Photo of Dr. Christine Abassary, PhD, LCMHC
Dr. Christine Abassary
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
By working with you individually or within your family and/ or loved ones relationship dynamic the possibilities emerge.
You deserve to feel happiness along with a range of emotions. Did you know recent events can trigger our past traumas? Addressing our emotions through healthy coping can free our potential, improve relationships and help us to simply enjoy our life more thoroughly. I will work within an authentic, present-focused, self-paced therapeutic relationship to foster change. We will address past traumas at your pace and current obstacles to heal. I utilize tools that are evidence-based and meet your specific needs. I have over 20 years experience working with children, adolescents and adults from various backgrounds.
By working with you individually or within your family and/ or loved ones relationship dynamic the possibilities emerge.
You deserve to feel happiness along with a range of emotions. Did you know recent events can trigger our past traumas? Addressing our emotions through healthy coping can free our potential, improve relationships and help us to simply enjoy our life more thoroughly. I will work within an authentic, present-focused, self-paced therapeutic relationship to foster change. We will address past traumas at your pace and current obstacles to heal. I utilize tools that are evidence-based and meet your specific needs. I have over 20 years experience working with children, adolescents and adults from various backgrounds.
(828) 761-0963 View (828) 761-0963
Photo of Carol Greenberger, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Carol Greenberger
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I use Imago, EFT, and Family Systems, to help couples get to the root of their problems.
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
I use Imago, EFT, and Family Systems, to help couples get to the root of their problems.
Are you feeling alone, anxious or depressed? Unsatisfied with your career, have chronic pain or illness? Relationship stress, extended family issues? My clients tell me I'm warm, easy to talk to, and down to earth. I use a variety of treatment approaches: psychodynamic and relational, combined with CBT, EFT, and EMDR. EMDR can help almost any problem resolve more quickly because it allows the brain to make changes on a deeper level than just talking. We still talk plenty though, before, during and after EMDR. My clients find telehealth to be helpful and convenient. I see regular clients occasionally at my home office.
(828) 484-2226 View (828) 484-2226
Photo of Tayler Shannon, RN, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Tayler Shannon
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, RN, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
(Please note: I am NOT qualified to fill out Family Medical Leave (FMLA) or Disability paperwork.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or unhappy? Do you want to work on change or your health in 2024? Do you have patterns that aren't working? I'm a Licensed Mental Health & Addictions Therapist AND a Licensed Registered Nurse. I offer one-on-one therapy to individual adults, age 18 & up. Talking with a mental health provider who is caring & experienced (and more objective than your friends & family are) may reduce some tough feelings & help you manage your current concerns. I aim to create a safe space where you can explore your emotions & thoughts, and examine obstacles that are preventing you from living the life you wish to live.
(Please note: I am NOT qualified to fill out Family Medical Leave (FMLA) or Disability paperwork.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or unhappy? Do you want to work on change or your health in 2024? Do you have patterns that aren't working? I'm a Licensed Mental Health & Addictions Therapist AND a Licensed Registered Nurse. I offer one-on-one therapy to individual adults, age 18 & up. Talking with a mental health provider who is caring & experienced (and more objective than your friends & family are) may reduce some tough feelings & help you manage your current concerns. I aim to create a safe space where you can explore your emotions & thoughts, and examine obstacles that are preventing you from living the life you wish to live.
(336) 891-3390 View (336) 891-3390
Photo of Eric Belsterling, PhD stu, LCAS, CSAT, CMAT, CCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eric Belsterling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD stu, LCAS, CSAT, CMAT, CCS
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a variety of therapies that may include Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Level II) EMDR (Level II), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, and Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention, " Interpersonal Neurobiology, ACT, DBT, Seeking Safety, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I believe there are many ways to achieve well-being and recovery. Presence, patience, compassion, acceptance, and curiosity are some of the qualities I possess. I believe competent therapy is a co-creation between the client and therapist and pride myself in embodying everything I expect of my clients. I'm passionate about stewarding people to create greater acceptance, balance, inner attunement and well-being in their lives. I specialize in all addiction disorders (i.e. substance use disorders, behavioral addictions such as problematic sexual behaviors, porn, food, internet gaming, etc.) and/or co-occurring disorders.
