Family Therapy in Jefferson Manor, VA

Photo of Katherine T Smith, PhD, Psychologist
Katherine T Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Jefferson Manor, VA 22303
My training began with understanding family emotional systems.
Typically, I work with clients ranging in age from 12 through adulthood. Many of my clients are facing challenges with depression, anxiety, job or school performance, relationship issues (couples, parenting, family of origin, and work). Often people come to a juncture in their lives when they know something must change. My work focuses on the desired change each person brings. Together we address reducing symptoms, removing obstacles to growth and increasing life satisfaction. Techniques including NLP, non-verbal presence, mindfulness are offered. Executive coaching, leadership and team building, masterful communication, and conflict mediation skills are offered to organizations.
My training began with understanding family emotional systems.
Typically, I work with clients ranging in age from 12 through adulthood. Many of my clients are facing challenges with depression, anxiety, job or school performance, relationship issues (couples, parenting, family of origin, and work). Often people come to a juncture in their lives when they know something must change. My work focuses on the desired change each person brings. Together we address reducing symptoms, removing obstacles to growth and increasing life satisfaction. Techniques including NLP, non-verbal presence, mindfulness are offered. Executive coaching, leadership and team building, masterful communication, and conflict mediation skills are offered to organizations.
(703) 957-7328 View (703) 957-7328
Photo of George Wanke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
George Wanke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jefferson Manor, VA 22303
George Wanke is a Licensed Clinical Social worker with 49 years of experience working with a wide variety of clients, from pre-teens to adults. George specializes in treating individuals who are struggling with mood management, thought distress, and behavioral mental health conditions such as ADHD, conduct disorder, or substance abuse issues. George received his Master’s in Social Work from the University of Kansas and was a Family Therapy Training Supervisor for the Karl Menninger School of Psychiatry.
George Wanke is a Licensed Clinical Social worker with 49 years of experience working with a wide variety of clients, from pre-teens to adults. George specializes in treating individuals who are struggling with mood management, thought distress, and behavioral mental health conditions such as ADHD, conduct disorder, or substance abuse issues. George received his Master’s in Social Work from the University of Kansas and was a Family Therapy Training Supervisor for the Karl Menninger School of Psychiatry.
(571) 470-6615 View (571) 470-6615
Photo of Lisa Swann - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Alexandria, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Alexandria
Counselor
Verified Verified
Jefferson Manor, VA 22303
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.
(571) 554-5384 View (571) 554-5384
Photo of Heejin Yun, Pre-Licensed Professional
Heejin Yun
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Jefferson Manor, VA 22303
Heejin Yun is a Resident in Counseling and a Provisional Registered Art Therapist with 3 years of experience in mental health. She is passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults to address their unique challenges and achieve greater fulfillment in their lives. Heejin specializes in anxiety, eating disorders, depression, addiction, anger management, and family conflict. Heejin is here to help you discover your voice, express challenging emotions through the creative process, and support clients in implementing strategies tailored to their unique life experiences.
Heejin Yun is a Resident in Counseling and a Provisional Registered Art Therapist with 3 years of experience in mental health. She is passionate about working with children, adolescents, and adults to address their unique challenges and achieve greater fulfillment in their lives. Heejin specializes in anxiety, eating disorders, depression, addiction, anger management, and family conflict. Heejin is here to help you discover your voice, express challenging emotions through the creative process, and support clients in implementing strategies tailored to their unique life experiences.
(703) 552-5138 View (703) 552-5138
Photo of Bethany Gravely - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jefferson Manor, VA 22303
We're here to help you reach your therapy goals at Lifebulb! We’ll connect you with the best possible therapist for your unique goals, someone who genuinely cares about helping you. We’re all about making therapy enjoyable for both therapists and clients. Whether you prefer in-person sessions at our locations or online through telehealth, we've got you covered. Our team consists of highly trained and licensed clinicians who are passionate about the therapy process. Let's work together to achieve your goals!
