Photo of Bea Gatchell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Bea Gatchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605  (Online Only)
I work from an evidence-based practice approach pulling in the following theoretical models: Affirmative Therapy with LGBTQ+ Folx, Intersectional Feminist, Anti-Oppression, Person Centered, Trauma-Informed, Harm Reduction, Relational, Empowerment, and Strenths-Based Practice.
My areas of specialization are working with individuals/couples/relationships who are in the LGBTQ+ community who have experienced violence, such as sexual violence, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, family system-based violence, spiritual abuse, and community-based violence. I work with many different relationship structures from cisgender heterosexual monogamous couples and folx with more expansive relationship structures. My areas of specialization in working with relationship clients are high-conflict relationships, sexual dysfunction/dysregulation, infidelity, trust, safety, and stability.
I work from an evidence-based practice approach pulling in the following theoretical models: Affirmative Therapy with LGBTQ+ Folx, Intersectional Feminist, Anti-Oppression, Person Centered, Trauma-Informed, Harm Reduction, Relational, Empowerment, and Strenths-Based Practice.
My areas of specialization are working with individuals/couples/relationships who are in the LGBTQ+ community who have experienced violence, such as sexual violence, childhood sexual abuse, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, family system-based violence, spiritual abuse, and community-based violence. I work with many different relationship structures from cisgender heterosexual monogamous couples and folx with more expansive relationship structures. My areas of specialization in working with relationship clients are high-conflict relationships, sexual dysfunction/dysregulation, infidelity, trust, safety, and stability.
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Photo of Hannah Lipschultz, Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Hannah Lipschultz
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
Hannah works collaboratively and dynamically discussing and sharing her treatment plan with clients and drawing on aspects of existential, psychodynamic, and relational models.
Hannah approaches therapy as a dance between the client and the therapist, where she allows the client to lead her on their journey. Hannah creates a space of both comfort and depth that allows clients to explore the inner workings of their minds as well as their day-to-day lives and relationships. With attention to both past and present aspects of her client’s experiences, Hannah holds the space for both exploration and solution-seeking.
Hannah works collaboratively and dynamically discussing and sharing her treatment plan with clients and drawing on aspects of existential, psychodynamic, and relational models.
Hannah approaches therapy as a dance between the client and the therapist, where she allows the client to lead her on their journey. Hannah creates a space of both comfort and depth that allows clients to explore the inner workings of their minds as well as their day-to-day lives and relationships. With attention to both past and present aspects of her client’s experiences, Hannah holds the space for both exploration and solution-seeking.
(847) 423-6267 View (847) 423-6267
Photo of Mónica Guzmán, Counselor in Illinois
Mónica Guzmán
Counselor, LCPC, ATR, EMDR
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Waitlist for new clients
I am a bilingual Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with a specialty in trauma-informed theories, EMDR, and relational therapeutic perspectives.
The clients I work alongside of often seek reflection and changes in their life. This can sometimes be scary, painful, intimidating and occasionally leading to leave things as they are. However in my experience, the thirst for a more fulfilling life is always present. Sometimes hiding behind a hobby or creative interest, music we listen to, places that make us feel at home or a certain moment of the year when we feel more hopeful. I deeply enjoy helping my clients find those special pieces of fulfillment together. With time and intention, these later become the foundation for healing, change, and deeper reflection.
I am a bilingual Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, with a specialty in trauma-informed theories, EMDR, and relational therapeutic perspectives.
The clients I work alongside of often seek reflection and changes in their life. This can sometimes be scary, painful, intimidating and occasionally leading to leave things as they are. However in my experience, the thirst for a more fulfilling life is always present. Sometimes hiding behind a hobby or creative interest, music we listen to, places that make us feel at home or a certain moment of the year when we feel more hopeful. I deeply enjoy helping my clients find those special pieces of fulfillment together. With time and intention, these later become the foundation for healing, change, and deeper reflection.
