Family Therapy in Saint Louis, MO

Photo of Linda S Pevnick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda S Pevnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63146  (Online Only)
Are you feeling like your best self? Baffled about what the problem is? Are you sleeping ok? Are you having a troubled relationhips with a spouse or a family member? Do feelings of depression and anxiety keep you from being as happy as you would like to be. Do you need guidance to find a way to feel satisfied with your life? You don't have to struggle alone. I help individuals and couples to overcome the roadblocks that keep them stuck so that they can go on to live happier and more productive lives. I can help you learn what stands in your way of feeling better about your life and give you the tools you need to keep it that way!
Are you feeling like your best self? Baffled about what the problem is? Are you sleeping ok? Are you having a troubled relationhips with a spouse or a family member? Do feelings of depression and anxiety keep you from being as happy as you would like to be. Do you need guidance to find a way to feel satisfied with your life? You don't have to struggle alone. I help individuals and couples to overcome the roadblocks that keep them stuck so that they can go on to live happier and more productive lives. I can help you learn what stands in your way of feeling better about your life and give you the tools you need to keep it that way!
(314) 828-5325 View (314) 828-5325
Photo of Dr. Vivian Marie Sierra - Couples Counseling STL, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Couples Counseling STL
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63132
With a lifetime of professional experience and exceptional training, I'm able to address and facilitate personal growth and find ways to find peace when facing the challenges of relationships and family, including family estrangement.
Hello, I'm Dr. Vivian! I focus my practice on relationship counseling and coaching to help improve the quality of relationships whether romantic, family or work-related. I will teach you vital relationship skills, and facilitate your own self-awareness in order to empower change. My approach gives relief from the suffering that accompanies the painful experience of family estrangement and relationship issues. No matter what you bring to therapy, I offer empathy, support, a safe, nonjudgmental space. I use evidence-based therapy and empathic approach to discover ways for you to heal, learn, grow and find peace of mind.
With a lifetime of professional experience and exceptional training, I'm able to address and facilitate personal growth and find ways to find peace when facing the challenges of relationships and family, including family estrangement.
Hello, I'm Dr. Vivian! I focus my practice on relationship counseling and coaching to help improve the quality of relationships whether romantic, family or work-related. I will teach you vital relationship skills, and facilitate your own self-awareness in order to empower change. My approach gives relief from the suffering that accompanies the painful experience of family estrangement and relationship issues. No matter what you bring to therapy, I offer empathy, support, a safe, nonjudgmental space. I use evidence-based therapy and empathic approach to discover ways for you to heal, learn, grow and find peace of mind.
(314) 907-2317 View (314) 907-2317
Photo of Amy Studer - Alternative Access Counseling, MA, LPC, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alternative Access Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63116  (Online Only)
Our clients often identify as LGBTQIAs2+ / Queer, Non-monogamous, sex positive or sex neutral, neurodivergence, and or disabled and living within Missouri or Kansas. However, identifying in these communities is not a requirement for services through AAC. Clients often start therapy to work on goals to learn more about identities, setting boundaries with others in their lives, opening up their relationship, learning more about themselves or others gender or sexual expression. Through individual, relationship, or family counseling we work to increase healthy communication based on our values, instead of assumed social norms.
Our clients often identify as LGBTQIAs2+ / Queer, Non-monogamous, sex positive or sex neutral, neurodivergence, and or disabled and living within Missouri or Kansas. However, identifying in these communities is not a requirement for services through AAC. Clients often start therapy to work on goals to learn more about identities, setting boundaries with others in their lives, opening up their relationship, learning more about themselves or others gender or sexual expression. Through individual, relationship, or family counseling we work to increase healthy communication based on our values, instead of assumed social norms.
(573) 577-3368 View (573) 577-3368
Photo of Steven J Fields, LPC, NCC, CFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Steven J Fields
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CFT
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63110  (Online Only)
I am a sex therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Missouri and Virginia, who is a National Board Certified Counselor (NCC), a Certified Family Counselor (CFT), and a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist (CGCS).
As we live, we write the stories of our lives. Sometimes the pen gets too heavy. Sometimes we don’t know where to start… or how to continue. And then there’s writer’s block, the faltering of the creative process somewhere in our hearts, our minds, our bodies producing dis-orders and dis-eases. Maybe you have lost a Loved one. Maybe you’re starting a new relationship. Maybe you want a new job. Maybe you just want change. I believe the remedy is in the beliefs/feelings, thoughts, and behaviors fueling the writer’s block or dis-ease, and I am a dis-ease specialist.