We're here to help you reach your therapy goals at Lifebulb! We’ll connect you with the best possible therapist for your unique goals, someone who genuinely cares about helping you. We’re all about making therapy enjoyable for both therapists and clients. Whether you prefer in-person sessions at our locations or online through telehealth, we've got you covered. Our team consists of highly trained and licensed clinicians who are passionate about the therapy process. Let's work together to achieve your goals!
(703) 936-6509 View (703) 936-6509
Photo of Crista L. Studer, MS, LPC, RDN, CEDS-C, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crista L. Studer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RDN, CEDS-C, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jefferson Manor, VA 22303  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Certified Eating Disorders Specialist-Consultant (CEDS-C) with the unique ability to combine nutrition and mental health for clients suffering from disordered eating, poor body image, low self-esteem, anxiety/depression, and other mental health disorders. I advocate for my clients to help them become self-sufficient and independent in developing healthy behaviors. I am passionate about helping clients identify their feelings, needs, and wants while learning how to effectively process and express these needs.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), and Certified Eating Disorders Specialist-Consultant (CEDS-C) with the unique ability to combine nutrition and mental health for clients suffering from disordered eating, poor body image, low self-esteem, anxiety/depression, and other mental health disorders. I advocate for my clients to help them become self-sufficient and independent in developing healthy behaviors. I am passionate about helping clients identify their feelings, needs, and wants while learning how to effectively process and express these needs.
(720) 335-5880 View (720) 335-5880

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Anne Brennan Malec, PsyD, LMFT, Psychologist
Anne Brennan Malec
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22307  (Online Only)
Malec and the team at Symmetry Counseling provide individual, couple, and family counseling.
Well trained in proven therapeutic techniques, the therapists at Symmetry Counseling adopt a direct, engaged, and active approach. Navigating life’s challenges often entails acquiring new skills. These can be learned and implemented during the course of therapy. Our therapists provide a supportive, empathetic, and hopeful environment. Sessions revolve around pragmatic approaches to strategically address and resolve issues clients bring to therapy. We help you identify problems, understand why past efforts at addressing these problems may have been ineffective, and then develop alternative solutions. Get in touch!
Malec and the team at Symmetry Counseling provide individual, couple, and family counseling.
Well trained in proven therapeutic techniques, the therapists at Symmetry Counseling adopt a direct, engaged, and active approach. Navigating life’s challenges often entails acquiring new skills. These can be learned and implemented during the course of therapy. Our therapists provide a supportive, empathetic, and hopeful environment. Sessions revolve around pragmatic approaches to strategically address and resolve issues clients bring to therapy. We help you identify problems, understand why past efforts at addressing these problems may have been ineffective, and then develop alternative solutions. Get in touch!
(703) 884-8768 View (703) 884-8768
Photo of Allie Nwosu, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allie Nwosu
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Virginia with a Master's degree from the University of Oregon. Over the past eight years, I have dedicated my career to practicing couples therapy, guiding partners through the complexities of their relationships.
Hello! I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in Virginia with a Master's degree from the University of Oregon. Over the past eight years, I have dedicated my career to practicing couples therapy, guiding partners through the complexities of their relationships.
(571) 520-3088 View (571) 520-3088
Yvonne Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, QMHP-A, QMHP-C
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
My treatment modalities are Individual, Group and Family Counseling.
I have been working in the counseling and substance use field for over 25+ years working in the areas of mental health, substance abuse , corrections and leadership. I serve various individuals who seek assistance in working through life issues and moving forward. I offer Counseling and Psychotherapy Services to address: Relationship Issues, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Work/Home Stress, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Healing from Current and Past Trauma, Interpersonal Relations, Parenting, Self-Esteem, Sexuality, Gender Identification and other impasses.
My treatment modalities are Individual, Group and Family Counseling.
I have been working in the counseling and substance use field for over 25+ years working in the areas of mental health, substance abuse , corrections and leadership. I serve various individuals who seek assistance in working through life issues and moving forward. I offer Counseling and Psychotherapy Services to address: Relationship Issues, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Work/Home Stress, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Healing from Current and Past Trauma, Interpersonal Relations, Parenting, Self-Esteem, Sexuality, Gender Identification and other impasses.
