Photo of Rebecca Gillespie, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Rebecca Gillespie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
My goal is to create a safe space where everyone can feel heard and validated. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, relationship problems, grief, and transitional issues. I have a passion for working with adolescents, both individually and with their families. Adolescence can be a challenging times for families and I believe in creating an open environment for encouraging both communication and the acceptance of needed privacy. I have extensive training and experience in systemic family therapy. This means that I am able to treat not only the individual, but also the entire family of origin, where appropriate.
My goal is to create a safe space where everyone can feel heard and validated. I have experience treating depression, anxiety, relationship problems, grief, and transitional issues. I have a passion for working with adolescents, both individually and with their families. Adolescence can be a challenging times for families and I believe in creating an open environment for encouraging both communication and the acceptance of needed privacy. I have extensive training and experience in systemic family therapy. This means that I am able to treat not only the individual, but also the entire family of origin, where appropriate.
(848) 222-3601 View (848) 222-3601
Photo of Nixzaliz Rojas Pridgen- Westfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Nixzaliz Rojas Pridgen- Westfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Together we can navigate the challenges that have brought you, your child, and family to this point, finding new paths, to understanding and a stronger, more fulfilling relationship.
Parents, let’s be honest- parenting is one tough journey. Are you wondering if you’re doing this parenting thing right? Struggling with a child that has big feelings, who worries a lot, or has other challenges? Are you feeling disconnected from your family and wondering if it’s possible to repair these bonds and come back together? It’s possible to enjoy your child again, to navigate your child’s challenges with confidence, and rediscover a connection with your family filled with harmony, happiness, and close connections. Let’s work together!
Together we can navigate the challenges that have brought you, your child, and family to this point, finding new paths, to understanding and a stronger, more fulfilling relationship.
Parents, let’s be honest- parenting is one tough journey. Are you wondering if you’re doing this parenting thing right? Struggling with a child that has big feelings, who worries a lot, or has other challenges? Are you feeling disconnected from your family and wondering if it’s possible to repair these bonds and come back together? It’s possible to enjoy your child again, to navigate your child’s challenges with confidence, and rediscover a connection with your family filled with harmony, happiness, and close connections. Let’s work together!
(908) 443-9456 View (908) 443-9456
Photo of Mary Giovinazzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Mary Giovinazzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I have an interactive approach involving nonjudgmental listening and insightful feedback. I specialize in depressive, anxiety, trauma and stress disorders, as well as couples and family therapy. I work with adolescents (12-17), young and middle aged adults and seniors. I have clinical training and experience in CBT, DBT, psychodynamic and trauma-informed therapy; mindfulness training; bereavement, grief and loss; and families in transition. I utilize the Gottman Method for couples and help clients manage conflict, deepen friendship and intimacy, and develop tools to work through fights, prevent escalation and avoid relapse.
I have an interactive approach involving nonjudgmental listening and insightful feedback. I specialize in depressive, anxiety, trauma and stress disorders, as well as couples and family therapy. I work with adolescents (12-17), young and middle aged adults and seniors. I have clinical training and experience in CBT, DBT, psychodynamic and trauma-informed therapy; mindfulness training; bereavement, grief and loss; and families in transition. I utilize the Gottman Method for couples and help clients manage conflict, deepen friendship and intimacy, and develop tools to work through fights, prevent escalation and avoid relapse.
(908) 913-6195 View (908) 913-6195
Photo of Michele L. Cole, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Michele L. Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, NJ, NY
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Welcome. I specialize in the treatment of a variety of family issues. I treat children and teens struggling with emotional and/or behavioral issues and parents coping with these challenges, infertility and family-building through assisted reproduction or adoption and grief counseling for miscarriage and pregnancy loss. I offer a safe and supportive space to explore the many and often difficult choices and feelings associated with family building options such as IVF, donor sperm/egg, gestational carrier and adoption. I can help you manage the stress inherent in the process and help you work through couples and parenting issues.
Welcome. I specialize in the treatment of a variety of family issues. I treat children and teens struggling with emotional and/or behavioral issues and parents coping with these challenges, infertility and family-building through assisted reproduction or adoption and grief counseling for miscarriage and pregnancy loss. I offer a safe and supportive space to explore the many and often difficult choices and feelings associated with family building options such as IVF, donor sperm/egg, gestational carrier and adoption. I can help you manage the stress inherent in the process and help you work through couples and parenting issues.
