Family Therapy in Portland, OR

Photo of Kit Kryger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kit Kryger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I have over 35 years of specialized training and experience in trauma informed care, collaborative problem solving, child and family therapy, couples and individual life transitions.
Everyone goes through challenges situations in life and while you my have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it, in fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. If you struggle with anxiety, depression, marital/relational difficulties and are committed to making long lasting changes in your life by acquiring the long-lasting benefits and tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome those challenges-take the first step.
I have over 35 years of specialized training and experience in trauma informed care, collaborative problem solving, child and family therapy, couples and individual life transitions.
Everyone goes through challenges situations in life and while you my have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it, in fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. If you struggle with anxiety, depression, marital/relational difficulties and are committed to making long lasting changes in your life by acquiring the long-lasting benefits and tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome those challenges-take the first step.
(971) 351-2323 View (971) 351-2323
Photo of Jill Kelly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Jill Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
I view you as a whole person, not a set of symptoms; recognize how systems impact you in regard to your identity, family, culture, community, and history.
Life feels overwhelming, you're struggling to cope and want support figuring out how to better manage your stress. You feel unsatisfied in your job or a relationship and would like support with making a change and finding a path back to feeling joy. You feel lost and need help rediscovering what you need and want. You're seeking self- and other-awareness to understand why things feel challenging in your present relationships. Your goal is to feel more secure and grounded within yourself, as you learn about your strengths and capacity for change.
I view you as a whole person, not a set of symptoms; recognize how systems impact you in regard to your identity, family, culture, community, and history.
Life feels overwhelming, you're struggling to cope and want support figuring out how to better manage your stress. You feel unsatisfied in your job or a relationship and would like support with making a change and finding a path back to feeling joy. You feel lost and need help rediscovering what you need and want. You're seeking self- and other-awareness to understand why things feel challenging in your present relationships. Your goal is to feel more secure and grounded within yourself, as you learn about your strengths and capacity for change.
Photo of Bridget Lovejoy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Bridget Lovejoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221  (Online Only)
Another modality that I am learning is Internal Family Systems and it is a wonderful adjunct to what I already do with clients.
I find it a privilege to work with adult clients with a variety of issues (anxiety, depression, relationship concerns and trauma) but I am especially interested in older couples. I have experience in gerontology and have been a couples therapist since 2003. My approach with couples is eclectic but includes the work of John Gottman, David Burns, Prepare/Enrich, DBT, and Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (aka The Work of Byron Katie). And with individuals I do EMDR and other modalities. My background orientation is firmly rooted in Gestalt Therapy. Sometimes therapy with me is brief and other times we dive deep depending on your needs.
Another modality that I am learning is Internal Family Systems and it is a wonderful adjunct to what I already do with clients.
I find it a privilege to work with adult clients with a variety of issues (anxiety, depression, relationship concerns and trauma) but I am especially interested in older couples. I have experience in gerontology and have been a couples therapist since 2003. My approach with couples is eclectic but includes the work of John Gottman, David Burns, Prepare/Enrich, DBT, and Inquiry-Based Stress Reduction (aka The Work of Byron Katie). And with individuals I do EMDR and other modalities. My background orientation is firmly rooted in Gestalt Therapy. Sometimes therapy with me is brief and other times we dive deep depending on your needs.
(503) 461-7245 View (503) 461-7245
Photo of Family Heart Counseling - Leslie Yeargers, M.A,, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Family Heart Counseling - Leslie Yeargers, M.A,
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I am trauma-informed and draw from family systems, narrative, emotion-focused, internal family systems, and social justice theories.
I specialize in working with couples from all walks of life, as well as families in which one member is exploring their gender identity or actively transitioning. I understand that gender exploration and transition can create unique challenges within families; it can bring out family dynamics that are painful and difficult to navigate without help. I am here to support you with that. Regarding couples, it's not unusual to experience challenges in your relationship as you face the challenges of daily living. I am here to help you improve communication, increase understanding, and find your way back to each other.
I am trauma-informed and draw from family systems, narrative, emotion-focused, internal family systems, and social justice theories.