(703) 691-5027 View (703) 691-5027
Photo of Hugh K Marr, PhD, Psychologist
Hugh K Marr
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Before entering private practice, I worked in all phases of community mental health (outpatient adult and child services, family therapy, alcohol treatment, emergency services coordinator, etc.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice formerly (pre-covid) in Old Town, Alexandria, VA; all sessions are now via secure telehealth. I provide consultation and supervision to other mental health professionals; and I consult to healthcare facilities. I have taught courses in trauma therapy, family therapy, and substance abuse counseling to graduate students in psychology and counseling. Although I specialize in helping people with issues of trauma, substance use, and relationship, people bring a wide range of concerns from personal growth to serious mental illness. I help people understand and change their life stories.
Before entering private practice, I worked in all phases of community mental health (outpatient adult and child services, family therapy, alcohol treatment, emergency services coordinator, etc.
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice formerly (pre-covid) in Old Town, Alexandria, VA; all sessions are now via secure telehealth. I provide consultation and supervision to other mental health professionals; and I consult to healthcare facilities. I have taught courses in trauma therapy, family therapy, and substance abuse counseling to graduate students in psychology and counseling. Although I specialize in helping people with issues of trauma, substance use, and relationship, people bring a wide range of concerns from personal growth to serious mental illness. I help people understand and change their life stories.
(703) 468-8284 View (703) 468-8284
Photo of Brian Rosen, PsyD, Psychologist
Brian Rosen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
My approach is a blend of psychodynamic, cognitive, and family systems therapy.
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in helping adults, adolescents, and children and their families deal with depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I have specialized experience working with grief, behavioral problems and anger management, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and identity and relationship issues. In addition to my private practice, I have experience working in outpatient clinics, university counseling centers, and schools.
My approach is a blend of psychodynamic, cognitive, and family systems therapy.
I am a clinical psychologist who specializes in helping adults, adolescents, and children and their families deal with depression, anxiety, and life transitions. I have specialized experience working with grief, behavioral problems and anger management, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and identity and relationship issues. In addition to my private practice, I have experience working in outpatient clinics, university counseling centers, and schools.
(540) 491-4954 View (540) 491-4954
Photo of Karen Perkins Curtis, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Perkins Curtis
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Call for a free consultation to determine if working with me could be a good fit for your family.
My passion is helping families adjust to significant life changes. Whether you are entering into marriage, welcoming a child into your family or realizing that it is time to refocus on your marriage, my goal is to help you strengthen and grow your family bond. Services include: PreMarital counseling, Marital Enrichment coaching, Perinatal Mental Health Support for moms AND dads (aiming to prevent or combat Postpartum Depression & Anxiety), hands-on parenting support including my direct observation & modeling.
Call for a free consultation to determine if working with me could be a good fit for your family.
My passion is helping families adjust to significant life changes. Whether you are entering into marriage, welcoming a child into your family or realizing that it is time to refocus on your marriage, my goal is to help you strengthen and grow your family bond. Services include: PreMarital counseling, Marital Enrichment coaching, Perinatal Mental Health Support for moms AND dads (aiming to prevent or combat Postpartum Depression & Anxiety), hands-on parenting support including my direct observation & modeling.
(202) 455-6987 View (202) 455-6987
Photo of Jennifer Smith Sims, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Smith Sims
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22301  (Online Only)
I work with a wide range of issues including: depression, anxiety, unresolved emotional issues, grief and loss, relational/ family concerns, and substance abuse.
Hello there! My name is Jennifer Smith Sims. I am licensed Mental Health Counselor (LPC) and the Owner/Founder of LifeSpark Counseling and Coaching.I have over sixteen years of experience in the field and I have a solid foundation in utilizing techniques from Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Schema-Focused Cognitive Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution focused therapy. I also have a strong Christian faith and am very passionate about providing faith based counseling to those individuals that want to incorporate their faith into our sessions.
I work with a wide range of issues including: depression, anxiety, unresolved emotional issues, grief and loss, relational/ family concerns, and substance abuse.
