Photo of Ashley Barnes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Ashley Barnes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95816
I'm a relationship, sex and trauma therapist specializing in supporting folks who feel like they'll never live up to expectations; no matter what you do it feels like you aren't enough. My clients come to me telling me that they're always striving for more and not able to enjoy their life and relationships. Navigating a stressful work life or having lots of anxiety in your relationship? I’ll provide you with some helpful tools to cope. Just need a place to cry it out sometimes or vent about the ridiculous choices of a friend or family member? That’s welcome here too. Read more or schedule online at www.lovehealgrow.com.
I'm a relationship, sex and trauma therapist specializing in supporting folks who feel like they'll never live up to expectations; no matter what you do it feels like you aren't enough. My clients come to me telling me that they're always striving for more and not able to enjoy their life and relationships. Navigating a stressful work life or having lots of anxiety in your relationship? I’ll provide you with some helpful tools to cope. Just need a place to cry it out sometimes or vent about the ridiculous choices of a friend or family member? That’s welcome here too. Read more or schedule online at www.lovehealgrow.com.
(530) 444-6427 View (530) 444-6427
Photo of Rabiia Ali, Marriage & Family Therapist in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Rabiia Ali
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95817
Do you feel stuck, ashamed, guilt, can't move forward, don't want to move forward, experiencing family issues, relationship issues, can't maintain relationships, can't keep friends or just feeling alone? I can help you to not only alleviate yourself from those issues, but I can help you be happy and thrive.
I am the therapist that likes to meet you where you are and ensure that your therapy is exactly what you would like. I specialize in trauma recovery, anxiety, depression and mental health treatment and I am skilled in assisting you to become unstuck and meet your treatment goals. Let's go on this journey together.
Do you feel stuck, ashamed, guilt, can't move forward, don't want to move forward, experiencing family issues, relationship issues, can't maintain relationships, can't keep friends or just feeling alone? I can help you to not only alleviate yourself from those issues, but I can help you be happy and thrive.
I am the therapist that likes to meet you where you are and ensure that your therapy is exactly what you would like. I specialize in trauma recovery, anxiety, depression and mental health treatment and I am skilled in assisting you to become unstuck and meet your treatment goals. Let's go on this journey together.
(916) 260-0709 View (916) 260-0709
Photo of Jeannette Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Jeannette Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95816  (Online Only)
I come from a family that is ethnically diverse and the idea of people from different backgrounds getting along seems natural to me.
Facing emotionally painful situations takes a fair amount of bravery. I can walk with you through those challenges, offering support and at times being a source of strength. Avoiding grief, fears, any type of conflict and/or suppressing anger may lead to increased anxiety and depression. Learning how to face these things with the use of some good coping skills can be very empowering. We all have the ability to learn how to deal with our emotions and work through conflict. It just takes practice and maybe some guidance. This is where I can help.
I come from a family that is ethnically diverse and the idea of people from different backgrounds getting along seems natural to me.
Facing emotionally painful situations takes a fair amount of bravery. I can walk with you through those challenges, offering support and at times being a source of strength. Avoiding grief, fears, any type of conflict and/or suppressing anger may lead to increased anxiety and depression. Learning how to face these things with the use of some good coping skills can be very empowering. We all have the ability to learn how to deal with our emotions and work through conflict. It just takes practice and maybe some guidance. This is where I can help.
(916) 943-4396 View (916) 943-4396
Photo of Melanie Ernould, Psychologist in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Melanie Ernould
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95816
I have almost 20 years of experience working with wonderful children and young adults with difficult behaviors and struggles, and their families. I have been running my private practice for 6 years and, 4 years ago, started building a farm sanctuary where I hold children’s therapeutic camps and equine assisted and farm play therapy. I have a lot of unique training and education that sets me apart. I am a skilled big picture thinker and can help guide you and your family through the process, gaining clarity along the way. I am playful and gentle in my therapy, and easily connect with my clients, big and small, authentically.
I have almost 20 years of experience working with wonderful children and young adults with difficult behaviors and struggles, and their families. I have been running my private practice for 6 years and, 4 years ago, started building a farm sanctuary where I hold children’s therapeutic camps and equine assisted and farm play therapy. I have a lot of unique training and education that sets me apart. I am a skilled big picture thinker and can help guide you and your family through the process, gaining clarity along the way. I am playful and gentle in my therapy, and easily connect with my clients, big and small, authentically.
