Photo of Cynthia Vergara, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Cynthia Vergara
Marriage & Family Therapist, M S, LMFT
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
I am informed by systems and psychodynamic theories and have experience with CBT, Motivational Interviewing and Brief Strategic Family Therapy.
Making the time for yourself to feel happier, to alleviate stress or anxiety, to find meaning in your life or to improve your relationships; these are some of the reasons why people decide to enter therapy. Therapy can help you to get the most out of your life, to feel happier, more connected, and fulfilled. I have worked in a variety of settings over 15 years in this field. I enjoy working with individuals and families to help you achieve your goals.
I am informed by systems and psychodynamic theories and have experience with CBT, Motivational Interviewing and Brief Strategic Family Therapy.
Making the time for yourself to feel happier, to alleviate stress or anxiety, to find meaning in your life or to improve your relationships; these are some of the reasons why people decide to enter therapy. Therapy can help you to get the most out of your life, to feel happier, more connected, and fulfilled. I have worked in a variety of settings over 15 years in this field. I enjoy working with individuals and families to help you achieve your goals.
(415) 212-4803 View (415) 212-4803
Photo of Haleh Kashani, Psychologist in Corte Madera, CA
Haleh Kashani
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corte Madera, CA 94925
I would like take this opportunity to provide you with some information about myself and my practice.I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have been in practice for over 30 years. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults in individual, family and group therapy settings. I treat wide array of conditions, from stress management and normal life issues and interpersonal and family problems to more serious conditions such as depression, anxiety and other psychological problems.
I would like take this opportunity to provide you with some information about myself and my practice.I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have been in practice for over 30 years. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults in individual, family and group therapy settings. I treat wide array of conditions, from stress management and normal life issues and interpersonal and family problems to more serious conditions such as depression, anxiety and other psychological problems.
(415) 697-3942 View (415) 697-3942
Photo of Annie Bjork, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Annie Bjork
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Corte Madera, CA 94925
Whether its families, couples or individuals, I bring my enthusiasm and warmth to each person I work with. In therapy with me you won't be bombarded by psycho-babble or heady interpretations. What you will get is my full attention, real talk and an emphasis on being in the moment. Together we will slow down, get grounded and deeply consider what you want for yourself and look at what is getting in the way. I am passionate about helping you see your strengths and fortifying areas that need reinforcement. I also offer support to parents struggling with family life.
Whether its families, couples or individuals, I bring my enthusiasm and warmth to each person I work with. In therapy with me you won't be bombarded by psycho-babble or heady interpretations. What you will get is my full attention, real talk and an emphasis on being in the moment. Together we will slow down, get grounded and deeply consider what you want for yourself and look at what is getting in the way. I am passionate about helping you see your strengths and fortifying areas that need reinforcement. I also offer support to parents struggling with family life.
(415) 403-2427 View (415) 403-2427
Photo of Suzanne Austin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Suzanne Austin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
In addition to providing traditional family therapy, I also offer Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, a unique therapy for families with younger children who struggle with challenging behaviors.
What stands between you and a greater enjoyment of life? Are you in the midst of a challenging time and yearn for additional support? Are you awake at night worrying about your child? Do you dream about having more harmony in your family life? I love working with individuals, children and families to help them find their own unique solutions so that they can enjoy life to the fullest. My role as your therapist is to help you find lasting change and to create strategies for addressing life's challenges that keep you true to your own path.
In addition to providing traditional family therapy, I also offer Parent-Child Interaction Therapy, a unique therapy for families with younger children who struggle with challenging behaviors.
What stands between you and a greater enjoyment of life? Are you in the midst of a challenging time and yearn for additional support? Are you awake at night worrying about your child? Do you dream about having more harmony in your family life? I love working with individuals, children and families to help them find their own unique solutions so that they can enjoy life to the fullest. My role as your therapist is to help you find lasting change and to create strategies for addressing life's challenges that keep you true to your own path.
(415) 917-2664 View (415) 917-2664
Photo of Brad Freed, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Brad Freed
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
All services provided are grounded in psychodynamic theory and informed by cognitive-behavioral, existential, humanistic, and family systems approaches.
My approach is collaborative in nature with the overarching goal of supporting and empowering clients in their efforts to live more productive and satisfying lives. Services address a wide range of personal and interpersonal issues and promote the development of more rewarding, sustaining, and harmonious relationships, familial and otherwise. I have extensive experience working with families confronting divorce, trauma, mental illness, teen substance use, school-related challenges, and communication and relationship difficulties. I have developed considerable expertise in the delivery of therapeutic support services to pre-adolescents, adolescents, and young adults struggling with social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties across multiple settings.
