Family Therapy in Norfolk, VA

Photo of Melanie Phillips, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Norfolk, VA
Melanie Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23517
I use EMDR, DBT, and CBT for a variety of issues including: trauma and complex PTSD, sexual abuse and assault, emotional abuse, family conflict, depression, anxiety, relational stress, self-esteem, parenting, and life transitions.
Hi, I'm Melanie at Connected Wellness Group! I believe healing involves connecting to self- mind, emotions, body, relationships, and communities. I've been in practice for over a decade and I provide services to adults in a relaxed, confidential space using trauma-informed modalities like EMDR and DBT. I am honored to journey with my clients as they explore their pasts, tackle present challenges, and pursue healthier futures. My practice, Connected Wellness Group seeks to improve mental, emotional, and relational health by encouraging a (w)holistic approach to healing.
I use EMDR, DBT, and CBT for a variety of issues including: trauma and complex PTSD, sexual abuse and assault, emotional abuse, family conflict, depression, anxiety, relational stress, self-esteem, parenting, and life transitions.
Hi, I'm Melanie at Connected Wellness Group! I believe healing involves connecting to self- mind, emotions, body, relationships, and communities. I've been in practice for over a decade and I provide services to adults in a relaxed, confidential space using trauma-informed modalities like EMDR and DBT. I am honored to journey with my clients as they explore their pasts, tackle present challenges, and pursue healthier futures. My practice, Connected Wellness Group seeks to improve mental, emotional, and relational health by encouraging a (w)holistic approach to healing.
(757) 656-6461 View (757) 656-6461
Photo of Jeneshia A Ferebee, Pre-Licensed Professional in Norfolk, VA
Jeneshia A Ferebee
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, QMHP AC, EdS
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23510
I specialize in school and community engagement, Juvenile Justice & legal resources, Child Welfare, Family Systems, individual adjustment / life changing events, mindfulness, Solution Focused therapy, mood/personality disorders, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma Informed Care. In addition, I am trained in Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE’s).
I specialize in school and community engagement, Juvenile Justice & legal resources, Child Welfare, Family Systems, individual adjustment / life changing events, mindfulness, Solution Focused therapy, mood/personality disorders, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma Informed Care. In addition, I am trained in Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE’s).
(757) 517-8738 View (757) 517-8738
Photo of Angel Marriage & Family Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Norfolk, VA
Angel Marriage & Family Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23510
Specialty Services include: Relationship Therapy, Marriage Counseling, Family Counseling, Caregiver Counseling.
The painful constant reminders of broken promises. It's hard to find someone you trust. You are questioning yourself. There’s a cycle and you see it now. You’re tired of feeling stuck in your relationship. This matters the most so finding the right help is critical. It’s overwhelming not knowing where to begin but you're not looking for a "one size fits all" approach. You want a specialist in couples therapy and you value experience. Start Here. I'm Angel Myers and I help couples strengthen and repair their relationship with proven, decisive strategies.
Specialty Services include: Relationship Therapy, Marriage Counseling, Family Counseling, Caregiver Counseling.
The painful constant reminders of broken promises. It's hard to find someone you trust. You are questioning yourself. There’s a cycle and you see it now. You’re tired of feeling stuck in your relationship. This matters the most so finding the right help is critical. It’s overwhelming not knowing where to begin but you're not looking for a "one size fits all" approach. You want a specialist in couples therapy and you value experience. Start Here. I'm Angel Myers and I help couples strengthen and repair their relationship with proven, decisive strategies.