(908) 867-0127 View (908) 867-0127
Photo of Kara E King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Kara E King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in the field. I have worked in hospital settings such as inpatient psych, outpatient mental health, juvenile drug programs and in the public school system on a child study team. My areas of expertise include working with children, adolescents, and adults, ages 7 and up, and their families on a variety of issues. Some of these issues include but are not limited to anxiety, ADHD, depression, mood disorders, learning disabilities, behavioral issues, school issues, family conflicts and relationship issues, as well as many other life stressors that can affect us.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in the field. I have worked in hospital settings such as inpatient psych, outpatient mental health, juvenile drug programs and in the public school system on a child study team. My areas of expertise include working with children, adolescents, and adults, ages 7 and up, and their families on a variety of issues. Some of these issues include but are not limited to anxiety, ADHD, depression, mood disorders, learning disabilities, behavioral issues, school issues, family conflicts and relationship issues, as well as many other life stressors that can affect us.
(908) 460-7013 View (908) 460-7013
Photo of Emily Doskow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Emily Doskow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
Some specific modalties I may use are Internal Family Systems, DBT, and Somatic work, Neurorelational (polyvagal) for Complex Trauma.
Welcome! I have worked in this field for over 13 years. I work with preteens, adolescents, college students, and adults. My training and clinical specialties include complex trauma, depression, anxiety, and effects of stress on daily functioning at any age. I work with clients who may feel stuck, isolated, and blocked from engaging in life. Throughout life one faces milestones and expectations that may exacerabate past traumas, poor self-image, and ways of coping that feel uncontrollable. In therapy, I believe that even the most intimate aspects of one's life can be safely explored in a collaborative and caring environment.
Some specific modalties I may use are Internal Family Systems, DBT, and Somatic work, Neurorelational (polyvagal) for Complex Trauma.
Welcome! I have worked in this field for over 13 years. I work with preteens, adolescents, college students, and adults. My training and clinical specialties include complex trauma, depression, anxiety, and effects of stress on daily functioning at any age. I work with clients who may feel stuck, isolated, and blocked from engaging in life. Throughout life one faces milestones and expectations that may exacerabate past traumas, poor self-image, and ways of coping that feel uncontrollable. In therapy, I believe that even the most intimate aspects of one's life can be safely explored in a collaborative and caring environment.
(732) 314-7689 View (732) 314-7689
Photo of Dr. Christina Berdebes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Dr. Christina Berdebes
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
I will prioritize and cultivate an environment that is safe and comfortable to share whatever you as an individual, couple, or family are experiencing.
Throughout the therapeutic process, I will work with you on nurturing your needs and self-worth. I consider myself a relationship specialist that tunes into underlying relational issues to improve the understanding of oneself and their relationship to other interrelated systems. My approach is to track cycles of interactions and help one to better understand previous patterns and re-establish better connections and raise internal and external awareness. I utilize an open and flexible manner to understand challenges, promote insight, and cultivate growth and change.
I will prioritize and cultivate an environment that is safe and comfortable to share whatever you as an individual, couple, or family are experiencing.
Throughout the therapeutic process, I will work with you on nurturing your needs and self-worth. I consider myself a relationship specialist that tunes into underlying relational issues to improve the understanding of oneself and their relationship to other interrelated systems. My approach is to track cycles of interactions and help one to better understand previous patterns and re-establish better connections and raise internal and external awareness. I utilize an open and flexible manner to understand challenges, promote insight, and cultivate growth and change.
(908) 866-2936 View (908) 866-2936
Photo of Jacqueline Finch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Jacqueline Finch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LLC
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my focus is to help those who struggle with life changes, grief, various forms of trauma, and difficult situations that you or your family may be experiencing.
I believe that therapy's primary goal is to help a person reach their best and most balanced self. While therapy can be emotional work, it can also be one of the best gifts we can provide ourselves.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, my focus is to help those who struggle with life changes, grief, various forms of trauma, and difficult situations that you or your family may be experiencing.
I believe that therapy's primary goal is to help a person reach their best and most balanced self. While therapy can be emotional work, it can also be one of the best gifts we can provide ourselves.
