Family Therapy in Washington

Photo of Mark Dotson, Counselor in Washington
Mark Dotson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellingham, WA 98225
My areas of expertise include: life transitions, past abuse, depression, low self-esteem, family of origin issues, couples/marriage concerns and divorce.
I have been in private practice since 2004 and work with individuals, couples and groups dealing with a wide variety of issues. I recognize that each client is unique and strive to create an individual plan of therapy tailored to each person's specific needs. This often includes dealing with what isn't working in their life, whether it's depression, traumatic past experiences or relational difficulties, also recognizing the aspects of their life that may be working well and finding ways to build on those strengths.
My areas of expertise include: life transitions, past abuse, depression, low self-esteem, family of origin issues, couples/marriage concerns and divorce.
I have been in private practice since 2004 and work with individuals, couples and groups dealing with a wide variety of issues. I recognize that each client is unique and strive to create an individual plan of therapy tailored to each person's specific needs. This often includes dealing with what isn't working in their life, whether it's depression, traumatic past experiences or relational difficulties, also recognizing the aspects of their life that may be working well and finding ways to build on those strengths.
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Photo of Mike Wilhelm, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Washington
Mike Wilhelm
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
In addition to my Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, I have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Method, as well as Circle of Security Parenting and Life Span Integration Therapy.
Conflicts and difficulties in relationships are everywhere. I specialize in helping couples, families and individuals repair and change unhealthy patterns towards healing and creating new patterns of healthy communication. I have a holistic approach, integrating mind, body and spirit. I help clients feel safe to connect with deeper parts of themselves, enabling them to connect more deeply with others. I incorporate spirituality if the client would like, and am accepting to all forms of spirituality, religion, cultures, genders and sexualities.
In addition to my Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, I have training in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Gottman Method, as well as Circle of Security Parenting and Life Span Integration Therapy.
Conflicts and difficulties in relationships are everywhere. I specialize in helping couples, families and individuals repair and change unhealthy patterns towards healing and creating new patterns of healthy communication. I have a holistic approach, integrating mind, body and spirit. I help clients feel safe to connect with deeper parts of themselves, enabling them to connect more deeply with others. I incorporate spirituality if the client would like, and am accepting to all forms of spirituality, religion, cultures, genders and sexualities.
(509) 481-9629 View (509) 481-9629
Photo of Laura L Saviola, Psychologist in Washington
Laura L Saviola
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663  (Online Only)
I am accepting new patients, adults and teenagers, for online Telehealth Therapy. In my practice I believe each patient is unique, and I tailor my therapy sessions to meet the needs of each individual. I feel that specific goals and measurable progress are important in my practice, along with compassion. I create a warm and comfortable environment that allows patients to feel safe, open, and ready to change. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Acceptance and Commitment therapy during each session and weave in other techniques and theories such as Internal Family Systems, and more as needed.
I am accepting new patients, adults and teenagers, for online Telehealth Therapy. In my practice I believe each patient is unique, and I tailor my therapy sessions to meet the needs of each individual. I feel that specific goals and measurable progress are important in my practice, along with compassion. I create a warm and comfortable environment that allows patients to feel safe, open, and ready to change. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy along with Acceptance and Commitment therapy during each session and weave in other techniques and theories such as Internal Family Systems, and more as needed.
(503) 563-8010 View (503) 563-8010
Photo of Linh Tran, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Linh Tran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSWA
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122  (Online Only)
Update 4/24: Accepting new clients! I work with young adults and adolescents (15+) who are immigrants, children of immigrants/refugees, LGBTQIA+, BIPOC. As part of these communities, you might feel anxious, depressed, and misunderstood. You might have spent years catering to others that you struggle to understand yourself. You might carry expectations from family and feel caught among cultures. You might be unpacking years of childhood and generational trauma. I see you trying your best and am here to support you in getting back to yourself, your needs, and your values.
Update 4/24: Accepting new clients! I work with young adults and adolescents (15+) who are immigrants, children of immigrants/refugees, LGBTQIA+, BIPOC. As part of these communities, you might feel anxious, depressed, and misunderstood. You might have spent years catering to others that you struggle to understand yourself. You might carry expectations from family and feel caught among cultures. You might be unpacking years of childhood and generational trauma. I see you trying your best and am here to support you in getting back to yourself, your needs, and your values.
