Family Therapy in Seattle, WA

Photo of Pindy Dhesi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pindy Dhesi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping individuals and couples struggling with anxiety & depression, or trauma related to their relationship or family.
Are you coping with anxiety, depression, burnout, codependency, people pleasing, irritability, loneliness, or strained relationships? Are your relationships unfulfilling, and you struggle to keep up with life demands. My clients, seek therapy in a safe and non-judgmental environment to address trauma-related difficulties and relationship challenges. Their goals include overcoming childhood and relationship traumas, improving self-esteem, and developing healthy relationships with healthy boundaries. Together, we navigate this path, promoting individual growth and healing while restoring relationship harmony.
I specialize in helping individuals and couples struggling with anxiety & depression, or trauma related to their relationship or family.
Are you coping with anxiety, depression, burnout, codependency, people pleasing, irritability, loneliness, or strained relationships? Are your relationships unfulfilling, and you struggle to keep up with life demands. My clients, seek therapy in a safe and non-judgmental environment to address trauma-related difficulties and relationship challenges. Their goals include overcoming childhood and relationship traumas, improving self-esteem, and developing healthy relationships with healthy boundaries. Together, we navigate this path, promoting individual growth and healing while restoring relationship harmony.
(206) 502-4601 View (206) 502-4601
Photo of Scarlet Gonzalez, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Scarlet Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Family and relationship issues can seriously impact how we take care of ourselves, and relate to others and the world around us.
Do you feel stuck? Are you feeling numb, unable to find happiness in the things that once brought you joy? When we're struggling, it can spill out onto our relationships, showing up in ways that create more issues. In our efforts to make change, we may try to solve them by reading self-help books or talking to our closest friends, only to find the problem is still a problem. That’s where I can help. Together we’ll identify goals and collaborate on a treatment plan. The beginning of any journey or change begins with acceptance, the proper treatment, and a healthier relationship and connection with ourselves and the world around us.
Family and relationship issues can seriously impact how we take care of ourselves, and relate to others and the world around us.
Do you feel stuck? Are you feeling numb, unable to find happiness in the things that once brought you joy? When we're struggling, it can spill out onto our relationships, showing up in ways that create more issues. In our efforts to make change, we may try to solve them by reading self-help books or talking to our closest friends, only to find the problem is still a problem. That’s where I can help. Together we’ll identify goals and collaborate on a treatment plan. The beginning of any journey or change begins with acceptance, the proper treatment, and a healthier relationship and connection with ourselves and the world around us.
(509) 204-5994 View (509) 204-5994
Photo of Brenda Gil Lopez - Oasis Sex Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Oasis Sex Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
As a trauma-focused therapist and sex therapist, I integrate tools from Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR to support healing from trauma including childhood and sexual trauma.
Hi, I'm Brenda! I am a sex therapist and support adults with trauma, shame, pain, difficulty with orgasm, concerns with erection and ejaculation, and kink support. I also work with partnered folx to improve relationship dynamics and can address sexual concerns like desire discrepancy and communication challenges. I am especially passionate about collaborating with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ folks.
As a trauma-focused therapist and sex therapist, I integrate tools from Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing, and EMDR to support healing from trauma including childhood and sexual trauma.
Hi, I'm Brenda! I am a sex therapist and support adults with trauma, shame, pain, difficulty with orgasm, concerns with erection and ejaculation, and kink support. I also work with partnered folx to improve relationship dynamics and can address sexual concerns like desire discrepancy and communication challenges. I am especially passionate about collaborating with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ folks.
(425) 399-5518 View (425) 399-5518
Photo of Chris Koch, Counselor, MDiv, MA/EdS, LMHCA
Chris Koch
Counselor, MDiv, MA/EdS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116
I am drawn to cognitive behavioral therapies such as REBT (Rational Behavioral Therapy) and also trauma informed, emotionally focused therapies such as IFS (Internal Family Systems) and EFTC (Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples)
Seeking a counselor can be a daunting experience and I commend you for your courage in taking this step. I work primarily with couples, adults, and teens who desire to create space to work on areas of concern in their lives and relationships. I work alongside clients to get to the ‘thing beneath the thing’ of what they are experiencing and struggling with as individuals and couples, so that they can move from minimizing, avoidance, self-contempt, etc.. towards a compassionate self-awareness, recovery, greater coping, balance in life, development of new understandings and skills, and thriving.