I utilize a variety of therapies that may include Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (Level II) EMDR (Level II), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Trauma Sensitive Mindfulness, and Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention, " Interpersonal Neurobiology, ACT, DBT, Seeking Safety, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I believe there are many ways to achieve well-being and recovery. Presence, patience, compassion, acceptance, and curiosity are some of the qualities I possess. I believe competent therapy is a co-creation between the client and therapist and pride myself in embodying everything I expect of my clients. I'm passionate about stewarding people to create greater acceptance, balance, inner attunement and well-being in their lives. I specialize in all addiction disorders (i.e. substance use disorders, behavioral addictions such as problematic sexual behaviors, porn, food, internet gaming, etc.) and/or co-occurring disorders.
(828) 476-4278 View (828) 476-4278
Photo of Tara Chandler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tara Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I love working with individuals in the big transition stages of life. I have a passion for helping patients sort out the often confusing and disorienting realization that there is no "right" way to do things. Being a new parent, navigating relationships and intimacy, working through family relationhships and the every changing political climate are all transitions that interest me. The journey is about figuring out a happy medium between your way and what is acceptable to those that love and support you.
I love working with individuals in the big transition stages of life. I have a passion for helping patients sort out the often confusing and disorienting realization that there is no "right" way to do things. Being a new parent, navigating relationships and intimacy, working through family relationhships and the every changing political climate are all transitions that interest me. The journey is about figuring out a happy medium between your way and what is acceptable to those that love and support you.
(828) 575-9760 View (828) 575-9760
Photo of N. Diane Stamey, MA, LMFT, LFBPC, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
N. Diane Stamey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LFBPC, MDiv
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook, Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
My ideal client is a person who is finding life, love and work challenging! I have been a Christian psychotherapist for over thirty years. My extensive education. my two NC licenses and a three year Residency in Pastoral Counseling at Wake Forest Baptist Hospital has equipped me to handle both acute and chronic mental health issues. I like working with Couples, Families, Children, Teens, Adults and Seniors! My specialties are Family Issues, Anxiety Disorders, Depression, Bi-polar Disorders, Grief and Medical Issues. I like these websites: ADAA.org. and anxieties.com. Find me on Facebook, Mountain Center For Pastoral Counseling.
(828) 348-6863 View (828) 348-6863
Photo of Lindsay Okeefe, MA, LPC
Lindsay Okeefe
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
These include Internal Family Systems Therapy, EMDR, mindfulness based CBT and DBT, and trauma sensitive yoga.
I work with adults and couples who have a wide range of goals and challenges. I believe connection to oneself, to others, to community and to spirit are fundamental issues that underlie the particular problems people bring to therapy, as well as the solutions that emerge through therapeutic work.
These include Internal Family Systems Therapy, EMDR, mindfulness based CBT and DBT, and trauma sensitive yoga.
I work with adults and couples who have a wide range of goals and challenges. I believe connection to oneself, to others, to community and to spirit are fundamental issues that underlie the particular problems people bring to therapy, as well as the solutions that emerge through therapeutic work.
(828) 484-0019 View (828) 484-0019
Photo of Pia Arrendell, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pia Arrendell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
My approach is based on Cognitive Behavioral, Short Solution Focused and Family Systems therapy.
You are here because of conflict, infidelity, lack of intimacy and you feel disconnected in your relationship. You've been trying to reconnect but when your relationship is in crisis, it can be hard to bridge the gap yourselves. When you can't trust your partner, where do you start? You're hurt, scared and lost but It's possible to let go of the pain and face your fears. Whether you're ready to come in as an individual or as a couple, we can work together to find solutions. No judgement here. It's time to get to work.
My approach is based on Cognitive Behavioral, Short Solution Focused and Family Systems therapy.