I am a sex therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Missouri and Virginia, who is a National Board Certified Counselor (NCC), a Certified Family Counselor (CFT), and a Certified Grief Counseling Specialist (CGCS).
As we live, we write the stories of our lives. Sometimes the pen gets too heavy. Sometimes we don’t know where to start… or how to continue. And then there’s writer’s block, the faltering of the creative process somewhere in our hearts, our minds, our bodies producing dis-orders and dis-eases. Maybe you have lost a Loved one. Maybe you’re starting a new relationship. Maybe you want a new job. Maybe you just want change. I believe the remedy is in the beliefs/feelings, thoughts, and behaviors fueling the writer’s block or dis-ease, and I am a dis-ease specialist.
(757) 300-5901 View (757) 300-5901
Photo of Mary Jo Schneller, PhD, CPsyD, Pastoral Counselor
Mary Jo Schneller
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, CPsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63124
I am extensively trained in cognitive behavioral therapy as well as marriage and family therapy, along with weight loss nutritonal coaching.
At times, we all experience challenges in our lives that make us feel out of control, out of balance, and disconnected. Despite these challenges, I believe that you can grow and heal. I believe in helping people through Faith based and practical counseling approach that responds to the needs of the whole person. I have a strong commitiment to the strengthening of individuals, marriages and families by promoting excellence in counseling. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD disorders, addictions, and sexual abuse.
I am extensively trained in cognitive behavioral therapy as well as marriage and family therapy, along with weight loss nutritonal coaching.
At times, we all experience challenges in our lives that make us feel out of control, out of balance, and disconnected. Despite these challenges, I believe that you can grow and heal. I believe in helping people through Faith based and practical counseling approach that responds to the needs of the whole person. I have a strong commitiment to the strengthening of individuals, marriages and families by promoting excellence in counseling. I specialize in the treatment of PTSD disorders, addictions, and sexual abuse.
(314) 315-4236 View (314) 315-4236
Photo of Laura M Kaplan, PhD, Psychologist
Laura M Kaplan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63101
My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, eating disorders, academic problems, family issues, parenting concerns, relationship difficulties, and professional challenges.
I am a licensed psychologist with over twenty-five years of experience working with adolescents and adults. While I see a diverse group of clients, I do work with many members of St. Louis' academic community, including professors, graduate students, administrators, and physicians. I also see undergraduates and older high school students. A second area of my focus is our city's creative community; I work with many musicians, artists, performers and writers. My treatment style is warm, thoughtful and natural, and I draw from many different treatment approaches to provide the best possible care. I look forward to hearing from you.
My areas of focus include depression, anxiety, eating disorders, academic problems, family issues, parenting concerns, relationship difficulties, and professional challenges.
I am a licensed psychologist with over twenty-five years of experience working with adolescents and adults. While I see a diverse group of clients, I do work with many members of St. Louis' academic community, including professors, graduate students, administrators, and physicians. I also see undergraduates and older high school students. A second area of my focus is our city's creative community; I work with many musicians, artists, performers and writers. My treatment style is warm, thoughtful and natural, and I draw from many different treatment approaches to provide the best possible care. I look forward to hearing from you.
(314) 560-0470 View (314) 560-0470
Photo of Erin Smith, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63101
I help with a number of concerns, including behavior difficulties, family struggles, depression/anxiety, PTSD, LGBTQAI+, and more.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing in the mental health field for over 10 years. I offer a strengths-based approach to help my clients embrace the positive and overcome the negative. No matter how dark things can seem, there is always hope. I am here to help anyone struggling to overcome life's obstacles. I am trained in multiculturalism; and all of my interventions are provided in a culturally competent manner. While much of my experience involves helping marginalized groups, I gladly accept clients from all walks of life. Take a step towards a better life and schedule your free phone consultation today!
I help with a number of concerns, including behavior difficulties, family struggles, depression/anxiety, PTSD, LGBTQAI+, and more.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing in the mental health field for over 10 years. I offer a strengths-based approach to help my clients embrace the positive and overcome the negative. No matter how dark things can seem, there is always hope. I am here to help anyone struggling to overcome life's obstacles. I am trained in multiculturalism; and all of my interventions are provided in a culturally competent manner. While much of my experience involves helping marginalized groups, I gladly accept clients from all walks of life. Take a step towards a better life and schedule your free phone consultation today!