(206) 899-0385 View (206) 899-0385
Photo of Tammette L Chitwood, Counselor in Washington
Tammette L Chitwood
Counselor, MS, CC, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Mill Creek, WA 98012
As your therapist, my goal is to provide you with a warm and welcoming environment where you are free to explore the areas of your life you wish to improve for holistic healing - physical, emotional, mental, relational, and spiritual. I offer a warm and empathetic environment as I use a person-centered approach that allows me to understand you through your own unique experiences and walk alongside you on this journey to achieve your personal goals. My primary focus is in child, individual, and couples/family counseling as well as working with neurodivergent populations using neurodiversity-affirming language and approach.
As your therapist, my goal is to provide you with a warm and welcoming environment where you are free to explore the areas of your life you wish to improve for holistic healing - physical, emotional, mental, relational, and spiritual. I offer a warm and empathetic environment as I use a person-centered approach that allows me to understand you through your own unique experiences and walk alongside you on this journey to achieve your personal goals. My primary focus is in child, individual, and couples/family counseling as well as working with neurodivergent populations using neurodiversity-affirming language and approach.
(360) 583-6961 View (360) 583-6961
Photo of Jessa White, Counselor in Washington
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 Wayfinder Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Wayfinder Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CMHS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lynnwood, WA 98036  (Online Only)
I'm an individual and family therapist who enjoys helping adolescents and adults cope with life changes and traumatic experiences. Some issues I help clients with include: healing from abuse, divorce, school difficulties, parenting challenges, domestic violence, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, and coping with chronic illness. I work to provide my clients with a safe and comfortable space to talk as well as to provide them with tools to help get through difficult times and situations. I am experienced in working with clients from the LGBTQ community, as well as those in non-traditional family/relationship structures.
I'm an individual and family therapist who enjoys helping adolescents and adults cope with life changes and traumatic experiences. Some issues I help clients with include: healing from abuse, divorce, school difficulties, parenting challenges, domestic violence, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, and coping with chronic illness. I work to provide my clients with a safe and comfortable space to talk as well as to provide them with tools to help get through difficult times and situations. I am experienced in working with clients from the LGBTQ community, as well as those in non-traditional family/relationship structures.
(253) 343-1613 View (253) 343-1613
Photo of Healing Hearts Therapy, PLLC, Mental Health Counselor Associate in Washington
Healing Hearts Therapy, PLLC
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, ABS
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043  (Online Only)
You and I will identify therapeutic goals through what’s called a systemic approach and exploration of Family of Origin is key.
Hello and welcome. My name is LoriLee Haener. I would imagine, if you’re exploring options for different treatment modalities while choosing a therapist that’s right for you, it’s for a very good reason. You may be feeling stuck, either caused by a sudden, significant “life-event” or grappling with anxiety, fear, & trauma that have seized your ability to make choices that are aligned with your health and well-being during anxious and tense moments. You may have suffered with addiction in the process of easing your daily pain. You are not alone, but how you address these issues is unique to you.
You and I will identify therapeutic goals through what’s called a systemic approach and exploration of Family of Origin is key.
Hello and welcome. My name is LoriLee Haener. I would imagine, if you’re exploring options for different treatment modalities while choosing a therapist that’s right for you, it’s for a very good reason. You may be feeling stuck, either caused by a sudden, significant “life-event” or grappling with anxiety, fear, & trauma that have seized your ability to make choices that are aligned with your health and well-being during anxious and tense moments. You may have suffered with addiction in the process of easing your daily pain. You are not alone, but how you address these issues is unique to you.
(425) 585-4157 View (425) 585-4157
Photo of Shaeann Reese, Counselor in Washington
Shaeann Reese
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Monroe, WA 98272
I'm uniquely qualified to help you as an individual, couple, or family.
