Photo of Rachelle Rose Chevalier, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
Rachelle Rose Chevalier
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Myrtle Point, OR 97458  (Online Only)
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I use an eclectic approach that includes Experiential, Emotion Focused, Multigenerational, Narrative, Cognitive Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused modalities.
I like to think of therapy as an adventure, one that can appear arduous, moves at different speeds, has different agendas and at times has little or big unknowns that sprout up, all as a result of working through where you have been while working on what you would like to create. During this adventure I will be here to journey with you and to watch as you embrace healing and life unfolds in entirely new ways for you!
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I use an eclectic approach that includes Experiential, Emotion Focused, Multigenerational, Narrative, Cognitive Behavioral, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused modalities.
I like to think of therapy as an adventure, one that can appear arduous, moves at different speeds, has different agendas and at times has little or big unknowns that sprout up, all as a result of working through where you have been while working on what you would like to create. During this adventure I will be here to journey with you and to watch as you embrace healing and life unfolds in entirely new ways for you!
(458) 216-5724 View (458) 216-5724
Photo of Selah Counseling & Wellness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Selah Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Springfield, OR 97477
Are you feeling lost and in need of an advocate and partner to reach your goals? Depression or anxiety crippling your quality of life? Feeling broken from trauma? Selah Counseling & Wellness provides child, teen and adult therapy as well as couples and family therapy for ages 4 - 65+ years of age. Selah creates a space for holistic healing, with the opportunity to integrate mental and physical health with our partner Bryce Family Medicine for a full mind-heart-body union.
Are you feeling lost and in need of an advocate and partner to reach your goals? Depression or anxiety crippling your quality of life? Feeling broken from trauma? Selah Counseling & Wellness provides child, teen and adult therapy as well as couples and family therapy for ages 4 - 65+ years of age. Selah creates a space for holistic healing, with the opportunity to integrate mental and physical health with our partner Bryce Family Medicine for a full mind-heart-body union.
(541) 423-2633 View (541) 423-2633
Photo of Emily Anne Weidlich, Professional Counselor Associate in Oregon
Emily Anne Weidlich
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97215
Everyone needs support and encouragement, and though our friends and family play an integral role in our lives, they often struggle with finding the words to say when we face truly troubling experiences. As a trained counselor, my goal is to skillfully and empathetically help you navigate your challenges by working together to develop greater insight into your experience, foster an honest and compassionate stance towards your previous efforts, and develop more adaptive skills and perspectives to aid you moving forward.
Everyone needs support and encouragement, and though our friends and family play an integral role in our lives, they often struggle with finding the words to say when we face truly troubling experiences. As a trained counselor, my goal is to skillfully and empathetically help you navigate your challenges by working together to develop greater insight into your experience, foster an honest and compassionate stance towards your previous efforts, and develop more adaptive skills and perspectives to aid you moving forward.
(503) 506-4505 View (503) 506-4505
Photo of Kristen Sartor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Kristen Sartor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I love working with individuals, families and human beings in all types of relationship structures. Many clients have worked with me on anxiety, healing from trauma, navigating relationships, family conflict, parenting challenges, LGBTQ+ issues, depression and improving their relationships with themselves. My counseling is about supporting you in the way that you need to be supported while empowering you to deeply tune into your authentic self. In my practice, I strive to co-create a compassionate, non-judgmental, open space in which we can collaborate to clarify goals, build healing, strengthen skills and cultivate resilience.
Hi! I love working with individuals, families and human beings in all types of relationship structures. Many clients have worked with me on anxiety, healing from trauma, navigating relationships, family conflict, parenting challenges, LGBTQ+ issues, depression and improving their relationships with themselves. My counseling is about supporting you in the way that you need to be supported while empowering you to deeply tune into your authentic self. In my practice, I strive to co-create a compassionate, non-judgmental, open space in which we can collaborate to clarify goals, build healing, strengthen skills and cultivate resilience.
(971) 272-8668 View (971) 272-8668
Photo of Manola Kerr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Manola Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206
Waitlist for new clients
I provide individual therapy for people who are feeling stuck and need support understanding how to get through a tough time. Many people benefit from an outside perspective for navigating life transitions, coping with stress, or dealing with family conflict and other important relationships. Often people struggle with conflicting needs as they evaluate their lives and relationships. When life feels out of control, I can provide compassionate guidance for gaining self-awareness and building confidence. Individuals can learn healthy communication, boundaries, and effective coping tools. Therapy can bring calm to the chaos.