(916) 262-7229 View (916) 262-7229
Photo of Shannon Nisley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Shannon Nisley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95811  (Online Only)
I provide virtual individual therapy to adult (18+) women and enby folks of all backgrounds, orientations, expressions, and relationship/family dynamics - no topic is off limits. I aim to cultivate a compassionate and empowering space for you to explore and heal, believing laughter, joy, and creativity to be an integral part of that process. No judgement, no shame, no “fixing”, no BS.
I provide virtual individual therapy to adult (18+) women and enby folks of all backgrounds, orientations, expressions, and relationship/family dynamics - no topic is off limits. I aim to cultivate a compassionate and empowering space for you to explore and heal, believing laughter, joy, and creativity to be an integral part of that process. No judgement, no shame, no “fixing”, no BS.
(530) 853-3335 View (530) 853-3335
Photo of Kelsey Meraz Masten, Pre-Licensed Professional in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Kelsey Meraz Masten
Pre-Licensed Professional, ASW
Verified Verified
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95811
My therapeutic approach is eclectic, I use a variety of orientations such as Family Systems theory, Solution Focused, Person Centered, and Strength based theory.
I work with a variety of clients including women, parents, families, adolescence/teens, college students, working professionals, and LGBTQ communities.
My therapeutic approach is eclectic, I use a variety of orientations such as Family Systems theory, Solution Focused, Person Centered, and Strength based theory.
I work with a variety of clients including women, parents, families, adolescence/teens, college students, working professionals, and LGBTQ communities.
(916) 619-0660 View (916) 619-0660
Photo of Katelyn E Bailey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Katelyn E Bailey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95811  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stuck in repetitive cycles that you just can't seem to break free from? Are you feeling bad about yourself? More anxious or depressed than usual? Is it starting to affect your family, friends or your partner? I know it can be frustrating but there is hope. I will help you examine old patterns of thinking and behaving that are holding you back. I will help you find new strategies, learn and practice new skills, explore new ways of thinking, and release unexpressed emotions, so that you can begin to experience real change, more joy, greater confidence and more satisfying relationships.
Are you feeling stuck in repetitive cycles that you just can't seem to break free from? Are you feeling bad about yourself? More anxious or depressed than usual? Is it starting to affect your family, friends or your partner? I know it can be frustrating but there is hope. I will help you examine old patterns of thinking and behaving that are holding you back. I will help you find new strategies, learn and practice new skills, explore new ways of thinking, and release unexpressed emotions, so that you can begin to experience real change, more joy, greater confidence and more satisfying relationships.
(859) 295-7254 View (859) 295-7254
Photo of Sue Goetz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Sue Goetz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95816
com, or contact me today so we can talk further about whether therapy with me is a good fit for you or your family member.
Now accepting new referrals (as of 04/01/2024) for Teens, Adults, & EMDR (a trauma therapy technique). Parents: Are you worried about your teenager? Do they seem stressed, anxious, or depressed? Or Are they just driving you crazy?!? Adults: Are you living the life you want to live? Or Is stress, anxiety, or grief getting in the way? Are you, “in your head” a lot, ruminating about your relationships? work or school? the future? I’d like to help. I’m an experienced, licensed psychotherapist whose been in full-time private practice with teens, adults, and families for over 12 years.
com, or contact me today so we can talk further about whether therapy with me is a good fit for you or your family member.
Now accepting new referrals (as of 04/01/2024) for Teens, Adults, & EMDR (a trauma therapy technique). Parents: Are you worried about your teenager? Do they seem stressed, anxious, or depressed? Or Are they just driving you crazy?!? Adults: Are you living the life you want to live? Or Is stress, anxiety, or grief getting in the way? Are you, “in your head” a lot, ruminating about your relationships? work or school? the future? I’d like to help. I’m an experienced, licensed psychotherapist whose been in full-time private practice with teens, adults, and families for over 12 years.
(916) 252-5765 View (916) 252-5765
Photo of Kate Wood O'Malley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Kate Wood O'Malley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95816
My specialities are rooted in treating the whole person, emphasizing the importance of one's independent, cultural, family and communal variables.