Providing services to teens and adults who are struggling with mood and/or behavioral issues, depression, anxiety, frustrated parents, relationship issues, cancer patients/survivors and individuals that hope for a better life. I consider every individual's strengths and needs in order to provide the best therapeutic interventions. I specialize in providing trauma focused modalities to those who are struggling with trauma and may be suffering from PTSD. I also provide services to a wide range of individuals, utilizing a number of therapeutic inventions.
I'm uniquely qualified to help you as an individual, couple, or family.
Providing services to teens and adults who are struggling with mood and/or behavioral issues, depression, anxiety, frustrated parents, relationship issues, cancer patients/survivors and individuals that hope for a better life. I consider every individual's strengths and needs in order to provide the best therapeutic interventions. I specialize in providing trauma focused modalities to those who are struggling with trauma and may be suffering from PTSD. I also provide services to a wide range of individuals, utilizing a number of therapeutic inventions.
(206) 966-6764 View (206) 966-6764
Photo of Valery Byrd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Valery Byrd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MHP, LICSW
Verified Verified
Centralia, WA 98531
In working with each individual, couple, or family, I draw from elements of Person-Centered, CBT, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Family Systems Theory, and Attachment Theory.
Maybe you tried therapy and it didn't help, or maybe you're hesitant to try it for the first time. Whatever the case, allow me the opportunity to change your mind! in the 6 years I've been in practice, I've had wonderful feedback from my clients. Each person is a unique individual who needs customized treatment. My goal is to get to know and understand YOU, and walk alongside you in the journey of self discovery. Do you need someone to listen and care? Looking for new tools and practical solutions? Seeking healing? I can help!
In working with each individual, couple, or family, I draw from elements of Person-Centered, CBT, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Family Systems Theory, and Attachment Theory.
Maybe you tried therapy and it didn't help, or maybe you're hesitant to try it for the first time. Whatever the case, allow me the opportunity to change your mind! in the 6 years I've been in practice, I've had wonderful feedback from my clients. Each person is a unique individual who needs customized treatment. My goal is to get to know and understand YOU, and walk alongside you in the journey of self discovery. Do you need someone to listen and care? Looking for new tools and practical solutions? Seeking healing? I can help!
(360) 800-4267 View (360) 800-4267
Photo of Brooke Garcia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Washington
Brooke Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Dupont, WA 98327
My clinical training and specialty focus includes military/veteran/LEO focused trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, intimate partner violence, divorce care, parent/child relationships, and sexual abuse. I draw from a range of therapeutic treatment modalities to tailor therapy to you and your strengths as an individual. The primary evidence-based protocols I utilize in my practice are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Internal Family Systems, and Prolonged Exposure.
My clinical training and specialty focus includes military/veteran/LEO focused trauma, anxiety, depression, PTSD, intimate partner violence, divorce care, parent/child relationships, and sexual abuse. I draw from a range of therapeutic treatment modalities to tailor therapy to you and your strengths as an individual. The primary evidence-based protocols I utilize in my practice are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Internal Family Systems, and Prolonged Exposure.
(253) 352-4359 View (253) 352-4359
Photo of Victoria Tierney, Counselor in Washington
Victoria Tierney
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Port Orchard, WA 98367
Hello! During this uncertain time, I am taking new patients by phone and via Telemental Health video conferencing. You can explore the challenges affecting your daily life. I honor diversity and support you in determining your personal goals. Your needs are addressed in the safety of personal phone, video, or face-to-face sessions (when we can). We plan your treatment together by addressing your needs: anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, among other mental health challenges- along with family and/or relationship complications. I work with adults, teens, couples, parents, families. I look forward to meeting you.
Hello! During this uncertain time, I am taking new patients by phone and via Telemental Health video conferencing. You can explore the challenges affecting your daily life. I honor diversity and support you in determining your personal goals. Your needs are addressed in the safety of personal phone, video, or face-to-face sessions (when we can). We plan your treatment together by addressing your needs: anxiety, depression, trauma, eating disorders, among other mental health challenges- along with family and/or relationship complications. I work with adults, teens, couples, parents, families. I look forward to meeting you.
(360) 523-7363 View (360) 523-7363
Photo of Alagna Valsesia, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Washington
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
Photo of Scott La Fein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Scott La Fein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, WA 98273
Whether "you" are an individual, couple or family, I am always honored to get to know you and help facilitate the emergence of your unique core self which lies ready to be seen, known and fully lived.
