Photo of Arlene Goldman, PhD, Psychologist
Arlene Goldman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I help individuals and couples resolve their sexual and relationship issues and enhance their lives. I've been a psychologist and sex therapist for over 30 years, my approach begins with a comprehensive evaluation to determine the cause(s) contributing to your difficulties. Then you and I create a plan that is tailored to helping you, decrease anxiety, resolve blocks, learn communication and coping skills and achieve relationship and sexual satisfaction. My approach draws from my training in sex therapy, family systems, psychodynamic and cognitive therapies as well as hypnosis and EMDR.
I help individuals and couples resolve their sexual and relationship issues and enhance their lives. I've been a psychologist and sex therapist for over 30 years, my approach begins with a comprehensive evaluation to determine the cause(s) contributing to your difficulties. Then you and I create a plan that is tailored to helping you, decrease anxiety, resolve blocks, learn communication and coping skills and achieve relationship and sexual satisfaction. My approach draws from my training in sex therapy, family systems, psychodynamic and cognitive therapies as well as hypnosis and EMDR.
(267) 348-4224 View (267) 348-4224
Photo of Joseph Maron, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Joseph Maron
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19104
I am trained in helping diverse populations, including neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ folks live authentically, aiding their family members become informed on diverse gender and sexual expressions.
Are you struggling with accepting parts of yourself that you don't understand? Are you looking for ways to communicate the complex "you" to your family, friends, and loved ones? Are you struggling to identify and communicate your needs? As a neurodivergent and non-binary therapist, I'm here to help you navigate a world not designed for us. Let's explore your past so you can better understand your present.
I am trained in helping diverse populations, including neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ folks live authentically, aiding their family members become informed on diverse gender and sexual expressions.
Are you struggling with accepting parts of yourself that you don't understand? Are you looking for ways to communicate the complex "you" to your family, friends, and loved ones? Are you struggling to identify and communicate your needs? As a neurodivergent and non-binary therapist, I'm here to help you navigate a world not designed for us. Let's explore your past so you can better understand your present.
(267) 732-0865 View (267) 732-0865
Photo of Ellen L Wright, PhD, Psychologist
Ellen L Wright
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
People enter therapy because they want to improve something in their lives. Often the timing of this choice to seek therapy is not ideal - you may be having family or work stress, you may be depressed, anxious, tired and unable to think clearly or make decisions. At these times you need a therapist who is well respected, thoughtful, and capable. I am a licensed Psychologist who has been in private practice in Center City, Philadelphia for over 25 years. I work with adults and young adults (16 years +) facing emotional, interpersonal, career and medical challenges.
People enter therapy because they want to improve something in their lives. Often the timing of this choice to seek therapy is not ideal - you may be having family or work stress, you may be depressed, anxious, tired and unable to think clearly or make decisions. At these times you need a therapist who is well respected, thoughtful, and capable. I am a licensed Psychologist who has been in private practice in Center City, Philadelphia for over 25 years. I work with adults and young adults (16 years +) facing emotional, interpersonal, career and medical challenges.
(215) 977-4211 View (215) 977-4211
Photo of Cynthia Clyburn, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Clyburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19146
I specialize in supporting individuals, caregivers, and families affected by illness. I practice with warmth and compassion and utilize a strengths-based approach with my clients. Coping with illness and caregiving can be incredibly difficult. I offer a safe space to emotionally process these issues individually, and also assist with facilitating thoughtful, but challenging conversations between couples and family members. I incorporate elements of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing in my practice. I also offer grief counseling for those coping with loss and major life change.
I specialize in supporting individuals, caregivers, and families affected by illness. I practice with warmth and compassion and utilize a strengths-based approach with my clients. Coping with illness and caregiving can be incredibly difficult. I offer a safe space to emotionally process these issues individually, and also assist with facilitating thoughtful, but challenging conversations between couples and family members. I incorporate elements of Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing in my practice. I also offer grief counseling for those coping with loss and major life change.
(843) 212-6819 View (843) 212-6819
Photo of Katherine W Donner, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine W Donner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19131
Having worked in a hospital, a family service agency, a women's college, and private practice, I have developed expertise in addressing the effects of illness on emotional well-being, the impact of family dynamics on personal development, and the particular concerns of college-age and young adult individuals.