I provide individual therapy for people who are feeling stuck and need support understanding how to get through a tough time. Many people benefit from an outside perspective for navigating life transitions, coping with stress, or dealing with family conflict and other important relationships. Often people struggle with conflicting needs as they evaluate their lives and relationships. When life feels out of control, I can provide compassionate guidance for gaining self-awareness and building confidence. Individuals can learn healthy communication, boundaries, and effective coping tools. Therapy can bring calm to the chaos.
(503) 782-5080 View (503) 782-5080
Photo of Joseph C Schutte, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
Joseph C Schutte
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Oswego, OR 97035
I offer counseling services to youth, adults, couples, and families who seek to reestablish their connections with family members and significant others.
Our lives are filled with relationships: friendship, significant other, parent, child, intimate partner, etc. When our relationships are struggle, so do other areas of life. Frequently, feelings of depression, anger, or stress coincide with disconnection of a significant, meaningful relationship. This feeling of disconnection is threatening and scary; allowing for thoughts of abandonment, and feeling alone. Unfortunately, this results in an increased feeling of disconnection in our most important relationships.
I offer counseling services to youth, adults, couples, and families who seek to reestablish their connections with family members and significant others.
Our lives are filled with relationships: friendship, significant other, parent, child, intimate partner, etc. When our relationships are struggle, so do other areas of life. Frequently, feelings of depression, anger, or stress coincide with disconnection of a significant, meaningful relationship. This feeling of disconnection is threatening and scary; allowing for thoughts of abandonment, and feeling alone. Unfortunately, this results in an increased feeling of disconnection in our most important relationships.
(503) 451-6702 View (503) 451-6702
Photo of Family Roots Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oregon
Family Roots Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Waitlist for new clients
We believe in supporting the entire family in therapy, whether all members attend sessions or not.
We help new parents, young children, and teens to create healthier relationships and work together to navigate family conflict, life stressors, and adjustment to change. Do your child's emotions and outbursts seem out of control and too much to handle? Does your teen seem anxious, depressed, or withdrawn? Are you and your partner arguing constantly about parenting? Feeling sad and hopeless, or not bonding with your baby or child like you thought you would? We can help.
We believe in supporting the entire family in therapy, whether all members attend sessions or not.
We help new parents, young children, and teens to create healthier relationships and work together to navigate family conflict, life stressors, and adjustment to change. Do your child's emotions and outbursts seem out of control and too much to handle? Does your teen seem anxious, depressed, or withdrawn? Are you and your partner arguing constantly about parenting? Feeling sad and hopeless, or not bonding with your baby or child like you thought you would? We can help.
(971) 274-5503 View (971) 274-5503
Photo of Stacy Henne, Pre-Licensed Professional in Oregon
Stacy Henne
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFTA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
If divorce is inevitable, I will work with both parents from a non-judgmental, strengths-based approach to establish a co-parenting plan that will best meet the emotional and developmental needs of the family.
I believe that change is always possible. While often intimidating, therapy can be the first step toward improving your life. Whether struggling with a relationship, anger management, communication skills, parenting, self-identity, depression or anxiety, I work with my clients to identify the maladaptive thought processes, roadblocks and circumstances that have led to feelings of frustration, dissatisfaction, or helplessness. I have a passion for working with individuals, couples and families to identify life goals, improve self-awareness and communication, and implement lasting change.
If divorce is inevitable, I will work with both parents from a non-judgmental, strengths-based approach to establish a co-parenting plan that will best meet the emotional and developmental needs of the family.
I believe that change is always possible. While often intimidating, therapy can be the first step toward improving your life. Whether struggling with a relationship, anger management, communication skills, parenting, self-identity, depression or anxiety, I work with my clients to identify the maladaptive thought processes, roadblocks and circumstances that have led to feelings of frustration, dissatisfaction, or helplessness. I have a passion for working with individuals, couples and families to identify life goals, improve self-awareness and communication, and implement lasting change.
(503) 828-3962 View (503) 828-3962
Photo of Willamette Wellness Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Willamette Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
Some of our most sought after therapies include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Processing Therapy, CBT, Couples Counseling, Somatic Work, Psychedelic Psychotherapy, Health at Every Size, Hypnotherapy, and many others.
