Therapists in South Dakota
Gaylen Bendewald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rapid City, SD 57702
People ask me how I am able to listen to people's problems all day without going crazy and getting depressed myself. The fact is, if that was all that there was to it -listening to people's problems - I probably would go crazy. The great joy in my work, and the satisfaction, is in seeing people get better. This desire keeps me on the learners edge, and it is my passion. I am a capable guide who will respect your individuality and choices along the way while providing you a sureness of foot that only experience can provide.
People ask me how I am able to listen to people's problems all day without going crazy and getting depressed myself. The fact is, if that was all that there was to it -listening to people's problems - I probably would go crazy. The great joy in my work, and the satisfaction, is in seeing people get better. This desire keeps me on the learners edge, and it is my passion. I am a capable guide who will respect your individuality and choices along the way while providing you a sureness of foot that only experience can provide.
Ian Charnley
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brookings, SD 57006
My desire is to assist individuals, couples, and families with developing and maintaining healthy relationships. I attempt to break down the stereotypes of what it means to be in a relationship while helping individuals define personal goals for growth. I believe with open communication, trust, and a shared vision, anyone can have the relationship they've always been looking for. I have extensive experience working with adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings. I believe in a holistic approach to wellness in which a healthy mind, body, and soul lead to a happier, more fulfilling life.
My desire is to assist individuals, couples, and families with developing and maintaining healthy relationships. I attempt to break down the stereotypes of what it means to be in a relationship while helping individuals define personal goals for growth. I believe with open communication, trust, and a shared vision, anyone can have the relationship they've always been looking for. I have extensive experience working with adolescents, adults, and families in a variety of settings. I believe in a holistic approach to wellness in which a healthy mind, body, and soul lead to a happier, more fulfilling life.
See more therapy options for South Dakota
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.