Everyone struggles with challenges, some situational and time-limited, some more ongoing. When you're feeling troubled or "stuck," talking to a therapist, a professional who isn't part of your personal circle of family and friends, can offer a safe space to identify what is out of balance for you and to explore effective options. Whether difficulties stem from relationships, stress about work or family issues, or how you feel about yourself, finding an understanding and experienced therapist can make a real and lasting difference. I can help you learn about yourself, your patterns, and your choices.
Having worked in a hospital, a family service agency, a women's college, and private practice, I have developed expertise in addressing the effects of illness on emotional well-being, the impact of family dynamics on personal development, and the particular concerns of college-age and young adult individuals.
Everyone struggles with challenges, some situational and time-limited, some more ongoing. When you're feeling troubled or "stuck," talking to a therapist, a professional who isn't part of your personal circle of family and friends, can offer a safe space to identify what is out of balance for you and to explore effective options. Whether difficulties stem from relationships, stress about work or family issues, or how you feel about yourself, finding an understanding and experienced therapist can make a real and lasting difference. I can help you learn about yourself, your patterns, and your choices.
(215) 337-4356 View (215) 337-4356
Photo of Bethanne Fetzer - A Journey To You LLC Professional Counseling Svcs, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
A Journey To You LLC Professional Counseling Svcs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Do you want to simply "survive" in life, or do you want to "thrive" in life? Unfortunately many of us are simply surviving. My name is Bethanne Fetzer. With over two decades in the field of human services, I, along with my dedicated staff have created a space coupled with highly effective treatment approaches to help you to live again! We offer services to those who need to heal from depression, anxiety, family conflict, life transitions, sex and gender issues, trauma, abuse, and grief and loss. When we rid our lives of these "toxins", we make room to begin a life journey that we never thought was possible!
Do you want to simply "survive" in life, or do you want to "thrive" in life? Unfortunately many of us are simply surviving. My name is Bethanne Fetzer. With over two decades in the field of human services, I, along with my dedicated staff have created a space coupled with highly effective treatment approaches to help you to live again! We offer services to those who need to heal from depression, anxiety, family conflict, life transitions, sex and gender issues, trauma, abuse, and grief and loss. When we rid our lives of these "toxins", we make room to begin a life journey that we never thought was possible!
(814) 476-8470 View (814) 476-8470
Photo of Emily Marie Roxberry - Finding your Path Therapy, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Finding your Path Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19019  (Online Only)
Emily's broad spectrum of specialties includes Addiction, Anxiety, Couples & Family Relationship Issues, Depression, Severe Mental Health Disorders, Substance Abuse, and Trauma.
Emily, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), has dedicated her career to bringing moments of clarity, understanding, and peace to individuals battling challenging issues. With nearly two decades of experience in the field, Emily's emphatic nature combined with her clinically-trained eye has helped numerous individuals and families navigate life's complexities.
Emily's broad spectrum of specialties includes Addiction, Anxiety, Couples & Family Relationship Issues, Depression, Severe Mental Health Disorders, Substance Abuse, and Trauma.
Emily, a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), has dedicated her career to bringing moments of clarity, understanding, and peace to individuals battling challenging issues. With nearly two decades of experience in the field, Emily's emphatic nature combined with her clinically-trained eye has helped numerous individuals and families navigate life's complexities.
(304) 944-4232 View (304) 944-4232
Photo of Petra Kottsieper - Drexel Psychological Services Center, Psychologist
Drexel Psychological Services Center
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104
The Drexel Psychological Services Center (PSC) is a training facility dedicated to providing high-quality, cutting-edge, affordable psychological services to residents of all ages in the Philadelphia area. Our doctoral student clinicians are expertly-trained and supervised by licensed professionals in Drexel University's Department of Psychology. Assessments are conducted on an individual basis. Therapies may be offered in various formats such as individual, group or family. The format will depend on your needs and the treatment protocols being administered. We strive to be culturally sensitive and value the similarities and differences among all the people we serve.