I am drawn to cognitive behavioral therapies such as REBT (Rational Behavioral Therapy) and also trauma informed, emotionally focused therapies such as IFS (Internal Family Systems) and EFTC (Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples)
Seeking a counselor can be a daunting experience and I commend you for your courage in taking this step. I work primarily with couples, adults, and teens who desire to create space to work on areas of concern in their lives and relationships. I work alongside clients to get to the ‘thing beneath the thing’ of what they are experiencing and struggling with as individuals and couples, so that they can move from minimizing, avoidance, self-contempt, etc.. towards a compassionate self-awareness, recovery, greater coping, balance in life, development of new understandings and skills, and thriving.
(425) 504-6364 View (425) 504-6364
Photo of Jeffrey Serage, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Jeffrey Serage
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with clients who may be struggling with depression or trauma related to their relationships or family.
My ideal client is someone who has an intention to change. During my 32 years as a practicing therapist I have encountered a wide range of issues. I believe that the core of helping people is to listen. Effective listening gives me a deep understanding of your current situation. I can then gently point you toward getting more of what you want. Therapy is the work of my life.
I work with clients who may be struggling with depression or trauma related to their relationships or family.
My ideal client is someone who has an intention to change. During my 32 years as a practicing therapist I have encountered a wide range of issues. I believe that the core of helping people is to listen. Effective listening gives me a deep understanding of your current situation. I can then gently point you toward getting more of what you want. Therapy is the work of my life.
(206) 707-9303 View (206) 707-9303
Photo of Donovan R Bigelow, Counselor, JD, LLM, MA, (LMHC)
Donovan R Bigelow
Counselor, JD, LLM, MA, (LMHC)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Together we can work through, overcome, or improve: Depression, stress and anxiety, Love and intimate relationships, Family conflict resolution, Sexuality and body image, Parent-child conflicts, Drug abuse and eating disorders, Balancing work and personal life, Managing emotions effectively, Strengthening the will/ego, Artistic and athletic creativity, and Creation of meaning.
I like to view my role as collaborating with you to achieve a greater awareness of yourself, to develop more effective patterns of behavior, and to resolve undesirable or troubling emotions and interpersonal conflicts.
Together we can work through, overcome, or improve: Depression, stress and anxiety, Love and intimate relationships, Family conflict resolution, Sexuality and body image, Parent-child conflicts, Drug abuse and eating disorders, Balancing work and personal life, Managing emotions effectively, Strengthening the will/ego, Artistic and athletic creativity, and Creation of meaning.
I like to view my role as collaborating with you to achieve a greater awareness of yourself, to develop more effective patterns of behavior, and to resolve undesirable or troubling emotions and interpersonal conflicts.
(206) 940-6732 View (206) 940-6732
Photo of Julie Camp, Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Julie Camp
Counselor, MA, LMHC, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
Effective therapy may include unresolved family-of-origin issues, the building of interpersonal skills, and/or the resolution of unhealthy views of self or others and unprocessed trauma.
I am a licensed mental health therapist working from home via telehealth and in person (Tues/Thurs) in West Seattle. While there are few issues I have not worked with in the therapy room, the bulk of my experience relates to how specific mindsets, traumas, or life experiences influence our experience of the world and of ourselves in relation to others.
Effective therapy may include unresolved family-of-origin issues, the building of interpersonal skills, and/or the resolution of unhealthy views of self or others and unprocessed trauma.
I am a licensed mental health therapist working from home via telehealth and in person (Tues/Thurs) in West Seattle. While there are few issues I have not worked with in the therapy room, the bulk of my experience relates to how specific mindsets, traumas, or life experiences influence our experience of the world and of ourselves in relation to others.
(253) 733-0286 View (253) 733-0286
Photo of Wendy E Smith, Counselor, MA, LMHC
Wendy E Smith
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I also enjoy working with family members of people with disabilities/ illnesses and with couples for whom disability/ illness is a factor.
If you are seeking to work through anxiety, depression, an identity issue, a life transition, a traumatic experience, or a loss, I may be the therapist to help you. As a Certified Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapist, I can also help couples deeply reconnect on the level of needs and feelings--as opposed to having that same unproductive argument over and over again. With individuals, I often work in the here-and-now. Additionally, I pay attention to your history in order to understand (together with you) how your past experiences might be affecting your capacity to live well in the present and imagine a future.
