Photo of Neurocognitive Testing Lab Inc., Psychologist in Hawaii
Neurocognitive Testing Lab Inc.
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96821
As a neuropsychologist, I provide neuropsychological assessments, diagnostic services, and treatment to a wide range of clients, from questions about a child's learning difficulties to concerns about a senior's memory that has started to impact their daily living. I also provide a wide range of evaluations for legal related issues from Independent Medical Examinations, fitness for duty to legal issues; such as testamentary capacity. I approach each person with care and consideration for their emotional well-being, cultural background, age, and life experiences that may affect cognitive functioning. My goal is to provide a comprehensive and quality evaluation product whether that be for an individual client or third-party. My endeavor is to give the client the information they need to develop the best treatment plan for neuropsychological health or legal outcome. An appropriate diagnosis is dependent upon a good history, interviewing family members, teachers and review of records as appropriate. I strive to develop a treatment plan tailored to the individual with written reports appropriate for the consumer, be they parents, adult children, physicians, or lawyers.
As a neuropsychologist, I provide neuropsychological assessments, diagnostic services, and treatment to a wide range of clients, from questions about a child's learning difficulties to concerns about a senior's memory that has started to impact their daily living. I also provide a wide range of evaluations for legal related issues from Independent Medical Examinations, fitness for duty to legal issues; such as testamentary capacity. I approach each person with care and consideration for their emotional well-being, cultural background, age, and life experiences that may affect cognitive functioning. My goal is to provide a comprehensive and quality evaluation product whether that be for an individual client or third-party. My endeavor is to give the client the information they need to develop the best treatment plan for neuropsychological health or legal outcome. An appropriate diagnosis is dependent upon a good history, interviewing family members, teachers and review of records as appropriate. I strive to develop a treatment plan tailored to the individual with written reports appropriate for the consumer, be they parents, adult children, physicians, or lawyers.
(808) 377-4552 View (808) 377-4552
Photo of Michael Youngling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Michael Youngling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, Ed, USAF , (Ret)
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813
Currently accepting new clients for individual therapy. Aloha! I'm here to help with the stresses of island-living and military life on individuals, relationships and careers. If you feel overwhelmed, I offer brief, practical, solution-based therapies to better cope. Many people are angry; with themselves, their partner or family. Anger can stem from trauma of infidelity, combat, sexual assault or feeling powerless to change. Getting past anger and healing can transform our lives forever. My goal is to help clients heal, live, laugh and love again by tailoring therapy to your unique needs and strengths.
Currently accepting new clients for individual therapy. Aloha! I'm here to help with the stresses of island-living and military life on individuals, relationships and careers. If you feel overwhelmed, I offer brief, practical, solution-based therapies to better cope. Many people are angry; with themselves, their partner or family. Anger can stem from trauma of infidelity, combat, sexual assault or feeling powerless to change. Getting past anger and healing can transform our lives forever. My goal is to help clients heal, live, laugh and love again by tailoring therapy to your unique needs and strengths.
(808) 793-4523 View (808) 793-4523
Photo of Rosana Knudson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Rosana Knudson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
My identification with two different cultures Chile and United States has helped me to have a wider perspective, broader understanding, a deeper commitment towards individuals and families of all ethnic backgrounds. I am committed to facilitate, to alleviate, to empower individuals, couples and families who are going through suffering and pain. With your motivation, cooperation, desire to heal, and willingness to help yourself, we can work together as a team for the benefit of your own well being as well as your family. This therapeutic relationship is between equals, based in cooperation, mutual trust and respect.
My identification with two different cultures Chile and United States has helped me to have a wider perspective, broader understanding, a deeper commitment towards individuals and families of all ethnic backgrounds. I am committed to facilitate, to alleviate, to empower individuals, couples and families who are going through suffering and pain. With your motivation, cooperation, desire to heal, and willingness to help yourself, we can work together as a team for the benefit of your own well being as well as your family. This therapeutic relationship is between equals, based in cooperation, mutual trust and respect.
