Family Therapy in Cortland, IL

Photo of Claire Maschinski, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cortland, IL
Claire Maschinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cortland, IL 60112
As a marriage and family therapist, I utilize systems thinking to aid my client in an exploration of how their relationships with others impact their ability to function and thrive.
I have experience working with children as young as four years old, adolescents, adults, couples, and families and have a strong tie to the systems dynamic in my clinical work. I work with clients experiencing a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, relational problems, social isolation and bullying, family and parent-child conflict, school concerns, and a multitude of other presenting issues. I work from a compassionate, strengths-based approach and promote positive, healthy change through self-advocacy. Working from a systemic perspective with individuals, couples, and families allows me to assist my clients in actualizing the change they wish to see in their lives. In addition, I promote the process of change through differentiation of self and gaining an understanding of how individuals work and function within a system. I recently underwent a training in the Certificate Program in Traumatic Stress Studies through the Trauma Center at JRI and have also received training to become a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I recently attended the Childhood Trauma Symposium to increase my efforts in being an effective trauma-informed clinician.
As a marriage and family therapist, I utilize systems thinking to aid my client in an exploration of how their relationships with others impact their ability to function and thrive.
I have experience working with children as young as four years old, adolescents, adults, couples, and families and have a strong tie to the systems dynamic in my clinical work. I work with clients experiencing a wide variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, relational problems, social isolation and bullying, family and parent-child conflict, school concerns, and a multitude of other presenting issues. I work from a compassionate, strengths-based approach and promote positive, healthy change through self-advocacy. Working from a systemic perspective with individuals, couples, and families allows me to assist my clients in actualizing the change they wish to see in their lives. In addition, I promote the process of change through differentiation of self and gaining an understanding of how individuals work and function within a system. I recently underwent a training in the Certificate Program in Traumatic Stress Studies through the Trauma Center at JRI and have also received training to become a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I recently attended the Childhood Trauma Symposium to increase my efforts in being an effective trauma-informed clinician.
(779) 222-2708 View (779) 222-2708
Photo of Amanda Ruppert, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cortland, IL
Amanda Ruppert
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cortland, IL 60112
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I utilize systemic thinking by looking beyond an individual and observing how their surrounding environments/relationships impact them. I find this approach to be highly effective and necessary to promote personal growth. I believe that everyone is worthy of being able to share their story in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. I feel privileged to be a part of someone's journey to understanding their past, being aware of the present and setting goals for their future.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I utilize systemic thinking by looking beyond an individual and observing how their surrounding environments/relationships impact them. I find this approach to be highly effective and necessary to promote personal growth. I believe that everyone is worthy of being able to share their story in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. I feel privileged to be a part of someone's journey to understanding their past, being aware of the present and setting goals for their future.
(779) 222-2709 View (779) 222-2709
Photo of Rebecca Viereckl, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cortland, IL
Rebecca Viereckl
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Cortland, IL 60112
As a Marriage & Family Therapist I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. I work with my clients to explore their relationships to address the challenges they may be facing. This includes exploring; feeling disconnected, deep rooted conflict, communication, blending families, parenting, life transition, and low relationship satisfaction. I also work with clients who struggle with depression, gender identity, mood management, self-esteem, sexual orientation, stress, and trauma.
As a Marriage & Family Therapist I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. I work with my clients to explore their relationships to address the challenges they may be facing. This includes exploring; feeling disconnected, deep rooted conflict, communication, blending families, parenting, life transition, and low relationship satisfaction. I also work with clients who struggle with depression, gender identity, mood management, self-esteem, sexual orientation, stress, and trauma.
(815) 240-8023 View (815) 240-8023
Photo of Laura Ritchason, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cortland, IL
Laura Ritchason
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Cortland, IL 60112
When individuals experience trauma or severe life stressers, it is not uncommon for them to feel as if their lives have unraveled. My dedication is to bring healing to individual who have experienced traumatic and stressful events. I know that no single approach is right for everyone, so I have been trained in a range of therapeutic techniques that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Solution Focused and Mindfulness. Through these approaches, I am able to help my clients find healthy perceptions of themselves in order to make changes and find a more peaceful and calming place in their lives.
