Family Therapy in Harrisburg, PA

Photo of David A Gordon, LAPC, LMLP-T
David A Gordon
Associate Professional Counselor , LAPC, LMLP-T
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110
I utilize gold-standard practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to create a safe environment where positive change can occur.
My approach is person-centered and collaborative. We'll work on restoration, resilience, and hope—addressing your needs with gentleness. You'll get a chance to discover root issues and gain new insight.
I utilize gold-standard practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to create a safe environment where positive change can occur.
My approach is person-centered and collaborative. We'll work on restoration, resilience, and hope—addressing your needs with gentleness. You'll get a chance to discover root issues and gain new insight.
(717) 470-5318 View (717) 470-5318
Photo of Skylar Wyatt Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor
Skylar Wyatt Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109
As an eclectic therapist, I use multiple techniques such as client centered, existential, trauma-focused, art therapy, CBT, and family therapy.
My ideal client would be someone who wants support and guidance to make sense of things that have happened to them in the past and who wants to invest in their overall healing and well-being to get more out of their current life. I welcome the opportunity to help clients who feel wounded and confused by mixed messages given by their family, school, churches, etc. as well as who may have lost their sense of direction and fulfillment in relationships, work, self-care, and faith. Clients would have a safe and nonjudgmental space to be themselves in order to reclaim who they want to be and to practice grace and self-compassion.
As an eclectic therapist, I use multiple techniques such as client centered, existential, trauma-focused, art therapy, CBT, and family therapy.
My ideal client would be someone who wants support and guidance to make sense of things that have happened to them in the past and who wants to invest in their overall healing and well-being to get more out of their current life. I welcome the opportunity to help clients who feel wounded and confused by mixed messages given by their family, school, churches, etc. as well as who may have lost their sense of direction and fulfillment in relationships, work, self-care, and faith. Clients would have a safe and nonjudgmental space to be themselves in order to reclaim who they want to be and to practice grace and self-compassion.
(717) 452-9411 x100 View (717) 452-9411 x100
Photo of Diane Michelle Edmond - Diane Edmond Therapy and LPC Supervsion, MS, LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diane Edmond Therapy and LPC Supervsion
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder? Are you coping with the aftermath of trauma, abuse or effects of active military experience? Are you or a family member using drugs or alcohol to self-medicate? My clinical experience includes over 25 years in the field working in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient substance abuse, outpatient mental health , and working with children in foster care. I have an eclectic approach with a emphasis on cognitive therapy. I have an advanced certification in addictions and extensive work with trauma including EMDR.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder? Are you coping with the aftermath of trauma, abuse or effects of active military experience? Are you or a family member using drugs or alcohol to self-medicate? My clinical experience includes over 25 years in the field working in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient substance abuse, outpatient mental health , and working with children in foster care. I have an eclectic approach with a emphasis on cognitive therapy. I have an advanced certification in addictions and extensive work with trauma including EMDR.
(717) 454-2377 View (717) 454-2377
Photo of Courtney Villere - InStride Health, PhD, Psychologist
InStride Health
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101  (Online Only)
InStride Health offers every patient and family a dedicated, multidisciplinary care team including a psychiatrist, therapist and exposure coach who work together throughout treatment.
InStride Health specializes in treating young patients whose anxiety or OCD is causing significant impairment in life (ie., school avoidance, social isolation, family disruption, and physical manifestations.) Practicing evidence-based treatment (CBT, ACT, components of DBT) with an emphasis on exposure, the InStride team empowers youth to face their fears and build resilience.
InStride Health offers every patient and family a dedicated, multidisciplinary care team including a psychiatrist, therapist and exposure coach who work together throughout treatment.
InStride Health specializes in treating young patients whose anxiety or OCD is causing significant impairment in life (ie., school avoidance, social isolation, family disruption, and physical manifestations.) Practicing evidence-based treatment (CBT, ACT, components of DBT) with an emphasis on exposure, the InStride team empowers youth to face their fears and build resilience.