No matter how straight & smooth we try to make it, life is, by nature a crooked line & a bumpy road! Depression, anxiety, grief, trauma...all by-products of living life. Fortunately, we are hard-wired for health; drawn to people & situations that foster our transformance. However, we develop coping/protective mechanisms that hinder that innate tendency to thrive. We create stories about ourselves & the world that keep us scared & isolated. Therapy is the sacred and confidential space in which these, up until now, forbidden feelings, self-thoughts, memories can be carefully, sensitively and intentionally brought forth into the light.
Whether "you" are an individual, couple or family, I am always honored to get to know you and help facilitate the emergence of your unique core self which lies ready to be seen, known and fully lived.
No matter how straight & smooth we try to make it, life is, by nature a crooked line & a bumpy road! Depression, anxiety, grief, trauma...all by-products of living life. Fortunately, we are hard-wired for health; drawn to people & situations that foster our transformance. However, we develop coping/protective mechanisms that hinder that innate tendency to thrive. We create stories about ourselves & the world that keep us scared & isolated. Therapy is the sacred and confidential space in which these, up until now, forbidden feelings, self-thoughts, memories can be carefully, sensitively and intentionally brought forth into the light.
(360) 926-9284 View (360) 926-9284
Photo of Benjamin Rhodes, Counselor in Washington
Benjamin Rhodes
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP, BCPC, DAPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122
I enjoy working with individuals who are seeking to relinquish legacies inherited from backgrounds of family dysfunction, such as abuse, neglect, alcoholism and domestic violence.
I am a Clinical Psychotherapist,Board Certified Professional Counselor, Diplomate of the American Psychotherapy Association and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Washington I'm committed to grounding my work in a spirit of curiosity and collaboration. .I use an integrative/relational approach in therapy. I actively help my clients to better understand and gain clarity of their concerns in order to make necessary changes to facilitate personal growth. Psychotherapy can improve the quality and intimacy of your relationships, provide solutions to specific life problems, and significantly reduce feelings of distress.
I enjoy working with individuals who are seeking to relinquish legacies inherited from backgrounds of family dysfunction, such as abuse, neglect, alcoholism and domestic violence.
I am a Clinical Psychotherapist,Board Certified Professional Counselor, Diplomate of the American Psychotherapy Association and Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the State of Washington I'm committed to grounding my work in a spirit of curiosity and collaboration. .I use an integrative/relational approach in therapy. I actively help my clients to better understand and gain clarity of their concerns in order to make necessary changes to facilitate personal growth. Psychotherapy can improve the quality and intimacy of your relationships, provide solutions to specific life problems, and significantly reduce feelings of distress.
(206) 429-4741 View (206) 429-4741
Photo of Daesoleil Peterson Henry, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Washington
Daesoleil Peterson Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT, LMFTA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Snoqualmie, WA 98065
Daesoleil is a Marriage and Family Therapy Associate who strives to create a supportive, authentic, and challenging environment for her clients. Daesoleil believes that individuals are shaped by their families, society, and experiences. She aims to help her clients gain insight into their emotional experience and use that insight to improve their relationships. Daesoleil has spent the last several years working with children, teens, and their families.
Daesoleil is a Marriage and Family Therapy Associate who strives to create a supportive, authentic, and challenging environment for her clients. Daesoleil believes that individuals are shaped by their families, society, and experiences. She aims to help her clients gain insight into their emotional experience and use that insight to improve their relationships. Daesoleil has spent the last several years working with children, teens, and their families.
(425) 585-2672 View (425) 585-2672
Photo of Linda Simmons, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Linda Simmons
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and family Therapist (LMFT) with a Master's Degree in Human Development and Family Studies. I have worked with individuals, couples, children and families for over 20 years in private practice and other settings. I offer a variety of treatment options including play therapy, sand tray therapy, mindfulness practices and EMDR.
I am a Licensed Marriage and family Therapist (LMFT) with a Master's Degree in Human Development and Family Studies. I have worked with individuals, couples, children and families for over 20 years in private practice and other settings. I offer a variety of treatment options including play therapy, sand tray therapy, mindfulness practices and EMDR.