The Drexel Psychological Services Center (PSC) is a training facility dedicated to providing high-quality, cutting-edge, affordable psychological services to residents of all ages in the Philadelphia area. Our doctoral student clinicians are expertly-trained and supervised by licensed professionals in Drexel University's Department of Psychology. Assessments are conducted on an individual basis. Therapies may be offered in various formats such as individual, group or family. The format will depend on your needs and the treatment protocols being administered. We strive to be culturally sensitive and value the similarities and differences among all the people we serve.
(215) 553-7128 View (215) 553-7128
Photo of Chris Moore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck in patterns that lead to disappointment and hurt? Have you tried to makes changes, but they don't last? Many of us were conditioned into survival strategies that separate us from ourselves. This separation can create the belief that there is something wrong with us, as though we are unworthy or unlovable, leading to cycles of shame, numbing, anger, fear, and grief. I use internal family systems therapy to create a space for compassion and curiosity that allows these feelings to be explored and held. This process can help you to move beyond stagnant patterns of hurt that limit your growth, potential, and love.
Do you feel stuck in patterns that lead to disappointment and hurt? Have you tried to makes changes, but they don't last? Many of us were conditioned into survival strategies that separate us from ourselves. This separation can create the belief that there is something wrong with us, as though we are unworthy or unlovable, leading to cycles of shame, numbing, anger, fear, and grief. I use internal family systems therapy to create a space for compassion and curiosity that allows these feelings to be explored and held. This process can help you to move beyond stagnant patterns of hurt that limit your growth, potential, and love.
(267) 477-7451 View (267) 477-7451
Photo of Alex Wasserman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alex Wasserman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19148
As a marriage and family therapist, I work with individuals, families, and people in relationships on a broad range of issues. I am here to listen, to understand, and to guide you towards the change you would like to see. I take time to learn about you, your history, and important life events in a process of co-discovery. During our work together, you will come to make links between the past and your current experience, while also discovering new tools and honing your own positive coping strategies.
As a marriage and family therapist, I work with individuals, families, and people in relationships on a broad range of issues. I am here to listen, to understand, and to guide you towards the change you would like to see. I take time to learn about you, your history, and important life events in a process of co-discovery. During our work together, you will come to make links between the past and your current experience, while also discovering new tools and honing your own positive coping strategies.
(267) 573-3872 View (267) 573-3872
Photo of James Ellerbe, MAR, MSOL, Pre-Licensed Professional
James Ellerbe
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAR, MSOL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19126  (Online Only)
Multiple methods to build esteem and confidence for future bouts of darkness help gain insight into the lifestyle, personal history, and systemic family traumas revealing why and how we live today.
Assistance in life is often needed and desired but seldom sought. There is a place of hope for the heart and a person who wants to find their way. When we get out of our way, we find freedom from suffering and begin to embrace the change, transition, and transformation to a new reality of life. The new life is freedom from the silent conversation from within, seeking relief sometimes from self and dealing with the burdens of life.
Multiple methods to build esteem and confidence for future bouts of darkness help gain insight into the lifestyle, personal history, and systemic family traumas revealing why and how we live today.
Assistance in life is often needed and desired but seldom sought. There is a place of hope for the heart and a person who wants to find their way. When we get out of our way, we find freedom from suffering and begin to embrace the change, transition, and transformation to a new reality of life. The new life is freedom from the silent conversation from within, seeking relief sometimes from self and dealing with the burdens of life.
(215) 598-6603 View (215) 598-6603
Photo of Sarah Graham Payne, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Graham Payne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019  (Online Only)
My passion is working with individuals who are motivated to change to live a happy and more balanced life. I love working with diverse cultures and my lived experiences have helped shape my understanding of others. I consider family dynamics and their impact on the individual and am willing to work with an individual, couple or the family to help improve communication and conflict resolution strategies. Working with the needs of my clients gives me the ability to shift my approach. Life transitions are difficult. I am here to listen to your story and give you a safe space to create lasting change.