All services provided are grounded in psychodynamic theory and informed by cognitive-behavioral, existential, humanistic, and family systems approaches.
My approach is collaborative in nature with the overarching goal of supporting and empowering clients in their efforts to live more productive and satisfying lives. Services address a wide range of personal and interpersonal issues and promote the development of more rewarding, sustaining, and harmonious relationships, familial and otherwise. I have extensive experience working with families confronting divorce, trauma, mental illness, teen substance use, school-related challenges, and communication and relationship difficulties. I have developed considerable expertise in the delivery of therapeutic support services to pre-adolescents, adolescents, and young adults struggling with social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties across multiple settings.
(415) 548-2064 View (415) 548-2064
Photo of Karyn (Kiki) Pascoe, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Corte Madera, CA
Karyn (Kiki) Pascoe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
Grounded in insight-oriented depth psychology, attachment-based therapy, Internal Family Systems, Narrative therapy, DBT, Humanistic and Existential Therapies, Mindfulness Based Therapy and the Expressive Arts, I create a holistic framework that honors each client's unique needs.
My practice welcomes individuals, couples, teens and families from all backgrounds, cultures, and life stages. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, professional stress, chronic illness, or the complexities of neurodiversity, I provide a safe and supportive space for exploration, curiosity and growth. I have a particular affinity for working with creative minds, highly sensitive souls, and those who dance to the beat of their own drum.
Grounded in insight-oriented depth psychology, attachment-based therapy, Internal Family Systems, Narrative therapy, DBT, Humanistic and Existential Therapies, Mindfulness Based Therapy and the Expressive Arts, I create a holistic framework that honors each client's unique needs.
My practice welcomes individuals, couples, teens and families from all backgrounds, cultures, and life stages. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, professional stress, chronic illness, or the complexities of neurodiversity, I provide a safe and supportive space for exploration, curiosity and growth. I have a particular affinity for working with creative minds, highly sensitive souls, and those who dance to the beat of their own drum.
(415) 991-0126 View (415) 991-0126
Photo of Child Psychology Marin, Psychologist in Corte Madera, CA
Child Psychology Marin
Psychologist, PhD, OTL
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
I understand how hard it is for you and your whole family when your child is struggling with anxiety, temperamental difficulties (fussy, sensitive), depression, anger or acting out, or getting along with others, I'm not only a therapist, I am also a mom, stepmom and grandma! Yes, I am an expert on children, but YOU are the expert on your child.
Do you have a child who has trouble expressing their feelings and needs appropriately? Who has difficulty getting along well with others? Who doesn't stay calm when frustrated or stressed ? Maybe your child doesn't have the strategies and skills for handling life's challenges. Do you feel confident about your parenting and the social climate in your family? I know how to help your family live together in peace and happiness! Contact me and let's talk about how I can help you and your family!
I understand how hard it is for you and your whole family when your child is struggling with anxiety, temperamental difficulties (fussy, sensitive), depression, anger or acting out, or getting along with others, I'm not only a therapist, I am also a mom, stepmom and grandma! Yes, I am an expert on children, but YOU are the expert on your child.
Do you have a child who has trouble expressing their feelings and needs appropriately? Who has difficulty getting along well with others? Who doesn't stay calm when frustrated or stressed ? Maybe your child doesn't have the strategies and skills for handling life's challenges. Do you feel confident about your parenting and the social climate in your family? I know how to help your family live together in peace and happiness! Contact me and let's talk about how I can help you and your family!
(415) 851-9590 View (415) 851-9590
Photo of Burke Baldwin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Burke Baldwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
Waitlist for new clients
My expertise is working with teens/young adults that are experiencing difficulties that impact their quality of life and family dynamics.
I'm inspired by engaging people to create meaning and purpose in their lives. I believe that it only takes one person to change the trajectory of our lives in an impactful way. My approach is to foster agency, trust, and commitment to take the small steps necessary to showing up in your life in a way that is more aligned with your own core values and ideals. I have worked in various treatment settings ranging from inpatient psych, residential, and outpatient with teens and adults. Prior to becoming a therapist I was a professional athlete and understand the difficulties in balancing performance and personal development.
My expertise is working with teens/young adults that are experiencing difficulties that impact their quality of life and family dynamics.