Hello there! My name is Jennifer Smith Sims. I am licensed Mental Health Counselor (LPC) and the Owner/Founder of LifeSpark Counseling and Coaching.I have over sixteen years of experience in the field and I have a solid foundation in utilizing techniques from Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Schema-Focused Cognitive Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Solution focused therapy. I also have a strong Christian faith and am very passionate about providing faith based counseling to those individuals that want to incorporate their faith into our sessions.
(540) 712-6276 View (540) 712-6276
Photo of Maria-Pilar Pina, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria-Pilar Pina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with adults in areas of expertise including but are not limited to: Holistic Somatic Psychotherapy, Sex-Positive, LGBTQIA+, Poly and Multicultural / BIPOC affirmative Therapy, helpful to problems including, depression, anxiety, trauma, isolation, grief, intimacy challenges and family relationship challenges.
I am honored to be trusted in all of my clients' lives. I believe that holding a safe therapeutic space supports individuals to address their emotional needs, allowing for the development of a deeper authentic relationship with self and others that they love, as well as reach their personal goals. My style of therapy is highly individualized and collaboratively designed with each client. This practice is based on the understanding that all identities and individuals deserve affirming and anti-oppressive care. I provide both short-term and long-term therapy in Virginia and DC.
I specialize in working with adults in areas of expertise including but are not limited to: Holistic Somatic Psychotherapy, Sex-Positive, LGBTQIA+, Poly and Multicultural / BIPOC affirmative Therapy, helpful to problems including, depression, anxiety, trauma, isolation, grief, intimacy challenges and family relationship challenges.
I am honored to be trusted in all of my clients' lives. I believe that holding a safe therapeutic space supports individuals to address their emotional needs, allowing for the development of a deeper authentic relationship with self and others that they love, as well as reach their personal goals. My style of therapy is highly individualized and collaboratively designed with each client. This practice is based on the understanding that all identities and individuals deserve affirming and anti-oppressive care. I provide both short-term and long-term therapy in Virginia and DC.
(571) 777-0120 View (571) 777-0120
Photo of Jayna Ratliff, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jayna Ratliff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
Hi! I'm glad you're here. I believe that counseling is most effective when it is designed by the participant and fits their individual or family needs. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and holds certifications in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Trauma Treatment. I have experience working with children and their families to strengthen attachment, manage complex traumatic experiences, and overcome anxiety, depression, suicidality, isolation, and negative patterns of behavior.
Hi! I'm glad you're here. I believe that counseling is most effective when it is designed by the participant and fits their individual or family needs. I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and holds certifications in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Trauma Treatment. I have experience working with children and their families to strengthen attachment, manage complex traumatic experiences, and overcome anxiety, depression, suicidality, isolation, and negative patterns of behavior.
(571) 202-7150 View (571) 202-7150
Photo of Elizabeth Snow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Snow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22304  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor in the state of Virginia with more than 6 years of experience working in the counseling/social work field. My experience includes working with individuals of various ages to address topics such as addiction, mental health diagnosis, depression, anxiety, OCD, family conflict, life changes and history of abuse. My counseling style is solution focused. I strive to provide a comfortable atmosphere for you to share what is on
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor in the state of Virginia with more than 6 years of experience working in the counseling/social work field. My experience includes working with individuals of various ages to address topics such as addiction, mental health diagnosis, depression, anxiety, OCD, family conflict, life changes and history of abuse. My counseling style is solution focused. I strive to provide a comfortable atmosphere for you to share what is on
(571) 200-5054 View (571) 200-5054
Photo of Faby Diallo, MEd, BCBA, LBA
Faby Diallo
MEd, BCBA, LBA
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22301
My mission is to work with your child to achieve their full potential. I design plans that incorporate the natural environment to develop life skills and unlock your child’s tremendous potential. My approach is rooted in science and driven by daily insight from interacting with your child. As a parent of a child on the autism spectrum and a professional, I have had extensive experience working with children with special needs and training parents. I understand the challenges that your family faces. I believe that parent involvement plays a crucial role in the intervention and I want to give the best support to continue the work.