(757) 349-8719 View (757) 349-8719
Photo of Lawrence M Ross, Psychologist in Norfolk, VA
Lawrence M Ross
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23510
If you're looking for a psychologist who is easy to speak with, has a wide variety of experience, who offers cost effective confidential treatment and who has a proven track record of helping people manage the challenges in their lives, then look no further! I have been in practice for over 25 years. My work with clients includes: *Individual Therapy (with children, adolescents and adults). *Family Therapy. *Parenting Issues .*ADHD/Learning Disabilities Testing and Treatment. *Marital/Couples Therapy (including Collaborative Marital/Couples Therapy). *Separation and Divorce work (Collaborative and Traditional models of Divorce) Divorce Coach, Co-Parenting Coach,Co-Parenting Plan Development, Child Specialist
If you're looking for a psychologist who is easy to speak with, has a wide variety of experience, who offers cost effective confidential treatment and who has a proven track record of helping people manage the challenges in their lives, then look no further! I have been in practice for over 25 years. My work with clients includes: *Individual Therapy (with children, adolescents and adults). *Family Therapy. *Parenting Issues .*ADHD/Learning Disabilities Testing and Treatment. *Marital/Couples Therapy (including Collaborative Marital/Couples Therapy). *Separation and Divorce work (Collaborative and Traditional models of Divorce) Divorce Coach, Co-Parenting Coach,Co-Parenting Plan Development, Child Specialist
(757) 986-6234 View (757) 986-6234
Photo of Sheronda Farrow, Psychologist in Norfolk, VA
Sheronda Farrow
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23508  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for helping and a quest for healing; understanding that recovery to wellness is a journey that you must take, with myself as a willing guide. It's my pleasure to assist you in discovering the tools you already possess to be successful on this journey. I've provided counseling and psychological testing services to children, adults, and families for 13 years. I have experience in treating a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, behavior problems, ADHD, family/relationship issues, and anger management. Testing services include cognitive, achievement, and personality assessment. I also provide consultation, education, and training within the community.
I have a passion for helping and a quest for healing; understanding that recovery to wellness is a journey that you must take, with myself as a willing guide. It's my pleasure to assist you in discovering the tools you already possess to be successful on this journey. I've provided counseling and psychological testing services to children, adults, and families for 13 years. I have experience in treating a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, behavior problems, ADHD, family/relationship issues, and anger management. Testing services include cognitive, achievement, and personality assessment. I also provide consultation, education, and training within the community.
(757) 350-8807 View (757) 350-8807
Photo of Elizabeth Kynett, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Norfolk, VA
Elizabeth Kynett
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23517
Are you ready for change in your life, your relationship, or yourself? Are you tired of struggling and ready for some relief? Elizabeth would be honored to help you and your loved ones through what may be the most challenging, yet influential season of your life. Relationships tend to make us, break us, and help us heal. Elizabeth believes there is always hope for a better future as we process our past, acknowledge our patterns, and begin to live and love differently. So if you are looking for individual, couples, or family therapy to find a better way forward for yourself and/or your relationships, please reach out.
Are you ready for change in your life, your relationship, or yourself? Are you tired of struggling and ready for some relief? Elizabeth would be honored to help you and your loved ones through what may be the most challenging, yet influential season of your life. Relationships tend to make us, break us, and help us heal. Elizabeth believes there is always hope for a better future as we process our past, acknowledge our patterns, and begin to live and love differently. So if you are looking for individual, couples, or family therapy to find a better way forward for yourself and/or your relationships, please reach out.
(757) 260-3912 View (757) 260-3912
Photo of Phillip Riddick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Norfolk, VA
Phillip Riddick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23510
Let me first and foremost congratulate you on taking the first step to changing the direction of some things going on in your life. Seeking therapy is no easy process and finding the right therapist is an even harder one, so it should not be taken lightly. You taking this step is a huge one that will reap positive rewards for you and your family. I believe that each individual and family has the ability to overcome whatever obstacles they face, and will work to help you unlock that potential while increasing self-esteem, empowerment, and connectedness. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it!
Let me first and foremost congratulate you on taking the first step to changing the direction of some things going on in your life. Seeking therapy is no easy process and finding the right therapist is an even harder one, so it should not be taken lightly. You taking this step is a huge one that will reap positive rewards for you and your family. I believe that each individual and family has the ability to overcome whatever obstacles they face, and will work to help you unlock that potential while increasing self-esteem, empowerment, and connectedness. It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it!
(757) 932-0780 View (757) 932-0780
Photo of Jess Callaway, Resident in Counseling in Norfolk, VA
Jess Callaway
Resident in Counseling
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23502
If you should choose me, I look forward to the chance to get to know you and see what the possibilities are when we work together to tackle whatever brings you and your family to counseling.
Hi there! My experience and passion brings me here to work alongside you to learn new insights and gain additional tools to achieve the goals you have. Dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, high sensitivity, and behavioral problems is difficult to do alone. I will work with you or your child and teen so that you can live the life/lives you want. I believe with honesty, openness, and a safe non-judgmental space you can overcome most anything.
If you should choose me, I look forward to the chance to get to know you and see what the possibilities are when we work together to tackle whatever brings you and your family to counseling.