(223) 217-5270 View (223) 217-5270
Photo of Destiny Williams, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Destiny Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17109
Congratulation on taking such an important step! I work to help families build stronger relationships and to empower each member of the family to be the change agent in their life.
Sometimes we have a clear view of the problem and other times we only know that something just does not feel right. My goal is to help your child unravel issues and confusing emotions to move towards healing. I will work with you as the parent during your child's treatment process to provide you with tools to utilize at home. I am a highly experienced therapist who specializes in working with parents, teens, and tweens.
Congratulation on taking such an important step! I work to help families build stronger relationships and to empower each member of the family to be the change agent in their life.
Sometimes we have a clear view of the problem and other times we only know that something just does not feel right. My goal is to help your child unravel issues and confusing emotions to move towards healing. I will work with you as the parent during your child's treatment process to provide you with tools to utilize at home. I am a highly experienced therapist who specializes in working with parents, teens, and tweens.
(972) 460-6346 View (972) 460-6346
Photo of Christian Counseling Associates Of Central Pennsylvania, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates Of Central Pennsylvania
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(717) 535-8046 View (717) 535-8046
Photo of Dr. Nicole Searfoss, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Nicole Searfoss
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17101
Searfoss’s approaches to individual, couples, family, and group therapy are all informed by her training in client-centered and trauma-informed approaches to treatment.
Dr. Nicole Searfoss is a clinical psychologist who helps clients heal from past experiences and negative thought patterns to live more meaningful and intentional lives. She offers clients an integrative, strengths-based approach to psychotherapy in a welcoming therapeutic space using evidence-based approaches to treat a wide range of mental health symptoms. Dr. Searfoss believes that healing is inherent in our nature and with the appropriate treatment and support anyone can grow out of limiting thoughts and behaviors and live a more meaningful, beautiful, balanced life.
Searfoss’s approaches to individual, couples, family, and group therapy are all informed by her training in client-centered and trauma-informed approaches to treatment.
Dr. Nicole Searfoss is a clinical psychologist who helps clients heal from past experiences and negative thought patterns to live more meaningful and intentional lives. She offers clients an integrative, strengths-based approach to psychotherapy in a welcoming therapeutic space using evidence-based approaches to treat a wide range of mental health symptoms. Dr. Searfoss believes that healing is inherent in our nature and with the appropriate treatment and support anyone can grow out of limiting thoughts and behaviors and live a more meaningful, beautiful, balanced life.
(717) 897-6393 View (717) 897-6393
Photo of Nicole Garrison, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Garrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17102  (Online Only)
I also have had training in ecosystemic structural family therapy in which helps examine behavioral patterns in the home.
Research shows at least 1 in 5 people struggle with an anxiety disorder. Helping someone with anxiety or OCD has become a true passion of mine- or the "bread and butter" of my therapy skillset. I am a state licensed professional counselor drawn towards helping children and adults to be the best version of themselves. I primarily use a short term, problem solving approach also known as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), but often use a "neapolitan" combination approach in working with people to tailor to their each individual needs.
I also have had training in ecosystemic structural family therapy in which helps examine behavioral patterns in the home.
Research shows at least 1 in 5 people struggle with an anxiety disorder. Helping someone with anxiety or OCD has become a true passion of mine- or the "bread and butter" of my therapy skillset. I am a state licensed professional counselor drawn towards helping children and adults to be the best version of themselves. I primarily use a short term, problem solving approach also known as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), but often use a "neapolitan" combination approach in working with people to tailor to their each individual needs.
(267) 435-3756 View (267) 435-3756
Photo of Sharon Presta, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sharon Presta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17109
In my personal life, I enjoy spending time and building memories with my family and friends.
You are not alone. There is care and support waiting just for you. You are showing true strength by seeking assistance in your journey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and my goal is to create a safe space for you to grow, learn, and understand yourself and your emotions better. We learn through our relationships. That is why I foster and prioritize a strong therapeutic relationship. By building a trusting and open rapport, clients can gain a deeper understanding of their beliefs, thoughts and actions. Ask yourself - when was the last time you dedicated time for someone to focus solely on you?
