Photo of Ceres Artico Ph. D., PhD, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ceres Artico Ph. D.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
All of us have the ability and desire to heal and lead meaningful, fulfilling, lives. However, at times we need professional help to overcome devastating feelings and life events. Dr. Artico has over 20 years of experience helping couples, adults and teens become who they were meant to be. She is the director of Gainesville Family Counseling, has taught at George Mason University, and is the author of the book Latino Families Broken by Immigration. She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), has advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT), clinical supervision, and sandtray therapy.
All of us have the ability and desire to heal and lead meaningful, fulfilling, lives. However, at times we need professional help to overcome devastating feelings and life events. Dr. Artico has over 20 years of experience helping couples, adults and teens become who they were meant to be. She is the director of Gainesville Family Counseling, has taught at George Mason University, and is the author of the book Latino Families Broken by Immigration. She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), has advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT), clinical supervision, and sandtray therapy.
(703) 947-0838 View (703) 947-0838
Photo of Ashley Frantz, PhD, MA, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ashley Frantz
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186  (Online Only)
I work with adults and children as young as six years old. I work primarily with anxiety, depression, trauma, and military issues however I have worked with various issues. I use variety of treatment methods including DBT, CBT, art therapy, and animal therapy to best serve the client and help them treating the source of the issue not just the symptoms. I try to help the client resolve whatever their underlying difficulties are to enhance all aspects of their life.
I work with adults and children as young as six years old. I work primarily with anxiety, depression, trauma, and military issues however I have worked with various issues. I use variety of treatment methods including DBT, CBT, art therapy, and animal therapy to best serve the client and help them treating the source of the issue not just the symptoms. I try to help the client resolve whatever their underlying difficulties are to enhance all aspects of their life.
(757) 942-4234 View (757) 942-4234

Online Therapists

Photo of undefined - Phoenix Counseling Centre-Counseling for Christ, Thd, DivD, MA, Psychological Associate
Phoenix Counseling Centre-Counseling for Christ
Psychological Associate, Thd, DivD, MA
Verified Verified
Lorton, VA 22079
Phoenix Counseling Centre is a Christ-based organization that serves to provide individual, family, child, marriage and autism diagnostic therapy services. Phoenix Counseling Centre was founded on the principles of Christ. We believe honesty, integrity and compassion are the cornerstone of our practice. Our clinicians are dedicated to the personal growth of each individual client; each with years of experience in counseling. Our humanistic approach is client-centered and based in the Jungian and Rogerian theoretical perspectives. We work cooperatively with each client to eliminate barriers to their personal mental health.
Phoenix Counseling Centre is a Christ-based organization that serves to provide individual, family, child, marriage and autism diagnostic therapy services. Phoenix Counseling Centre was founded on the principles of Christ. We believe honesty, integrity and compassion are the cornerstone of our practice. Our clinicians are dedicated to the personal growth of each individual client; each with years of experience in counseling. Our humanistic approach is client-centered and based in the Jungian and Rogerian theoretical perspectives. We work cooperatively with each client to eliminate barriers to their personal mental health.
(202) 335-2332 View (202) 335-2332
Photo of Tamara Powell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamara Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22206
Throughout my counseling experience, I have worked with variety of issues including marital and family dynamics issues, blended families, parenting and co-parenting issues, trauma, abuse, child welfare issues, grief, with concentration on cultural influences, in a wide age range starting early childhood to late adulthood.
My name is Tamara Powell LCSW, CSOTP, CCTP, RPT. I provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment in which my clients can explore the issues and challenges they face. I strongly believe in the power of the therapeutic partnership to help uncover the strengths and resources we all possess in order to bring about the changes we desire in our lives. I feel privileged to be able to offer my assistance to others on this shared journey and commend you for reaching out for help to make things better.
Throughout my counseling experience, I have worked with variety of issues including marital and family dynamics issues, blended families, parenting and co-parenting issues, trauma, abuse, child welfare issues, grief, with concentration on cultural influences, in a wide age range starting early childhood to late adulthood.
My name is Tamara Powell LCSW, CSOTP, CCTP, RPT. I provide a warm, safe, and supportive environment in which my clients can explore the issues and challenges they face. I strongly believe in the power of the therapeutic partnership to help uncover the strengths and resources we all possess in order to bring about the changes we desire in our lives. I feel privileged to be able to offer my assistance to others on this shared journey and commend you for reaching out for help to make things better.