(312) 248-9297 View (312) 248-9297
Photo of Heather Randazzo, Counselor in Illinois
Heather Randazzo
Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60565
Through talking, art making, mind-body awareness and relational skills, we can create a path to success together.
Seeking support through counseling is a way to move toward health and wellness. Heather provides a supportive, accepting space to explore and develop strategies to let go of what is no longer serving you and to build on what does. Through creative exploration and problem solving we develop an engaging and collaborative relationship finding relief as well as strategies to improve the quality and experience of life. Art Therapy focuses on activating inner strengths and abilities through the creative process. Practicing for almost twenty years, Heather works with children, teens and adults on issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, life challenges and changes.
Through talking, art making, mind-body awareness and relational skills, we can create a path to success together.
Seeking support through counseling is a way to move toward health and wellness. Heather provides a supportive, accepting space to explore and develop strategies to let go of what is no longer serving you and to build on what does. Through creative exploration and problem solving we develop an engaging and collaborative relationship finding relief as well as strategies to improve the quality and experience of life. Art Therapy focuses on activating inner strengths and abilities through the creative process. Practicing for almost twenty years, Heather works with children, teens and adults on issues related to depression, anxiety, trauma, life challenges and changes.
(630) 791-5936 View (630) 791-5936
Photo of Iggy V Ladden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Illinois
Iggy V Ladden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
My approach is relational and client-centered.
As a therapist and mental health advocate, I believe everyone deserves one hour a week completely dedicated to them and what's coming up in their life. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA struggles, or relational issues, I can offer you a nonjudgemental and engaging space to get to know yourself on a deeper level. Through a process of self-understanding and self-acceptance, we lay the groundwork for your desired life shifts.
My approach is relational and client-centered.
As a therapist and mental health advocate, I believe everyone deserves one hour a week completely dedicated to them and what's coming up in their life. Whether you're experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, LGBTQIA struggles, or relational issues, I can offer you a nonjudgemental and engaging space to get to know yourself on a deeper level. Through a process of self-understanding and self-acceptance, we lay the groundwork for your desired life shifts.
(331) 442-4449 View (331) 442-4449
Photo of Kari Harrison, Counselor in Illinois
Kari Harrison
Counselor, MA, LCPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I am an emotionally focused sex and relational therapist with over 10 years of experience in both individual and relational work.
I believe that each client has a story to share, stemming from a diverse and unique background - and seek to hold clients in a safe, nurturing space that is truly their own. My conviction is that it is the relationship between the therapist and the client that is ultimately what heals, and when it works, it is immensely powerful. I am passionate about exploring ways to help clients discover their own resiliency and live more authentically in order to create the mental and emotional space to reach their fullest potential.
I am an emotionally focused sex and relational therapist with over 10 years of experience in both individual and relational work.
I believe that each client has a story to share, stemming from a diverse and unique background - and seek to hold clients in a safe, nurturing space that is truly their own. My conviction is that it is the relationship between the therapist and the client that is ultimately what heals, and when it works, it is immensely powerful. I am passionate about exploring ways to help clients discover their own resiliency and live more authentically in order to create the mental and emotional space to reach their fullest potential.
(773) 839-4563 View (773) 839-4563
Photo of Karla A Rennhofer, Psychologist in Illinois
Karla A Rennhofer
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, BCETS, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome to my page! I work with people who have a wide variety of conditions stemming from relational and environmental stress. I believe that we are naturally programmed to heal, but often we rely on past coping skills that are no longer functional, and this blocks the path to healing. I think every symptom once served a purpose and that change can occur by looking at how and why these symptoms developed, while at the same time trying new behaviors.
Hello, and welcome to my page! I work with people who have a wide variety of conditions stemming from relational and environmental stress. I believe that we are naturally programmed to heal, but often we rely on past coping skills that are no longer functional, and this blocks the path to healing. I think every symptom once served a purpose and that change can occur by looking at how and why these symptoms developed, while at the same time trying new behaviors.