In my personal life, I enjoy spending time and building memories with my family and friends.
You are not alone. There is care and support waiting just for you. You are showing true strength by seeking assistance in your journey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and my goal is to create a safe space for you to grow, learn, and understand yourself and your emotions better. We learn through our relationships. That is why I foster and prioritize a strong therapeutic relationship. By building a trusting and open rapport, clients can gain a deeper understanding of their beliefs, thoughts and actions. Ask yourself - when was the last time you dedicated time for someone to focus solely on you?
(717) 905-4053 View (717) 905-4053
Photo of Dewitt Miller, MS,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dewitt Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
His expertise extends to family therapy and parenting skills, fostering healthy relationships and communication dynamics.
Dewitt Miller, LPC, practices at LifeStance Health in Pennsylvania, offering comprehensive support to individuals and families navigating life's challenges. With over 26 years of experience, Dewitt empowers clients to confront and transform unhealthy thought patterns, providing therapeutic guidance across all stages of life. Specializing in couples therapy, depression, and PTSD/Trauma, Dewitt combines Christian counseling and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to tailor interventions that promote healing and resilience.
His expertise extends to family therapy and parenting skills, fostering healthy relationships and communication dynamics.
Dewitt Miller, LPC, practices at LifeStance Health in Pennsylvania, offering comprehensive support to individuals and families navigating life's challenges. With over 26 years of experience, Dewitt empowers clients to confront and transform unhealthy thought patterns, providing therapeutic guidance across all stages of life. Specializing in couples therapy, depression, and PTSD/Trauma, Dewitt combines Christian counseling and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to tailor interventions that promote healing and resilience.
(844) 264-6945 View (844) 264-6945
Photo of Lisa Verbos, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Verbos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
Hello, and welcome to the Women's Counseling Center: counseling for women, by women. I use a solution focused, strengths based approach to help you build a meaningful and productive life. During my close to 20 years of service, I have collaborated with individuals over a variety of life changes from finding more satisfaction in careers and relationships, navigating family conflict and divorce, healing from trauma, caring for children with extraordinary needs, and learning new skills to address unwanted habits.
Hello, and welcome to the Women's Counseling Center: counseling for women, by women. I use a solution focused, strengths based approach to help you build a meaningful and productive life. During my close to 20 years of service, I have collaborated with individuals over a variety of life changes from finding more satisfaction in careers and relationships, navigating family conflict and divorce, healing from trauma, caring for children with extraordinary needs, and learning new skills to address unwanted habits.
(717) 344-5764 View (717) 344-5764
Photo of Merle Mullins, LCSW, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Merle Mullins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110
I help my clients overcome the issues that arise in family and work life: anxiety and depression, marital discord, healing after an affair, parenting strategies, anger management, addictions, step- family difficulties, or dealing with separation or divorce. I help people deal with behavior problems and relationship issues in the workplace, school, or community, including depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse, obsessions and compulsions, grief and loss, and an inability to find meaning or purpose in life. I am also available for telecounseling sessions.
I help my clients overcome the issues that arise in family and work life: anxiety and depression, marital discord, healing after an affair, parenting strategies, anger management, addictions, step- family difficulties, or dealing with separation or divorce. I help people deal with behavior problems and relationship issues in the workplace, school, or community, including depression, anxiety, stress, substance abuse, obsessions and compulsions, grief and loss, and an inability to find meaning or purpose in life. I am also available for telecounseling sessions.
(717) 546-9750 View (717) 546-9750
Photo of Sean M. O'Dell, PhD, LP, HSP-P, Psychologist
Sean M. O'Dell
Psychologist, PhD, LP, HSP-P
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110
Your family is worth it.
After asking your teenager countless times to clean their room, you walk in to see them playing video games with their dirty socks all over the floor! Now you’re seeing red. You’re either giving in to their bad behavior, snapping in frustration, and then feeling guilty about it. You know your kid needs extra support. His teachers have been throwing around “ADHD” as a diagnosis, but no one has any helpful advice. You’re in over your head. The habits he learns now will affect the rest of his life, and you feel like you’re failing him as a parent. You want what’s best for your child­, but this feels like more than you can handle alone.