When individuals experience trauma or severe life stressers, it is not uncommon for them to feel as if their lives have unraveled. My dedication is to bring healing to individual who have experienced traumatic and stressful events. I know that no single approach is right for everyone, so I have been trained in a range of therapeutic techniques that include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Solution Focused and Mindfulness. Through these approaches, I am able to help my clients find healthy perceptions of themselves in order to make changes and find a more peaceful and calming place in their lives.
(815) 205-6878 View (815) 205-6878
Photo of Kate Nash, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cortland, IL
Kate Nash
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cortland, IL 60112
Are you struggling with feeling overwhelmed by your emotions or what you have to accomplish? Do you struggle to find time for yourself or notice that you don't have the energy to meet your own needs after taking care of everyone else? Do you lose concentration easily and get sick tracked so much so that you end up not accomplishing everything you need to complete? Are you looking for stability and strategies to manage the world around you and within you?
Are you struggling with feeling overwhelmed by your emotions or what you have to accomplish? Do you struggle to find time for yourself or notice that you don't have the energy to meet your own needs after taking care of everyone else? Do you lose concentration easily and get sick tracked so much so that you end up not accomplishing everything you need to complete? Are you looking for stability and strategies to manage the world around you and within you?
(779) 256-6086 View (779) 256-6086
Photo of Catherine Tiberi, Counselor in Cortland, IL
Catherine Tiberi
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cortland, IL 60112
Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders are just some of the diagnoses I have worked with. Through skill building, processing upsetting events, gaining insight into behaviors and allowing yourself to heal, the positive power of the therapy experience is rewarding. I take an approach that is welcoming, empathetic, and non judgmental to assist with creating a safe place for you.
Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders are just some of the diagnoses I have worked with. Through skill building, processing upsetting events, gaining insight into behaviors and allowing yourself to heal, the positive power of the therapy experience is rewarding. I take an approach that is welcoming, empathetic, and non judgmental to assist with creating a safe place for you.
(779) 222-2712 View (779) 222-2712

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Natalia Vinokur, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cortland, IL
Natalia Vinokur
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115
Waitlist for new clients
I have 15 years of experience as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with experience in inpatient psychiatric hospital, as well as private practice.
Utilizing evidence-based practices, I strive to support, encourage, educate, and empower my clients. Together we'll work side by side to help strengthen awareness, communication, increase personal growth and healing within yourself and your relationship. We will also identify strengths, patterns, coping skills. My specialties include Acute, Chronic and Complex Traumas, Suicidality, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions. I use many counseling modalities that are specific to individual needs and preferences, such as Systemic Theory, CBT, Person Centered and Trauma Informed Approaches.
I have 15 years of experience as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with experience in inpatient psychiatric hospital, as well as private practice.
Utilizing evidence-based practices, I strive to support, encourage, educate, and empower my clients. Together we'll work side by side to help strengthen awareness, communication, increase personal growth and healing within yourself and your relationship. We will also identify strengths, patterns, coping skills. My specialties include Acute, Chronic and Complex Traumas, Suicidality, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Anxiety, Depression, Life Transitions. I use many counseling modalities that are specific to individual needs and preferences, such as Systemic Theory, CBT, Person Centered and Trauma Informed Approaches.
(815) 501-5974 View (815) 501-5974
Photo of Allen B Weimer, Counselor in Cortland, IL
Allen B Weimer
Counselor, MS, LMFT, LCPC
Verified Verified
Sycamore, IL 60178
Waitlist for new clients
I offer individual and family therapy in a natural environment with horses.
I specialize in working with Teens/Tweens and Adults that may need an alternative setting for treatment. I provide experiential therapy with horses in a farm setting. Many clients find this setting less intimidating and I am able to find the right setting for each client based on their preferences and needs.
I offer individual and family therapy in a natural environment with horses.
I specialize in working with Teens/Tweens and Adults that may need an alternative setting for treatment. I provide experiential therapy with horses in a farm setting. Many clients find this setting less intimidating and I am able to find the right setting for each client based on their preferences and needs.
(331) 236-0958 View (331) 236-0958
Photo of David Alan Niekamp, Psychologist in Cortland, IL
David Alan Niekamp
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Sycamore, IL 60178
It requires a sensitivity to the unique facets of each individual, couple and family.
Emotional and psychological well being rests on numerous factors. These factors are both historical and concurrent. Additionally, each person carries various coping skills and resources that need to be utilized, enhanced and incorporated to establish an effective protocal when contending with life's innate struggles and challenges. Healthy relationships, personal and professional, are the antidote to many of life's difficulties. Removing barriers that limit our relationships is key to establishing a balanced and enjoyable lifestyle.