My passion is working with individuals who are motivated to change to live a happy and more balanced life. I love working with diverse cultures and my lived experiences have helped shape my understanding of others. I consider family dynamics and their impact on the individual and am willing to work with an individual, couple or the family to help improve communication and conflict resolution strategies. Working with the needs of my clients gives me the ability to shift my approach. Life transitions are difficult. I am here to listen to your story and give you a safe space to create lasting change.
(267) 489-2697 View (267) 489-2697
Photo of Craig M Aaron, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Craig M Aaron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19145
Individual, couples and family counseling.
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges that include anxiety, depression, anger, guilt, shame, embarrassment, procrastination, avoidance, marital/couple/ family relations and more. My approach though highly individualized and eclectic is primarily a cognitive behavioral one in which we delve into the emotional, behavioral and cognitive roots in order to identify, challenge and ultimately replace those unhelpful aspects with health promoting aspects. This along with a commitment to hard work on the part of the client often results in improved functioning and an enriched and more satisfying quality of life.
Individual, couples and family counseling.
I work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral challenges that include anxiety, depression, anger, guilt, shame, embarrassment, procrastination, avoidance, marital/couple/ family relations and more. My approach though highly individualized and eclectic is primarily a cognitive behavioral one in which we delve into the emotional, behavioral and cognitive roots in order to identify, challenge and ultimately replace those unhelpful aspects with health promoting aspects. This along with a commitment to hard work on the part of the client often results in improved functioning and an enriched and more satisfying quality of life.
(610) 898-3192 View (610) 898-3192
Photo of Philip Grimes - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Philadelphia, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Philadelphia
Counselor
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(267) 209-6515 View (267) 209-6515
Photo of Asher Eli Volkens, MS
Asher Eli Volkens
MS
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
I have 20 years experience in the field of psychology. I have worked as a therapist in private practice, prisons, and clinics in the Philadelphia area. I am a United States Veteran, who served my country honorably, and now honorably serves the community. I specialize in couples and family therapy, religious abuse, depression and anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I strive to support the Client to achieve their goals and live healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives.
I have 20 years experience in the field of psychology. I have worked as a therapist in private practice, prisons, and clinics in the Philadelphia area. I am a United States Veteran, who served my country honorably, and now honorably serves the community. I specialize in couples and family therapy, religious abuse, depression and anxiety, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I strive to support the Client to achieve their goals and live healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives.
(267) 458-5485 View (267) 458-5485
Photo of Julia Gladstone, MFA, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Gladstone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFA, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I have training in Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic, EMDR, AEDP, Somatic and Mindfulness techniques, Psychedelic-assisted therapy, Play therapy, and Expressive Arts.
Each of us has the capacity to flourish into our true potential. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to uncover their wholeness and belonging, which may be clouded by challenging behaviors or feelings such as shame, guilt, anger, anxiety, grief, or hopelessness. I specialize in working with people of all ages who are struggling with anxiety, depression, complex PTSD, attachment and relationship issues, sexuality and gender expression, creativity and self-esteem.
I have training in Internal Family Systems, Psychodynamic, EMDR, AEDP, Somatic and Mindfulness techniques, Psychedelic-assisted therapy, Play therapy, and Expressive Arts.
Each of us has the capacity to flourish into our true potential. I work with children, adolescents, and adults to uncover their wholeness and belonging, which may be clouded by challenging behaviors or feelings such as shame, guilt, anger, anxiety, grief, or hopelessness. I specialize in working with people of all ages who are struggling with anxiety, depression, complex PTSD, attachment and relationship issues, sexuality and gender expression, creativity and self-esteem.
(484) 669-8215 View (484) 669-8215
Photo of Marwin Y. Margolies, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marwin Y. Margolies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Update - as of 7/30/24 I'm offering EMDR for short-term work with new clients! I can support you with approaching and coping with intense or overwhelming feelings; finding balance meeting your needs & your obligations; building a compassionate relationship with yourself, and improving your relationships with others. I'm open to discussing whether I'd be the right fit for anything you may bring. My primary approaches are Internal Family Systems & Gestalt Therapy. We can discuss what approach will work best for you. I also offer clinical supervision.