(636) 275-0683 View (636) 275-0683
Photo of Amy Mattia, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Mattia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63130
In addition, I make use of an Interpersonal Process counseling model, which is an integrative counseling approach incorporating elements of Family Systems Theory, Attachment Theory, and Cognitive-Behavioral Theory.
Hello, I am passionate about working with people who are seeking to move from survival to flourishing. I see individuals, teens and couples. It is a gift to see healing happen and self worth bloom.
In addition, I make use of an Interpersonal Process counseling model, which is an integrative counseling approach incorporating elements of Family Systems Theory, Attachment Theory, and Cognitive-Behavioral Theory.
Hello, I am passionate about working with people who are seeking to move from survival to flourishing. I see individuals, teens and couples. It is a gift to see healing happen and self worth bloom.
(314) 732-1010 View (314) 732-1010
Photo of Stephanie E Strohm, MAEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie E Strohm
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63129
Whether navigating the complexities of adolescence, strengthening family dynamics, or working through individual challenges, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, effective support that will empower you or your family to achieve their goals and embrace their full potential.
With over 15 years of experience in counseling, I have dedicated my career to supporting adolescents, young adults, families, couples, and older individuals through a range of challenges and transitions. My diverse professional background spans schools, treatment centers, and private practice, providing me with a comprehensive perspective on the unique needs of my clients.
Whether navigating the complexities of adolescence, strengthening family dynamics, or working through individual challenges, I am dedicated to providing compassionate, effective support that will empower you or your family to achieve their goals and embrace their full potential.
With over 15 years of experience in counseling, I have dedicated my career to supporting adolescents, young adults, families, couples, and older individuals through a range of challenges and transitions. My diverse professional background spans schools, treatment centers, and private practice, providing me with a comprehensive perspective on the unique needs of my clients.
(314) 564-8719 View (314) 564-8719
Photo of Dr. Leslie Davis, PhD, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Dr. Leslie Davis
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63144
Do you constantly find yourself in toxic relationships? Have your relationships caused you anxiety or depression? It’s time for a change. As a Relationship Therapist, my goal is to help you thrive in healthy relationships with your romantic partner, friend, or family member. My ideal clients are teens, young adults, college students, and couples who may struggle with developing and maintaining healthy connections. Using an emotion-focused approach I will empower you with tools to improve your relationships and your self-esteem. My promise is to never sugarcoat the truth, so grab a cup of coffee/tea and come sit with me.
Do you constantly find yourself in toxic relationships? Have your relationships caused you anxiety or depression? It’s time for a change. As a Relationship Therapist, my goal is to help you thrive in healthy relationships with your romantic partner, friend, or family member. My ideal clients are teens, young adults, college students, and couples who may struggle with developing and maintaining healthy connections. Using an emotion-focused approach I will empower you with tools to improve your relationships and your self-esteem. My promise is to never sugarcoat the truth, so grab a cup of coffee/tea and come sit with me.
(708) 295-3412 View (708) 295-3412
Photo of Gianna R Shockley, MA, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gianna R Shockley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63107
My ideal client is a young person navigating the complexities of adolescence and early adulthood, grappling with issues of identity, friendship, and the transition to maturity. Whether it's understanding their present circumstances, managing perceptions from family and society, or honing new life skills, I am here to offer guidance and support. I welcome those from marginalized backgrounds, helping them find affirmation and insight into how their race, gender, or sexual orientation intersects with their mental well-being.
My ideal client is a young person navigating the complexities of adolescence and early adulthood, grappling with issues of identity, friendship, and the transition to maturity. Whether it's understanding their present circumstances, managing perceptions from family and society, or honing new life skills, I am here to offer guidance and support. I welcome those from marginalized backgrounds, helping them find affirmation and insight into how their race, gender, or sexual orientation intersects with their mental well-being.
(636) 923-8142 View (636) 923-8142
Jean Caine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Jean Stanton Caine, LCSW, LMFT, a Menninger trained family therapist, specializes in many issues affecting individuals and families i.e.: grief, illness, sexual and physical abuse, marital stress, child and adolescent problems. She has an eclectic researched approach in her family practice using both short term and long-term therapy. Jean has been in practice for 25 years. She has been past president on St. Louis MAMFT board and the Missouri board of Family Therapy. She has taught for 20 years at Washington University. Jean does accept most insurance plans.