Your family is worth it.
After asking your teenager countless times to clean their room, you walk in to see them playing video games with their dirty socks all over the floor! Now you’re seeing red. You’re either giving in to their bad behavior, snapping in frustration, and then feeling guilty about it. You know your kid needs extra support. His teachers have been throwing around “ADHD” as a diagnosis, but no one has any helpful advice. You’re in over your head. The habits he learns now will affect the rest of his life, and you feel like you’re failing him as a parent. You want what’s best for your child­, but this feels like more than you can handle alone.
(717) 923-5351 View (717) 923-5351
Photo of Vicki Glabb (Telehealth Only), MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vicki Glabb (Telehealth Only)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
Vicki is proud to offer Telehealth services at Reigle Therapeutics Group to meet your every day needs! Psychotherapeutic support to Adults, Adolescents, and Children in individual, couples, or family settings... Psychotherapeutic support to First Responder, Military, and Healthcare Workers trying to manage the personal and and professional impacts of the work they do.
Vicki is proud to offer Telehealth services at Reigle Therapeutics Group to meet your every day needs! Psychotherapeutic support to Adults, Adolescents, and Children in individual, couples, or family settings... Psychotherapeutic support to First Responder, Military, and Healthcare Workers trying to manage the personal and and professional impacts of the work they do.
(717) 265-9790 View (717) 265-9790
Photo of Kevin Caridad - Cognitive Behavior Institute, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cognitive Behavior Institute
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112
From certified individual specialists and systemically-oriented couple/ family therapists to expert testing psychologists and board-certified psychiatrists, each mental health professional will take their time working with you toward the best outcome possible.
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
From certified individual specialists and systemically-oriented couple/ family therapists to expert testing psychologists and board-certified psychiatrists, each mental health professional will take their time working with you toward the best outcome possible.
Welcome to Cognitive Behavior Institute! We are committed to providing the best care possible through established treatment methods. These treatment methods are proven to be effective for a wide range of mental health diagnoses and psychological distresses. Cognitive Behavior Institute (CBI) is proud to employ adept licensed clinicians, board-certified psychiatrists, and compassionate administrative staff with diverse experience in their respective fields.
(717) 539-5807 View (717) 539-5807
Photo of Sam Coyl - Echo Harbor Mental Health, Pre-Licensed Professional
Echo Harbor Mental Health
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17110  (Online Only)
These can cause negative impacts on our personal/work lives, relationships, and family.
I focus on treating anxiety, depression, self-esteem and trauma. Life should be more than just learning how to tolerate symptoms. I believe that using empathy, open-minded discussions, and therapeutic strategies is the key to healing. As a father, Marine Corps veteran, and business owner, I have a unique perspective when dealing with trauma and related mental health issues. I specialize in working with trauma survivors, veterans and first responders to help with building better communication techniques, coping skills, and healing from trauma.
These can cause negative impacts on our personal/work lives, relationships, and family.
I focus on treating anxiety, depression, self-esteem and trauma. Life should be more than just learning how to tolerate symptoms. I believe that using empathy, open-minded discussions, and therapeutic strategies is the key to healing. As a father, Marine Corps veteran, and business owner, I have a unique perspective when dealing with trauma and related mental health issues. I specialize in working with trauma survivors, veterans and first responders to help with building better communication techniques, coping skills, and healing from trauma.
(717) 714-3891 View (717) 714-3891
Photo of Sandra Davis, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandra Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
I specialize in family therapy for families experiencing stressors, including depression, anxiety, and substance use.
If you’re navigating parenting, family relationships, and life’s challenges, I look forward to meeting with you! Throughout my training and experience, I have provided individual, group, and family counseling in community, child welfare, and substance use treatment settings. I work from a client-centered approach and consider myself a guest on your journey to hope, wellness, and strength.
I specialize in family therapy for families experiencing stressors, including depression, anxiety, and substance use.