(847) 796-8438 View (847) 796-8438
Photo of Clarus Center in Illinois
Clarus Center
Verified Verified
Warrenville, IL 60555
The independent practitioners who provide both traditional and alternative psychotherapy services work in a multitude of modalities, including somatic therapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, relational therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy.
Clarus Center is a vibrant community of independent mental health and wellness professionals dedicated to helping individuals and families find greater health and well-being. Clients often arrive seeking relief from depression or anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, stress, or health concerns. They desire care that is holistic, integrative, solution-focused and cutting edge. The seasoned professionals at Clarus Center have many years of experience in a variety of psychological and health disciplines and are able to create unique treatment approaches that target the mind, body and spirit. Individuals and families seeking services at Clarus Center report experiencing positive symptom relief and a strong sense of well-being and peace.
The independent practitioners who provide both traditional and alternative psychotherapy services work in a multitude of modalities, including somatic therapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, relational therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy.
Clarus Center is a vibrant community of independent mental health and wellness professionals dedicated to helping individuals and families find greater health and well-being. Clients often arrive seeking relief from depression or anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, stress, or health concerns. They desire care that is holistic, integrative, solution-focused and cutting edge. The seasoned professionals at Clarus Center have many years of experience in a variety of psychological and health disciplines and are able to create unique treatment approaches that target the mind, body and spirit. Individuals and families seeking services at Clarus Center report experiencing positive symptom relief and a strong sense of well-being and peace.
(630) 948-4255 x1 View (630) 948-4255 x1
Photo of Jeff Stine, Psychologist in Illinois
Jeff Stine
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
I am experienced working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and both family and relational conflict.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist whose approach to therapy is based on respect, collaboration, warmth, humor, and non-judgment. I am invested and motivated in helping you understand your experiences, whether they emanate from unsatisfying personal relationships, stressful transitions in your life, or being unable to meet the expectations you place on yourself. I work to help you begin to view these challenges from a perspective of strength and resiliency. Through a kind, supportive, and caring relationship, my goal is to assist you in lessening your pain through self-exploration and meaning-making.
I am experienced working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, and both family and relational conflict.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist whose approach to therapy is based on respect, collaboration, warmth, humor, and non-judgment. I am invested and motivated in helping you understand your experiences, whether they emanate from unsatisfying personal relationships, stressful transitions in your life, or being unable to meet the expectations you place on yourself. I work to help you begin to view these challenges from a perspective of strength and resiliency. Through a kind, supportive, and caring relationship, my goal is to assist you in lessening your pain through self-exploration and meaning-making.
(847) 260-9369 View (847) 260-9369
Photo of Bespoke Healing, Psychologist in Illinois
Bespoke Healing
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Therapy is a space for big feelings, hard conversations, and laughing at ourselves when we can. We like to form connections with folks that feel supportive, brave, and most of all, REAL. At Bespoke Healing, we know therapy is going well when we see folks begin to step out in new ways and take risks to develop deeper bonds. We find it fruitful to explore how past traumas show up in current relationships, and our therapists are active in session as part of our relational style. We also help folks befriend their bodies as an important resource.
Therapy is a space for big feelings, hard conversations, and laughing at ourselves when we can. We like to form connections with folks that feel supportive, brave, and most of all, REAL. At Bespoke Healing, we know therapy is going well when we see folks begin to step out in new ways and take risks to develop deeper bonds. We find it fruitful to explore how past traumas show up in current relationships, and our therapists are active in session as part of our relational style. We also help folks befriend their bodies as an important resource.
