Photo of Shawn Lee Reagan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pipe Creek, TX
Shawn Lee Reagan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Pipe Creek, TX 78063
I specialize in helping people navigate both family and spouse relationship dynamics focusing mainly on communication strategies, boundaries and intimacy.
Asking for help is a sign of strength. People mistake the feeling of vulnerability for weakness, allowing this feeling to surface means we are facing something painful. This takes courage. Learning to experience feelings without judging them is a foundational part of the healing process. Acceptance is a sign of bravery and leads to developing what is called emotional intelligence. When you engage in the development of your emotional intelligence you are increasing self-awareness and personal freedom by creating choice where there was none before.
I specialize in helping people navigate both family and spouse relationship dynamics focusing mainly on communication strategies, boundaries and intimacy.
Asking for help is a sign of strength. People mistake the feeling of vulnerability for weakness, allowing this feeling to surface means we are facing something painful. This takes courage. Learning to experience feelings without judging them is a foundational part of the healing process. Acceptance is a sign of bravery and leads to developing what is called emotional intelligence. When you engage in the development of your emotional intelligence you are increasing self-awareness and personal freedom by creating choice where there was none before.
(830) 541-7360 View (830) 541-7360

Online Therapists

Photo of Chelsea Reeves, Marriage & Family Therapist in Pipe Creek, TX
Chelsea Reeves
Marriage & Family Therapist, LADC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
Chelsea Reeves grew up in East Texas where her passion for connecting and helping others was first ignited. Chelsea moved to Newport Beach, CA when she was only 19 to begin her own journey of recovery. This experience inspired her to begin working in the mental health field, and for the last decade Chelsea has held positions at a variety of adult and adolescent treatment programs. . During her free time, Chelsea enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, attending concerts, and traveling the US in her custom-build skoolie.
Chelsea Reeves grew up in East Texas where her passion for connecting and helping others was first ignited. Chelsea moved to Newport Beach, CA when she was only 19 to begin her own journey of recovery. This experience inspired her to begin working in the mental health field, and for the last decade Chelsea has held positions at a variety of adult and adolescent treatment programs. . During her free time, Chelsea enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends, attending concerts, and traveling the US in her custom-build skoolie.
(512) 764-9842 View (512) 764-9842
Photo of Ashley Cash, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pipe Creek, TX
Ashley Cash
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78704
I understand and effectively work with the service member and service member family population.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults and provide a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space for my clients. I view the therapeutic relationship as a vital component of successful therapy. Therefore, I ensure that the relationship is collaborative because I believe the client knows themselves best. I believe that advocacy is integral to the therapeutic relationship and advocate for my clients by identifying local resources to aid in achieving therapy goals.
I understand and effectively work with the service member and service member family population.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults and provide a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space for my clients. I view the therapeutic relationship as a vital component of successful therapy. Therefore, I ensure that the relationship is collaborative because I believe the client knows themselves best. I believe that advocacy is integral to the therapeutic relationship and advocate for my clients by identifying local resources to aid in achieving therapy goals.
(915) 233-3757 View (915) 233-3757
Photo of Olivia Kraus, Psychologist in Pipe Creek, TX
Olivia Kraus
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731
I like to work with clients who want more than short-term symptom relief; I want to help you make meaningful and sustainable changes. I enjoy working with clients motivated to better understand themselves and improve their quality of life, especially as they navigate challenges related to anxiety, lack of confidence, life transitions (and/or stagnancy), gender roles, and relationships (e.g., friendships, family relationships, professional relationships, and dating/romantic relationships).
I like to work with clients who want more than short-term symptom relief; I want to help you make meaningful and sustainable changes. I enjoy working with clients motivated to better understand themselves and improve their quality of life, especially as they navigate challenges related to anxiety, lack of confidence, life transitions (and/or stagnancy), gender roles, and relationships (e.g., friendships, family relationships, professional relationships, and dating/romantic relationships).
(210) 750-6401 View (210) 750-6401
Photo of Ashlei Bowman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pipe Creek, TX
Ashlei Bowman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78721  (Online Only)
Are you tired of being so tired all of the time? I hear you! When you’re used to being the go-to person for so many in your life, you might find yourself wondering, “Who can I go to?” Inside you may feel lonely even though you have family and friends around you all the time. Telling them how you feel? Not an option. They wouldn’t understand or would only use it against you later. Things that have happened in your past might keep popping up, and you can’t understand why you are not over them yet. The feelings feel like too much and you don’t have time for a breakdown.