You are here because of conflict, infidelity, lack of intimacy and you feel disconnected in your relationship. You've been trying to reconnect but when your relationship is in crisis, it can be hard to bridge the gap yourselves. When you can't trust your partner, where do you start? You're hurt, scared and lost but It's possible to let go of the pain and face your fears. Whether you're ready to come in as an individual or as a couple, we can work together to find solutions. No judgement here. It's time to get to work.
(828) 551-2048 View (828) 551-2048
Photo of Carolyn McCarter Wood - Mountain Counseling Works, PLLC, MDiv, LCSW, CEDS, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mountain Counseling Works, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LCSW, CEDS, LCAS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
As a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist I am deeply committed to supporting individuals who are struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, body acceptance, or trauma. I know that full recovery is possible for many and that all are worthy of support whether they get "all better" or not. I am trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Embodied Recovery for Eating Disorders.
As a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist I am deeply committed to supporting individuals who are struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, body acceptance, or trauma. I know that full recovery is possible for many and that all are worthy of support whether they get "all better" or not. I am trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Embodied Recovery for Eating Disorders.
(828) 848-4878 View (828) 848-4878
Photo of T.j. Stiers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
T.j. Stiers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
While there, I developed a love of the Latino Culture and began to understand how family systems can be developed and maintained.
The process of therapy is about removing your personal blocks to healing and helping you to remember all that is good, right, and well within you. The path to achieving this can be varied and uniquely personal. I use a variety of methods including traditional psychotherapy and EMDR to assist you in your process. I have helped clients process traumatic memories, cope with grief, and move from anxiety and depression to states of mindful calmness and well being.
While there, I developed a love of the Latino Culture and began to understand how family systems can be developed and maintained.
The process of therapy is about removing your personal blocks to healing and helping you to remember all that is good, right, and well within you. The path to achieving this can be varied and uniquely personal. I use a variety of methods including traditional psychotherapy and EMDR to assist you in your process. I have helped clients process traumatic memories, cope with grief, and move from anxiety and depression to states of mindful calmness and well being.
(828) 597-0638 View (828) 597-0638
Photo of Elyse Edwards - Forsyth Family Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor
Forsyth Family Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
At Forsyth Family Counseling, we understand the importance of providing a warm, comfortable, friendly and familiar atmosphere to begin this journey and the healing process.
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
At Forsyth Family Counseling, we understand the importance of providing a warm, comfortable, friendly and familiar atmosphere to begin this journey and the healing process.
Our licensed therapists have extensive training and experience in issues affecting adults, couples, children, adolescents and their families. We specialize in treating a range of conditions including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, attachment, addiction, grief, women/men's issues, ADHD, oppositional/defiance, trauma, post traumatic stress disorder, OCD, and much more. We also offer extensive effective parenting training if your child is oppositional, defiant, and sometimes even aggressive.
(828) 367-1010 View (828) 367-1010
Photo of Katherine Therrell, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine Therrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
My clients are adults, adolescents, and children who need help coping with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, abuse, educational/employment situations, family dynamics, or other problems impacting their mental health. Though I practice Cognative Behavioral Therapy, I employ a variety of methods including "talk therapy", EMDR, sand therapy, and play therapy, depending upon individual need. I strive to provide unconditional acceptance and support to my clients as they work to achieve their counseling goals. I accept Medicaid and most private insurance.
My clients are adults, adolescents, and children who need help coping with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, abuse, educational/employment situations, family dynamics, or other problems impacting their mental health. Though I practice Cognative Behavioral Therapy, I employ a variety of methods including "talk therapy", EMDR, sand therapy, and play therapy, depending upon individual need. I strive to provide unconditional acceptance and support to my clients as they work to achieve their counseling goals. I accept Medicaid and most private insurance.