I also enjoy working with family members of people with disabilities/ illnesses and with couples for whom disability/ illness is a factor.
If you are seeking to work through anxiety, depression, an identity issue, a life transition, a traumatic experience, or a loss, I may be the therapist to help you. As a Certified Emotionally-Focused Couples Therapist, I can also help couples deeply reconnect on the level of needs and feelings--as opposed to having that same unproductive argument over and over again. With individuals, I often work in the here-and-now. Additionally, I pay attention to your history in order to understand (together with you) how your past experiences might be affecting your capacity to live well in the present and imagine a future.
(206) 745-0971 View (206) 745-0971
Photo of Kali Shilvock, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Kali Shilvock
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate in Washington State with a MA in Couples and Family Therapy.
I believe that one of the greatest ways that we can empower ourselves to navigate a wide variety of issues is by developing self-awareness and self-compassion. I enjoy working with clients who want a collaborative relationship with their therapist and are willing to approach our work with curiosity and an open mind. I also love to empower individuals and partners with the tools they need to create the changes they seek in their own lives, which requires a mutual investment in and commitment to our work together.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Associate in Washington State with a MA in Couples and Family Therapy.
I believe that one of the greatest ways that we can empower ourselves to navigate a wide variety of issues is by developing self-awareness and self-compassion. I enjoy working with clients who want a collaborative relationship with their therapist and are willing to approach our work with curiosity and an open mind. I also love to empower individuals and partners with the tools they need to create the changes they seek in their own lives, which requires a mutual investment in and commitment to our work together.
(206) 944-3698 View (206) 944-3698
Photo of Dr. Jarryn Robinson-Ellis, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Dr. Jarryn Robinson-Ellis
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Individual, Couples and Family Therapy - $190
I am deeply committed to creating a safe and inclusive therapeutic space for individuals and couples. My passion lies in addressing the unique challenges faced by women, particularly in the realm of motherhood and parenting. I recognize the complexities and emotional nuances of these roles, and I'm dedicated to helping clients navigate their journeys with empathy, resilience, and self-discovery. In addition to my focus on women's issues and motherhood, I am passionate about exploring the experiences of BIPOC individuals, Couples, and those struggling with concerns like anxiety, depression, and attachment related concerns.
Individual, Couples and Family Therapy - $190
I am deeply committed to creating a safe and inclusive therapeutic space for individuals and couples. My passion lies in addressing the unique challenges faced by women, particularly in the realm of motherhood and parenting. I recognize the complexities and emotional nuances of these roles, and I'm dedicated to helping clients navigate their journeys with empathy, resilience, and self-discovery. In addition to my focus on women's issues and motherhood, I am passionate about exploring the experiences of BIPOC individuals, Couples, and those struggling with concerns like anxiety, depression, and attachment related concerns.
(206) 800-6366 View (206) 800-6366
Photo of Amanda Sappington, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Amanda Sappington
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
I work with individuals and couples dealing with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and family conflict.
I specialize in assisting emerging adults through transition, trauma, and crises of faith and spirituality. I seek to provide a safe space for those who have experienced wounding by the church and other religious organizations. I am trained in EMDR, and I also have completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
I work with individuals and couples dealing with a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and family conflict.
I specialize in assisting emerging adults through transition, trauma, and crises of faith and spirituality. I seek to provide a safe space for those who have experienced wounding by the church and other religious organizations. I am trained in EMDR, and I also have completed Level 1 Training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
(206) 504-2956 View (206) 504-2956
Photo of Antonia Marie Eberhart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Antonia Marie Eberhart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Internal Family Systems, both of which are effective interventions that help people live lives according to their values and from a place of self-leadership.
I have the privilege of walking alongside people braving the storm to get to something better. To help others move from feeling disempowered and alone to finding agency and connection is my great joy. I treat mood, anxiety, substance use, and trauma-related disorders, as well as co-dependency and couple/relationship issues such as infidelity, sex, difficulties navigating differences, and unresolved conflict. If you're struggling with "stuckness", internal conflict, confusion about who and what you want, disillusionment, or painful relationships, please reach out. Pain grows in isolation, so get the support you need.