(703) 639-4039 View (703) 639-4039
Photo of Cynthia Turner, LCSW, LSATP, MAC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Cynthia Turner
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCSW, LSATP, MAC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Ashburn, VA 20147
I love what I do! I get to help you turn your insights into action for addictions, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. We may use individual, family, or group therapy, relapse prevention, education, medication, or MAT/MOUD. Our Dual Diagnosis Recovery Program is for people struggling with both a mental health and drug/alcohol issue. We know that recovery does not always mean abstinence. Take the Alcohol Moderation Assessment to help you determine your relationship with alcohol and learn how to get your life back in balance.
I love what I do! I get to help you turn your insights into action for addictions, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. We may use individual, family, or group therapy, relapse prevention, education, medication, or MAT/MOUD. Our Dual Diagnosis Recovery Program is for people struggling with both a mental health and drug/alcohol issue. We know that recovery does not always mean abstinence. Take the Alcohol Moderation Assessment to help you determine your relationship with alcohol and learn how to get your life back in balance.
(571) 350-3203 x28 View (571) 350-3203 x28
Photo of Dr. Tammy Villines, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Tammy Villines
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Crozet, VA 22932
Dr. Villines is a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience working with child, adolescent, and adult populations. She provides individual, family, and couples therapy, as well as comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations. Dr. Villines further specializes in working with individuals and families who are legally involved. She specializes in working with complex family systems issues, often including divorce, child custody, domestic violence, and child abuse. She is experienced in working within the legal system and frequently provides expert testimony.
Dr. Villines is a licensed clinical psychologist with extensive experience working with child, adolescent, and adult populations. She provides individual, family, and couples therapy, as well as comprehensive neuropsychological evaluations. Dr. Villines further specializes in working with individuals and families who are legally involved. She specializes in working with complex family systems issues, often including divorce, child custody, domestic violence, and child abuse. She is experienced in working within the legal system and frequently provides expert testimony.
(540) 456-9612 View (540) 456-9612
Photo of undefined - A Place of Peace, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
A Place of Peace
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
I have 20+ years experience in the Counseling field working in the areas of mental health, substance abuse, corrections and leadership. My ideal client is anyone who is at a stuck point in their lives and need support and guidance to assist them in moving forward no matter the problem. I offer Counseling and Psychotherapy Services to address: Relationship Issues, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Work/Home Stress, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Healing from Current and Past Trauma, Interpersonal Relations, Parenting, Self-Esteem, Women's Issues, and other impasses. My treatment modalities are Individual, Group and Family Counseling. I also offer Skype counseling.
I have 20+ years experience in the Counseling field working in the areas of mental health, substance abuse, corrections and leadership. My ideal client is anyone who is at a stuck point in their lives and need support and guidance to assist them in moving forward no matter the problem. I offer Counseling and Psychotherapy Services to address: Relationship Issues, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Work/Home Stress, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Healing from Current and Past Trauma, Interpersonal Relations, Parenting, Self-Esteem, Women's Issues, and other impasses. My treatment modalities are Individual, Group and Family Counseling. I also offer Skype counseling.
(703) 398-3865 View (703) 398-3865
Photo of undefined - Michelle Gorden- NOVA Clinical Counseling,LLC, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Gorden- NOVA Clinical Counseling,LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155  (Online Only)
Believing in the uniqueness of every client, couple, or family, I advocate for customized treatment.
I'm Michelle Gorden, a counselor with dual credentials as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). With 20 years in the field, my expertise spans a range of areas, particularly mood disorders, trauma, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I especially enjoy working with people dealing with life transitions, career-related stress, and goal setting.
Believing in the uniqueness of every client, couple, or family, I advocate for customized treatment.
I'm Michelle Gorden, a counselor with dual credentials as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). With 20 years in the field, my expertise spans a range of areas, particularly mood disorders, trauma, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I especially enjoy working with people dealing with life transitions, career-related stress, and goal setting.
(571) 568-8212 View (571) 568-8212
Photo of Dayna Kumar, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dayna Kumar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22901  (Online Only)
I empower others to live the life they imagine. I am passionate about working alongside those on a journey towards healing, whether from internal struggle, grief, or significant trauma leading to low mood or anxiety. I am qualified in the judicial system as an expert in family and trauma therapy. I am a certified EMDR therapist and consultant -started in 2010. My focus is to strengthen your core sense of self to disrupt negative internal dialogue, memories and somatic responses that lead to distress. In family work, I focus on secure attachment patterns, and increasing attunment and co-regulation between a child and caregiver(s).