(773) 902-0512 View (773) 902-0512
Photo of Maribel Rincon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Maribel Rincon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Plaines, IL 60018
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with clinical experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and their families in both community mental health centers and school settings. I take on a holistic and relational treatment approach in my practice, utilizing evidenced-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Strength Based, Family Systems, and Mindfulness Techniques. My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, family/social conflict, life transitions, and cultural issues. I am also bilingual and provide therapy in English or Spanish.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with clinical experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and their families in both community mental health centers and school settings. I take on a holistic and relational treatment approach in my practice, utilizing evidenced-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Strength Based, Family Systems, and Mindfulness Techniques. My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, family/social conflict, life transitions, and cultural issues. I am also bilingual and provide therapy in English or Spanish.
(224) 651-8133 View (224) 651-8133
Photo of Batool Almoshelli, Counselor in Illinois
Batool Almoshelli
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have worked with individuals/families for the past ten years specializing in helping those who have experienced relational trauma/attachment wounds, challenging life transitions, intersectional issues and sexual concerns.
You might be going through a challenging life transition, crippled by worry or a traumatic experience; you have decided it's time for a change and therapy is a great tool to get you there. We can work on finding your inner strengths and ultimately achieve your goals to improve your quality of life. We'll work together to enhance your (or your teen's) strengths to help you overcome the challenges you are currently experiencing as well as helping you develop tools for your future. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and will be dedicated in walking through your journey with you.
I have worked with individuals/families for the past ten years specializing in helping those who have experienced relational trauma/attachment wounds, challenging life transitions, intersectional issues and sexual concerns.
You might be going through a challenging life transition, crippled by worry or a traumatic experience; you have decided it's time for a change and therapy is a great tool to get you there. We can work on finding your inner strengths and ultimately achieve your goals to improve your quality of life. We'll work together to enhance your (or your teen's) strengths to help you overcome the challenges you are currently experiencing as well as helping you develop tools for your future. I believe therapy is a collaborative process and will be dedicated in walking through your journey with you.
(630) 599-7008 View (630) 599-7008
Photo of Katie Kemmerling (She Her), Marriage & Family Therapist in Illinois
Katie Kemmerling (She Her)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oswego, IL 60543
Just a few common difficulties addressed in therapy are, (but are not limited to) : anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, self-injury and suicidal ideation, grief/loss, lifespan transitions, parent-child relational problems, and disordered eating habits.
Psychotherapy is about growth, expansion, and evolution, in addition to healing from painful experiences. Seeking support through psychotherapy as a strength. My aim and purpose as your therapist is to cultivate a collaborative therapeutic alliance meant to empower, foster self-compassion, and promote and motivate change. My enthusiastic and relaxed style encourages clients to address concerns with freedom and non judgement.
Just a few common difficulties addressed in therapy are, (but are not limited to) : anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, OCD, self-injury and suicidal ideation, grief/loss, lifespan transitions, parent-child relational problems, and disordered eating habits.
Psychotherapy is about growth, expansion, and evolution, in addition to healing from painful experiences. Seeking support through psychotherapy as a strength. My aim and purpose as your therapist is to cultivate a collaborative therapeutic alliance meant to empower, foster self-compassion, and promote and motivate change. My enthusiastic and relaxed style encourages clients to address concerns with freedom and non judgement.
(630) 608-4555 View (630) 608-4555
Photo of Nidhi Trivedi, Psychologist in Illinois
Nidhi Trivedi
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60641  (Online Only)
All of us are striving to be true to ourselves and our loved ones around us. Feeling authentic and true to who we are can assist us in living life the way we would like to. Sometimes, our mood-related difficulties and our life experiences can get in the way our authenticity. You could be experiencing mood-related difficulties as a reaction to grief, trauma, depression, substance use, chronic illnesses, identity issues, cross-cultural issues, and relational difficulties, which I specialize in working with.
All of us are striving to be true to ourselves and our loved ones around us. Feeling authentic and true to who we are can assist us in living life the way we would like to. Sometimes, our mood-related difficulties and our life experiences can get in the way our authenticity. You could be experiencing mood-related difficulties as a reaction to grief, trauma, depression, substance use, chronic illnesses, identity issues, cross-cultural issues, and relational difficulties, which I specialize in working with.