(808) 640-7377 View (808) 640-7377
Photo of Charity Dudoit, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Charity Dudoit
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96813  (Online Only)
I am licensed in Hawaii with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I have a great passion in this field. My 7 years of experience in this field has allowed me to work closely within my community, building connections with a trauma-informed and non-judgemental approach. I value compassion and empathy as essential to guiding people through their healing journey as a lighthouse for those who see darkness and to provide hope. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor ou
I am licensed in Hawaii with 7 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I have a great passion in this field. My 7 years of experience in this field has allowed me to work closely within my community, building connections with a trauma-informed and non-judgemental approach. I value compassion and empathy as essential to guiding people through their healing journey as a lighthouse for those who see darkness and to provide hope. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor ou
(808) 215-4721 View (808) 215-4721
Photo of Maria F Achaval, Psychologist in Hawaii
Maria F Achaval
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pearl City, HI 96782
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and I provide the following services in my private practice: Individual psychotherapy, play therapy for children, couple/marital therapy and family therapy.
In 1996, I began working with culturally diverse children, adolescents, adults and families in Oahu through a community health center in Honolulu.. The increasing need for mental health services for this population has challenged me to recognize, accept, and understand the complexities of their problems - challenges that offer potential for personal and professional growth, creativity, and deeper human connection. I had the opportunity since then to draw on various psychological approaches that include Humanistic, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Existential, System/Family, Developmental and Psychoeducational.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist and I provide the following services in my private practice: Individual psychotherapy, play therapy for children, couple/marital therapy and family therapy.
In 1996, I began working with culturally diverse children, adolescents, adults and families in Oahu through a community health center in Honolulu.. The increasing need for mental health services for this population has challenged me to recognize, accept, and understand the complexities of their problems - challenges that offer potential for personal and professional growth, creativity, and deeper human connection. I had the opportunity since then to draw on various psychological approaches that include Humanistic, Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic, Existential, System/Family, Developmental and Psychoeducational.
(808) 400-5643 View (808) 400-5643
Photo of Sonya B Chambliss Counseling Services LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hawaii
Sonya B Chambliss Counseling Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lahaina, HI 96761
I have been in practice 10 years including 7 years working in a world renowned treatment center in Arizona that specialized in working with family of origin trauma, which helped get to the underlying causes of problems (low self-esteem, distorted reality, and unhealthy boundaries) instead of just treating the symptoms.
I am here to help you stop running and start living! Your healing is a journey that needs a strong co-pilot! I specialize in deep trauma work (emotional, sexual, spiritual, relational, and physical) when other types of therapy have not worked for you. I use EMDR as one of my primary tools for trauma work where possible to hasten healing. I work to strengthen that inner voice inside of you to help you find your healing your way. I use techniques I learned working with world renowned professionals, including being fully trained in EMDR, (EMDRIA) a trauma resolution technique.
I have been in practice 10 years including 7 years working in a world renowned treatment center in Arizona that specialized in working with family of origin trauma, which helped get to the underlying causes of problems (low self-esteem, distorted reality, and unhealthy boundaries) instead of just treating the symptoms.
I am here to help you stop running and start living! Your healing is a journey that needs a strong co-pilot! I specialize in deep trauma work (emotional, sexual, spiritual, relational, and physical) when other types of therapy have not worked for you. I use EMDR as one of my primary tools for trauma work where possible to hasten healing. I work to strengthen that inner voice inside of you to help you find your healing your way. I use techniques I learned working with world renowned professionals, including being fully trained in EMDR, (EMDRIA) a trauma resolution technique.
(808) 250-9406 View (808) 250-9406
Photo of Kristine Altwies, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Kristine Altwies
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96826
Whether you are feeling a little bit off your game or deeply stuck, by seeking help you're on the right path. I work to provide a safe, supportive, and calming space. For 30 years I worked in adoption and family coaching. I am experienced in trauma, parenting, infertility, gender/ sexuality/racial identity and relationship building. I use a variety of interventions, and work with clients to set goals to plan for successful outcomes. I am eager to learn about my clients, and to figure out how best to help. Thank you for taking this step!
Whether you are feeling a little bit off your game or deeply stuck, by seeking help you're on the right path. I work to provide a safe, supportive, and calming space. For 30 years I worked in adoption and family coaching. I am experienced in trauma, parenting, infertility, gender/ sexuality/racial identity and relationship building. I use a variety of interventions, and work with clients to set goals to plan for successful outcomes. I am eager to learn about my clients, and to figure out how best to help. Thank you for taking this step!