Are you tired of being so tired all of the time? I hear you! When you’re used to being the go-to person for so many in your life, you might find yourself wondering, “Who can I go to?” Inside you may feel lonely even though you have family and friends around you all the time. Telling them how you feel? Not an option. They wouldn’t understand or would only use it against you later. Things that have happened in your past might keep popping up, and you can’t understand why you are not over them yet. The feelings feel like too much and you don’t have time for a breakdown.
(469) 778-3941 View (469) 778-3941
Photo of Shuka Alaee, LPC Associate in Pipe Creek, TX
Shuka Alaee
LPC Associate, MA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78702  (Online Only)
As a trauma-informed IFS (Internal Family Systems) Trained therapist, I will work with you from a holistic framework that is guided by your specific needs.
We all do the best we can to cope, but sometimes our efforts throw us out of balance. I work with individuals who are feeling the impacts of these imbalances viscerally, either people who are analytically minded who feel emotions are a hinderance or people who are highly sensitive whose feelings can act like an overwhelming tidal wave. Our imbalances can manifest in depression, anxiety, overwhelming stress, or a dissatisfaction with relationships. In our work together you can expect for us to create treatment goals guided by your core values that move you towards clarity and growth.
As a trauma-informed IFS (Internal Family Systems) Trained therapist, I will work with you from a holistic framework that is guided by your specific needs.
We all do the best we can to cope, but sometimes our efforts throw us out of balance. I work with individuals who are feeling the impacts of these imbalances viscerally, either people who are analytically minded who feel emotions are a hinderance or people who are highly sensitive whose feelings can act like an overwhelming tidal wave. Our imbalances can manifest in depression, anxiety, overwhelming stress, or a dissatisfaction with relationships. In our work together you can expect for us to create treatment goals guided by your core values that move you towards clarity and growth.
(512) 234-4833 View (512) 234-4833
Photo of Dana Shepard Cardwell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pipe Creek, TX
Dana Shepard Cardwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, Reiki
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kerrville, TX 78028
Author: "Breaking the Cycle of the As: anxiety, anger, addiction, ADHD", "HYPER! One woman's triumph over ADHD, assault, and family dysfunction by crossing the finish line" , "Lighten UP.
Some people will throw rocks on your path, it depends on what you make with them, a wall or a bridge? Allow me to assist you in building a path to bliss and happiness. I can help you unlock your unique treasures whether you are a student, adult, or grandparent. I've worked with male/females from anxiety issues to suicidal ideations. I enjoy working with individuals of all walks of life who have had to face unique challenges. I, also, offer spiritual and life coaching retreats in Cozumel. I enjoy working with teens, women, young couples, military/law enforcement and LGBTQ individuals. Find my books on Amazon.
Author: "Breaking the Cycle of the As: anxiety, anger, addiction, ADHD", "HYPER! One woman's triumph over ADHD, assault, and family dysfunction by crossing the finish line" , "Lighten UP.
Some people will throw rocks on your path, it depends on what you make with them, a wall or a bridge? Allow me to assist you in building a path to bliss and happiness. I can help you unlock your unique treasures whether you are a student, adult, or grandparent. I've worked with male/females from anxiety issues to suicidal ideations. I enjoy working with individuals of all walks of life who have had to face unique challenges. I, also, offer spiritual and life coaching retreats in Cozumel. I enjoy working with teens, women, young couples, military/law enforcement and LGBTQ individuals. Find my books on Amazon.
(830) 224-2702 View (830) 224-2702
Photo of Kim Zimmerman, Psychologist in Pipe Creek, TX
Kim Zimmerman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78702  (Online Only)
My clients typically want relief from 1) life stress related to being a high-achieving working professional, student, or healthcare provider 2) relationship, marital, or family difficulties 3) overwhelming feelings of insecurity, shame, or anger 4) difficulties processing grief, loss, or trauma 5) anxiety, overanalyzing, or irritability.
Welcome! While finding a new therapist can be daunting, I hope this page can give you the information and encouragement you need as you take this important next step. My passion as a therapist lies in providing a space for you to 1) better understand yourself and your goals, 2) determine what is working for you and what may not be, and 3) feel emboldened to approach life in new and meaningful ways. It is my hope that our time together will help you to release yourself from patterns that have left you feeling stuck, and instead, find the space and freedom to explore what’s most important to you.
My clients typically want relief from 1) life stress related to being a high-achieving working professional, student, or healthcare provider 2) relationship, marital, or family difficulties 3) overwhelming feelings of insecurity, shame, or anger 4) difficulties processing grief, loss, or trauma 5) anxiety, overanalyzing, or irritability.