I'm inspired by engaging people to create meaning and purpose in their lives. I believe that it only takes one person to change the trajectory of our lives in an impactful way. My approach is to foster agency, trust, and commitment to take the small steps necessary to showing up in your life in a way that is more aligned with your own core values and ideals. I have worked in various treatment settings ranging from inpatient psych, residential, and outpatient with teens and adults. Prior to becoming a therapist I was a professional athlete and understand the difficulties in balancing performance and personal development.
(628) 265-6751 View (628) 265-6751
Photo of Molly Parsons VandenBerg, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Corte Madera, CA
Molly Parsons VandenBerg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925  (Online Only)
I provide counseling to adults, teens, couples and parents. I have expertise helping clients through severe anxiety, depression, family conflict and building stronger interpersonal relationships. Life can be really hard, and many of us don’t have the right support system to help us navigate the many challenges we confront. Partaking in therapy means we are prioritizing our health and wellbeing, which is a worthy and sacred journey.
I provide counseling to adults, teens, couples and parents. I have expertise helping clients through severe anxiety, depression, family conflict and building stronger interpersonal relationships. Life can be really hard, and many of us don’t have the right support system to help us navigate the many challenges we confront. Partaking in therapy means we are prioritizing our health and wellbeing, which is a worthy and sacred journey.
(415) 997-2770 View (415) 997-2770
Photo of R. Austin Heafey, Psychologist in Corte Madera, CA
R. Austin Heafey
Psychologist, MA, Psy D
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
My name is Dr. R. Austin Heafey - I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adolescents, parents and families. While every client is unique, my fundamental aim remains the same: improve self-esteem, build self-confidence and enrich my patient's self-worth. When a person has faith in their abilities and feels comfortable with who they are, they are better able to engage with the world they live in, the family they belong to and the life they deserve to experience. Put simply, my objective is to improve my patient's quality of life.
My name is Dr. R. Austin Heafey - I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with children, adolescents, parents and families. While every client is unique, my fundamental aim remains the same: improve self-esteem, build self-confidence and enrich my patient's self-worth. When a person has faith in their abilities and feels comfortable with who they are, they are better able to engage with the world they live in, the family they belong to and the life they deserve to experience. Put simply, my objective is to improve my patient's quality of life.
(925) 255-7651 View (925) 255-7651
Photo of Pamela Lister, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Pamela Lister
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EAS-C, CATC
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
My enthusiasm for recovery motivates me to create new opportunities for growth & healing for clients through Interventions. I have extensive experience with all aspects of Addiction and Codependency. I'm competent in individual, couples, family or group therapy. My background in mental health creates a good fit for identifying issues and safety concerns. I'm honored to share in my clients' journey toward the fulfilling lives they deserve.
My enthusiasm for recovery motivates me to create new opportunities for growth & healing for clients through Interventions. I have extensive experience with all aspects of Addiction and Codependency. I'm competent in individual, couples, family or group therapy. My background in mental health creates a good fit for identifying issues and safety concerns. I'm honored to share in my clients' journey toward the fulfilling lives they deserve.
(925) 401-3025 View (925) 401-3025
Photo of Carrie Sanders, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Carrie Sanders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, LCSW
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
I bring expertise in addiction/substance use and abuse; couples and family relationship work including divorce/blended families; chronic illness; helping young adult and adolescent women and men struggling with relationships; and therapists coping with the stress of their jobs and/or family relationships.
I offer psychotherapy to families, couples and individuals. People come to therapy for different reasons, whether it be a life changing event or just needing support. In the end, we all want supportive nurturing relationships with ourselves and others and I believe that therapy can help people work towards those goals. My approach is collaborative, non-judgmental and supportive and I am very down to earth and personable. I work with people from diverse backgrounds and ages and I am knowledgeable and affirming of open or non-monogamous relationship. I truly love the work that I do.
I bring expertise in addiction/substance use and abuse; couples and family relationship work including divorce/blended families; chronic illness; helping young adult and adolescent women and men struggling with relationships; and therapists coping with the stress of their jobs and/or family relationships.
I offer psychotherapy to families, couples and individuals. People come to therapy for different reasons, whether it be a life changing event or just needing support. In the end, we all want supportive nurturing relationships with ourselves and others and I believe that therapy can help people work towards those goals. My approach is collaborative, non-judgmental and supportive and I am very down to earth and personable. I work with people from diverse backgrounds and ages and I am knowledgeable and affirming of open or non-monogamous relationship. I truly love the work that I do.