It requires a sensitivity to the unique facets of each individual, couple and family.
Emotional and psychological well being rests on numerous factors. These factors are both historical and concurrent. Additionally, each person carries various coping skills and resources that need to be utilized, enhanced and incorporated to establish an effective protocal when contending with life's innate struggles and challenges. Healthy relationships, personal and professional, are the antidote to many of life's difficulties. Removing barriers that limit our relationships is key to establishing a balanced and enjoyable lifestyle.
(630) 446-0341 View (630) 446-0341
Photo of Dr. Scott Sibley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cortland, IL
Dr. Scott Sibley
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CFLE
Verified Verified
Sycamore, IL 60178
Besides being a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am also a professor and researcher.
Are you struggling in a relationship? I have a passion for helping individuals, couples, and families with the challenges in their lives. Regardless of whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction, romantic relationship issues, problems or trauma related to your family of origin, or needing help navigating through transitions in life, I am here to assist you. I know that with the right support a person can be resilient and find the healing they need in their lives. We can work together to achieve your goals and improve your relationships. I invite you to visit my website DecideToCommit.com to learn more about me.
Besides being a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I am also a professor and researcher.
Are you struggling in a relationship? I have a passion for helping individuals, couples, and families with the challenges in their lives. Regardless of whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, addiction, romantic relationship issues, problems or trauma related to your family of origin, or needing help navigating through transitions in life, I am here to assist you. I know that with the right support a person can be resilient and find the healing they need in their lives. We can work together to achieve your goals and improve your relationships. I invite you to visit my website DecideToCommit.com to learn more about me.
(815) 473-3835 View (815) 473-3835
Photo of Veronica Glickman in Cortland, IL
Veronica Glickman
MA, MS, BCBA
Verified Verified
Sycamore, IL 60178
My goal is to assist children and parents in developing a behavioral repertoire as similar as possible to a typical child and to increase the quality of life of the child and their family.
I strive to use the most advanced and evidence-based teaching strategies available. My teaching techniques are based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis. I aim to teach children skills that can be generalized across a variety of people and settings. Parent training is an essential part of my program that ensures the child continues to apply and hone those new skills throughout the day. I regularly coordinate my efforts with interdisciplinary team members such as teachers, speech pathologists, and occupational therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists.
My goal is to assist children and parents in developing a behavioral repertoire as similar as possible to a typical child and to increase the quality of life of the child and their family.
I strive to use the most advanced and evidence-based teaching strategies available. My teaching techniques are based on the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis. I aim to teach children skills that can be generalized across a variety of people and settings. Parent training is an essential part of my program that ensures the child continues to apply and hone those new skills throughout the day. I regularly coordinate my efforts with interdisciplinary team members such as teachers, speech pathologists, and occupational therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists.
(815) 570-5749 View (815) 570-5749
Photo of Debra K Hirschberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cortland, IL
Debra K Hirschberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
We have expertise in helping those with Depression, Anxiety, Abuse recovery, marital/family conflict, Self-Injury, ADD and Autism Spectrum disorders.
Don't let your life or your relationships spiral out of control any longer. If you feel like you don't have a voice or are struggling with life or relationships we can help. We at Hope Reins are committed to helping you experience hope again, a sense of purpose and real change. We work with individuals, couples, children, teens and families who are struggling with trust, depression, anxiety, relationship and other problems. If you have not found help with traditional therapy, we offer fun, adventurous and creative alternative therapies such as horse and art therapy.
We have expertise in helping those with Depression, Anxiety, Abuse recovery, marital/family conflict, Self-Injury, ADD and Autism Spectrum disorders.
Don't let your life or your relationships spiral out of control any longer. If you feel like you don't have a voice or are struggling with life or relationships we can help. We at Hope Reins are committed to helping you experience hope again, a sense of purpose and real change. We work with individuals, couples, children, teens and families who are struggling with trust, depression, anxiety, relationship and other problems. If you have not found help with traditional therapy, we offer fun, adventurous and creative alternative therapies such as horse and art therapy.
(847) 513-9160 View (847) 513-9160
Photo of Kelly Robinson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Cortland, IL
Kelly Robinson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
As a marriage and family therapist, I have had the opportunity to work with couples and individuals with varying needs.