I specialize in working with couples from all walks of life, as well as families in which one member is exploring their gender identity or actively transitioning. I understand that gender exploration and transition can create unique challenges within families; it can bring out family dynamics that are painful and difficult to navigate without help. I am here to support you with that. Regarding couples, it's not unusual to experience challenges in your relationship as you face the challenges of daily living. I am here to help you improve communication, increase understanding, and find your way back to each other.
(971) 351-1608 View (971) 351-1608
Photo of Lexi Marquardt Hill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Lexi Marquardt Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
I work with families and couples around relationship concerns and family planning and provide coaching for eating disorder support.
From the very beginning, I work to build trust and a foundation for my clients that allows them to feel safe to share and explore their personal narrative. I empower individuals to recognize that they have the ability to change negative ways of thinking, create new patterns of relationships with themselves and others, and set boundaries that allow them to move through the world feeling supported. My main focus is treating eating disorders using the HAES foundation. I am a certified clinical trauma professional currently working on my EMDR certification. Other modalities I utilize are CBT, DBT, IFS, Solution Focused, MI, and more.
I work with families and couples around relationship concerns and family planning and provide coaching for eating disorder support.
From the very beginning, I work to build trust and a foundation for my clients that allows them to feel safe to share and explore their personal narrative. I empower individuals to recognize that they have the ability to change negative ways of thinking, create new patterns of relationships with themselves and others, and set boundaries that allow them to move through the world feeling supported. My main focus is treating eating disorders using the HAES foundation. I am a certified clinical trauma professional currently working on my EMDR certification. Other modalities I utilize are CBT, DBT, IFS, Solution Focused, MI, and more.
(971) 328-3338 View (971) 328-3338
Photo of Amanda McLean, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Amanda McLean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMHC, CMHS, ASDCS, ADHDCCS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
You’ve grown up wondering if you’re weird, wrong, or at fault. You feel like you don’t align with your family, your assigned gender, or traditional relationships. You wonder if you speak the same language as others in your world. You’ve tried to fit in, get things done, and meet others’ standards, but have always felt like you’re missing the mark. You feel stuck, like everyone else knows something you don’t. Now, you want guidance, support, and a deeper understanding of yourself and your ideal life.
You’ve grown up wondering if you’re weird, wrong, or at fault. You feel like you don’t align with your family, your assigned gender, or traditional relationships. You wonder if you speak the same language as others in your world. You’ve tried to fit in, get things done, and meet others’ standards, but have always felt like you’re missing the mark. You feel stuck, like everyone else knows something you don’t. Now, you want guidance, support, and a deeper understanding of yourself and your ideal life.
(503) 461-9116 View (503) 461-9116
Photo of John Lenkin, LPC Intern in Portland, OR
John Lenkin
LPC Intern, SEP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I have trained in both clinical mental health counseling and marriage family therapy.
Hi I'm Lincoln. I appreciate that you reading this is a reflection of your own curiosity and showing up for yourself! Therapy is a safe, collaborative, and respectful space to work with you towards lessening your struggles and achieving your goals. Our work together is an opportunity to shift from scripts, wounding and habit patterns of your past and more fully enter the present moment with clarity, belief in yourself, and strength to act. Ultimately, our work together can decrease your stress, cultivate a more comfortable relationship with yourself and others, and overall lead to more possibilities and self-empowerment.
I have trained in both clinical mental health counseling and marriage family therapy.
Hi I'm Lincoln. I appreciate that you reading this is a reflection of your own curiosity and showing up for yourself! Therapy is a safe, collaborative, and respectful space to work with you towards lessening your struggles and achieving your goals. Our work together is an opportunity to shift from scripts, wounding and habit patterns of your past and more fully enter the present moment with clarity, belief in yourself, and strength to act. Ultimately, our work together can decrease your stress, cultivate a more comfortable relationship with yourself and others, and overall lead to more possibilities and self-empowerment.
(971) 224-7397 View (971) 224-7397
Photo of Mary Meikle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Mary Meikle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
I use a strength based approach as a therapist. Working with adults, children, teens and families. Regardless of age many of the clients I have present with adjustment issues related to transitions they are experiencing in their lives. Clients often present with symptoms of anxiety and or depression resulting in a decrease in quality of life. Some are dealing with family communication challenges, a recent death or have a loved one who is sick or with a chronic illness. Clients can have a history of mental illness and others have relational challenges both personally, professionally or in school finding it hard to succeed.