When difficult emotions or experiences interfere with our ability to enjoy life, it can be hard to figure out what to do. Therapy begins as a conversation and progresses into a relationship, creating a foundation for exploring present and past difficulties. My therapeutic approaches are trauma informed; I use methodologies that address root cause to shift and heal old patterns, behaviors and challenges. Together we will explore areas where you might feel stuck or lost, uncover internal strengths and build coping strategies for navigating life‘s difficulties.
My specialities are rooted in treating the whole person, emphasizing the importance of one's independent, cultural, family and communal variables.
When difficult emotions or experiences interfere with our ability to enjoy life, it can be hard to figure out what to do. Therapy begins as a conversation and progresses into a relationship, creating a foundation for exploring present and past difficulties. My therapeutic approaches are trauma informed; I use methodologies that address root cause to shift and heal old patterns, behaviors and challenges. Together we will explore areas where you might feel stuck or lost, uncover internal strengths and build coping strategies for navigating life‘s difficulties.
(916) 385-0420 View (916) 385-0420
Photo of Medina Milan Allen, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Medina Milan Allen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95811
Each day we awake, you have another chance at life. Of course, you can't control into what family you're born, your ethnicity, or your physical attributes; changing your past is beyond your control, too. However, you DO have control over how you respond to your past, and you CAN change the way you think and behave. Understanding yourself, how to approach relationships, and how to cope with life's challenges can be difficult especially if you're unsure of where to begin. I can meet you where you are and support you with empathy and unconditional positive regard. With collaboration, we can work together to help you meet your goals.
Each day we awake, you have another chance at life. Of course, you can't control into what family you're born, your ethnicity, or your physical attributes; changing your past is beyond your control, too. However, you DO have control over how you respond to your past, and you CAN change the way you think and behave. Understanding yourself, how to approach relationships, and how to cope with life's challenges can be difficult especially if you're unsure of where to begin. I can meet you where you are and support you with empathy and unconditional positive regard. With collaboration, we can work together to help you meet your goals.
(916) 796-4685 View (916) 796-4685
Photo of Laurie Beth Richardson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Laurie Beth Richardson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95816
com/laurie-richardson-family-therapist.
The idea that one learns by experiencing and is truly capable of making the necessary shifts in their lives is a mantra I live by. When one person mirrors another with gentle listening, others are able to clearly see what no longer works in their lives. Ingrained habits coming from difficult childhoods could be the very source of havoc, that with conscious awareness, can shift. Perhaps the way one communicates is keeping love from flowing in your life. Maybe parenting a child who reminds you of yourself means confronting yourself on a deeply personal level. Or perhaps it is simply a life transition that is simply too much.
com/laurie-richardson-family-therapist.
The idea that one learns by experiencing and is truly capable of making the necessary shifts in their lives is a mantra I live by. When one person mirrors another with gentle listening, others are able to clearly see what no longer works in their lives. Ingrained habits coming from difficult childhoods could be the very source of havoc, that with conscious awareness, can shift. Perhaps the way one communicates is keeping love from flowing in your life. Maybe parenting a child who reminds you of yourself means confronting yourself on a deeply personal level. Or perhaps it is simply a life transition that is simply too much.
(916) 249-5182 View (916) 249-5182
Photo of Steve Debenedetti-Emanuel, Marriage & Family Therapist in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Steve Debenedetti-Emanuel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95816
I utilize this training to provide parents with a structure which helps them to parent more effectively and to improve their family life.
Who am I? I've been married for 20+ years. My wife and I have a teenage son. I'm personable, friendly and like to laugh. I talk and ask questions. I won't sit silently and wait for you to talk. I won't say, "How does that make you feel?" I've been told that I'm a "normal guy." Who are you? Someone who wants to feel better? Or wants your teenager to talk to someone? Or wants to be happier and more secure in your committed relationship? Let's keep it simple and work together to find solutions. To learn more about me, check out my website: www.rivercitycounseling.com
I utilize this training to provide parents with a structure which helps them to parent more effectively and to improve their family life.
Who am I? I've been married for 20+ years. My wife and I have a teenage son. I'm personable, friendly and like to laugh. I talk and ask questions. I won't sit silently and wait for you to talk. I won't say, "How does that make you feel?" I've been told that I'm a "normal guy." Who are you? Someone who wants to feel better? Or wants your teenager to talk to someone? Or wants to be happier and more secure in your committed relationship? Let's keep it simple and work together to find solutions. To learn more about me, check out my website: www.rivercitycounseling.com
(916) 251-9923 View (916) 251-9923
Photo of Yvette Wilhite, Marriage & Family Therapist in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Yvette Wilhite
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95816
Hello, I am Yvette Wilhite, a Licensed Marriage, and Family Therapist, based in Sacramento, California, where I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness-based techniques. With a client-centered approach, I prioritize creating a safe and empathetic space to explore and address issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress management. My goal is to empower clients to develop coping skills, foster resilience, and achieve greater well-being and fulfillment.