I use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Internal Family Systems, both of which are effective interventions that help people live lives according to their values and from a place of self-leadership.
I have the privilege of walking alongside people braving the storm to get to something better. To help others move from feeling disempowered and alone to finding agency and connection is my great joy. I treat mood, anxiety, substance use, and trauma-related disorders, as well as co-dependency and couple/relationship issues such as infidelity, sex, difficulties navigating differences, and unresolved conflict. If you're struggling with "stuckness", internal conflict, confusion about who and what you want, disillusionment, or painful relationships, please reach out. Pain grows in isolation, so get the support you need.
(206) 800-8506 View (206) 800-8506
Photo of Amy Schottenstein, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MBA, LMFTA
Amy Schottenstein
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MBA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
I gravitate toward humanistic and experiential models like Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) and I have a foundation in Gottman Couples Therapy and attachment theory.
Words like “growth” and “development” align with my underlying beliefs about what is beneficial to clients, rather than words like “change” and “improvement.” While there is nothing wrong with wanting to change or even to “fix” ourselves, it is uncommon that our lives shift by setting those kinds of intentions. For most of us there are thoughts, emotions, and memories that block us from moving forward in our lives. This feeling of being blocked can mean that an unrecognized part of us needs to be attuned to and potentially healed.
I gravitate toward humanistic and experiential models like Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) and I have a foundation in Gottman Couples Therapy and attachment theory.
Words like “growth” and “development” align with my underlying beliefs about what is beneficial to clients, rather than words like “change” and “improvement.” While there is nothing wrong with wanting to change or even to “fix” ourselves, it is uncommon that our lives shift by setting those kinds of intentions. For most of us there are thoughts, emotions, and memories that block us from moving forward in our lives. This feeling of being blocked can mean that an unrecognized part of us needs to be attuned to and potentially healed.
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Photo of Kate Noson, Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Kate Noson
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115
The hardest patterns to break are often rooted in childhood family dynamics and societal pressures, which can lead to anxiety, depression, negative self-talk, and relationship conflicts.
With expertise in trauma, attachment, and neurodivergence, I offer a safe space for individuals and couples to explore past wounds and heal unhealthy cycles, grounding our work in hope, meaning, humor, and creativity. I help you learn to honor your individual needs and wants, set loving boundaries, and find new ways of connecting.
The hardest patterns to break are often rooted in childhood family dynamics and societal pressures, which can lead to anxiety, depression, negative self-talk, and relationship conflicts.
With expertise in trauma, attachment, and neurodivergence, I offer a safe space for individuals and couples to explore past wounds and heal unhealthy cycles, grounding our work in hope, meaning, humor, and creativity. I help you learn to honor your individual needs and wants, set loving boundaries, and find new ways of connecting.
(206) 649-2595 View (206) 649-2595
Photo of Dr. Scott Christie, Counselor, PhD, LMFT, LMHC, CADCIII
Dr. Scott Christie
Counselor, PhD, LMFT, LMHC, CADCIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I successfully work with those struggling with addictions, compulsions, anger and relationship issues and complex family dynamics.
Choosing a counselor is an important. I have 30+ years of experience helping individuals, couples and families. My support is to help clients manage emotions and reactions, increase communication skills, self-esteem and confidence. As I come alongside your journey I also understand the difficulties with self-disclosure and the barriers to change. I can provide a brief consultation to determine fit, and determine how I might support your goals.
I successfully work with those struggling with addictions, compulsions, anger and relationship issues and complex family dynamics.
Choosing a counselor is an important. I have 30+ years of experience helping individuals, couples and families. My support is to help clients manage emotions and reactions, increase communication skills, self-esteem and confidence. As I come alongside your journey I also understand the difficulties with self-disclosure and the barriers to change. I can provide a brief consultation to determine fit, and determine how I might support your goals.
(503) 300-6369 View (503) 300-6369
Photo of Mary Vargas, Counselor, MS, MSW, LMHCA, LSWAIC
Mary Vargas
Counselor, MS, MSW, LMHCA, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have provided solution-based interventions, trauma therapy, medical crisis and family interventions for cancer patients and their families, strength based focus therapy, humanistic approach and person centered approach to English and Spanish speaking families.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, couples, single parents, and the elderly. I also have experience that includes, but is not limited to, grief and loss, domestic violence, substance abuse, and career counseling. I prefer to use the humanistic and strengths-based approach but can change the therapy approach to fit your needs.