(201) 579-0603 View (201) 579-0603
Photo of Tara Colandrea, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Tara Colandrea
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, SAC, ACS
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Hi! I am extremely passionate about helping each and every client through caring & empathetic counseling, with a focus on reaching solutions and your highest potential. I strive to create the most comfortable and kindest environment for my clients. I specialize in working with Adolescents who are struggling with fitting in, bullying, self-esteem, body image, behavioral issues, organizational skills, academic issues, eating disorders, family conflict, Obsessive-Compulsive, Peer Relationships, Substance Abuse, Teen Violence, Addiction, Anger Management, Impulsivity, Depression, Grief, Oppositional Defiance, Relationship Issues, Self-Harming, Suicidal Ideation, & Anxiety. I also work with adults in the areas mentioned above as well as Career Counseling.
Hi! I am extremely passionate about helping each and every client through caring & empathetic counseling, with a focus on reaching solutions and your highest potential. I strive to create the most comfortable and kindest environment for my clients. I specialize in working with Adolescents who are struggling with fitting in, bullying, self-esteem, body image, behavioral issues, organizational skills, academic issues, eating disorders, family conflict, Obsessive-Compulsive, Peer Relationships, Substance Abuse, Teen Violence, Addiction, Anger Management, Impulsivity, Depression, Grief, Oppositional Defiance, Relationship Issues, Self-Harming, Suicidal Ideation, & Anxiety. I also work with adults in the areas mentioned above as well as Career Counseling.
(908) 884-1198 View (908) 884-1198
Photo of Laurie M Robbins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Laurie M Robbins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
Waitlist for new clients
My training includes a Masters degree in social work from New York University and post-graduate training at the Ackerman Institute for the Family.
My treatment approach is to help you be on your way to feeling better in the shortest time possible. My clients frequently comment on how much they appreciate my balance of providing genuine empathy while also giving honest feedback when it seems like it can be helpful. I care deeply about my work, and I adapt my expertise to make therapy a rewarding, yet unique experience for all of my clients.
My training includes a Masters degree in social work from New York University and post-graduate training at the Ackerman Institute for the Family.
My treatment approach is to help you be on your way to feeling better in the shortest time possible. My clients frequently comment on how much they appreciate my balance of providing genuine empathy while also giving honest feedback when it seems like it can be helpful. I care deeply about my work, and I adapt my expertise to make therapy a rewarding, yet unique experience for all of my clients.
(917) 725-3253 View (917) 725-3253
Photo of Jennifer Laura Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Jennifer Laura Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
My practice includes folks of all ages/stages from young children to those entering the third third of life, I work with people who seek to know themselves more deeply & who want to uncover patterns & ways of being that no longer serve them. I especially love high conflict family work & working with parent/child connections. I utilize art, sandtray,movement & play as I see fit. I find couples therapy to be a potent vehicle of change for both the individual and for the couple. I blend Non-Violent Communication, IFS, Synergetic Play Therapy, Gestalt & Radical Aliveness in all my sessions. I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
My practice includes folks of all ages/stages from young children to those entering the third third of life, I work with people who seek to know themselves more deeply & who want to uncover patterns & ways of being that no longer serve them. I especially love high conflict family work & working with parent/child connections. I utilize art, sandtray,movement & play as I see fit. I find couples therapy to be a potent vehicle of change for both the individual and for the couple. I blend Non-Violent Communication, IFS, Synergetic Play Therapy, Gestalt & Radical Aliveness in all my sessions. I also offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy.
(908) 854-0239 View (908) 854-0239
Photo of Brighter Future Therapy, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Brighter Future Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
Are you struggling with life stressors? Finding it more difficult to deal with anxiety, depression, trauma, and/or conflicts? I can work with you to figure out the tools you need in order to work through such obstacles as: physical and sexual abuse, stressful situations/relationships, mood disorders, and family dysfunction. I utilize my calm nature and sense of humor to engage people in treatment and we work together to identify and achieve their goals.
Are you struggling with life stressors? Finding it more difficult to deal with anxiety, depression, trauma, and/or conflicts? I can work with you to figure out the tools you need in order to work through such obstacles as: physical and sexual abuse, stressful situations/relationships, mood disorders, and family dysfunction. I utilize my calm nature and sense of humor to engage people in treatment and we work together to identify and achieve their goals.
(908) 660-0584 View (908) 660-0584
Photo of Salvatore Ridente, Licensed Professional Counselor in Westfield, NJ
Salvatore Ridente
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, EdS
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Specialties include: Anxiety, Depression, Family Conflict, Relationship Issues, Marital Issues and Substance Abuse Issues.