(773) 207-3852 View (773) 207-3852
Photo of Dj Crosby, Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Dj Crosby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Some areas of my focus include childhood trauma, relational trauma, religious deconstruction, attachment theory, anxiety, depression, stress management, and life transitions.
Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you doesn't mean you can, should or need to do it alone. - Lisa Olivera. Together we can build a safe and collaborative space that fosters growth. Life can be messy, even demanding; we will have hard days; and that’s okay. I approach therapy with authenticity, compassion, and humor. Each individual requires a personalized therapeutic approach and I aim to cultivate that early on in our time together. I use an integrative approach to therapy with a focus on Acceptance and Commitment therapy, decolonizing and anti-oppressive therapy modalities.
Some areas of my focus include childhood trauma, relational trauma, religious deconstruction, attachment theory, anxiety, depression, stress management, and life transitions.
Just because no one else can heal or do your inner work for you doesn't mean you can, should or need to do it alone. - Lisa Olivera. Together we can build a safe and collaborative space that fosters growth. Life can be messy, even demanding; we will have hard days; and that’s okay. I approach therapy with authenticity, compassion, and humor. Each individual requires a personalized therapeutic approach and I aim to cultivate that early on in our time together. I use an integrative approach to therapy with a focus on Acceptance and Commitment therapy, decolonizing and anti-oppressive therapy modalities.
(872) 266-9294 View (872) 266-9294
Photo of Kathrine Brunhaver, Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Kathrine Brunhaver
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAATC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Kat approaches art therapy and counseling from a relational, strengths-based, and gestalt perspective.
Kat works collaboratively with children, adolescents, and young adults using the creative process to support young people to understand themselves and the world around them. In sessions, she tunes into strengths and interests that are untapped resources for understanding and coping with the world around us. She has seen clients increase their comfort with embracing emotions, riding the emotional wave, and problem solving to get what they need in difficult situations. She has experience teaching executive functioning skills and combating emotional barriers to support neurodivergent people to take charge of their story.
Kat approaches art therapy and counseling from a relational, strengths-based, and gestalt perspective.
Kat works collaboratively with children, adolescents, and young adults using the creative process to support young people to understand themselves and the world around them. In sessions, she tunes into strengths and interests that are untapped resources for understanding and coping with the world around us. She has seen clients increase their comfort with embracing emotions, riding the emotional wave, and problem solving to get what they need in difficult situations. She has experience teaching executive functioning skills and combating emotional barriers to support neurodivergent people to take charge of their story.
(872) 529-3547 View (872) 529-3547
Photo of Mia Dal Santo, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Illinois
Mia Dal Santo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oak Park, IL 60301  (Online Only)
Are you feeling like it’s hard to authentically be yourself or connect with others? As a relational therapist, I recognize that our connections are the basis of both the greatest struggles and the greatest rewards we can know as humans. I specialize in work with couples, families, and individuals who have "non-traditional" relationships and sexualities. My work with clients is open and collaborative, often using narrative therapy, attachment theory, and systems theory to help people flesh out their sense of identity and strengths. You can expect transparency, a culturally-attuned lens, and a little bit of humor in therapy with me.
Are you feeling like it’s hard to authentically be yourself or connect with others? As a relational therapist, I recognize that our connections are the basis of both the greatest struggles and the greatest rewards we can know as humans. I specialize in work with couples, families, and individuals who have "non-traditional" relationships and sexualities. My work with clients is open and collaborative, often using narrative therapy, attachment theory, and systems theory to help people flesh out their sense of identity and strengths. You can expect transparency, a culturally-attuned lens, and a little bit of humor in therapy with me.