Welcome! While finding a new therapist can be daunting, I hope this page can give you the information and encouragement you need as you take this important next step. My passion as a therapist lies in providing a space for you to 1) better understand yourself and your goals, 2) determine what is working for you and what may not be, and 3) feel emboldened to approach life in new and meaningful ways. It is my hope that our time together will help you to release yourself from patterns that have left you feeling stuck, and instead, find the space and freedom to explore what’s most important to you.
(512) 882-1105 View (512) 882-1105
Photo of Jagger L. Hernandez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pipe Creek, TX
Jagger L. Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216
I am grateful to have had the experience in working with individuals that are struggling with life stressors, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, relationship issues, family support, and self-injurious behavior. I also have had the opportunity to work with couples, children/adolescence, young adults, and older adults. I am full licensed LPC and I want to acknowledge the courage that you are taking towards healing and self-care. I am available to listen to your goals and what you would like to get out of counseling services. Change does not have to be stressful and with the right support, you might even surprise yourself.
I am grateful to have had the experience in working with individuals that are struggling with life stressors, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, relationship issues, family support, and self-injurious behavior. I also have had the opportunity to work with couples, children/adolescence, young adults, and older adults. I am full licensed LPC and I want to acknowledge the courage that you are taking towards healing and self-care. I am available to listen to your goals and what you would like to get out of counseling services. Change does not have to be stressful and with the right support, you might even surprise yourself.
(833) 909-1366 View (833) 909-1366
Photo of Alyssandra Livingston-Shelburne, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pipe Creek, TX
Alyssandra Livingston-Shelburne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78664  (Online Only)
While I specialize in working with children, I also see adult clients who could be struggling with a variety of treatment issues, such as: life adjustment, depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, identity exploration, family conflict, stress, as well as peer and family relationships.
Has your child has started behaving out of character leading you to wonder what they are going through? Perhaps they are struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, or anger. Play therapy offers an avenue to gain insight into what your child is struggling with and can help them gain confidence and explore their emotions in a safe environment where they can freely express themselves. I strive to build a therapeutic egalitarian relationship where we work together in order to help resolve the issues you and your family could be struggling with.
While I specialize in working with children, I also see adult clients who could be struggling with a variety of treatment issues, such as: life adjustment, depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, identity exploration, family conflict, stress, as well as peer and family relationships.
Has your child has started behaving out of character leading you to wonder what they are going through? Perhaps they are struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, or anger. Play therapy offers an avenue to gain insight into what your child is struggling with and can help them gain confidence and explore their emotions in a safe environment where they can freely express themselves. I strive to build a therapeutic egalitarian relationship where we work together in order to help resolve the issues you and your family could be struggling with.
(855) 910-9401 View (855) 910-9401
Photo of Ini Ekpenyong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Pipe Creek, TX
Ini Ekpenyong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCDCi
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78748
Waitlist for new clients
I’m also a Nigerian American woman who understands how culture/family dynamics may affect our relationship with our emotions.
Hi there, it's so nice to meet you and I'm so happy that you have decided to embark on this healing journey. I am a first generation Nigerian America therapist in Austin, TX. I work with a broad range of mental health diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, Borderline Personality Disorder, eating disorders, and addiction. My therapeutic style is warm and empathetic, but I will still call you out while maintaining a safe space. I am also aware of how the body stores trauma and can offer guidance on re-regulating your nervous system through somatic experiencing.
I’m also a Nigerian American woman who understands how culture/family dynamics may affect our relationship with our emotions.
Hi there, it's so nice to meet you and I'm so happy that you have decided to embark on this healing journey. I am a first generation Nigerian America therapist in Austin, TX. I work with a broad range of mental health diagnoses such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, Borderline Personality Disorder, eating disorders, and addiction. My therapeutic style is warm and empathetic, but I will still call you out while maintaining a safe space. I am also aware of how the body stores trauma and can offer guidance on re-regulating your nervous system through somatic experiencing.
(512) 967-8366 View (512) 967-8366
Photo of Carly Kay Friedman, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Pipe Creek, TX
Carly Kay Friedman
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, MA
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78229
This can be a difficult time of year. Family obligations, financial stress, and balancing work and family can be especially stressful. It's the perfect time to change our cognitions and behavior to improve our daily experience. Together, we can move towards better coping and optimism. I take joy in working with clients to develop skills, gain self-awareness, experience growth, & appreciate their strengths. My affirmative approach includes changing beliefs & behaviors that are no longer serving you in a supportive and accepting environment. Immediate openings for virtual & in-person counseling with teens, adults, and couples.
