have over 28 years experience working with individuals, couples, and families experiencing: Work and family related stress; Child and adult attachment issues; Grief and loss issues; Anxiety; Emotional eating; Emotional spending; Loneliness; Addictions; Depression and other mood disorders; Parenting Problems; Toxic or abusive relationships; Childhood abuse issues; Life transitions; and Self-esteem issues.
Life is full of challenges and sometimes we just get stuck. Most of all, I want to help you feel better and enjoy life. My work with you is about finding a way to get unstuck and move forward. My goal is to help you work through challenges, find the meaning in life again, and ultimately, live life to its fullest! My approach is to connect with you in a way that allows you to freely discuss your challenges and struggles so that I can offer insight, suggestions, and resources that are uniquely helpful to you.
(855) 849-3015 View (855) 849-3015
Photo of Lizette Arroyo-Dillard, Pre-Licensed Professional in Seattle, WA
Lizette Arroyo-Dillard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98144
My counseling approach draws upon social justice frameworks, ecological systems theory, cognitive behavior theory, REBT, strengths-based perspectives, internal family systems, attachment theory and trauma-informed approaches.
I wish to serve people of color and other marginalized groups who have experienced chronic oppression and injustices. I would love to work with individuals, couples and families who are ready to step into their power and reclaim their voice. I wish to serve those who are in need of healing and need assistance processing grief, loss, frustration and exhaustion from life's trials and adversities. Being a person of color poses many challenges in this country and seeking help from professionals who look or talk nothing like you makes it far more difficult. I see you and I'm here for you.
My counseling approach draws upon social justice frameworks, ecological systems theory, cognitive behavior theory, REBT, strengths-based perspectives, internal family systems, attachment theory and trauma-informed approaches.
I wish to serve people of color and other marginalized groups who have experienced chronic oppression and injustices. I would love to work with individuals, couples and families who are ready to step into their power and reclaim their voice. I wish to serve those who are in need of healing and need assistance processing grief, loss, frustration and exhaustion from life's trials and adversities. Being a person of color poses many challenges in this country and seeking help from professionals who look or talk nothing like you makes it far more difficult. I see you and I'm here for you.
(206) 483-0434 View (206) 483-0434
Photo of Insightful Behavioral Health PLLC , Marriage & Family Therapist in Seattle, WA
Insightful Behavioral Health PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98126  (Online Only)
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family therapist for over 14 years working with people of all ages, genders, social, and cultural backgrounds. I aim at providing a safe, non judgmental environment where clients can heal, recognize their strengths, and rebuild their relationships. I work closely with clients to create a customized treatment plan that fits their needs.
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family therapist for over 14 years working with people of all ages, genders, social, and cultural backgrounds. I aim at providing a safe, non judgmental environment where clients can heal, recognize their strengths, and rebuild their relationships. I work closely with clients to create a customized treatment plan that fits their needs.
(206) 746-3142 View (206) 746-3142
Photo of Derrek Zietz, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Derrek Zietz
Counselor, MBA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
My clients are high achievers by nature. They often come to me because their depression and/or anxiety symptoms are being amplified by a present stressor like climbing the corporate ladder, entering their first job out of college, or making career transitions. Anxiety and depression sometimes manifest in my clients' relationships with significant others and family. Some may even be experiencing imposter syndrome. While I do facilitate the therapy process, my clients drive the sessions. Together, our therapeutic endeavor is to help you achieve your goals.
My clients are high achievers by nature. They often come to me because their depression and/or anxiety symptoms are being amplified by a present stressor like climbing the corporate ladder, entering their first job out of college, or making career transitions. Anxiety and depression sometimes manifest in my clients' relationships with significant others and family. Some may even be experiencing imposter syndrome. While I do facilitate the therapy process, my clients drive the sessions. Together, our therapeutic endeavor is to help you achieve your goals.
(206) 203-9142 View (206) 203-9142
Photo of Eric Deeter, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Eric Deeter
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
Using a variety of modalities such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS), I hope to create a holistic approach that addresses the complexity of life and the relationships around us.
I work best with couples and individuals who want to work on themselves and/or a relationship with the goal of success and freedom. I am especially passionate working with client’s who have a drive for their own transformation through understanding their story, journey, and style of relating. By understanding yourself in a deeper way, I strive for clients to have better intimacy, communication, and satisfaction from their relationships and their internal world. We’ll leverage your curiosity to co-create an environment where awareness, honesty, and freedom can occur.
Using a variety of modalities such as Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS), I hope to create a holistic approach that addresses the complexity of life and the relationships around us.
I work best with couples and individuals who want to work on themselves and/or a relationship with the goal of success and freedom. I am especially passionate working with client’s who have a drive for their own transformation through understanding their story, journey, and style of relating. By understanding yourself in a deeper way, I strive for clients to have better intimacy, communication, and satisfaction from their relationships and their internal world. We’ll leverage your curiosity to co-create an environment where awareness, honesty, and freedom can occur.