Whether you are going through an important transition or need extra support as you navigate everyday life, it is worth remembering that everyone needs help sometimes. Being a wife for the last 16 years and a mom for the last 20 years has given me the opportunity to experience the richness of family life including teen parenthood/parenthood, marriage, life cycle transitions, blended family dynamics, anxiety and stress related challenges. Challenges create strength and it is my passion to help others sift through the inevitable challenges of life to cultivate understanding and clarity and the ability to move forward with strength.
As a marriage and family therapist, I have had the opportunity to work with couples and individuals with varying needs.
Whether you are going through an important transition or need extra support as you navigate everyday life, it is worth remembering that everyone needs help sometimes. Being a wife for the last 16 years and a mom for the last 20 years has given me the opportunity to experience the richness of family life including teen parenthood/parenthood, marriage, life cycle transitions, blended family dynamics, anxiety and stress related challenges. Challenges create strength and it is my passion to help others sift through the inevitable challenges of life to cultivate understanding and clarity and the ability to move forward with strength.
(815) 567-9054 View (815) 567-9054
Photo of Morgan Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cortland, IL
Morgan Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sycamore, IL 60178
When working with clients, I look at presenting issues, family dynamics, relationships with a systemic and structural approach. I feel that gaining a better understanding of the innerworkings helps to facilitate and help foster growth. I am a firm believer that therapy should be a collaboration between the therapist and the clients to help foster change. With much compassion and understanding, I work with clients to facilitate healing and growth, grounded in a desire to empower others to achieve their goals.
When working with clients, I look at presenting issues, family dynamics, relationships with a systemic and structural approach. I feel that gaining a better understanding of the innerworkings helps to facilitate and help foster growth. I am a firm believer that therapy should be a collaboration between the therapist and the clients to help foster change. With much compassion and understanding, I work with clients to facilitate healing and growth, grounded in a desire to empower others to achieve their goals.
(815) 706-7308 View (815) 706-7308
Photo of Erin Blair (Murtha), Marriage & Family Therapist in Cortland, IL
Erin Blair (Murtha)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sycamore, IL 60178
By utilizing Attachment Theory, Bowen Family Systems, and the Gottman Method Couples Therapy, I seek to provide a personalized experience for all of my clients that feels collaborative and intuitive.
Are you and your significant other looking for the opportunity to rebuild the foundation of your relationship or strengthen your connection for the future? Perhaps as a couple you are both seeking the opportunity to overcome challenges in your relationship or determine if a continued relationship or marriage is the "right" choice for each of you? Whatever the reason you have found yourself on my page, I encourage you to really consider how relationship work with both yourself and others may be of help to your overall mental health needs.
By utilizing Attachment Theory, Bowen Family Systems, and the Gottman Method Couples Therapy, I seek to provide a personalized experience for all of my clients that feels collaborative and intuitive.
Are you and your significant other looking for the opportunity to rebuild the foundation of your relationship or strengthen your connection for the future? Perhaps as a couple you are both seeking the opportunity to overcome challenges in your relationship or determine if a continued relationship or marriage is the "right" choice for each of you? Whatever the reason you have found yourself on my page, I encourage you to really consider how relationship work with both yourself and others may be of help to your overall mental health needs.
(815) 522-1805 View (815) 522-1805
Photo of Lucy Sosa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Cortland, IL
Lucy Sosa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Are experiences of trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, family conflict or violence, abuse, isolation or loneliness, identity, culture, religion, or self-esteem impacting how you feel about yourself and your relationship with others? Therapy with empathy in a safe space free of judgment will be used to aid in your recovery. Together, we will explore how compromised mental health and experiences negatively impact you. We'll work at your level of comfort to alleviate your suffering and symptoms. Improving the quality of your life and generating a sense of empowerment that will help you sustain the life you want is the goal.
Are experiences of trauma, depression, anxiety, stress, family conflict or violence, abuse, isolation or loneliness, identity, culture, religion, or self-esteem impacting how you feel about yourself and your relationship with others? Therapy with empathy in a safe space free of judgment will be used to aid in your recovery. Together, we will explore how compromised mental health and experiences negatively impact you. We'll work at your level of comfort to alleviate your suffering and symptoms. Improving the quality of your life and generating a sense of empowerment that will help you sustain the life you want is the goal.