Jean Stanton Caine, LCSW, LMFT, a Menninger trained family therapist, specializes in many issues affecting individuals and families i.e.: grief, illness, sexual and physical abuse, marital stress, child and adolescent problems. She has an eclectic researched approach in her family practice using both short term and long-term therapy. Jean has been in practice for 25 years. She has been past president on St. Louis MAMFT board and the Missouri board of Family Therapy. She has taught for 20 years at Washington University. Jean does accept most insurance plans.
(314) 828-2601 View (314) 828-2601
Photo of Chris Scarberry, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Scarberry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63109
I hold a Master's Degree in Clinical Pychology with an emhasis in marriage and family therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 24 years of experience working both as a therapist and doing community-based crisis intervention. I enjoy helping clients to maximize their potential by focusing upon their strengths and past successes. I believe that therapy is a cooperative endeavor that should assist the client in discovering his/her/their own abilities and coping strategies. I relish the opportunity to support clients through trying situations and to help them to process grief. I speak at conferences on HIV/AIDS, work with LGBTQIA+ clients, and other topics. I served on the HIV service funding Planning Council.
I hold a Master's Degree in Clinical Pychology with an emhasis in marriage and family therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with 24 years of experience working both as a therapist and doing community-based crisis intervention. I enjoy helping clients to maximize their potential by focusing upon their strengths and past successes. I believe that therapy is a cooperative endeavor that should assist the client in discovering his/her/their own abilities and coping strategies. I relish the opportunity to support clients through trying situations and to help them to process grief. I speak at conferences on HIV/AIDS, work with LGBTQIA+ clients, and other topics. I served on the HIV service funding Planning Council.
(314) 877-8381 View (314) 877-8381
Photo of Helen McGlynn, PhD, MA, MEd, LCSW, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Helen McGlynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MA, MEd, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117  (Online Only)
I am trained in family therapy, fast solution focused therapy and the trance therapies.
Hello. I welcome you to my online therapy space, where I will listen to your stress issues and identify those strategies that work. Almost every person struggles with depression, anxiety, or relationships as these are part of the human experience. In the therapy session, we work together to put your story in order, find your strengths, and receive professional guidance based on years of experience. I have limited in office hours on Mondays, and availabilty online during the week. I only accept ComPsych insurance, and my rates are reasonable. I answer phone calls right away.
I am trained in family therapy, fast solution focused therapy and the trance therapies.
Hello. I welcome you to my online therapy space, where I will listen to your stress issues and identify those strategies that work. Almost every person struggles with depression, anxiety, or relationships as these are part of the human experience. In the therapy session, we work together to put your story in order, find your strengths, and receive professional guidance based on years of experience. I have limited in office hours on Mondays, and availabilty online during the week. I only accept ComPsych insurance, and my rates are reasonable. I answer phone calls right away.
(314) 925-9081 View (314) 925-9081
Photo of Dr. Deanna Granger, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Deanna Granger
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63103
Typically, we wear many hats and life “tries” to deter us from making time for self-care. However, YOU are important so, give yourself permission to put YOU at the top of your to-do list. Self-care is not selfish, it is essential….YOU are essential. My goal is to support my clients holistically…..mentally, spiritually, socially, and physically. My clients are actively involved in their treatment plan that is tailored to their unique selves. I see clients for individual, couples, and family therapy. I support my clients with concerns around depression, anxiety, stress, and health management.
Typically, we wear many hats and life “tries” to deter us from making time for self-care. However, YOU are important so, give yourself permission to put YOU at the top of your to-do list. Self-care is not selfish, it is essential….YOU are essential. My goal is to support my clients holistically…..mentally, spiritually, socially, and physically. My clients are actively involved in their treatment plan that is tailored to their unique selves. I see clients for individual, couples, and family therapy. I support my clients with concerns around depression, anxiety, stress, and health management.
(314) 470-9498 View (314) 470-9498
Photo of Melissa A Peterson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa A Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Waitlist for new clients
**CURRENTLY HAVE WAITLIST FOR NEW CLIENTS** Melissa has been practicing clinical social work/psychotherapy with adolescents and adults for over 15 years, specializing in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-injury and grief/loss. She has an eclectic approach, drawing from psychodynamic, interpersonal and skills-based therapies including cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems (IFS) dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction. Her approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, collaborative and integrative. She has a profound respect for the complexity of people's lives and experiences.