Hi there! My experience and passion brings me here to work alongside you to learn new insights and gain additional tools to achieve the goals you have. Dealing with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, high sensitivity, and behavioral problems is difficult to do alone. I will work with you or your child and teen so that you can live the life/lives you want. I believe with honesty, openness, and a safe non-judgmental space you can overcome most anything.
(757) 260-3637 View (757) 260-3637
Photo of Shana Simmons, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Norfolk, VA
Shana Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23510
My specializations include: Perinatal Mental Health (including Postpartum Depression), Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Child and Parental Conflict, Family Conflicts and Mood Disturbance amongst adults to include women and men.
Are you struggling with either being or connecting with the best version of yourself? I understand on a personal and professional level. My practice is tailored to helping women and mothers managed mental health during the perinatal/postpartum stage, process birth trauma, find a work-life balance, transition into motherhood, effectively co-parent, and managing "mommy guilt". Through life's transitions and challenges, I'm available to walk with you on your journey. I'm the non-judgmental and friendly therapist, who offers a solution-focused and strength-based approach. Consider a new beginning within a wellness-based setting.
My specializations include: Perinatal Mental Health (including Postpartum Depression), Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Child and Parental Conflict, Family Conflicts and Mood Disturbance amongst adults to include women and men.
Are you struggling with either being or connecting with the best version of yourself? I understand on a personal and professional level. My practice is tailored to helping women and mothers managed mental health during the perinatal/postpartum stage, process birth trauma, find a work-life balance, transition into motherhood, effectively co-parent, and managing "mommy guilt". Through life's transitions and challenges, I'm available to walk with you on your journey. I'm the non-judgmental and friendly therapist, who offers a solution-focused and strength-based approach. Consider a new beginning within a wellness-based setting.
(757) 600-0785 View (757) 600-0785
Photo of Ben Atanacio @ Deep Connections Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Norfolk, VA
Ben Atanacio @ Deep Connections Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23510  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Professional Counseling and a Master’s degree in Human Services with emphasis in Marriage and Family Counseling.
If your Relationship has gotten off track, on the verge of separation or divorce I’m here to support you. I believe working together along with my training and compassionate approach can bring balance back into your life. I am available for late evenings and weekend appointments.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Master’s degree in Professional Counseling and a Master’s degree in Human Services with emphasis in Marriage and Family Counseling.
If your Relationship has gotten off track, on the verge of separation or divorce I’m here to support you. I believe working together along with my training and compassionate approach can bring balance back into your life. I am available for late evenings and weekend appointments.
(757) 210-7597 View (757) 210-7597
Photo of Rebecca J Edwards, Pre-Licensed Professional in Norfolk, VA
Rebecca J Edwards
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHP-R
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23510
My passion is supporting people through life challenges, whether they are related to work, school, family, or other personal experiences. I have a person-centered, strength-based, collaborative approach to counseling. I work with people of all ages, acknowledging challenges are faced at every phase of life and that these challenges often overlap. I am a Navy veteran and a retired Navy spouse.
My passion is supporting people through life challenges, whether they are related to work, school, family, or other personal experiences. I have a person-centered, strength-based, collaborative approach to counseling. I work with people of all ages, acknowledging challenges are faced at every phase of life and that these challenges often overlap. I am a Navy veteran and a retired Navy spouse.
(757) 908-6439 View (757) 908-6439
Photo of Ascension Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Norfolk, VA
Ascension Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23502
Ascension Counseling Services offers Individual Therapy, Family Therapy and Group Therapy.
No one is exempt from struggle and hardship. In this life we all experience situations and circumstances that are at times beyond our control that cause stress and difficulties. Everyone needs a helping hand at some point in their life. Ascension Counseling is here to act as this helping hand.
Ascension Counseling Services offers Individual Therapy, Family Therapy and Group Therapy.
No one is exempt from struggle and hardship. In this life we all experience situations and circumstances that are at times beyond our control that cause stress and difficulties. Everyone needs a helping hand at some point in their life. Ascension Counseling is here to act as this helping hand.
(757) 330-4042 View (757) 330-4042
Photo of The Wellness Collaborative, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Norfolk, VA
The Wellness Collaborative, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23502
I honed my helping skills providing over a decade of individual, couple, and family counseling and working several years in the crisis intervention and crisis stabilization field in the states of California and Virginia. My experience and knowledge equips me to share with others as a marriage and family therapist, minister, coach, consultant and author, and allows me to facilitate positive change in peoples' lives. As a helper of people, I understand that we, human beings, express our greatest potential when we discover and remove the obstacles that hinder our capabilities.