WWC now has psychiatric medication services available for OR and WA! WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of Oregon and Washington. We have a wide range of specialties including medication management, eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, post partum work, bariatric surgery letters, psychedelic psychotherapy, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
Some of our most sought after therapies include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Processing Therapy, CBT, Couples Counseling, Somatic Work, Psychedelic Psychotherapy, Health at Every Size, Hypnotherapy, and many others.
WWC now has psychiatric medication services available for OR and WA! WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of Oregon and Washington. We have a wide range of specialties including medication management, eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, post partum work, bariatric surgery letters, psychedelic psychotherapy, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
(971) 803-4515 View (971) 803-4515
Photo of Jay C Bluestine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Jay C Bluestine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
With couples, the focus is on improving communication, while family therapy focuses on the interrelationships within the family structure.
"YOU CAN'T UNDERSTAND ANOTHER PERSON'S EXPERIENCE UNTIL YOU WALK A MILE IN THEIR SHOES." That's especially true regarding the thoughts and feelings that often surround deeply personal issues. My practice is informed by my own life experiences as well as a nuanced understanding of the complexity of human nature. Together we will build the degree of trust and rapport necessary for you to: identify maladaptive patterns, challenge negative beliefs, gain insight into past and present events and most importantly, use this information to create permanent positive change in your relationships and the way you think and feel about yourself.
With couples, the focus is on improving communication, while family therapy focuses on the interrelationships within the family structure.
"YOU CAN'T UNDERSTAND ANOTHER PERSON'S EXPERIENCE UNTIL YOU WALK A MILE IN THEIR SHOES." That's especially true regarding the thoughts and feelings that often surround deeply personal issues. My practice is informed by my own life experiences as well as a nuanced understanding of the complexity of human nature. Together we will build the degree of trust and rapport necessary for you to: identify maladaptive patterns, challenge negative beliefs, gain insight into past and present events and most importantly, use this information to create permanent positive change in your relationships and the way you think and feel about yourself.
(541) 705-2388 View (541) 705-2388
Photo of Myong O, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Myong O
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
As a mental health provider who has been practicing in an integrated family medicine clinic, my approach to health is holistic. I believe the foundations of well being are built on sufficient sleep, good nutrition, physical activity and healthy relationship with oneself and others. So, whether we are struggling with anxiety, depression, concentration difficulties, relationship issues etc, when we improve how our brain functions, by strengthening our wise brain and quieting our survival brain (through mindfulness and other techniques), then we increase our ability to live the life that is meaningful to us.
As a mental health provider who has been practicing in an integrated family medicine clinic, my approach to health is holistic. I believe the foundations of well being are built on sufficient sleep, good nutrition, physical activity and healthy relationship with oneself and others. So, whether we are struggling with anxiety, depression, concentration difficulties, relationship issues etc, when we improve how our brain functions, by strengthening our wise brain and quieting our survival brain (through mindfulness and other techniques), then we increase our ability to live the life that is meaningful to us.
(503) 738-1925 View (503) 738-1925
Photo of David C. Klingman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
David C. Klingman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Through play therapy and parent coaching it is my goal to help your child work through challenging emotions, possess better self-regulation in moments of distress, improve self-esteem, and feel more connected in relationships with peers, family and caregivers.
Does your child have emotional outbursts seemingly out of nowhere? Does your child seem distant, sad and disconnected? Is your child having trouble expressing him/herself or connecting with peers? Being a parent can be the most meaningful and fulfilling experience we will ever have in our lives, and also sometimes the most challenging, exhausting, and emotionally overwhelming. The truth is that no matter how strongly we love our children, and how powerfully we want the best for them, life's challenges can still get in the way of our kids being able to thrive as their best, most emotionally regulated selves.
Through play therapy and parent coaching it is my goal to help your child work through challenging emotions, possess better self-regulation in moments of distress, improve self-esteem, and feel more connected in relationships with peers, family and caregivers.
Does your child have emotional outbursts seemingly out of nowhere? Does your child seem distant, sad and disconnected? Is your child having trouble expressing him/herself or connecting with peers? Being a parent can be the most meaningful and fulfilling experience we will ever have in our lives, and also sometimes the most challenging, exhausting, and emotionally overwhelming. The truth is that no matter how strongly we love our children, and how powerfully we want the best for them, life's challenges can still get in the way of our kids being able to thrive as their best, most emotionally regulated selves.