(808) 204-4582 View (808) 204-4582
Photo of Dawn Martin, Counselor in Hawaii
Dawn Martin
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, ICDAC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813
Are you curious about different modalities to find clarity in trauma, narratives you tell yourself, or coping better through depression and/or anxiety that is coming up for you? The art of effective therapy not only addresses the identified need of the person, but the co-existing issues related to family, relationships, employment, education, spirituality, physical health, and mental health. I provide psychotherapy, ecotherapy, and psychedelic-integration therapy in an effort to shift modalities based on client curiosity.
Are you curious about different modalities to find clarity in trauma, narratives you tell yourself, or coping better through depression and/or anxiety that is coming up for you? The art of effective therapy not only addresses the identified need of the person, but the co-existing issues related to family, relationships, employment, education, spirituality, physical health, and mental health. I provide psychotherapy, ecotherapy, and psychedelic-integration therapy in an effort to shift modalities based on client curiosity.
(808) 818-5367 View (808) 818-5367
Photo of Douglas Halili, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hawaii
Douglas Halili
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96814
Regardless of age, social status, or family of origin, the way we feel about ourselves affects the way we see the world, experience our lives, and manage our relationships. Having local roots but being born and raised in "the big city" on the mainland, I know from experience what it's like growing up with a variety of obstacles and needing to navigate the sometimes fearsome and foreboding world. These experiences have fueled my present day commitment to help others stand up, have hope, and see possibilities.
Regardless of age, social status, or family of origin, the way we feel about ourselves affects the way we see the world, experience our lives, and manage our relationships. Having local roots but being born and raised in "the big city" on the mainland, I know from experience what it's like growing up with a variety of obstacles and needing to navigate the sometimes fearsome and foreboding world. These experiences have fueled my present day commitment to help others stand up, have hope, and see possibilities.
(808) 518-2319 View (808) 518-2319
Photo of Julia Sanderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Julia Sanderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSCP, NCC, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96814
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist and Mental Health Counselor with over 18 years of experience working in the mental health field in Honolulu, Hawaii. I strive to help individuals, couples and families to make positive changes by improving their quality of life, creating and achieving their personal goals, ultimately achieving their fulfillments in life.
I am a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist and Mental Health Counselor with over 18 years of experience working in the mental health field in Honolulu, Hawaii. I strive to help individuals, couples and families to make positive changes by improving their quality of life, creating and achieving their personal goals, ultimately achieving their fulfillments in life.
(808) 427-0491 View (808) 427-0491
Photo of Jessica Wood, Counselor in Hawaii
Jessica Wood
Counselor, LMHC, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96814  (Online Only)
As a licensed mental health counselor, certified sex therapist, and nationally board certified counselor, I primarily operate from the theoretical orientations of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Psychodynamic, and Client Centered modalities.
My passion is in treating relationship issues, parenting concerns, life transitions, stress and anger management, sexual health issues, and eating disorders. My focus is specifically in women's sexual health and optimizing relationship intimacy. My book titled "Reversing Your Child's Eating Disorder: Healing a Hijacked Mind to Overcome Anorexia" can be found on Amazon and www.reversingyourchildseatingdisorder.com.
As a licensed mental health counselor, certified sex therapist, and nationally board certified counselor, I primarily operate from the theoretical orientations of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Psychodynamic, and Client Centered modalities.
My passion is in treating relationship issues, parenting concerns, life transitions, stress and anger management, sexual health issues, and eating disorders. My focus is specifically in women's sexual health and optimizing relationship intimacy. My book titled "Reversing Your Child's Eating Disorder: Healing a Hijacked Mind to Overcome Anorexia" can be found on Amazon and www.reversingyourchildseatingdisorder.com.
(808) 755-3963 View (808) 755-3963
Photo of Azita Mirin, Psychologist in Hawaii
Azita Mirin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua, HI 96734  (Online Only)
Adolescents learn coping skills to overcome past traumas, enhance interpersonal functioning, and improve relationships with family members.
I help clients identify habits that limit their quality of life and help them learn new skills to both overcome distress and achieve optimal functioning. For over 10 years I have assisted adults, children, and families to overcome difficult life transitions and address behavioral disturbances. I specialize in helping to overcome past or recent traumas, depression and anxiety, stress, addictions, and relationship issues. I specialize in psychological assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults using evidence-based treatments to overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relationship issues, and other problems.