I empower others to live the life they imagine. I am passionate about working alongside those on a journey towards healing, whether from internal struggle, grief, or significant trauma leading to low mood or anxiety. I am qualified in the judicial system as an expert in family and trauma therapy. I am a certified EMDR therapist and consultant -started in 2010. My focus is to strengthen your core sense of self to disrupt negative internal dialogue, memories and somatic responses that lead to distress. In family work, I focus on secure attachment patterns, and increasing attunment and co-regulation between a child and caregiver(s).
(434) 448-3550 View (434) 448-3550
Photo of undefined - Counseling & Forensic Services,Inc, LPC-R
Counseling & Forensic Services,Inc
Resident in Counseling, LPC-R
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
I also incorporate aspects of DBT, family systems, solution-focused, and expressive therapies.
Hello! I am a current LPC Resident at Counseling and Forensic Services. I have 12+ years working with children, adolescents, and their families. I use an integrative approach in working with children, using a variety of therapeutic methods that are developmentally age appropriate and child-centered. I received my master’s at The State University of New York at Oswego in Counseling Services with a Certificate of Advanced Study in Mental Health Counseling at St. John Fisher.
I also incorporate aspects of DBT, family systems, solution-focused, and expressive therapies.
Hello! I am a current LPC Resident at Counseling and Forensic Services. I have 12+ years working with children, adolescents, and their families. I use an integrative approach in working with children, using a variety of therapeutic methods that are developmentally age appropriate and child-centered. I received my master’s at The State University of New York at Oswego in Counseling Services with a Certificate of Advanced Study in Mental Health Counseling at St. John Fisher.
(571) 749-2466 View (571) 749-2466
Photo of undefined - The Carter Psychotherapy Group , EdD, NCC, LPC, LMHC, C-DBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Carter Psychotherapy Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, NCC, LPC, LMHC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23220  (Online Only)
My areas of specialized training are crisis intervention, family systems work, military counseling, and behavior modification with clients diagnosed with comorbid disorders (ex.
Therapy is a process and just starting is an accomplishment. It can be difficult because you may address topics that you have avoided. The Carter Psychotherapy Group provides a place for you to fully engage in treatment so that you leave every session needing therapy less and less. My goal is to create a safe space for individuals and families to access mental health services without barriers to treatment
My areas of specialized training are crisis intervention, family systems work, military counseling, and behavior modification with clients diagnosed with comorbid disorders (ex.
Therapy is a process and just starting is an accomplishment. It can be difficult because you may address topics that you have avoided. The Carter Psychotherapy Group provides a place for you to fully engage in treatment so that you leave every session needing therapy less and less. My goal is to create a safe space for individuals and families to access mental health services without barriers to treatment
(571) 470-5708 View (571) 470-5708
Photo of Dr. Selisha Nelson, PhD, LCP
Dr. Selisha Nelson
PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Chesterfield, VA 23236
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a passion for helping others on their journeys to healing, self-discovery, and growth. I have experience working with youth, adolescents, and adults providing individual, family, and couples therapy. Psychological assessments are also provided. I have obtained advanced training in trauma treatment, which includes various modalities such as art/play therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR. I have over 14 years of experience working in community mental health, alternative school settings, residential treatment, outpatient settings, and correctional facilities.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with a passion for helping others on their journeys to healing, self-discovery, and growth. I have experience working with youth, adolescents, and adults providing individual, family, and couples therapy. Psychological assessments are also provided. I have obtained advanced training in trauma treatment, which includes various modalities such as art/play therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR. I have over 14 years of experience working in community mental health, alternative school settings, residential treatment, outpatient settings, and correctional facilities.
(804) 293-3211 View (804) 293-3211
Photo of undefined - Prince William Family Counseling, PsyD, LPC, LCSW
Prince William Family Counseling
PsyD, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20109
One consistent aspect of life is it's evolving nature as well as positive and negative stress for participating individuals. Internal and external stress relating to change can be a barrier to progress to success. Prince William Family Counseling is a diverse organization committed to the assistance, education, support, advocacy, outreach, and welfare of clients and the community. Prince William Family Counseling provides theoretical and evidence based client centered and trauma informed assessments and treatment plans for clients 6+ with various diagnosis and severity individually, couple, family, and group settings.