I use a strength based approach as a therapist. Working with adults, children, teens and families. Regardless of age many of the clients I have present with adjustment issues related to transitions they are experiencing in their lives. Clients often present with symptoms of anxiety and or depression resulting in a decrease in quality of life. Some are dealing with family communication challenges, a recent death or have a loved one who is sick or with a chronic illness. Clients can have a history of mental illness and others have relational challenges both personally, professionally or in school finding it hard to succeed.
(503) 832-4849 View (503) 832-4849
Photo of Andrea J. Wright Johnston, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Andrea J. Wright Johnston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
We work to create new awareness, new knowledge and new possibilities. You can have an empowered family and a happy state of mind through therapy. I work with individuals and families to build harmony and health in their relationships. I specialize in sex therapy and am an effective life coach. I approach each person and family with attention to mental and physical health, with consideration to relational, social and spiritual influences.
We work to create new awareness, new knowledge and new possibilities. You can have an empowered family and a happy state of mind through therapy. I work with individuals and families to build harmony and health in their relationships. I specialize in sex therapy and am an effective life coach. I approach each person and family with attention to mental and physical health, with consideration to relational, social and spiritual influences.
(503) 405-4321 View (503) 405-4321
Photo of Christopher Lee Creaturo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Christopher Lee Creaturo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
I work with clients to offer serious relief from the effects of trauma, depression and anxiety on their lives. Tools like EMDR and Internal Family Systems, as well the creation of a judgement-free space to talk can bring hope to the stuck parts of our worlds, and finally allow us to be present in our own lives again. Finding relief can feel like taking a first deep breath after being underwater for a long time, and that's an outcome worth fighting together for. Please email to learn more and find our if we make a good therapy team.
I work with clients to offer serious relief from the effects of trauma, depression and anxiety on their lives. Tools like EMDR and Internal Family Systems, as well the creation of a judgement-free space to talk can bring hope to the stuck parts of our worlds, and finally allow us to be present in our own lives again. Finding relief can feel like taking a first deep breath after being underwater for a long time, and that's an outcome worth fighting together for. Please email to learn more and find our if we make a good therapy team.
(458) 217-6034 View (458) 217-6034
Photo of Clara Villalobos Andino, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Clara Villalobos Andino
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Therapy is not a “one size fits all” practice, therefore, I draw from a variety of methods and approaches to the work including Narrative, Internal Family Systems, and Emotion-Focused Therapy.
As a therapist, I am a firm believer that all people have the ability to learn, adapt and grow through their relationship to themselves, and others, in compassionate and productive ways. I believe that each client knows their lived experience best and that there is inherent value in understanding larger societal forces that affect our interactions, relationships and lives. As a multilingual and multicultural person, I provide culturally relevant therapy and facilitate a sustainable, non-judgmental experience in my practice.
Therapy is not a “one size fits all” practice, therefore, I draw from a variety of methods and approaches to the work including Narrative, Internal Family Systems, and Emotion-Focused Therapy.
As a therapist, I am a firm believer that all people have the ability to learn, adapt and grow through their relationship to themselves, and others, in compassionate and productive ways. I believe that each client knows their lived experience best and that there is inherent value in understanding larger societal forces that affect our interactions, relationships and lives. As a multilingual and multicultural person, I provide culturally relevant therapy and facilitate a sustainable, non-judgmental experience in my practice.
(503) 594-4736 View (503) 594-4736
Photo of Eden Baron-Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Eden Baron-Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
My work is based in Attachment/Emotion-Focused therapy, somatic, Intergenerational, Internal Family Systems/Parts Work, Inner Child, and Polyvagal Theory.
You came here because you have a desire to deepen your relationship with yourself and others, you feel stuck in patterns you hope to change, are processing trauma, or are looking to reclaim lost parts of yourself. You have come to the right place. Working with adults with childhood trauma/complex trauma, couples/relational systems, chronic pain/illness, and queer/trans/non-binary individuals and relationships, I create spaces for care and collaboration. I hope to assist you in building a bridge to yourself that unlocks your inner wisdom and weaves together the vast embroidery of stories, sensations, and emotions in your life.
My work is based in Attachment/Emotion-Focused therapy, somatic, Intergenerational, Internal Family Systems/Parts Work, Inner Child, and Polyvagal Theory.