Hello, I am Yvette Wilhite, a Licensed Marriage, and Family Therapist, based in Sacramento, California, where I work with clients statewide via telehealth. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Mindfulness-based techniques. With a client-centered approach, I prioritize creating a safe and empathetic space to explore and address issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress management. My goal is to empower clients to develop coping skills, foster resilience, and achieve greater well-being and fulfillment.
(747) 298-8749 View (747) 298-8749
Photo of Megan J Valsecchi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Megan J Valsecchi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95811  (Online Only)
I am a compassionate and empathetic therapist who believes in the power of collaboration on the journey to emotional well-being. I am both a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPPC) with her undergraduate and graduate degree’s coming from California State University, Fullerton, and Sacramento State University, respectively. I create a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can openly explore their emotions, knowing they are fully heard and understood.
I am a compassionate and empathetic therapist who believes in the power of collaboration on the journey to emotional well-being. I am both a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPPC) with her undergraduate and graduate degree’s coming from California State University, Fullerton, and Sacramento State University, respectively. I create a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can openly explore their emotions, knowing they are fully heard and understood.
(916) 866-9347 View (916) 866-9347
Photo of Jasleen Kaur, Marriage & Family Therapist in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Jasleen Kaur
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95816
I specialize in working with trauma, adverse life experiences, grief, depression, anxiety, cultural issues, and family and relationship conflict.
As a therapist, I strive to provide an accepting, safe space where you can bring your authentic self without fear of judgment. I enjoy working with individuals of diverse backgrounds who are seeking to better understand themselves and the causes of suffering and discontent in their lives. Many feel alone when experiencing difficult life moments, but connection can make the journey feel lighter. I am interpersonal, warm, and empathetic in my approach, and I will work collaboratively with you to support emotional healing and foster empowerment in you to create the change you desire.
I specialize in working with trauma, adverse life experiences, grief, depression, anxiety, cultural issues, and family and relationship conflict.
As a therapist, I strive to provide an accepting, safe space where you can bring your authentic self without fear of judgment. I enjoy working with individuals of diverse backgrounds who are seeking to better understand themselves and the causes of suffering and discontent in their lives. Many feel alone when experiencing difficult life moments, but connection can make the journey feel lighter. I am interpersonal, warm, and empathetic in my approach, and I will work collaboratively with you to support emotional healing and foster empowerment in you to create the change you desire.
(530) 418-6181 View (530) 418-6181
Photo of Dr. Kelly Wild, Pre-Licensed Professional in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Dr. Kelly Wild
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95816  (Online Only)
Often, friends and family don’t understand your struggle.
While anxiety is a natural part of our human experience, chronic experiences of worry, perfectionism, panic, intrusive/unwanted thoughts & compulsions are not. Perhaps it’s hard to turn off your mind and keep your thoughts from racing. You may need new strategies to stop battling your brain and feel calm again. I offer proven stress and anxiety management techniques to help you find relief from your symptoms while helping you develop a new set of coping skills. I have experience treating teens, adults, college & graduate students, as well those who are relatively new to their intrusive/unwanted thought or phobic experiences.
Often, friends and family don’t understand your struggle.
While anxiety is a natural part of our human experience, chronic experiences of worry, perfectionism, panic, intrusive/unwanted thoughts & compulsions are not. Perhaps it’s hard to turn off your mind and keep your thoughts from racing. You may need new strategies to stop battling your brain and feel calm again. I offer proven stress and anxiety management techniques to help you find relief from your symptoms while helping you develop a new set of coping skills. I have experience treating teens, adults, college & graduate students, as well those who are relatively new to their intrusive/unwanted thought or phobic experiences.
(916) 545-7728 View (916) 545-7728
Photo of Maria Turner-Lloveras, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Maria Turner-Lloveras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95816
I offer individual therapy, family therapy, play therapy, and parent guidance/coaching.