One consistent aspect of life is it's evolving nature as well as positive and negative stress for participating individuals. Internal and external stress relating to change can be a barrier to progress to success. Prince William Family Counseling is a diverse organization committed to the assistance, education, support, advocacy, outreach, and welfare of clients and the community. Prince William Family Counseling provides theoretical and evidence based client centered and trauma informed assessments and treatment plans for clients 6+ with various diagnosis and severity individually, couple, family, and group settings.
(571) 520-3187 View (571) 520-3187
Photo of undefined - Elizabeth Mahaney, South Tampa Therapy & Mediation, LMHC, Q Suprv, NCC, MFT, PhD, Counselor
Elizabeth Mahaney, South Tampa Therapy & Mediation
Counselor, LMHC, Q Suprv, NCC, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Arlington, VA 22201
Looking for a Gottman, solution-focused, strength-base and agile approach to marriage & family therapy, NVC & individual counseling in Tampa? You have found a great place to start creating a more self-aware, intentional, and happier life. We will: 1. Assess and attune to your unique situation, needs and the needs of loved ones 2. Agree to collaborate and develop a plan together to create specific intentions, goals and measurable outcomes 3. Accountability helps make the changes last! I'll give you the tools you need to understand what changes need to be made, avoid relapse & continue to create changes that you DO want to see happen
Looking for a Gottman, solution-focused, strength-base and agile approach to marriage & family therapy, NVC & individual counseling in Tampa? You have found a great place to start creating a more self-aware, intentional, and happier life. We will: 1. Assess and attune to your unique situation, needs and the needs of loved ones 2. Agree to collaborate and develop a plan together to create specific intentions, goals and measurable outcomes 3. Accountability helps make the changes last! I'll give you the tools you need to understand what changes need to be made, avoid relapse & continue to create changes that you DO want to see happen
(813) 438-4867 View (813) 438-4867
Photo of Mary W Lindahl, PhD, Psychologist
Mary W Lindahl
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
Whether you, your child, or your family are facing problems that are affecting your daily life and happiness, you have come to the right place for a comfortable, accessible,and compassionate experience.
Sometimes even the strongest people need help to work through life’s more challenging problems. I offer psychotherapy to children, teens, adults, couples, and families, using a variety of modalities such as psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, play therapy, and family systems approaches. Working collaboratively, I tailor therapy to successfully address the client’s individual needs and goals. I also offer consultation with interested colleagues on issues involved in diagnosis and therapy, working with allied professionals, and encounters with the legal system.
Whether you, your child, or your family are facing problems that are affecting your daily life and happiness, you have come to the right place for a comfortable, accessible,and compassionate experience.
Sometimes even the strongest people need help to work through life’s more challenging problems. I offer psychotherapy to children, teens, adults, couples, and families, using a variety of modalities such as psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, play therapy, and family systems approaches. Working collaboratively, I tailor therapy to successfully address the client’s individual needs and goals. I also offer consultation with interested colleagues on issues involved in diagnosis and therapy, working with allied professionals, and encounters with the legal system.
(571) 458-1492 View (571) 458-1492
Photo of Adina Silvestri, EdD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adina Silvestri
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23229
Hi, I'm Dr. Adina Silvestri, the founder at Life Cycles Counseling. I offer a variety of counseling services to help you achieve balance and authenticity. Services include Individual Counseling, Family Counseling, Couples Counseling, and Group Counseling. My practice style is spontaneous, creative and designed to fit your needs - which may be different each session. I have 20 years of experience helping individuals, children and families with a variety of needs, but I specialize in treating women with substance abuse issues. Please visit my website at www.adinasilvestri.com for more information.
Hi, I'm Dr. Adina Silvestri, the founder at Life Cycles Counseling. I offer a variety of counseling services to help you achieve balance and authenticity. Services include Individual Counseling, Family Counseling, Couples Counseling, and Group Counseling. My practice style is spontaneous, creative and designed to fit your needs - which may be different each session. I have 20 years of experience helping individuals, children and families with a variety of needs, but I specialize in treating women with substance abuse issues. Please visit my website at www.adinasilvestri.com for more information.
(804) 621-7126 View (804) 621-7126
Photo of Fereshteh Khodaei Shahrokhi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fereshteh Khodaei Shahrokhi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101
Additional to attending many training & taking courses in different areas of mental health & behavioral difficulties, took advanced courses in Family & Group Therapy, Adolescent Sex Offenders & ADHD/EFD.