Licensed Psychotherapist and Substance Abuse Counselor working with adolescents, adults, families and couples. When life becomes complicated and confusing, our emotions can leave us feeling overwhelmed. For some, seeking understanding through psychotherapy can be the path to clarity. I use evidenced based/solution focused therapy with an emphasis on understanding our sense of self to help define responses to conflict in our lives. If you're ready to make a change, or would like to develop coping strategies to address difficult challenges; calling our office may be the first step in achieving your goals.
Specialties include: Anxiety, Depression, Family Conflict, Relationship Issues, Marital Issues and Substance Abuse Issues.
Licensed Psychotherapist and Substance Abuse Counselor working with adolescents, adults, families and couples. When life becomes complicated and confusing, our emotions can leave us feeling overwhelmed. For some, seeking understanding through psychotherapy can be the path to clarity. I use evidenced based/solution focused therapy with an emphasis on understanding our sense of self to help define responses to conflict in our lives. If you're ready to make a change, or would like to develop coping strategies to address difficult challenges; calling our office may be the first step in achieving your goals.
(908) 258-6481 View (908) 258-6481
Photo of Laura Morra, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Laura Morra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
Are you facing a challenging situation in your life? Perhaps you are trying to recover from a difficult break-up. Or you may be trying to resolve conflicts in a relationship with a partner, family member, co-worker or boss. Your struggle may be an internal one, such as dealing with behavior that feels out of control, confusion over sexual orientation, gender identity or other issues affecting self-esteem. Utilizing a combination of mindfulness, cognitive therapy, insight oriented and trauma based approaches, my goal is to foster a compassionate view of yourself as you deal with life's challenges.
Are you facing a challenging situation in your life? Perhaps you are trying to recover from a difficult break-up. Or you may be trying to resolve conflicts in a relationship with a partner, family member, co-worker or boss. Your struggle may be an internal one, such as dealing with behavior that feels out of control, confusion over sexual orientation, gender identity or other issues affecting self-esteem. Utilizing a combination of mindfulness, cognitive therapy, insight oriented and trauma based approaches, my goal is to foster a compassionate view of yourself as you deal with life's challenges.
(908) 897-0459 View (908) 897-0459
Photo of Diane Des Plantes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Diane Des Plantes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
My individual/family therapeutic sessions are focused on developing the skills needed to lead a happier and productive personal and professional life.
There are times when we are uncertain how to respond to issues, we may become overwhelmed by having to make decisions or we may feel depleted because we tried everything possible but the problem(s) persist and seem to grow. We may also feel isolated as our personal and professional relationships become conflicted. We might be responding to problems never before experienced, or we may lack the knowledge experience and skills to be objective to find a solution. Sometimes we may not have had role models or personal, academic or professional mentors to help guide us through various situations.
My individual/family therapeutic sessions are focused on developing the skills needed to lead a happier and productive personal and professional life.
There are times when we are uncertain how to respond to issues, we may become overwhelmed by having to make decisions or we may feel depleted because we tried everything possible but the problem(s) persist and seem to grow. We may also feel isolated as our personal and professional relationships become conflicted. We might be responding to problems never before experienced, or we may lack the knowledge experience and skills to be objective to find a solution. Sometimes we may not have had role models or personal, academic or professional mentors to help guide us through various situations.
(908) 441-8197 View (908) 441-8197
Photo of Elizabeth Connolly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Elizabeth Connolly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
I utilize a range of different modalities including CBT, DBT, EFT, MI, Narrative Therapy, and Family Systems Theory.
In my opinion, there is no such thing as an ideal client. The human experience is far too vast and varying for one to be considered an ideal therapeutic client. It is my pleasure to engage with any individual who has the strength and awareness to seek mental health treatment and it is my privilege to be allowed into their lives. In my work as a therapist, it is my hope to work with my clients in such a way that encourages and inspires them to pursue their authentic-selves while building healthy, sustainable skills to cope with the myriad of struggles, obstacles, and experiences that life can entail.
I utilize a range of different modalities including CBT, DBT, EFT, MI, Narrative Therapy, and Family Systems Theory.
In my opinion, there is no such thing as an ideal client. The human experience is far too vast and varying for one to be considered an ideal therapeutic client. It is my pleasure to engage with any individual who has the strength and awareness to seek mental health treatment and it is my privilege to be allowed into their lives. In my work as a therapist, it is my hope to work with my clients in such a way that encourages and inspires them to pursue their authentic-selves while building healthy, sustainable skills to cope with the myriad of struggles, obstacles, and experiences that life can entail.