My mission is to work with your child to achieve their full potential. I design plans that incorporate the natural environment to develop life skills and unlock your child’s tremendous potential. My approach is rooted in science and driven by daily insight from interacting with your child. As a parent of a child on the autism spectrum and a professional, I have had extensive experience working with children with special needs and training parents. I understand the challenges that your family faces. I believe that parent involvement plays a crucial role in the intervention and I want to give the best support to continue the work.
(703) 844-2905 View (703) 844-2905
Photo of Kimberly A Milam - Neurofeedback Therapeutic Solutions, LLC, MA, LPC, BCN, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Neurofeedback Therapeutic Solutions, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BCN, NCC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Have you experienced a traumatic event? Have you felt depressed, anxious, irritable, numb, hopeless, worthless, hypervigilant, shame, mistrust, a loss of self, or emotionally overwhelmed? Are you experiencing nightmares, flashbacks, panic attacks, insomnia, headaches, or problems concentrating? Have you thought about or participated in self-destructive behaviors or felt a loss of self? You are not alone most victims of trauma experience some of these symptoms. You can become more present emotionally and psychologically for yourself, your family, and friends.
Have you experienced a traumatic event? Have you felt depressed, anxious, irritable, numb, hopeless, worthless, hypervigilant, shame, mistrust, a loss of self, or emotionally overwhelmed? Are you experiencing nightmares, flashbacks, panic attacks, insomnia, headaches, or problems concentrating? Have you thought about or participated in self-destructive behaviors or felt a loss of self? You are not alone most victims of trauma experience some of these symptoms. You can become more present emotionally and psychologically for yourself, your family, and friends.
(571) 762-3812 View (571) 762-3812
Photo of Amanda Carrington Emdr And Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Carrington Emdr And Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
I integrate EMDR therapy, Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, and Cognitive-Behavioral strategies.
If you are seeking a more authentic life and want more enjoyment in your daily routines, therapy can help. I am passionate about helping individuals who are motivated to make a change their lives or relationships. Together, we work to break unhealthy patterns, alleviate emotional pain, and heal from significant events that influence the way you view yourself and the world. With respect, positive regard, and healthy sense of humor, I work to draw on your strengths, foster emotional resilience, deepen your self-awareness, feel unconditionally accepted, and help you to develop the skills and motivation to live the life you deserve.
I integrate EMDR therapy, Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, and Cognitive-Behavioral strategies.
If you are seeking a more authentic life and want more enjoyment in your daily routines, therapy can help. I am passionate about helping individuals who are motivated to make a change their lives or relationships. Together, we work to break unhealthy patterns, alleviate emotional pain, and heal from significant events that influence the way you view yourself and the world. With respect, positive regard, and healthy sense of humor, I work to draw on your strengths, foster emotional resilience, deepen your self-awareness, feel unconditionally accepted, and help you to develop the skills and motivation to live the life you deserve.
(571) 253-7986 View (571) 253-7986
Photo of Jessica Jemmott | The Lamp Counseling Center, MA, LPC , NCC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Jemmott | The Lamp Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC , NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22302  (Online Only)
I offer individual (adolescents/adult), group, family, and couples counseling.
At The Lamp Counseling Center, our goal is to provide an authentic, holistic, and individualized approach to the therapeutic relationship. Your experiences are your own and your treatment will reflect that, as we collaboratively engage in a variety of traditional and non-traditional approaches including culturally affirming Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Expressive Therapies, and Trauma-Informed Mindfulness. I strive to create a positive, caring environment where you feel safe, seen, and heard during your journey of healing and personal growth.
I offer individual (adolescents/adult), group, family, and couples counseling.
At The Lamp Counseling Center, our goal is to provide an authentic, holistic, and individualized approach to the therapeutic relationship. Your experiences are your own and your treatment will reflect that, as we collaboratively engage in a variety of traditional and non-traditional approaches including culturally affirming Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Expressive Therapies, and Trauma-Informed Mindfulness. I strive to create a positive, caring environment where you feel safe, seen, and heard during your journey of healing and personal growth.
(571) 517-1829 View (571) 517-1829

See more therapy options for Jefferson Manor

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.