(628) 222-4252 View (628) 222-4252
Photo of Arin Bass, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Arin Bass
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corte Madera, CA 94925
Hello! As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I provide psychotherapy to adolescents, adults, and families from diverse backgrounds. My specialties include the treatment of eating disorders, body image issues, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, professional/academic dilemmas and stress around life transitions. I practice collaboratively with my clients and I use a warm, empathic and straightforward approach. I strive to support my clients in ways that empower them to feel better and create a life they enjoy living.
Hello! As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I provide psychotherapy to adolescents, adults, and families from diverse backgrounds. My specialties include the treatment of eating disorders, body image issues, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family conflict, professional/academic dilemmas and stress around life transitions. I practice collaboratively with my clients and I use a warm, empathic and straightforward approach. I strive to support my clients in ways that empower them to feel better and create a life they enjoy living.
(415) 413-1035 View (415) 413-1035
Photo of Jennifer Dorsey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Jennifer Dorsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Corte Madera, CA 94925
I specialize in helping adults, teens, romantic partners, and families heal from hurt, trauma and shame in order to become better connected to themselves and one another. The majority of my practice focuses on healing emotional wounds, anxiety, and improving your relationships (including experiences of divorce and blended families). I work collaboratively with you to set goals for therapy that are curated to your individual preferences and needs, and I often draw from Attachment Theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and somatic awareness.
I specialize in helping adults, teens, romantic partners, and families heal from hurt, trauma and shame in order to become better connected to themselves and one another. The majority of my practice focuses on healing emotional wounds, anxiety, and improving your relationships (including experiences of divorce and blended families). I work collaboratively with you to set goals for therapy that are curated to your individual preferences and needs, and I often draw from Attachment Theory, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and somatic awareness.
(415) 903-7685 View (415) 903-7685
Photo of Kate Pearson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Kate Pearson, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
My specialties include family dynamics, developmental trauma, personality disorders, complex PTSD, depression and anxiety, addiction, and ADHD.
Anaïs Nin wrote "we see the world not as it is, but as we are." Without self-reflection, we can all fall into old patterns and behaviors which no longer serve us. With self-reflection we can make sense of our worldview and become active agents of change and growth in our own lives. I have about 20 years of clinical experience practicing psychotherapy in a variety of settings.
My specialties include family dynamics, developmental trauma, personality disorders, complex PTSD, depression and anxiety, addiction, and ADHD.
Anaïs Nin wrote "we see the world not as it is, but as we are." Without self-reflection, we can all fall into old patterns and behaviors which no longer serve us. With self-reflection we can make sense of our worldview and become active agents of change and growth in our own lives. I have about 20 years of clinical experience practicing psychotherapy in a variety of settings.
(415) 853-3850 View (415) 853-3850
Photo of Valerie Crawford, Psychologist in Corte Madera, CA
Valerie Crawford
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
This expertise also underpins my work with individuals who want to improve their relationships with partners, family and friends.
I work with my clients in a supportive and engaged way to achieve real personal growth and confidence. I help clients heal anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles and unhealthy patterns. I believe we all have within us what we need to flourish -- a nurturing therapeutic relationship can unlock your capacity to heal and thrive. With the support you've been longing for, you can feel better and more confident, more connected in your relationships, and be more successful. I use a variety of evidence-based approaches, depending on clients' needs. My orientation is relational, experiential, based in brain science.
This expertise also underpins my work with individuals who want to improve their relationships with partners, family and friends.
I work with my clients in a supportive and engaged way to achieve real personal growth and confidence. I help clients heal anxiety, depression, and relationship struggles and unhealthy patterns. I believe we all have within us what we need to flourish -- a nurturing therapeutic relationship can unlock your capacity to heal and thrive. With the support you've been longing for, you can feel better and more confident, more connected in your relationships, and be more successful. I use a variety of evidence-based approaches, depending on clients' needs. My orientation is relational, experiential, based in brain science.
(415) 390-2872 View (415) 390-2872
Photo of Vanessa Vertin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Vanessa Vertin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corte Madera, CA 94925  (Online Only)
Vanessa's passion for relational work weaves its way through her other specializations, which include: * Developmental life transitions *Psychological/emotional/spiritual aspects of dealing with physiological illness (holistic health) * Parent/child and family issues *Work with the elderly * Mood disorders * Aging and loss/grief *EMDR *Trauma/stress.