I honed my helping skills providing over a decade of individual, couple, and family counseling and working several years in the crisis intervention and crisis stabilization field in the states of California and Virginia. My experience and knowledge equips me to share with others as a marriage and family therapist, minister, coach, consultant and author, and allows me to facilitate positive change in peoples' lives. As a helper of people, I understand that we, human beings, express our greatest potential when we discover and remove the obstacles that hinder our capabilities.
(757) 707-8049 View (757) 707-8049
Sha'myron Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC-Res
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23510
Howdy! I am a Licensed Resident in Counseling with a passion and drive for improving mental health in all forms! I have 7+ years of experience working in mental health, which began with my Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Prairie View A&M University. I have worked hands-on with severe mental illness, I am a certified behavioral technician for those with autism, I am a licensed substance abuse counselor, and I am an empath who will always open my mind up to the vast situations of those I serve. I have experience in individual, couples, child/adolescent, substance abuse/substance abuse groups, and family counseling.
Howdy! I am a Licensed Resident in Counseling with a passion and drive for improving mental health in all forms! I have 7+ years of experience working in mental health, which began with my Bachelor of Science in Psychology at Prairie View A&M University. I have worked hands-on with severe mental illness, I am a certified behavioral technician for those with autism, I am a licensed substance abuse counselor, and I am an empath who will always open my mind up to the vast situations of those I serve. I have experience in individual, couples, child/adolescent, substance abuse/substance abuse groups, and family counseling.
(757) 993-8633 View (757) 993-8633
Photo of Lakeshia Perryman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Norfolk, VA
Lakeshia Perryman
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, LSATP, RN
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23513  (Online Only)
The goal is to help you reconnect with yourself and become the best version of you. You might feel alone, hopeless, helpless, angered, sad, struggling with bad memories, or having challenges with feeling inadequate. If you desire to feel whole, in control, peace, and support, or you want to take steps toward reaching satisfaction within your life but question whether it is possible, you’re not alone. As someone that has experienced stress and trauma, I know the battle can be overwhelming, lonely, and at times feel impossible. I am here to help through the use of online individual and family therapy.
The goal is to help you reconnect with yourself and become the best version of you. You might feel alone, hopeless, helpless, angered, sad, struggling with bad memories, or having challenges with feeling inadequate. If you desire to feel whole, in control, peace, and support, or you want to take steps toward reaching satisfaction within your life but question whether it is possible, you’re not alone. As someone that has experienced stress and trauma, I know the battle can be overwhelming, lonely, and at times feel impossible. I am here to help through the use of online individual and family therapy.
(757) 695-9444 View (757) 695-9444
Photo of Holly Tracy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Norfolk, VA
Holly Tracy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, RPT-S, CTTS, ACS
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23505
Licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist has allowed me extensive additional training in both couple's and family therapy, whether or not I see an individual or multiple parts of a family.
Are you experiencing stress that is impacting your life? Are your relationships struggling? I believe in the importance of creating and maintaining healthy and fulfilling relationships through my work with children, adolescents, families and couples to achieve the relationships they desire. Most of the time things happen and we manage fine, but sometimes things happen that throw us for a loop and we need some additional support. Using Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (thoughts and behaviors), Family Systems Therapy, and Play Therapy as appropriate, I help individuals and families identify and use their strengths to facilitate their goals for growth and change.
Licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist has allowed me extensive additional training in both couple's and family therapy, whether or not I see an individual or multiple parts of a family.
Are you experiencing stress that is impacting your life? Are your relationships struggling? I believe in the importance of creating and maintaining healthy and fulfilling relationships through my work with children, adolescents, families and couples to achieve the relationships they desire. Most of the time things happen and we manage fine, but sometimes things happen that throw us for a loop and we need some additional support. Using Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (thoughts and behaviors), Family Systems Therapy, and Play Therapy as appropriate, I help individuals and families identify and use their strengths to facilitate their goals for growth and change.
(757) 769-7040 View (757) 769-7040
Photo of Dr. LaToya Nicole Edwards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Norfolk, VA
Dr. LaToya Nicole Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, CHT, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Norfolk, VA 23510
Have you ever felt like being an adult is too much? Like you just need a day off from this thing called adult-ing? With over 10 years of experience, my specialties include working with Millennials and Gen Z navigate adult-ing through individual, couples, and family counseling. My primary expertise include: anxiety, work-life balance, perfectionism, self-esteem improvement, relationship issues, finances, trauma, and life transitions to name a few. I also have a wealth of knowledge working with undergraduate and graduate students in areas including procrastination, stress management, and career development.