(828) 565-1925 View (828) 565-1925
Photo of Tammy Maxey, LCMHC, LCAS, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammy Maxey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CEDS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
When we are not feeling at our best due to stress, anxiety, depression, family conflict, addiction etc., it effects every other aspect of our lives. It takes strength and courage to recognize that something needs to change. I like to work with my clients in a collaborative and supportive style that provides a blend of coaching, interactive interventions and by instilling hope about their future. Where you are today does not mean that you have to be there tomorrow
When we are not feeling at our best due to stress, anxiety, depression, family conflict, addiction etc., it effects every other aspect of our lives. It takes strength and courage to recognize that something needs to change. I like to work with my clients in a collaborative and supportive style that provides a blend of coaching, interactive interventions and by instilling hope about their future. Where you are today does not mean that you have to be there tomorrow
(828) 475-8634 View (828) 475-8634
Photo of Jason Jones - Daya Mental Health and Wellness - Ketamine KAP, LCSW-A, LCAS, CSI, LCMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daya Mental Health and Wellness - Ketamine KAP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A, LCAS, CSI, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Daya Mental Health and Wellness welcomes individuals suffering from addiction or mental health problems. We are an Asheville based therapy practice that offers psychotherapy sessions for treatment of addiction, trauma, eating disorders, self esteem issues, anxiety and depression. Our dedicated and experienced staff are passionate about helping people improve their lives and learn to cope with everyday problems. We serve the whole person, because integrating the mind, the body and the community are essential in optimizing a person's quality of life. Accepting New Clients
Daya Mental Health and Wellness welcomes individuals suffering from addiction or mental health problems. We are an Asheville based therapy practice that offers psychotherapy sessions for treatment of addiction, trauma, eating disorders, self esteem issues, anxiety and depression. Our dedicated and experienced staff are passionate about helping people improve their lives and learn to cope with everyday problems. We serve the whole person, because integrating the mind, the body and the community are essential in optimizing a person's quality of life. Accepting New Clients
(828) 412-3330 View (828) 412-3330
Photo of Amparo Penny, MA, LCMHC, C-DBT, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amparo Penny
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, C-DBT, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Waitlist for new clients
You are allowed to be a masterpiece and a work in progress at the same time - Sophia Bush. Are you at war with your emotions, food, or your body? Well, that's just the tip of the iceberg, and I invite you to take you on a journey below the surface. I am a DBT-certified, trauma-certified, and Intuitive Eating certified therapist and I see therapy as a journey we take together; you’re the driver and I'm the helpful passenger :) I have been a licensed therapist for 17 years, supporting people with eating disorders, issues with emotion regulation, body image issues, and borderline personality disorder. You're never "too much" for me.
You are allowed to be a masterpiece and a work in progress at the same time - Sophia Bush. Are you at war with your emotions, food, or your body? Well, that's just the tip of the iceberg, and I invite you to take you on a journey below the surface. I am a DBT-certified, trauma-certified, and Intuitive Eating certified therapist and I see therapy as a journey we take together; you’re the driver and I'm the helpful passenger :) I have been a licensed therapist for 17 years, supporting people with eating disorders, issues with emotion regulation, body image issues, and borderline personality disorder. You're never "too much" for me.
(828) 373-2537 View (828) 373-2537
Photo of Nilly Barr, MS, LPC, BCIM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nilly Barr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, BCIM
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
"Working toward clarity and balance at home and work." I believe insight plus action makes for positive changes. I have a great appreciation and respect for my clients as they use their resources and tap into their inner strength and wisdom toward setting goals and making positive changes. Therapy is about making changes and it is my honor to help my clients find their personal path toward their goals. The more I can help a person be connected and honest with themselves, the more they will make decisions, take action, and reach their destination toward their most authentic, happy self.
"Working toward clarity and balance at home and work." I believe insight plus action makes for positive changes. I have a great appreciation and respect for my clients as they use their resources and tap into their inner strength and wisdom toward setting goals and making positive changes. Therapy is about making changes and it is my honor to help my clients find their personal path toward their goals. The more I can help a person be connected and honest with themselves, the more they will make decisions, take action, and reach their destination toward their most authentic, happy self.