You came here because you have a desire to deepen your relationship with yourself and others, you feel stuck in patterns you hope to change, are processing trauma, or are looking to reclaim lost parts of yourself. You have come to the right place. Working with adults with childhood trauma/complex trauma, couples/relational systems, chronic pain/illness, and queer/trans/non-binary individuals and relationships, I create spaces for care and collaboration. I hope to assist you in building a bridge to yourself that unlocks your inner wisdom and weaves together the vast embroidery of stories, sensations, and emotions in your life.
(971) 365-4866 View (971) 365-4866
Photo of Sarah Dunnings-Smith, Clinical Social Work Associate in Portland, OR
Sarah Dunnings-Smith
Clinical Social Work Associate, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Finding a therapist you can identify with can be difficult. I offer lived experience as a BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identifying person, a parent, and serve a diverse, and often marginalized, population of beautifully resilient humans. Addressing holistic health is my passion. Whether you are working through identity, trauma, family of origin issues, LGBTQIA concerns, parenting, grief and loss, suicidal thoughts, anxiety or self care, come join me in this safe space as we use a variety of tools to help you live a more full and fulfilled life.
Finding a therapist you can identify with can be difficult. I offer lived experience as a BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identifying person, a parent, and serve a diverse, and often marginalized, population of beautifully resilient humans. Addressing holistic health is my passion. Whether you are working through identity, trauma, family of origin issues, LGBTQIA concerns, parenting, grief and loss, suicidal thoughts, anxiety or self care, come join me in this safe space as we use a variety of tools to help you live a more full and fulfilled life.
(971) 260-3472 View (971) 260-3472
Photo of Amy Schulz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Amy Schulz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, CADC I
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
“Are you suffering with the symptoms of PTSD? Does this impact your relationships? I believe everyone can reach an optimum state of well-being as long as we have the right tools and supports. To help my clients reach this goal, I employ a comprehensive approach with a strong reliance on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and EMDR. It is with this combination of approaches that I can give each client individualized and tailored sessions to meet their needs. My hope is that I can be another supportive tool in each client's therapeutic journey.”
“Are you suffering with the symptoms of PTSD? Does this impact your relationships? I believe everyone can reach an optimum state of well-being as long as we have the right tools and supports. To help my clients reach this goal, I employ a comprehensive approach with a strong reliance on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and EMDR. It is with this combination of approaches that I can give each client individualized and tailored sessions to meet their needs. My hope is that I can be another supportive tool in each client's therapeutic journey.”
(971) 318-2470 View (971) 318-2470
Photo of Kitty Kloud, Pre-Licensed Professional in Portland, OR
Kitty Kloud
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, CSWA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I also work with individuals and family systems experiencing ADHD through behavioral therapy, social and parenting skills training, mindfulness training, and family systems work.
You feel lost, hopeless, and overwhelmed. You may have just received a diagnosis or started to question if you may have ADHD. Or, You may have complex trauma and feel therapy isn't working. If you have struggled healing trauma in the past, are having problems managing your ADHD symptoms, I have proven techniques and skills that will help you take back control in your life and emotional world. Whatever your situation, you deserve relief. Give yourself the chance to thrive.
I also work with individuals and family systems experiencing ADHD through behavioral therapy, social and parenting skills training, mindfulness training, and family systems work.
You feel lost, hopeless, and overwhelmed. You may have just received a diagnosis or started to question if you may have ADHD. Or, You may have complex trauma and feel therapy isn't working. If you have struggled healing trauma in the past, are having problems managing your ADHD symptoms, I have proven techniques and skills that will help you take back control in your life and emotional world. Whatever your situation, you deserve relief. Give yourself the chance to thrive.
(503) 832-6218 View (503) 832-6218
Photo of Gia Buckberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Gia Buckberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
*CURRENTLY FULL AND NOT ACCEPTING PATIENTS AT THIS TIME *I partner with individuals who essentially are at a crossroads in their lives. Whether it be a major change in their family dynamic or a career shift, transitions may be challenging and these may warrant additional support. As a counselor who uses a life coaching approach, I look forward to supporting individuals who want to see results, be inspired to go further distances and reclaim their internal joy.