Have you ever felt like being an adult is too much? Like you just need a day off from this thing called adult-ing? With over 10 years of experience, my specialties include working with Millennials and Gen Z navigate adult-ing through individual, couples, and family counseling. My primary expertise include: anxiety, work-life balance, perfectionism, self-esteem improvement, relationship issues, finances, trauma, and life transitions to name a few. I also have a wealth of knowledge working with undergraduate and graduate students in areas including procrastination, stress management, and career development.
(757) 384-9640 View (757) 384-9640
Photo of Whitley Richards, Licensed Professional Counselor in Norfolk, VA
Whitley Richards
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, ATR, LPC
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23510
Whitley is passionate about the teen population and working towards bettering their lives and their family's lives.
Open to new clients! Are you looking for a counselor for your teen? Look no further... Whitley completed her graduate degree in Art Therapy and Counseling at Eastern Virginia Medical School. She started her practicing journey at Harbor Point Behavioral Health Center, where she gained the love of working with the adolescent populations struggling with anxiety, depression, oppositional/defiant behaviors, suicidal issues, and Borderline Personality traits. She works with a cognitive behavioral and person-centered approach, and enjoys individual, group and family work. Whitley is seeing clients only in person, no telehealth/virtual.
Whitley is passionate about the teen population and working towards bettering their lives and their family's lives.
Open to new clients! Are you looking for a counselor for your teen? Look no further... Whitley completed her graduate degree in Art Therapy and Counseling at Eastern Virginia Medical School. She started her practicing journey at Harbor Point Behavioral Health Center, where she gained the love of working with the adolescent populations struggling with anxiety, depression, oppositional/defiant behaviors, suicidal issues, and Borderline Personality traits. She works with a cognitive behavioral and person-centered approach, and enjoys individual, group and family work. Whitley is seeing clients only in person, no telehealth/virtual.
(757) 210-9607 View (757) 210-9607
Photo of Latiesha Wiggins, Resident in Counseling in Norfolk, VA
Latiesha Wiggins
Resident in Counseling, MPA, MEd, CSAC
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23513
I use a combination of individual, group, family counseling, skill-training, and resource linkage to support you.
You've always been "the strong one", but here lately you feel all over the place mentally. You're trying to hold it together, but the flood of emotions feel like a heavy burden piling up. Sometimes you feel deeply and sometimes you feel nothing at all. You haven't felt like yourself in a while and you want relief of this painful cycle. You are not strong in this moment and that is okay. Accepting moments of weakness is not a sign of failure, it is the beginning of wellness. If you are reading this, you have already started to break the cycle and I am proud of you.
I use a combination of individual, group, family counseling, skill-training, and resource linkage to support you.
You've always been "the strong one", but here lately you feel all over the place mentally. You're trying to hold it together, but the flood of emotions feel like a heavy burden piling up. Sometimes you feel deeply and sometimes you feel nothing at all. You haven't felt like yourself in a while and you want relief of this painful cycle. You are not strong in this moment and that is okay. Accepting moments of weakness is not a sign of failure, it is the beginning of wellness. If you are reading this, you have already started to break the cycle and I am proud of you.
(757) 418-8161 View (757) 418-8161
Photo of Kyle S. Helwig, Pre-Licensed Professional in Norfolk, VA
Kyle S. Helwig
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Norfolk, VA 23510
Are you struggling to cope with mental or emotional difficulties and don’t know where to turn? Have you experienced a traumatic situation and haven’t felt like yourself since? I would be honored to walk with you on your healing journey. I strive to put your perspective first and build a method of treatment with you that is customized to you and your unique situation through an adaptable Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral approach grounded in compassion. I am experienced in providing Internal Family Systems, Trauma-Focused CBT, Spiritual Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Eye Movement Integration, and the ASAM levels of care.
Are you struggling to cope with mental or emotional difficulties and don’t know where to turn? Have you experienced a traumatic situation and haven’t felt like yourself since? I would be honored to walk with you on your healing journey. I strive to put your perspective first and build a method of treatment with you that is customized to you and your unique situation through an adaptable Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral approach grounded in compassion. I am experienced in providing Internal Family Systems, Trauma-Focused CBT, Spiritual Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Eye Movement Integration, and the ASAM levels of care.
(757) 909-6798 View (757) 909-6798
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.