Dr. Vertin specializes in modern-day relationships with self and others. Her work helps people thrive by revolutionizing how people think about health and relationship and thus, how they function. Vanessa's specializations are integral health, coupling relationships, and life transitions/stress. Other areas in which she has extensive training and therapeutic experience include: freedom and intimacy dynamics, marriage and other relationship forms, survivors of abuse, anxiety and depression, issues of elders and their families, aging & death, developmental issues, PTSD, and women’s issues.
Vanessa's passion for relational work weaves its way through her other specializations, which include: * Developmental life transitions *Psychological/emotional/spiritual aspects of dealing with physiological illness (holistic health) * Parent/child and family issues *Work with the elderly * Mood disorders * Aging and loss/grief *EMDR *Trauma/stress.
Dr. Vertin specializes in modern-day relationships with self and others. Her work helps people thrive by revolutionizing how people think about health and relationship and thus, how they function. Vanessa's specializations are integral health, coupling relationships, and life transitions/stress. Other areas in which she has extensive training and therapeutic experience include: freedom and intimacy dynamics, marriage and other relationship forms, survivors of abuse, anxiety and depression, issues of elders and their families, aging & death, developmental issues, PTSD, and women’s issues.
(650) 262-3687 View (650) 262-3687
Photo of Brenda Fishleder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Brenda Fishleder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94976
I specialize in the treatment of adolescents and adults in transition, as well as those presenting with self-harm, mood disorders, anxiety, and family/peer relationship issues.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 30 years, and bring an eclectic blend of psychodynamic, neuropsychological, mindfulness-based and cognitive theoretical frameworks to my work. My emphasis is on creating a safe and compassionate environment for the healing of a wide range emotional and relationship issues, making every effort to tailor treatment to the specific needs of each individual(s) seeking my help. My work with couples focues on a positive approach to differences, providing insight, improving communication and increasing empathy. I am open to referrals of individuals, couples, families, adolescents and adults from age 11 and older.
I specialize in the treatment of adolescents and adults in transition, as well as those presenting with self-harm, mood disorders, anxiety, and family/peer relationship issues.
I have been a practicing psychotherapist for over 30 years, and bring an eclectic blend of psychodynamic, neuropsychological, mindfulness-based and cognitive theoretical frameworks to my work. My emphasis is on creating a safe and compassionate environment for the healing of a wide range emotional and relationship issues, making every effort to tailor treatment to the specific needs of each individual(s) seeking my help. My work with couples focues on a positive approach to differences, providing insight, improving communication and increasing empathy. I am open to referrals of individuals, couples, families, adolescents and adults from age 11 and older.
(415) 802-0586 View (415) 802-0586
Photo of Family Matters Of Marin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Family Matters Of Marin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, PPS
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
Family Matters Of Marin is a trauma informed group practice focused on supporting children and families. We help clients create more joy, love, and harmony in their lives. We are deeply interested in learning how our clients would like to change and grow, and supporting them in this process. We work collaboratively with clients to improve their relationships and resolve any trauma from their past that maybe holding them back from living the life they yearn for. We are experienced therapists who use a variety of therapeutic modalities to resolve issues that are hindering our client's ability to be their best selves.
Family Matters Of Marin is a trauma informed group practice focused on supporting children and families. We help clients create more joy, love, and harmony in their lives. We are deeply interested in learning how our clients would like to change and grow, and supporting them in this process. We work collaboratively with clients to improve their relationships and resolve any trauma from their past that maybe holding them back from living the life they yearn for. We are experienced therapists who use a variety of therapeutic modalities to resolve issues that are hindering our client's ability to be their best selves.
(415) 639-9164 View (415) 639-9164
Photo of Hollis (Holly) A. Byers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Corte Madera, CA
Hollis (Holly) A. Byers
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corte Madera, CA 94925
Are you or your family under stress, or does personal tension or relational conflict rule the day? Are you experiencing a transition, a divorce, a loss, or have new partners entered the family picture? Do you worry that your child is depressed or anxious? Do you worry that you are not a good parent? For over 25 years, I have been helping people like you successfully resolve these issues. I help adults navigate individual and marital challenges and parents master the skills that parenting requires. I help teens make better choices as they come to know themselves.
Are you or your family under stress, or does personal tension or relational conflict rule the day? Are you experiencing a transition, a divorce, a loss, or have new partners entered the family picture? Do you worry that your child is depressed or anxious? Do you worry that you are not a good parent? For over 25 years, I have been helping people like you successfully resolve these issues. I help adults navigate individual and marital challenges and parents master the skills that parenting requires. I help teens make better choices as they come to know themselves.
(415) 455-5884 View (415) 455-5884

See more therapy options for Corte Madera

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.