(971) 252-5784 View (971) 252-5784
Photo of Nancy L Link, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Nancy L Link
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Monmouth, OR 97361  (Online Only)
Over 29 years experience as a licensed counselor. Are you looking for a positive change in your life? I can help you. I believe that growth is an essential ingredient for a fulfilling life. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, adults and families. My training and experience is extensive. It includes being certified as a DEH@ practitioner, individual, couple, family therapy, Play/Sand/Art Therapy, hypnosis, and Spiritual Direction/life path exploration. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Oregon, trained in Spiritual direction, and certified in delivery of Tele Mental Health services.
Over 29 years experience as a licensed counselor. Are you looking for a positive change in your life? I can help you. I believe that growth is an essential ingredient for a fulfilling life. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, adults and families. My training and experience is extensive. It includes being certified as a DEH@ practitioner, individual, couple, family therapy, Play/Sand/Art Therapy, hypnosis, and Spiritual Direction/life path exploration. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Oregon, trained in Spiritual direction, and certified in delivery of Tele Mental Health services.
(503) 980-3226 View (503) 980-3226
Photo of Megan Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Megan Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I integrate AEDP with EMDR and Internal Family Systems and teach Mindfulness based practices.
Welcome. I am a clinician with 24 plus years of clinical practice and extensive experience with a number of somatic therapies. I specialize in working with complex trauma but, generally speaking, my clients seek support with relationships or overwhelming emotional states that impact some aspect of their lives.
I integrate AEDP with EMDR and Internal Family Systems and teach Mindfulness based practices.
Welcome. I am a clinician with 24 plus years of clinical practice and extensive experience with a number of somatic therapies. I specialize in working with complex trauma but, generally speaking, my clients seek support with relationships or overwhelming emotional states that impact some aspect of their lives.
(503) 713-6166 View (503) 713-6166
Photo of Joanne Baum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oregon
Joanne Baum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
Life today is complicated & has so many new stressors (political polarization, climate change, social media, gambling, family, work) many people are feeling anxious in ways they never have before.
I partner with you to explore options and heal whatever is getting in your way & keeping you uncomfortably stuck. Our goal is to have you live the life you want to live, how you want to live it. I'm available for TeleHealth Sessions throughout Florida. If you want to tackle issues such as: Addiction, Codependency, Trauma, Sexuality, Unmanageable Stress and Anxiety, Gambling, ADD/ADHD, Feeling Intimidated by a Life Transition, Feeling Stuck, or wanting to make Personal or Career Changes, we can work together to meet your needs. I use Brainspotting, talk therapies, & a variety of treatment methods like CBT, MI, & DBT with you.
Life today is complicated & has so many new stressors (political polarization, climate change, social media, gambling, family, work) many people are feeling anxious in ways they never have before.
I partner with you to explore options and heal whatever is getting in your way & keeping you uncomfortably stuck. Our goal is to have you live the life you want to live, how you want to live it. I'm available for TeleHealth Sessions throughout Florida. If you want to tackle issues such as: Addiction, Codependency, Trauma, Sexuality, Unmanageable Stress and Anxiety, Gambling, ADD/ADHD, Feeling Intimidated by a Life Transition, Feeling Stuck, or wanting to make Personal or Career Changes, we can work together to meet your needs. I use Brainspotting, talk therapies, & a variety of treatment methods like CBT, MI, & DBT with you.
(971) 286-5071 View (971) 286-5071
Photo of Melissa Howard, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oregon
Melissa Howard
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Grants Pass, OR 97526
Being told your voice is not valued because you’re young is the worst. Your voice matters. Often as a young adult/teen/child, we’re told, “just do it,” and “that’s just the way it is.” Or maybe you’re the parent wanting to connect with your child and asking yourself, “what happened?” I am here to support Gen Z and/or their families with each family member finding their voice, being seen for their individuality, and fostering reconnection with one another and your family’s roots/values. Every voice in the family matters and is valuable and strong and I would be honored to support your quest in nurturing this personal/family growth.
Being told your voice is not valued because you’re young is the worst. Your voice matters. Often as a young adult/teen/child, we’re told, “just do it,” and “that’s just the way it is.” Or maybe you’re the parent wanting to connect with your child and asking yourself, “what happened?” I am here to support Gen Z and/or their families with each family member finding their voice, being seen for their individuality, and fostering reconnection with one another and your family’s roots/values. Every voice in the family matters and is valuable and strong and I would be honored to support your quest in nurturing this personal/family growth.
(458) 236-3084 View (458) 236-3084
Photo of Aaron K Potratz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Oregon
Aaron K Potratz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC, CCTP, CADC-I
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Tigard, OR 97223
I utilize, among others, emotionally-focused and internal family systems approaches.