Update - as of 7/30/24 I'm offering EMDR for short-term work with new clients! I can support you with approaching and coping with intense or overwhelming feelings; finding balance meeting your needs & your obligations; building a compassionate relationship with yourself, and improving your relationships with others. I'm open to discussing whether I'd be the right fit for anything you may bring. My primary approaches are Internal Family Systems & Gestalt Therapy. We can discuss what approach will work best for you. I also offer clinical supervision.
(267) 356-4816 View (267) 356-4816
Photo of Thomas DeGeorge, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thomas DeGeorge
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Dr. DeGeorge has presented at the International Association of Martial and Family Counselors in New Orleans, Louisiana, the IAMFCA conference in Oxford, England, and The Asia/Pacific Conference in Brisbane, Australia. A native Philadelphian, Dr. DeGeorge has returned after nearly 28 years of living in the Pittsburgh area. He is an Assistant Professor in the Graduate Counseling Department at Rosemont College.
Dr. DeGeorge has presented at the International Association of Martial and Family Counselors in New Orleans, Louisiana, the IAMFCA conference in Oxford, England, and The Asia/Pacific Conference in Brisbane, Australia. A native Philadelphian, Dr. DeGeorge has returned after nearly 28 years of living in the Pittsburgh area. He is an Assistant Professor in the Graduate Counseling Department at Rosemont College.
(484) 669-8564 View (484) 669-8564
Photo of Eriach Fox, MHS, LPC, LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eriach Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHS, LPC, LCADC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19146
With 25 years of experience in behavior health services, I can create a compassionate and supportive environment to begin working with parts of you that have become stuck by using psychodynamic and trauma-focused approaches such as EMDR therapy, internal family systems (IFS), ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, (KAP), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
Many of us may become stuck at different stages in our lives for myriad reasons. Its possible you may or may not be aware of what events may have led to this which can manifest in mental health and/or substance use difficulties. Examples range from traumatic events such as abuse, neglect, and death of loved ones; oft under-emphasized circumstances such as daily stress, breakups, life changes/transitions, and loss of employment; or broader systemic issues such as racism, poverty, and other types of discrimination. If you are looking to identify the stuck parts to help all of you move forward, this is a good place to start.
With 25 years of experience in behavior health services, I can create a compassionate and supportive environment to begin working with parts of you that have become stuck by using psychodynamic and trauma-focused approaches such as EMDR therapy, internal family systems (IFS), ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, (KAP), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
Many of us may become stuck at different stages in our lives for myriad reasons. Its possible you may or may not be aware of what events may have led to this which can manifest in mental health and/or substance use difficulties. Examples range from traumatic events such as abuse, neglect, and death of loved ones; oft under-emphasized circumstances such as daily stress, breakups, life changes/transitions, and loss of employment; or broader systemic issues such as racism, poverty, and other types of discrimination. If you are looking to identify the stuck parts to help all of you move forward, this is a good place to start.
(215) 469-1932 View (215) 469-1932
Photo of Djola McGowan, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Djola McGowan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19144  (Online Only)
Djola served the Greater Philadelphia Families, supporting children and parents with grief, complex trauma, family structure/system concerns, reunification, ADHD, ODD, ASD, and DMDD.
Hey, I am Djola McGowan, also lovingly called DJ. I am a neurodivergent Licensed Professional Counselor, based in Philadelphia Pennsylvania. I identify as a woman and use the pronouns she/her. I am also a first-generation American, hailing from the land of wood and water Jamaica. I understand therapy to be a revolutionary act of self-care, and I view therapy as a collaborative process, she looks forward to working with her clients to find the best path to achieving their goals for wellness.
Djola served the Greater Philadelphia Families, supporting children and parents with grief, complex trauma, family structure/system concerns, reunification, ADHD, ODD, ASD, and DMDD.
Hey, I am Djola McGowan, also lovingly called DJ. I am a neurodivergent Licensed Professional Counselor, based in Philadelphia Pennsylvania. I identify as a woman and use the pronouns she/her. I am also a first-generation American, hailing from the land of wood and water Jamaica. I understand therapy to be a revolutionary act of self-care, and I view therapy as a collaborative process, she looks forward to working with her clients to find the best path to achieving their goals for wellness.
(484) 603-6643 View (484) 603-6643
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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.