Are you concerned about your child's behavior? Are you struggling to understand what is happening for your child? Are you finding parenting overwhelming? I have experience working with children, adolescents and parents on many issues including loss, attachment, anxiety, anger, impulsivity, and low self-esteem. I also work with complex families dealing with family conflict. Parents are essential to children’s wellbeing and need support to find new ways of understanding and responding to their children. Therapy provides a safe protected space that nurtures exploration, reflection, growth and change.
I offer individual therapy, family therapy, play therapy, and parent guidance/coaching.
Are you concerned about your child's behavior? Are you struggling to understand what is happening for your child? Are you finding parenting overwhelming? I have experience working with children, adolescents and parents on many issues including loss, attachment, anxiety, anger, impulsivity, and low self-esteem. I also work with complex families dealing with family conflict. Parents are essential to children’s wellbeing and need support to find new ways of understanding and responding to their children. Therapy provides a safe protected space that nurtures exploration, reflection, growth and change.
(510) 692-4893 View (510) 692-4893
Photo of Colleen Cotter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Colleen Cotter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95811
Trauma informed care for relationship distress, life changes, childhood abuse, people with parents that have mental illness or addiction, family issues, metoo etc.
Clients that find me usually feel that trauma has informed or altered their life in some way. Or they face personal or relational distress. I meet each client with their unique challenges and life experiences and offer a place to explore what you are needing in therapy. My ideal client wants to understand and grow to their full potential and I am here as a guide to offer tools, options, a place to process your emotions and/or trauma. Adults that have been through child abuse, mental illness in family, addiction, sexual abuse, relationship distress, anxiety and depression.
Trauma informed care for relationship distress, life changes, childhood abuse, people with parents that have mental illness or addiction, family issues, metoo etc.
Clients that find me usually feel that trauma has informed or altered their life in some way. Or they face personal or relational distress. I meet each client with their unique challenges and life experiences and offer a place to explore what you are needing in therapy. My ideal client wants to understand and grow to their full potential and I am here as a guide to offer tools, options, a place to process your emotions and/or trauma. Adults that have been through child abuse, mental illness in family, addiction, sexual abuse, relationship distress, anxiety and depression.
(916) 237-9292 View (916) 237-9292
Photo of Monique VandenBos Parts Work and EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Monique VandenBos Parts Work and EMDR
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95816  (Online Only)
I am fully trained in Internal Family Systems Therapy, Polyvagal Theory and Mindfulness Self-Compassion.
I provide therapy in Midtown Sacramento, currently all therapy is through video/telehealth. My approach to therapy is interactive, playful, and compassionate. I believe that therapy can open us to feel more connected to ourselves and our relationships and lead more intentional lives. I respect the vulnerability of each of in reaching out for therapy and look forward to empowering you.
I am fully trained in Internal Family Systems Therapy, Polyvagal Theory and Mindfulness Self-Compassion.
I provide therapy in Midtown Sacramento, currently all therapy is through video/telehealth. My approach to therapy is interactive, playful, and compassionate. I believe that therapy can open us to feel more connected to ourselves and our relationships and lead more intentional lives. I respect the vulnerability of each of in reaching out for therapy and look forward to empowering you.
(916) 943-4604 View (916) 943-4604
Photo of Nicole Hsiang Shieh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Midtown, Sacramento, CA
Nicole Hsiang Shieh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midtown, Sacramento, CA 95816
Patients often tell me how they feel frustrated, hopeless, lost, and exhausted by the time they seek out a therapist. Many folks in my practice are Asian American adults who experience painful conflicts within their family of origin that lead to separation, emotional distance, or even estrangement. I also work with individuals and couples who feel stuck in frustrating repetitive patterns in their thoughts and behaviors, negatively impacting their ability to find enjoyment in their lives and in their relationships. Therapy can give you a space to speak freely and listen to yourself in new and different ways.
Patients often tell me how they feel frustrated, hopeless, lost, and exhausted by the time they seek out a therapist. Many folks in my practice are Asian American adults who experience painful conflicts within their family of origin that lead to separation, emotional distance, or even estrangement. I also work with individuals and couples who feel stuck in frustrating repetitive patterns in their thoughts and behaviors, negatively impacting their ability to find enjoyment in their lives and in their relationships. Therapy can give you a space to speak freely and listen to yourself in new and different ways.
(916) 269-3534 View (916) 269-3534

See more therapy options for Midtown, Sacramento

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.