I believe that people are generally capable of overcoming obstacles in their lives, but sometimes they need help with finding the right tools. I provide hope, encouragement, insight, and guidance so that my clients can find their path to happiness. My goal for clients is to help them become more effective, insightful, self-confident, and successful at overcoming future hurdles in their own lives and in their relationships.
I utilize, among others, emotionally-focused and internal family systems approaches.
I believe that people are generally capable of overcoming obstacles in their lives, but sometimes they need help with finding the right tools. I provide hope, encouragement, insight, and guidance so that my clients can find their path to happiness. My goal for clients is to help them become more effective, insightful, self-confident, and successful at overcoming future hurdles in their own lives and in their relationships.
(971) 236-4080 View (971) 236-4080
Photo of Gina DeLeo Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oregon
Gina DeLeo Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I see people as part of their ‘systems’; their history, family, culture, beliefs, current relationships and jobs…it’s an ecology, so any changes can improve the whole.
I work with individuals, couples, and families hoping to heal past trauma, improve communication and find new possibilities. You may be feeling anxious, depressed, and confused about what your next steps in life should be. These feelings may be related to relationship distress, problems in communication with family members, big life changes, or work stress. I work collaboratively with individuals, families and partners who want to foster connection and form deeper, more loving relationships.
I see people as part of their ‘systems’; their history, family, culture, beliefs, current relationships and jobs…it’s an ecology, so any changes can improve the whole.
I work with individuals, couples, and families hoping to heal past trauma, improve communication and find new possibilities. You may be feeling anxious, depressed, and confused about what your next steps in life should be. These feelings may be related to relationship distress, problems in communication with family members, big life changes, or work stress. I work collaboratively with individuals, families and partners who want to foster connection and form deeper, more loving relationships.
(503) 966-4656 View (503) 966-4656
Photo of Julianna Gentry, Professional Counselor Associate in Oregon
Julianna Gentry
Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Redmond, OR 97756  (Online Only)
I provide support, and preventative maintenance for individuals with anxiety/stress, mood disorders, depression, PTSD, grief and loss, family issues, severe and persistent mental illness, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, learning disabilities, and child, adolescent and teen challenges.
Are you feeling anxious, hopeless, frustrated, or stuck in your current life chapter? We all try our best to navigate the challenges life throws at us, but sometimes it can become too much to bear on our own. Moving through life, these issues can accumulate leading to unresolved trauma that leaks into all facets of who we are. Working through current and previous life stressors and traumas can help to find balance and peace in the present. We all need support at times through the tremendous difficulties life has a way of throwing at us.
I provide support, and preventative maintenance for individuals with anxiety/stress, mood disorders, depression, PTSD, grief and loss, family issues, severe and persistent mental illness, autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, learning disabilities, and child, adolescent and teen challenges.
Are you feeling anxious, hopeless, frustrated, or stuck in your current life chapter? We all try our best to navigate the challenges life throws at us, but sometimes it can become too much to bear on our own. Moving through life, these issues can accumulate leading to unresolved trauma that leaks into all facets of who we are. Working through current and previous life stressors and traumas can help to find balance and peace in the present. We all need support at times through the tremendous difficulties life has a way of throwing at us.
(458) 236-3280 View (458) 236-3280
Photo of Skyhook Counseling Center, Psychologist in Oregon
Skyhook Counseling Center
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Tigard, OR 97223
Waitlist for new clients
Mental health services integrating movement within our unique & engaging clinic space plus ninja gym! We offer a range of services for children, adolescents, and adults, including individual therapy, family therapy, parenting support, and group therapy. Therapists on our team have various areas of expertise including supporting neurodivergent individuals, adoption/foster care populations, and other marginalized identities. Our therapists have extensive training in helping clients who are experiencing grief/loss, trauma, attachment and relational challenges, behavioral issues, and other mental health concerns.
Mental health services integrating movement within our unique & engaging clinic space plus ninja gym! We offer a range of services for children, adolescents, and adults, including individual therapy, family therapy, parenting support, and group therapy. Therapists on our team have various areas of expertise including supporting neurodivergent individuals, adoption/foster care populations, and other marginalized identities. Our therapists have extensive training in helping clients who are experiencing grief/loss, trauma, attachment and relational challenges, behavioral issues, and other mental health concerns.
(503) 461-4028 View (503) 461-4028
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.