(864) 334-8134 View (864) 334-8134
Photo of Jeremy Henderson-Teelucksingh, MHR, MA, LPCMHSP, LCMHC, CCMHC, Counselor
Jeremy Henderson-Teelucksingh
Counselor, MHR, MA, LPCMHSP, LCMHC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801  (Online Only)
I am accepting online clients for virtual therapy in Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina. I work with adults (Individuals, couples, and families) across a number of life experiences and mental health issues. I also work with the LGBTQIA+ community as an "out" counselor. I approach counseling from a multicultural and social justice viewpoint and have lived and worked in many countries and US states. I draw from these experiences to understand your unique situation.
I am accepting online clients for virtual therapy in Tennessee, North Carolina, and South Carolina. I work with adults (Individuals, couples, and families) across a number of life experiences and mental health issues. I also work with the LGBTQIA+ community as an "out" counselor. I approach counseling from a multicultural and social justice viewpoint and have lived and worked in many countries and US states. I draw from these experiences to understand your unique situation.
(866) 866-3512 View (866) 866-3512
Photo of Nell Corry, LCSW, NCGC, MBACP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nell Corry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NCGC, MBACP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, stressed? Overwhelmed by relationship, work issues, addictions? Congratulations for taking the first step to change your life. Reaching out for help takes courage at a time when we are not feeling very brave. No matter how overwhelming things seem now, all of your problems have solutions. I provide a safe, private environment where we work together to help you feel empowered, at peace, good about yourself and excited about living. I offer a free 20 minute consultation so you can ask questions and decide if you feel comfortable working with me. I look forward to hearing from you soon!
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, stressed? Overwhelmed by relationship, work issues, addictions? Congratulations for taking the first step to change your life. Reaching out for help takes courage at a time when we are not feeling very brave. No matter how overwhelming things seem now, all of your problems have solutions. I provide a safe, private environment where we work together to help you feel empowered, at peace, good about yourself and excited about living. I offer a free 20 minute consultation so you can ask questions and decide if you feel comfortable working with me. I look forward to hearing from you soon!
(828) 476-4054 View (828) 476-4054
Photo of Melina Bridges, LCMHC
Melina Bridges
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
I offer expressive and emotionally based therapies to children (ages 6 and older) a warm and nurturing environment which provides a safe space to do any healing they might need to do to move forward, to feel better about who they are, or share what might have happened in their lives that makes their heart ache. I help teens and young adults navigate the turbulence of hormones, and school work, friendships and home life, college and relationships, and all the other activities and significant events happening, while trying to discover who they are and what makes them feel most alive.
I offer expressive and emotionally based therapies to children (ages 6 and older) a warm and nurturing environment which provides a safe space to do any healing they might need to do to move forward, to feel better about who they are, or share what might have happened in their lives that makes their heart ache. I help teens and young adults navigate the turbulence of hormones, and school work, friendships and home life, college and relationships, and all the other activities and significant events happening, while trying to discover who they are and what makes them feel most alive.
(828) 373-6117 View (828) 373-6117
Photo of Kambra Meyer, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kambra Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
Even the most self-aware humans can experience periods of confusion, stuckness, and destabilization, and oftentimes suffering has unconscious roots. I've dedicated my training and education as a helping professional to learn how to unlock messages from the unconscious to promote healing and well-being. I also strive to arm my clients with concrete tools to use independently, long after our work together is completed. I have many years of experience helping people heal, blending a variety of nontraditional and expressive therapeutic approaches with evidence-based interventions to meet the individual needs of the people I serve.
Even the most self-aware humans can experience periods of confusion, stuckness, and destabilization, and oftentimes suffering has unconscious roots. I've dedicated my training and education as a helping professional to learn how to unlock messages from the unconscious to promote healing and well-being. I also strive to arm my clients with concrete tools to use independently, long after our work together is completed. I have many years of experience helping people heal, blending a variety of nontraditional and expressive therapeutic approaches with evidence-based interventions to meet the individual needs of the people I serve.
(828) 333-5410 View (828) 333-5410
1
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.