**CURRENTLY HAVE WAITLIST FOR NEW CLIENTS** Melissa has been practicing clinical social work/psychotherapy with adolescents and adults for over 15 years, specializing in eating disorders, anxiety, depression, self-injury and grief/loss. She has an eclectic approach, drawing from psychodynamic, interpersonal and skills-based therapies including cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems (IFS) dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and mindfulness-based stress reduction. Her approach is compassionate, non-judgmental, collaborative and integrative. She has a profound respect for the complexity of people's lives and experiences.
(314) 696-6232 View (314) 696-6232
Photo of Jordan Langley, BS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jordan Langley
Pre-Licensed Professional, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63109  (Online Only)
I approach therapy with intersectionality and diversity in the forefront of my mind. The therapy models that I gravitate toward are solution-focused and strength-based approaches. Both of these models allow me to serve all types of families and individuals through client led sessions to meet the therapy goals that we create together. I look forward to meeting with you and your family to navigate adversities together in a safe, welcoming and affirming space. I am an intern working under the supervision of Megan Garza, MA, LMFT license 2011011850 MO
I approach therapy with intersectionality and diversity in the forefront of my mind. The therapy models that I gravitate toward are solution-focused and strength-based approaches. Both of these models allow me to serve all types of families and individuals through client led sessions to meet the therapy goals that we create together. I look forward to meeting with you and your family to navigate adversities together in a safe, welcoming and affirming space. I am an intern working under the supervision of Megan Garza, MA, LMFT license 2011011850 MO
(314) 350-7482 View (314) 350-7482
Photo of Holly Pfisterer Strelow, LPC, NCC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Holly Pfisterer Strelow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63105
Facing challenging situations in my personal life and in my extended family.
About a decade ago I attended a conference at the Omega Institute and was reawakened to the immense suffering in the world and I realized there was no more time to waste. I needed to change careers in order to be of service. All of my life I wanted to be a healer and pursued a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health. My approach is mindful, practical, respectful and always hopeful. I believe each of us holds the key to our own healing within our highest sense of Self. My role is to help support that discovery process through thoughtful exploration, creativity and a little humor.
Facing challenging situations in my personal life and in my extended family.
About a decade ago I attended a conference at the Omega Institute and was reawakened to the immense suffering in the world and I realized there was no more time to waste. I needed to change careers in order to be of service. All of my life I wanted to be a healer and pursued a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health. My approach is mindful, practical, respectful and always hopeful. I believe each of us holds the key to our own healing within our highest sense of Self. My role is to help support that discovery process through thoughtful exploration, creativity and a little humor.
(314) 309-3605 View (314) 309-3605
Photo of Tina Marie Dale, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina Marie Dale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63141
Extensive training in various approaches means she can provide families with optimal treatment options best suited for their individual family.
Your relationship with yourself is reflected in interactions with family, friends, colleagues, professional life and your worldview. How do you seek, expect and provide attunement to yourself and important others? Often unrecognized inter-generational relational themes play a part in the manner by which one seeks connection. Attachment and relational patterns meant to gain closeness can mean one feels known & accepted or invisible & rejected. You can learn to listen to yourself with open-minded curiosity in order to identify your relational style, understanding how it supports or hinders you in life.
Extensive training in various approaches means she can provide families with optimal treatment options best suited for their individual family.
Your relationship with yourself is reflected in interactions with family, friends, colleagues, professional life and your worldview. How do you seek, expect and provide attunement to yourself and important others? Often unrecognized inter-generational relational themes play a part in the manner by which one seeks connection. Attachment and relational patterns meant to gain closeness can mean one feels known & accepted or invisible & rejected. You can learn to listen to yourself with open-minded curiosity in order to identify your relational style, understanding how it supports or hinders you in life.
(314) 287-5387 View (314) 287-5387
Photo of Christine Balliett McEvoy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine Balliett McEvoy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Waitlist for new clients
Christine is trained in Internal Family Systems Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Christine McEvoy has been a Counselor for over 20 years. Her straight- forward and non-judgemental approach makes it easier for a person to address topics that often bring up feelings of shame and embarrassment. She has extensive experience working with individuals who struggle with addiction issues and eating struggles. Christine has years of experience helping others implement specific techniques that help prevent relapse.
Christine is trained in Internal Family Systems Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
Christine McEvoy has been a Counselor for over 20 years. Her straight- forward and non-judgemental approach makes it easier for a person to address topics that often bring up feelings of shame and embarrassment. She has extensive experience working with individuals who struggle with addiction issues and eating struggles. Christine has years of experience helping others implement specific techniques that help prevent relapse.
(314) 884-1822 View (314) 884-1822
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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.