*CURRENTLY FULL AND NOT ACCEPTING PATIENTS AT THIS TIME *I partner with individuals who essentially are at a crossroads in their lives. Whether it be a major change in their family dynamic or a career shift, transitions may be challenging and these may warrant additional support. As a counselor who uses a life coaching approach, I look forward to supporting individuals who want to see results, be inspired to go further distances and reclaim their internal joy.
(503) 410-7790 View (503) 410-7790
Photo of Arielle E Fettman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Arielle E Fettman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFTI, CMHS
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
My approach to couples counseling is derived from Intimacy From the Inside Out (IFIO), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Attachment Theory.
There aren’t many things in life that are as satisfying as feeling “at home” with your partner. You feel safe, comfortable, and connected. You feel like when you express yourself, you’re being heard, and you’re being given the benefit of the doubt. Alternatively, there aren’t many things in life that can feel as miserable as feeling disconnected from your partner. You constantly feel uncared for, misunderstood, unheard, defensive, angry, and resentful. And it feels like there’s no escape.
My approach to couples counseling is derived from Intimacy From the Inside Out (IFIO), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Attachment Theory.
There aren’t many things in life that are as satisfying as feeling “at home” with your partner. You feel safe, comfortable, and connected. You feel like when you express yourself, you’re being heard, and you’re being given the benefit of the doubt. Alternatively, there aren’t many things in life that can feel as miserable as feeling disconnected from your partner. You constantly feel uncared for, misunderstood, unheard, defensive, angry, and resentful. And it feels like there’s no escape.
(503) 854-0469 View (503) 854-0469
Photo of Sarah Adams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Sarah Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97296  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use a systemic lens which helps me see how things can be connected in a large variety of situations whether I am seeing you individually, as a couple or as a family.
Currently on a waitlist. I am a licensed therapist that works with many different types of clients including children/adolescents, families, & couples. My goal is to help my clients work through the issues they are facing so they can work towards their goals in their lives and relationships. Every person has innate strengths and my goal is to help identify those strengths and build on them so that they can reach their goals in treatment and in their lives. Ultimately, I want my clients to feel heard and supported in my practice and I hope to help them on their journey in finding positive change in their lives and relationships.
I use a systemic lens which helps me see how things can be connected in a large variety of situations whether I am seeing you individually, as a couple or as a family.
Currently on a waitlist. I am a licensed therapist that works with many different types of clients including children/adolescents, families, & couples. My goal is to help my clients work through the issues they are facing so they can work towards their goals in their lives and relationships. Every person has innate strengths and my goal is to help identify those strengths and build on them so that they can reach their goals in treatment and in their lives. Ultimately, I want my clients to feel heard and supported in my practice and I hope to help them on their journey in finding positive change in their lives and relationships.
(503) 647-4426 View (503) 647-4426
Photo of Laura May Watts, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Laura May Watts
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MCFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Welcome to therapy! Thank you for reaching out and wanting to grow, learn, and heal. I feel honored to meet you and hear about your life. I respect the bravery and vulnerability it takes to share your personal story and open up about struggles, worries, grief, and complex family triggers. I approach this role with care and see you with positive regard.
Welcome to therapy! Thank you for reaching out and wanting to grow, learn, and heal. I feel honored to meet you and hear about your life. I respect the bravery and vulnerability it takes to share your personal story and open up about struggles, worries, grief, and complex family triggers. I approach this role with care and see you with positive regard.
(503) 847-2705 View (503) 847-2705
Photo of Tara L. Cook, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Tara L. Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals dealing with mental illness. I have worked both in private practice and in an acute care psychiatric hospital providing individual, group, and family therapy. I am comfortable treating all mental health issues, including helping those in crisis. I have extensive experience working with individuals dealing with self-injury, anxiety/depression, pre and postpartum depression, and PTSD, and abuse issues. My philosophy in working with clients is to provide the best well-rounded care while focusing and building upon strengths.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals dealing with mental illness. I have worked both in private practice and in an acute care psychiatric hospital providing individual, group, and family therapy. I am comfortable treating all mental health issues, including helping those in crisis. I have extensive experience working with individuals dealing with self-injury, anxiety/depression, pre and postpartum depression, and PTSD, and abuse issues. My philosophy in working with clients is to provide the best well-rounded care while focusing and building upon strengths.
(971) 290-2109 View (971) 290-2109
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.