Adolescents learn coping skills to overcome past traumas, enhance interpersonal functioning, and improve relationships with family members.
I help clients identify habits that limit their quality of life and help them learn new skills to both overcome distress and achieve optimal functioning. For over 10 years I have assisted adults, children, and families to overcome difficult life transitions and address behavioral disturbances. I specialize in helping to overcome past or recent traumas, depression and anxiety, stress, addictions, and relationship issues. I specialize in psychological assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults using evidence-based treatments to overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relationship issues, and other problems.
(808) 495-0177 View (808) 495-0177
Photo of Michele 'shelby' Scofield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hawaii
Michele 'shelby' Scofield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Kula, HI 96790
I have been trained and educated as a social worker, substance abuse counselor and in the area of marriage and family systems.
Behavior is an alamalgamation of learned patterns that lead to particular outcomes. Engaging in therapy with Counseling Alternatives for Recovery Maintenance (CARM) will help you identify patterns that no longer serve your desired goals and will help you develop in ways that improve your quality of life...Are you ready?
I have been trained and educated as a social worker, substance abuse counselor and in the area of marriage and family systems.
Behavior is an alamalgamation of learned patterns that lead to particular outcomes. Engaging in therapy with Counseling Alternatives for Recovery Maintenance (CARM) will help you identify patterns that no longer serve your desired goals and will help you develop in ways that improve your quality of life...Are you ready?
(808) 518-6213 View (808) 518-6213
Photo of Damien Young, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Damien Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Somatic interventions, and practice from a systemic and holistic framework grounded in attachment and person-centered therapy, as well as transpersonal psychology.
I believe that beneath every symptom that creates our suffering is a wise, healthy, and whole Self yearning to break free of old shackles and guide us home to the person we are meant to be. In this way, I help clients to reconceptualize their issues as road signs that are guiding them on their path of healing; just the same way that physical symptoms like a fever or ache directs us to an ailment that needs addressing, so too do psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, or addictions, point to a deeper underlying wound that is calling to be healed. Our goal is to not simply survive, but thrive.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Somatic interventions, and practice from a systemic and holistic framework grounded in attachment and person-centered therapy, as well as transpersonal psychology.
I believe that beneath every symptom that creates our suffering is a wise, healthy, and whole Self yearning to break free of old shackles and guide us home to the person we are meant to be. In this way, I help clients to reconceptualize their issues as road signs that are guiding them on their path of healing; just the same way that physical symptoms like a fever or ache directs us to an ailment that needs addressing, so too do psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, or addictions, point to a deeper underlying wound that is calling to be healed. Our goal is to not simply survive, but thrive.
(808) 825-4214 View (808) 825-4214
Photo of Kristen Canencia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Kristen Canencia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96816  (Online Only)
My specialties include communication, family conflict, coping skills, relationship issues, transition/adjustment, anxiety, depression, stress and emotional regulation.
Hi, our therapeutic relationship can be a safe space for you to navigate life's challenges, heal and grow. My hope is to help you have a healthy relationship with yourself, to discover parts of your life that no longer serve you and to get you unstuck. Together we will set meaningful goals that will allow you to live a safe, healthy and authentic life.
My specialties include communication, family conflict, coping skills, relationship issues, transition/adjustment, anxiety, depression, stress and emotional regulation.
Hi, our therapeutic relationship can be a safe space for you to navigate life's challenges, heal and grow. My hope is to help you have a healthy relationship with yourself, to discover parts of your life that no longer serve you and to get you unstuck. Together we will set meaningful goals that will allow you to live a safe, healthy and authentic life.
(808) 480-7852 View (808) 480-7852
Photo of Teresa Lathrop, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Teresa Lathrop
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96816
I have lived and worked in Hawaii for over 30 years, first working on Kauai, and for the past 25 years on Oahu. I am the first clinically licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State. I specialize in relationship counseling, but have significant experience and expertise in helping those with depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, and parent-adolescent issues. I see individuals, couples, and families in treatment. I am a teacher and supervisor of those studying to become marriage and family therapists. I teach Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Hawaii.