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Photo of Jeanan Hyat, Mental Health Counselor in Seattle, WA
Jeanan Hyat
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
Life comes at us fast and we’re not always ready for it but that’s okay! I believe that we all crave connection with our peers, friends, family, and partners. And when we aren’t working on those connections, we’re working to build our connection with ourself. To fully work through that and make progress, I use a direct approach in helping clients address concerns that may arise from their connections with others or with themself. I believe that the most progress can be made when it’s accompanied with empathy and unconditional positive regard - two pillars of therapeutic work to foster growth and a sense of safety.
Life comes at us fast and we’re not always ready for it but that’s okay! I believe that we all crave connection with our peers, friends, family, and partners. And when we aren’t working on those connections, we’re working to build our connection with ourself. To fully work through that and make progress, I use a direct approach in helping clients address concerns that may arise from their connections with others or with themself. I believe that the most progress can be made when it’s accompanied with empathy and unconditional positive regard - two pillars of therapeutic work to foster growth and a sense of safety.
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Photo of Wayne E Carr, Psychologist in Seattle, WA
Wayne E Carr
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
Dr. Carr uses a unique blend of Cognitive-Behavioral, Gestalt, Integral, Primal, Transpersonal & Family Coaching techniques to focus on natural growth & healing thus expanding the common central emphasis on disorders & symptom reduction. Clients change as they heal their pain, get emotionally nourished, recognize what is toxic and become authentically themselves.
Dr. Carr uses a unique blend of Cognitive-Behavioral, Gestalt, Integral, Primal, Transpersonal & Family Coaching techniques to focus on natural growth & healing thus expanding the common central emphasis on disorders & symptom reduction. Clients change as they heal their pain, get emotionally nourished, recognize what is toxic and become authentically themselves.
(425) 358-2986 View (425) 358-2986
Photo of Jessa White, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Jessa White
Counselor, LMCHA, MA, RYT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Monday at 4:00pm available in person or online- Thursday at 3:00 in person or online ———-I’ve found that therapy is most powerful when there is a combination of traditional western methodology and eastern philosophy practices. Together, we’ll discuss who you are. I’ll form questions that provide insight into your systems, and patterns. We’ll discuss family of origin. Time and time again. We’ll talk about diet; we’ll talk about love. We’ll discuss death. Together we’ll uncover aspects of your human experience and award you the opportunity to look further inward.
Monday at 4:00pm available in person or online- Thursday at 3:00 in person or online ———-I’ve found that therapy is most powerful when there is a combination of traditional western methodology and eastern philosophy practices. Together, we’ll discuss who you are. I’ll form questions that provide insight into your systems, and patterns. We’ll discuss family of origin. Time and time again. We’ll talk about diet; we’ll talk about love. We’ll discuss death. Together we’ll uncover aspects of your human experience and award you the opportunity to look further inward.
(206) 761-0670 View (206) 761-0670
Photo of Stephanie Gonia, Counselor in Seattle, WA
Stephanie Gonia
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98134
I support clients with a wide variety of concerns including relationship issues, grief and loss, anxiety disorders, LGBTQ sexual identity and orientation, self-esteem, PTSD, depression, family concerns, and other life changes and stressors. I utilize various modalities of therapy including psychodynamic, CBT and solution-focused/skill building therapies. I work with individual adults, children, teens, families, and couples, as well as adults with developmental disabilities and delays.
I support clients with a wide variety of concerns including relationship issues, grief and loss, anxiety disorders, LGBTQ sexual identity and orientation, self-esteem, PTSD, depression, family concerns, and other life changes and stressors. I utilize various modalities of therapy including psychodynamic, CBT and solution-focused/skill building therapies. I work with individual adults, children, teens, families, and couples, as well as adults with developmental disabilities and delays.
(206) 460-1348 View (206) 460-1348
Photo of Alagna Valsesia, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Seattle, WA
Alagna Valsesia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Alagna (pronounced Ah-lah-nya), I work with individuals, adolescents, couples, and families interested in finding meaningful support as they navigate personal and relational challenges. I take a deeply systemic approach to therapy, considering you as an individual and conceptualizing the influence of familial and social systems in your life. I view healing as a holistic journey encompassing awareness, reflection, and embodiment. I take special pride in working with folks who have experienced complex family trauma, or sexual trauma, or feel a sense of existential meaninglessness in their life.
Hi, my name is Alagna (pronounced Ah-lah-nya), I work with individuals, adolescents, couples, and families interested in finding meaningful support as they navigate personal and relational challenges. I take a deeply systemic approach to therapy, considering you as an individual and conceptualizing the influence of familial and social systems in your life. I view healing as a holistic journey encompassing awareness, reflection, and embodiment. I take special pride in working with folks who have experienced complex family trauma, or sexual trauma, or feel a sense of existential meaninglessness in their life.
(206) 594-5325 View (206) 594-5325

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.