(201) 820-0165 View (201) 820-0165
Photo of Jennifer Ellis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Jennifer Ellis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
Growing a family can be such a trip! Everything about it. The highs the lows and the unforeseen challenges. I find a strong connection with clients who are on this journey. Whether it be their journey through fertility struggles, their journey through relational changes, their journey through loss of identity, or their journey on an emotional rollercoaster. My clients want to be heard and they want support while they navigate these areas.
Growing a family can be such a trip! Everything about it. The highs the lows and the unforeseen challenges. I find a strong connection with clients who are on this journey. Whether it be their journey through fertility struggles, their journey through relational changes, their journey through loss of identity, or their journey on an emotional rollercoaster. My clients want to be heard and they want support while they navigate these areas.
(908) 293-7858 View (908) 293-7858
Photo of Viktorija Spasova, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Viktorija Spasova, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090  (Online Only)
I am trauma-focused and I work with modalities such as Psychodynamic and Interpersonal approach, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Strength Based Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and others.
Since I can remember, I've wanted to be in this profession working on helping improve the lives of others. I've been in the field of social work for the last six years providing therapy to people from all walks of life. Have you experienced anything traumatic and its been affecting your daily functioning? Are you a young adult who has a hard time accepting a diagnosis or struggling to find your place in the world? Has your loved one been diagnosed with persistent and severe mental illness? Is your anxiety/depression keeping you from working on your goals? If so, you are not alone. Connect with me to see how we can work together.
I am trauma-focused and I work with modalities such as Psychodynamic and Interpersonal approach, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Strength Based Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and others.
Since I can remember, I've wanted to be in this profession working on helping improve the lives of others. I've been in the field of social work for the last six years providing therapy to people from all walks of life. Have you experienced anything traumatic and its been affecting your daily functioning? Are you a young adult who has a hard time accepting a diagnosis or struggling to find your place in the world? Has your loved one been diagnosed with persistent and severe mental illness? Is your anxiety/depression keeping you from working on your goals? If so, you are not alone. Connect with me to see how we can work together.
(908) 224-7180 View (908) 224-7180
Photo of Robyn Krugman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Robyn Krugman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westfield, NJ 07090
Depression, anxiety and problems in relationships often cause deep anguish and pain, just getting by each day can be difficult. We often struggle in silence, believing things will never get better or that no one could understand. Well-meaning friends and family urge us to “just get over it”-but that often that makes us feel alone. I believe every person possesses the potential to transform their life. With the right support and ability to learn healthy coping skills, we will work together in a collaborative process to create the change you have been waiting for. Therapy is a place just for you, to be heard, validated and supported.
Depression, anxiety and problems in relationships often cause deep anguish and pain, just getting by each day can be difficult. We often struggle in silence, believing things will never get better or that no one could understand. Well-meaning friends and family urge us to “just get over it”-but that often that makes us feel alone. I believe every person possesses the potential to transform their life. With the right support and ability to learn healthy coping skills, we will work together in a collaborative process to create the change you have been waiting for. Therapy is a place just for you, to be heard, validated and supported.
(908) 386-4445 View (908) 386-4445
Photo of Becky Diaz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Westfield, NJ
Becky Diaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Westfield, NJ 07090
As a couples and family therapist I work by first meeting clients where they are, understanding existing dynamics and challenges, and helping them feel safer together.
I am available to come alongside my clients in their pain, challenges, and also successes. I provide a compassionate ear that understands the reality of the patterns that we can get caught in. I believe I can work with you towards growth, self-compassion, and empowerment. I recognize the challenges that come from living in a world that consistently pushes us to find our validation from the outside. Therefore I can help individuals, couples, and families to begin a journey of healing and repair that will benefit their relationships, past, present and future.
As a couples and family therapist I work by first meeting clients where they are, understanding existing dynamics and challenges, and helping them feel safer together.
I am available to come alongside my clients in their pain, challenges, and also successes. I provide a compassionate ear that understands the reality of the patterns that we can get caught in. I believe I can work with you towards growth, self-compassion, and empowerment. I recognize the challenges that come from living in a world that consistently pushes us to find our validation from the outside. Therefore I can help individuals, couples, and families to begin a journey of healing and repair that will benefit their relationships, past, present and future.
(862) 263-9911 View (862) 263-9911
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.