(970) 239-0197 View (970) 239-0197
Photo of Dr. Danny, Counselor in Washington
Dr. Danny
Counselor, MA, DMin, MHC
Verified Verified
Rooted in Attachment Theory, and informed and affirmed by Internal Family Systems methodology (not to mention other relational psychotherapies), I help folks know their powerful presence amidst, and not absent, the glory of vulnerability.
Who, really, is able to hear, feel, and see you . . . bless and name your glory and shame? Only those who continue to do their own courageous work of daring to be truly heard, felt, and seen. Simple but not easy! The journey, however, is worth it. Life changing . . . with the right guide, i.e., presence. A favorite quote comes to mind: "We all come into this world looking for someone looking for us." If that resonates with your heart (courageous or not) then I hope to hear from you. We might just be a good fit? Please email me at: drdanny(at)doc-danny(dot com). Or call: two-zero-six...four-two-nine...four-five-seven-nine.
Rooted in Attachment Theory, and informed and affirmed by Internal Family Systems methodology (not to mention other relational psychotherapies), I help folks know their powerful presence amidst, and not absent, the glory of vulnerability.
Who, really, is able to hear, feel, and see you . . . bless and name your glory and shame? Only those who continue to do their own courageous work of daring to be truly heard, felt, and seen. Simple but not easy! The journey, however, is worth it. Life changing . . . with the right guide, i.e., presence. A favorite quote comes to mind: "We all come into this world looking for someone looking for us." If that resonates with your heart (courageous or not) then I hope to hear from you. We might just be a good fit? Please email me at: drdanny(at)doc-danny(dot com). Or call: two-zero-six...four-two-nine...four-five-seven-nine.
(206) 429-4579 View (206) 429-4579
Photo of Ashly Lambert, Psychologist in Washington
Ashly Lambert
Psychologist, JD, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
My areas of specialty include relationship issues, fertility challenges, and life transitions — family planning, adjusting to parenthood, job changes, recent moves, aging parents, existential questions.
Are you struggling to live the life you want? Are you feeling sad, anxious, angry, or frustrated with your current situation? If so, I'd love to help! Through our work together, you can lead a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life. I work hard to create a compassionate and safe environment that fosters personal growth and lasting change. During therapy, I challenge clients through open and active dialogue and observations. At times, I also find a hugely important part of my work involves helping clients accept what they cannot change to free themselves from being stuck in the past.
My areas of specialty include relationship issues, fertility challenges, and life transitions — family planning, adjusting to parenthood, job changes, recent moves, aging parents, existential questions.
Are you struggling to live the life you want? Are you feeling sad, anxious, angry, or frustrated with your current situation? If so, I'd love to help! Through our work together, you can lead a happier, healthier and more fulfilling life. I work hard to create a compassionate and safe environment that fosters personal growth and lasting change. During therapy, I challenge clients through open and active dialogue and observations. At times, I also find a hugely important part of my work involves helping clients accept what they cannot change to free themselves from being stuck in the past.
(206) 460-1998 View (206) 460-1998
Photo of Katrina L Barnes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Washington
Katrina L Barnes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98661
Open for new clients in some time spots. Healthier life means a balance in our relationships. Therapy can help by re-connecting mind, body, spirit and relationships with others. A change in one area often ties to threads in another. Brokenness in our primary relationships can disconnect family, work, community and culture. Together we can re-weave these threads through our stories about ourselves, and people around us. We can change the next chapter. What we do, who we are and what our relationships mean are all important. We need space to be unique and we also need relationships that provide closeness.
Open for new clients in some time spots. Healthier life means a balance in our relationships. Therapy can help by re-connecting mind, body, spirit and relationships with others. A change in one area often ties to threads in another. Brokenness in our primary relationships can disconnect family, work, community and culture. Together we can re-weave these threads through our stories about ourselves, and people around us. We can change the next chapter. What we do, who we are and what our relationships mean are all important. We need space to be unique and we also need relationships that provide closeness.
(360) 524-9351 View (360) 524-9351

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.