(708) 792-2947 View (708) 792-2947
Photo of Arrow Counseling & Coaching, LLC, Counselor in Illinois
Arrow Counseling & Coaching, LLC
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60606
What's holding you back? I work with driven professionals to work through obstacles and get you back on track to the life you want. Whether it's a diagnosable disorder like depression, something from your past you'd like to sort out, an addiction or consistent compulsion, or a relational issue, it's my privilege to offer my training and experience in service of your goals. I find a lot of our experience comes down to patterns. Our brains quickly assess a situation, choose from a list of pre-formed thoughts and behaviors, and push "GO."
What's holding you back? I work with driven professionals to work through obstacles and get you back on track to the life you want. Whether it's a diagnosable disorder like depression, something from your past you'd like to sort out, an addiction or consistent compulsion, or a relational issue, it's my privilege to offer my training and experience in service of your goals. I find a lot of our experience comes down to patterns. Our brains quickly assess a situation, choose from a list of pre-formed thoughts and behaviors, and push "GO."
(312) 626-6250 View (312) 626-6250
Photo of Jo Flannery, Marriage & Family Therapist in Illinois
Jo Flannery
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MASEXOL
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with sexual desire discrepancy and intimacy. Sexual desire discrepancy is when one person in a relationship wants sex more or differently than their partner(s). It is very common and occurs in otherwise happy and healthy relationships. Although common, desire discrepancy can lead to severe relational discord. Through a combination of psychosexual education, deep couple's work, and a compilation of the leading sexual desire discrepancy theories, I have designed a way of addressing desire discrepancy that offers you and your partner(s) a new way to be sexual together. It is not easy work, but it is rewarding.
I specialize in working with sexual desire discrepancy and intimacy. Sexual desire discrepancy is when one person in a relationship wants sex more or differently than their partner(s). It is very common and occurs in otherwise happy and healthy relationships. Although common, desire discrepancy can lead to severe relational discord. Through a combination of psychosexual education, deep couple's work, and a compilation of the leading sexual desire discrepancy theories, I have designed a way of addressing desire discrepancy that offers you and your partner(s) a new way to be sexual together. It is not easy work, but it is rewarding.
(872) 204-2737 View (872) 204-2737
Photo of Leila B Nelson, Counselor in Illinois
Leila B Nelson
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Struggling from time to time with life's stresses is something we all have in common. I'm easy to talk to, practical, down to earth and good at what I do. I specialize in helping people just like you discover meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral and relational struggles.
Struggling from time to time with life's stresses is something we all have in common. I'm easy to talk to, practical, down to earth and good at what I do. I specialize in helping people just like you discover meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral and relational struggles.
(815) 734-3089 View (815) 734-3089

Relational Therapists

How does relational therapy work?

Relational therapy was developed by psychologist Jean Miller, whose ideas stressed that having strong connections with others encourages better health and well-being when compared with a lonely existence. Conversely, poor interpersonal relationships do not foster growth and learning. Relational therapy also encourages trust in others and patience with others, along with better communication and less conflict.

Is relational therapy evidence-based?

Relational therapy is not well-studied, and it may not be as effective in treating certain mental health conditions when compared with evidence-based treatments like cognitive behavioral or acceptance and commitment therapy. However, relational therapy uses techniques found in cognitive behavioral therapy as well as psychodynamic therapy, which are both well-studied with empirical research.

How long are people typically in relational therapy?

Clients may see improvement after a few weeks or months of therapy. Like cognitive behavioral therapy, relational therapy can reduce symptoms within 10 to 20 weeks, at 45 to 50 minutes once a week. But like any type of therapy, improvement depends on the person and the severity of the problem.

Does relational therapy work?

While no therapy type will work for everyone, some evidence suggests that this therapy can be effective. Relational therapy can help a person manage problematic relationships as well as the mental health conditions that accompany difficult relationships like depression or anxiety. This therapy type may offer benefits that are hard to measure but can be just as valuable—including feelings of higher self-worth or healthier connections with others.