If you’re navigating parenting, family relationships, and life’s challenges, I look forward to meeting with you! Throughout my training and experience, I have provided individual, group, and family counseling in community, child welfare, and substance use treatment settings. I work from a client-centered approach and consider myself a guest on your journey to hope, wellness, and strength.
(717) 892-5832 View (717) 892-5832
Photo of Kelly M Myers - Kelly Myers Therapy LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Myers Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109
Some specialties I have are women's issues, generational and childhood trauma, school issues, marital issues, anxiety, depression, family conflict and borderline personality disorder.
Hello! My name is Kelly and I have been a practicing clinician for over 20 years, working with all age groups. I hail from the suburbs of Detroit, MI but am currently living in Harrisburg, PA. I am able to see clients from both PA and MI. I hold a BS from Michigan State Univ. and my Master of Social Work from Wayne State University. I work as an eclectic practitioner, meaning, I pull a lot of different treatment modalities in when we work together in order to help support you along your journey towards self empowerment. I’m very personable and really love to get to know you to see if we're a good match. I can't wait to meet you!
Some specialties I have are women's issues, generational and childhood trauma, school issues, marital issues, anxiety, depression, family conflict and borderline personality disorder.
Hello! My name is Kelly and I have been a practicing clinician for over 20 years, working with all age groups. I hail from the suburbs of Detroit, MI but am currently living in Harrisburg, PA. I am able to see clients from both PA and MI. I hold a BS from Michigan State Univ. and my Master of Social Work from Wayne State University. I work as an eclectic practitioner, meaning, I pull a lot of different treatment modalities in when we work together in order to help support you along your journey towards self empowerment. I’m very personable and really love to get to know you to see if we're a good match. I can't wait to meet you!
(717) 899-9680 View (717) 899-9680
Photo of Ili Rivera Walter - CityCouples Online Therapy, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
CityCouples Online Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
Our therapists are experts in couple therapy who specialize in helping you restore emotional connection, process betrayal, work together, prepare for a transition, manage family expectations, and more.
You're going through a relationship crisis, feeling confused about how to get on the same page, or frustrated with the state of your connection. You remember when things were different, and you're ready to make changes that will get you on the path to the future you hope to have, together. We know how to help! We offer expert online therapy for couples in New York, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Worldwide. Take a look at our available therapists at citycouples.net/meet-our-team. Our specialities include communication, betrayal recovery, ENM, LGBTQIA+ relationships, and more.
Our therapists are experts in couple therapy who specialize in helping you restore emotional connection, process betrayal, work together, prepare for a transition, manage family expectations, and more.
You're going through a relationship crisis, feeling confused about how to get on the same page, or frustrated with the state of your connection. You remember when things were different, and you're ready to make changes that will get you on the path to the future you hope to have, together. We know how to help! We offer expert online therapy for couples in New York, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Worldwide. Take a look at our available therapists at citycouples.net/meet-our-team. Our specialities include communication, betrayal recovery, ENM, LGBTQIA+ relationships, and more.
(833) 204-3561 View (833) 204-3561
Photo of Deborah Coulston - The Family Wellness Center, MA, MATS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Family Wellness Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MATS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17109  (Online Only)
The Family Wellness Center's integrative healing approach to health and well-being embraces all aspects of mind, body and spirit.
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
The Family Wellness Center's integrative healing approach to health and well-being embraces all aspects of mind, body and spirit.
Deborah Coulston, MA, MATS, CIMHP, LMFT, is an experienced professional psychotherapist, marital and family therapist, expressive arts therapist, and pioneer in the field of nutrition psychology, integrative mental health and alternative health modalities. Ms. Coulston is well known for her work in the treatment field of eating disorders & weight management, and for her expertise in both childhood and adult trauma, as well as the field of behavioral addictions. As the owner of The Family Wellness Center, she brings a diversified background to the practice of expressive arts therapy, clinical counseling, & holistic psychotherapy.
(717) 229-0492 x1 View (717) 229-0492 x1
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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.