I have provided solution-based interventions, trauma therapy, medical crisis and family interventions for cancer patients and their families, strength based focus therapy, humanistic approach and person centered approach to English and Spanish speaking families.
I have experience working with children, adolescents, couples, single parents, and the elderly. I also have experience that includes, but is not limited to, grief and loss, domestic violence, substance abuse, and career counseling. I prefer to use the humanistic and strengths-based approach but can change the therapy approach to fit your needs.
(360) 774-4162 x1 View (360) 774-4162 x1
Photo of Siri Gerrity, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Siri Gerrity
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98118
I have an associates license in Marriage and Family Therapist with a certificate in Sex Therapy from Antioch University Seattle.
I specialize in compassionate, effective psychotherapy with a focus on relationships, sex, and intimacy. My approach is personalized and integrates Developmental Model techniques with affirming care for those in kink and polyamorous communities. I help individuals and partners navigate the complexities of intimacy and connection. In a culture that often prioritizes individuality over community, many people feel isolated—especially when it comes to something as stigmatized as sex. You're not alone.
I have an associates license in Marriage and Family Therapist with a certificate in Sex Therapy from Antioch University Seattle.
I specialize in compassionate, effective psychotherapy with a focus on relationships, sex, and intimacy. My approach is personalized and integrates Developmental Model techniques with affirming care for those in kink and polyamorous communities. I help individuals and partners navigate the complexities of intimacy and connection. In a culture that often prioritizes individuality over community, many people feel isolated—especially when it comes to something as stigmatized as sex. You're not alone.
(425) 217-5203 View (425) 217-5203
Photo of Jenny Leung, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, E-RYT
Jenny Leung
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, E-RYT
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT).
I am an attachment-oriented, trauma and neurodiversity-informed, inclusive, Emotionally-Focused (EFT) therapist. I specialize in working with neurodivergent (ADHD, autism, SPD, highly-sensitive, introvert) or mixed-neurotype couples and couples struggling with intergenerational trauma, depression, anxiety, cultural or personal identity.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT).
I am an attachment-oriented, trauma and neurodiversity-informed, inclusive, Emotionally-Focused (EFT) therapist. I specialize in working with neurodivergent (ADHD, autism, SPD, highly-sensitive, introvert) or mixed-neurotype couples and couples struggling with intergenerational trauma, depression, anxiety, cultural or personal identity.
(206) 966-4172 View (206) 966-4172
Photo of Mary Jayne Wykowski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Mary Jayne Wykowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The integrative nature of my work allows for us to look at family of origin explanations, without blaming, so that you can move toward change.
It is my belief that loss, trauma, depression, and/or addiction often clouds our resiliency and wisdom. I will work with you to recognize your strengths while incorporating therapeutic tools. We can identify patterns and paths, which will likely move you towards a more satisfied life.
The integrative nature of my work allows for us to look at family of origin explanations, without blaming, so that you can move toward change.
It is my belief that loss, trauma, depression, and/or addiction often clouds our resiliency and wisdom. I will work with you to recognize your strengths while incorporating therapeutic tools. We can identify patterns and paths, which will likely move you towards a more satisfied life.
(206) 558-1081 View (206) 558-1081
Photo of Tobin Marti, Counselor, LMHC , NCC
Tobin Marti
Counselor, LMHC , NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
My areas of expertise include stress management, anxiety, depression, personal growth, family, and relationship issues.
My therapeutic approach is a positive mindset designed to evaluate each person within their environment, and to provide supportive and practical feedback to help you effectively address personal life challenges. With compassion, understanding, and a good sense of humor, I will help you to achieve your identified treatment goals.
My areas of expertise include stress management, anxiety, depression, personal growth, family, and relationship issues.
My therapeutic approach is a positive mindset designed to evaluate each person within their environment, and to provide supportive and practical feedback to help you effectively address personal life challenges. With compassion, understanding, and a good sense of humor, I will help you to achieve your identified treatment goals.
(425) 842-2749 View (425) 842-2749
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Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.