(779) 212-7319 View (779) 212-7319
Photo of Briana Jakubik, Licensed Professional Counselor in Cortland, IL
Briana Jakubik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
I focus on a holistic view which includes mental health, physical health, diet, career/school, and family dynamics.
I strive to find solutions that are "Skills Over Pills" when starting therapy. I am passionate about helping teens and adults that are struggling to better themselves. It can be scary to feel that you are “behind others” life, but I can help you refocus on the positive aspects of yourself and what you are truly capable of. I have experience with LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, life changes, and trauma. I have worked with individuals, groups, and in hospital settings. I also taught parenting classes and have experience with career counseling. All of my experience is focused on guiding others along their journey.
I focus on a holistic view which includes mental health, physical health, diet, career/school, and family dynamics.
I strive to find solutions that are "Skills Over Pills" when starting therapy. I am passionate about helping teens and adults that are struggling to better themselves. It can be scary to feel that you are “behind others” life, but I can help you refocus on the positive aspects of yourself and what you are truly capable of. I have experience with LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, life changes, and trauma. I have worked with individuals, groups, and in hospital settings. I also taught parenting classes and have experience with career counseling. All of my experience is focused on guiding others along their journey.
(847) 380-8485 View (847) 380-8485
Photo of Mikiela Cobb, Psychologist in Cortland, IL
Mikiela Cobb
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dekalb, IL 60115
I earned my doctorate in clinical psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and completed my internship at Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital. Throughout my training, I have gained experience working with children, adolescents, and their families across a variety of settings. My work focuses on the holistic assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with behavior concerns, attention difficulties, developmental differences (including Autism Spectrum Disorders), selective mutism, and general mood concerns. I practice from a family systems perspective and am trained in a number of evidence based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA).
I earned my doctorate in clinical psychology from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and completed my internship at Alexian Brothers Behavioral Health Hospital. Throughout my training, I have gained experience working with children, adolescents, and their families across a variety of settings. My work focuses on the holistic assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with behavior concerns, attention difficulties, developmental differences (including Autism Spectrum Disorders), selective mutism, and general mood concerns. I practice from a family systems perspective and am trained in a number of evidence based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA).
(708) 726-5741 View (708) 726-5741
Photo of Sarah Klein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Cortland, IL
Sarah Klein
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sycamore, IL 60178
I utilize aspects of Structured Family Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Gottman’s Couples Therapy.
I specialize in working with children, teenagers, and adults and provide individual, family, and couples' therapy. While working with these modalities of treatments, I help clients that are struggling with anxiety, compulsive behaviors, behavioral issues, depression, self-esteem, conflict, parenting, trauma, and life transitions. Clients with these symptoms or situations face many challenges which I love helping them overcome through compassionate understanding and establishment of trust and rapport.
I utilize aspects of Structured Family Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Gottman’s Couples Therapy.
I specialize in working with children, teenagers, and adults and provide individual, family, and couples' therapy. While working with these modalities of treatments, I help clients that are struggling with anxiety, compulsive behaviors, behavioral issues, depression, self-esteem, conflict, parenting, trauma, and life transitions. Clients with these symptoms or situations face many challenges which I love helping them overcome through compassionate understanding and establishment of trust and rapport.
(815) 281-5218 View (815) 281-5218
Photo of Leslie Albion, Counselor in Cortland, IL
Leslie Albion
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Dekalb, IL 60115  (Online Only)
Life can be tough sometimes, and I am here to tell you that you do not need to walk that journey alone. We often get distracted by the daily activities in our lives, the mindless routines, and the various roles we play, without noticing we are struggling. You seek to find peace, empowerment, and/or to be seen and heard in your own life. You may be experiencing stressful experiences, anxiety, family conflict, infertility, life transitions, or depression, that can make you feel alone. I am thankful to work alongside you, as you reexamine your life path, to live the best you that you can be.
Life can be tough sometimes, and I am here to tell you that you do not need to walk that journey alone. We often get distracted by the daily activities in our lives, the mindless routines, and the various roles we play, without noticing we are struggling. You seek to find peace, empowerment, and/or to be seen and heard in your own life. You may be experiencing stressful experiences, anxiety, family conflict, infertility, life transitions, or depression, that can make you feel alone. I am thankful to work alongside you, as you reexamine your life path, to live the best you that you can be.
(815) 627-1543 View (815) 627-1543

See more therapy options for Cortland

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.