I have lived and worked in Hawaii for over 30 years, first working on Kauai, and for the past 25 years on Oahu. I am the first clinically licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State. I specialize in relationship counseling, but have significant experience and expertise in helping those with depression, anxiety, trauma recovery, and parent-adolescent issues. I see individuals, couples, and families in treatment. I am a teacher and supervisor of those studying to become marriage and family therapists. I teach Marriage and Family Therapy at the University of Hawaii.
(808) 495-0192 View (808) 495-0192
Photo of Jennifer Purcell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Jennifer Purcell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, CSAC
Verified Verified
Makawao, HI 96768  (Online Only)
We all experience challenging and overwhelming periods in life. We often turn to friends, family, or faith is often helpful in navigating life's paths, we also benefit from a trained ear that can listen from the outside. Therapy is a safe place for exploration; a journey towards more fulfilling relationships and a time of learning new ideas and skill sets to enjoy a more satisfying life. I work with clients in a safe confidential setting where we can explore any issues that are of concern to you.
We all experience challenging and overwhelming periods in life. We often turn to friends, family, or faith is often helpful in navigating life's paths, we also benefit from a trained ear that can listen from the outside. Therapy is a safe place for exploration; a journey towards more fulfilling relationships and a time of learning new ideas and skill sets to enjoy a more satisfying life. I work with clients in a safe confidential setting where we can explore any issues that are of concern to you.
(808) 582-5954 View (808) 582-5954
Photo of Norma Kawata, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Norma Kawata
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96819  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Hawaii, Nevada, and Idaho. I have extensive experience and a deep passion for helping individuals, couples, and families navigate through life's challenges to find healing and growth. My approach to therapy is collaborative, supportive, and client-centered. I believe that every individual and relationship is unique, and therefore, I tailor my treatment approach to meet the specific needs and goals of each client. I draw from evidence-based models such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Family Systems Theory to guide my practice.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Hawaii, Nevada, and Idaho. I have extensive experience and a deep passion for helping individuals, couples, and families navigate through life's challenges to find healing and growth. My approach to therapy is collaborative, supportive, and client-centered. I believe that every individual and relationship is unique, and therefore, I tailor my treatment approach to meet the specific needs and goals of each client. I draw from evidence-based models such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Family Systems Theory to guide my practice.
(808) 435-7205 View (808) 435-7205
Photo of Loraine Sawyer, Counselor in Hawaii
Loraine Sawyer
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kaneohe, HI 96744
I also have extensive experience in applied behavioral analysis and functional family therapy.
My Name is Lori Sawyer, and I am licensed Mental Health Counselor. I work collaboratively with clients to identify and address mental health challenges from a strength-based perspective. My goal is to support clients in reducing counterproductive patterns of beliefs, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors so that they can thrive across all life domains. I primarily work with teens and adults who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, or relational challenges including those coping with transitional life stressors, relational challenges or conflict, trauma related disorders, anxiety, depression, and parenting challenges.
I also have extensive experience in applied behavioral analysis and functional family therapy.
My Name is Lori Sawyer, and I am licensed Mental Health Counselor. I work collaboratively with clients to identify and address mental health challenges from a strength-based perspective. My goal is to support clients in reducing counterproductive patterns of beliefs, emotions, thoughts, and behaviors so that they can thrive across all life domains. I primarily work with teens and adults who are struggling with emotional, behavioral, or relational challenges including those coping with transitional life stressors, relational challenges or conflict, trauma related disorders, anxiety, depression, and parenting challenges.
(808) 207-8867 View (808) 207-8867
Photo of Christina McKay, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Christina McKay
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. We all face challenges throughout our lives, whether in family conflicts, relationships, life transitions, or difficulties in managing our emotions. Seeking help can be the first step in making a change in your life. Because each client / client system is unique, I believe in providing a thorough assessment process before creating an individualized treatment plan. I am rooted in person centered therapy and believe that the client is the expert of their own life. I am trained in family systems, CBT, DBT, and Internal Family Systems.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. We all face challenges throughout our lives, whether in family conflicts, relationships, life transitions, or difficulties in managing our emotions. Seeking help can be the first step in making a change in your life. Because each client / client system is unique, I believe in providing a thorough assessment process before creating an individualized treatment plan. I am rooted in person centered therapy and believe that the client is the expert of their own life. I am trained in family systems, CBT, DBT, and Internal Family Systems.
(516) 689-7626 View (516) 689-7626
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.