My name is Fereshteh Shahrokhi. Have worked decades as clinical & school social worker with K-12 students & families. Worked at day treatment, children & adolescents & juvenile delinquents residential placements with emotional & behavioral difficulties. In particular is skilled working with people with ADHD/Executive Function Deficits (EFD). Provided local, state, and national level presentations in ADHD/EFD, Depression Awareness & Prevention, Bullying & did Depression Screening. Also have been nominated as "The Social Worker of the Year" in 2011 by Fairfax County Association of School Social Workers, the second one ever nominated. Also worked with traumatized children & adolescents & sex offenders.
Additional to attending many training & taking courses in different areas of mental health & behavioral difficulties, took advanced courses in Family & Group Therapy, Adolescent Sex Offenders & ADHD/EFD.
My name is Fereshteh Shahrokhi. Have worked decades as clinical & school social worker with K-12 students & families. Worked at day treatment, children & adolescents & juvenile delinquents residential placements with emotional & behavioral difficulties. In particular is skilled working with people with ADHD/Executive Function Deficits (EFD). Provided local, state, and national level presentations in ADHD/EFD, Depression Awareness & Prevention, Bullying & did Depression Screening. Also have been nominated as "The Social Worker of the Year" in 2011 by Fairfax County Association of School Social Workers, the second one ever nominated. Also worked with traumatized children & adolescents & sex offenders.
(703) 609-9387 View (703) 609-9387
Photo of Jenny Sexton, MA, CSAC, QMHP, FAC, CSAM, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jenny Sexton
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, CSAC, QMHP, FAC, CSAM
Verified Verified
Leesburg, VA 20176
It is also my goal to support the family and ensure they have the appropriate resources for long-term success.
As a substance abuse counselor & certified interventionist, who specializes in treatment services for adolescents & adults, it is my goal to address the individual's addiction, identify their needs, & goals for long-term success. As a clinician, it is important to understand the full spectrum of the individual's substance use, the impact their use has had on their family members, and identify goals to ensure their long-term success. It is important to address one issue at a time & help the individual understand the road to recovery is long & challenging but with diligence, will be met with success & freedom from addiction.
It is also my goal to support the family and ensure they have the appropriate resources for long-term success.
As a substance abuse counselor & certified interventionist, who specializes in treatment services for adolescents & adults, it is my goal to address the individual's addiction, identify their needs, & goals for long-term success. As a clinician, it is important to understand the full spectrum of the individual's substance use, the impact their use has had on their family members, and identify goals to ensure their long-term success. It is important to address one issue at a time & help the individual understand the road to recovery is long & challenging but with diligence, will be met with success & freedom from addiction.
(571) 620-5624 View (571) 620-5624
Photo of Dr. Nicole Hashemian, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Nicole Hashemian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
Dr. Nicole Hashemian is a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist and has broad experience working with individuals and families with a wide variety of mental health disorders.
Dr. Nicole Hashemian is a licensed clinical psychologist and neuropsychologist and has broad experience working with individuals and families with a wide variety of mental health disorders.
(571) 462-6864 View (571) 462-6864
Photo of undefined - El Rophe Psychological Solutions, LLC, PsyD, LCP, Psychologist
El Rophe Psychological Solutions, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Doctor of psychology with expertise in psychological/neuropsychological/educational/forensic evaluations and psychotherapy. Diagnoses and treats various clinical/neuropsychological difficulties including brain-related injuries, anxiety, depression, PTSD, autism, intellectual disabilities/learning disorders, and emotional and behavioral difficulties. Works with immigrant populations, military/veterans and families, victims of trauma, abuse and domestic violence, as well as forensic (court-related) populations, among others. Works with all age groups. Bible-centered therapy can be also provided, if so desired.
Doctor of psychology with expertise in psychological/neuropsychological/educational/forensic evaluations and psychotherapy. Diagnoses and treats various clinical/neuropsychological difficulties including brain-related injuries, anxiety, depression, PTSD, autism, intellectual disabilities/learning disorders, and emotional and behavioral difficulties. Works with immigrant populations, military/veterans and families, victims of trauma, abuse and domestic violence, as well as forensic (court-related) populations, among others. Works with all age groups. Bible-centered therapy can be also provided, if so desired.
(703) 348-9174 View (703) 348-9174
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.