This can be a difficult time of year. Family obligations, financial stress, and balancing work and family can be especially stressful. It's the perfect time to change our cognitions and behavior to improve our daily experience. Together, we can move towards better coping and optimism. I take joy in working with clients to develop skills, gain self-awareness, experience growth, & appreciate their strengths. My affirmative approach includes changing beliefs & behaviors that are no longer serving you in a supportive and accepting environment. Immediate openings for virtual & in-person counseling with teens, adults, and couples.
(210) 941-1252 View (210) 941-1252
Photo of Elizabeth Weber, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pipe Creek, TX
Elizabeth Weber
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78701
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience in providing therapy to women (ages 28-45) and therapists/counselors. I received my Master's degree in Counseling from St. Edward's University and my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Texas A&M University. Populations and Issues I specialize in: Anxiety, Relationship Issues/Enrichment, Difficulty "feeling" feelings/emotions, different forms of perfectionism, and high achievers. I also enjoy working with therapists/emerging therapists who want to explore "person of the therapist" concerns.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with experience in providing therapy to women (ages 28-45) and therapists/counselors. I received my Master's degree in Counseling from St. Edward's University and my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Texas A&M University. Populations and Issues I specialize in: Anxiety, Relationship Issues/Enrichment, Difficulty "feeling" feelings/emotions, different forms of perfectionism, and high achievers. I also enjoy working with therapists/emerging therapists who want to explore "person of the therapist" concerns.
View
Photo of Austin B Sheffield, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pipe Creek, TX
Austin B Sheffield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78762
I have extensively counseled individuals who have struggled with substance abuse, depression, and anxiety; as well as individuals who have suffered a brain injury and their respective family members.
As a counselor, my goal is to assist you in finding your purpose in this world. I want to help you discover your values and your meaning through in-depth exploration into your belief system so that you can find the answers to your questions and the power to overcome life's obstacles. Working from an existential philosophy and foundation, I utilize a variety of techniques and tools depending on the needs of the client.
I have extensively counseled individuals who have struggled with substance abuse, depression, and anxiety; as well as individuals who have suffered a brain injury and their respective family members.
As a counselor, my goal is to assist you in finding your purpose in this world. I want to help you discover your values and your meaning through in-depth exploration into your belief system so that you can find the answers to your questions and the power to overcome life's obstacles. Working from an existential philosophy and foundation, I utilize a variety of techniques and tools depending on the needs of the client.
(512) 881-9092 View (512) 881-9092
Photo of Stephanie Beckner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pipe Creek, TX
Stephanie Beckner
Licensed Professional Counselor, JD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78745
I work with individuals and couples facing a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, life transitions, self-esteem issues, family conflict, parenting concerns, and substance abuse.
I work with my clients to create an open and collaborative relationship offering a nonjudgmental, supportive environment for growth and change. I am dedicated to creating a safe therapeutic space to explore vulnerability and discover and ignite client strengths, while expanding self-compassion, connectedness, resiliency, and self-awareness. With empathy and encouragement, I will meet you where you are and guide treatment unique to your individual needs and goals. I use an integrative, evidence-based approach to create positive change, incorporating CBT, DBT, mindfulness, shame-resilience theory, and solution-focused therapy.
I work with individuals and couples facing a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, relationship struggles, life transitions, self-esteem issues, family conflict, parenting concerns, and substance abuse.
I work with my clients to create an open and collaborative relationship offering a nonjudgmental, supportive environment for growth and change. I am dedicated to creating a safe therapeutic space to explore vulnerability and discover and ignite client strengths, while expanding self-compassion, connectedness, resiliency, and self-awareness. With empathy and encouragement, I will meet you where you are and guide treatment unique to your individual needs and goals. I use an integrative, evidence-based approach to create positive change, incorporating CBT, DBT, mindfulness, shame-resilience theory, and solution-focused therapy.
(737) 530-9213 View (737) 530-9213
Photo of Modern Life Psychology, Psychologist in Pipe Creek, TX
Modern Life Psychology
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
Bee Cave, TX 78738  (Online Only)
As a psychologist licensed in both NY and TX, my aim is to help people understand and overcome challenges that are restricting their well being, relationships, and effectiveness at work. For adults, I specialize in these issues: high-achievers, stress management, relationship issues, life transitions, parenting, marital or family conflicts, anxiety and depression (e.g., social anxiety, covid-19 related). It is truly rewarding to watch my clients become more self-regulated, more satisfied in their relationships, and more equipped to handle life’s stressors through learned coping skills.
As a psychologist licensed in both NY and TX, my aim is to help people understand and overcome challenges that are restricting their well being, relationships, and effectiveness at work. For adults, I specialize in these issues: high-achievers, stress management, relationship issues, life transitions, parenting, marital or family conflicts, anxiety and depression (e.g., social anxiety, covid-19 related). It is truly rewarding to watch my clients become more self-regulated, more satisfied in their relationships, and more equipped to handle life’s stressors through learned coping skills.
(512) 843-7069 View (512) 843-7069
Photo of Elise Waszczak, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pipe Creek, TX
Elise Waszczak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78665  (Online Only)
I served in the nonprofit world for years prior to my work with repeat offenders. I have coordinated groups for those struggling with substance use and anger management. I have worked in a correctional facility, where I had much exposure to those in crisis and with acute mental illness. Now, I mostly work with adults addressing trauma, depression, anxiety, and everyday stress. I am very family-oriented and have always prioritized the importance of relationships. As a licensed professional counselor, I provide a safe place for you to work on the most important relationship- the one you have with yourself.
I served in the nonprofit world for years prior to my work with repeat offenders. I have coordinated groups for those struggling with substance use and anger management. I have worked in a correctional facility, where I had much exposure to those in crisis and with acute mental illness. Now, I mostly work with adults addressing trauma, depression, anxiety, and everyday stress. I am very family-oriented and have always prioritized the importance of relationships. As a licensed professional counselor, I provide a safe place for you to work on the most important relationship- the one you have with yourself.
(844) 462-8605 View (844) 462-8605
Photo of Chari D. Vandever, M.A., LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pipe Creek, TX
Chari D. Vandever, M.A., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78260  (Online Only)
I will have limited openings for new clients beginning in February 2024. I focus on treating young adults (18+) and women's issues. I am familiar with the unique problems young adults deal with in this age of technology and social media and their impact on self esteem and relationships/friendships as well as life transitions. I see individuals with various issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, social anxiety, self esteem issues, self harm, family conflict, issues surrounding social media, entering college, relationship problems, PTSD, as well as victims of physical, emotional, sexual abuse.
I will have limited openings for new clients beginning in February 2024. I focus on treating young adults (18+) and women's issues. I am familiar with the unique problems young adults deal with in this age of technology and social media and their impact on self esteem and relationships/friendships as well as life transitions. I see individuals with various issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, social anxiety, self esteem issues, self harm, family conflict, issues surrounding social media, entering college, relationship problems, PTSD, as well as victims of physical, emotional, sexual abuse.
(361) 792-3703 View (361) 792-3703
Photo of Adriane McCord, Pre-Licensed Professional in Pipe Creek, TX
Adriane McCord
Pre-Licensed Professional, MBA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I work with a wide range of clients who seek support on their quest to live more intentional, authentic, and whole-hearted lives. I support the overworked professional struggling with stress management, burnout, imposter syndrome, or the search of their true passions. Or a new parent struggling with the transition to parenthood and one's changing identity. Or an individual experiencing relationship challenges, including communication style differences, expectations for the future, or looking for love. I am also well-suited to support family of origin or coming of age challenges, as well as anxiety and depression.
I work with a wide range of clients who seek support on their quest to live more intentional, authentic, and whole-hearted lives. I support the overworked professional struggling with stress management, burnout, imposter syndrome, or the search of their true passions. Or a new parent struggling with the transition to parenthood and one's changing identity. Or an individual experiencing relationship challenges, including communication style differences, expectations for the future, or looking for love. I am also well-suited to support family of origin or coming of age challenges, as well as anxiety and depression.
(512) 793-9488 View (512) 793-9488
Photo of Tiffany Begley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Pipe Creek, TX
Tiffany Begley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78717
Anxiety is annoying. Depression is annoying. It doesn't have to be. Trauma is overwhelming. You can learn to lessen and live with these struggles. Take control. The power is in your hands. It's a journey... or any other cliche saying that works in therapy. It's all welcome here. I work with clients diagnosed with a variety of mental health disorders including psychosis, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. I specialize in military and military family struggles. I also have experience working with law enforcement and other first responders.
Anxiety is annoying. Depression is annoying. It doesn't have to be. Trauma is overwhelming. You can learn to lessen and live with these struggles. Take control. The power is in your hands. It's a journey... or any other cliche saying that works in therapy. It's all welcome here. I work with clients diagnosed with a variety of mental health disorders including psychosis, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. I specialize in military and military family struggles. I also have experience working with law enforcement and other first responders.
(512) 877-7587 View (512) 877-7587

See more therapy options for Pipe Creek


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.