Family Therapy Counselling in Hobart, TAS

Photo of Liz Cobcroft - & Pause Counselling & Therapy, PACFA, Counsellor
& Pause Counselling & Therapy
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Kingston, TAS 7050
Offering counselling for children, teens, individuals & families, '& Pause Counselling & Therapy' aims to create a space where you can push pause on the demands of study or work, the expectations of friends & family, or the ache and weight of a long carried load, & be listened to, heard, and valued as an individual. Where you can be still and refill emotionally, mentally, physically, & spiritually, giving you space to breathe; time to rest, reflect and reassess. Time to step back, think, let things go, & recalibrate in order to for you to thrive, not just ‘survive’. Gaining greater insight and understanding; a fresh new perspective.
Offering counselling for children, teens, individuals & families, '& Pause Counselling & Therapy' aims to create a space where you can push pause on the demands of study or work, the expectations of friends & family, or the ache and weight of a long carried load, & be listened to, heard, and valued as an individual. Where you can be still and refill emotionally, mentally, physically, & spiritually, giving you space to breathe; time to rest, reflect and reassess. Time to step back, think, let things go, & recalibrate in order to for you to thrive, not just ‘survive’. Gaining greater insight and understanding; a fresh new perspective.
0439 328 570 View 0439 328 570
Photo of Brendan Partridge, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Brendan Partridge
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Hobart, TAS 7000
My expertise includes mood and anxiety disorders, adolescent mental health, men's mental health and behavioural change, relationship and family stressors, trauma, workplace injury, personality disorders, grief and loss, anger management, offending behaviours, and substance use issues.
I am an experienced clinical psychologist readily available to assist you in understanding and improving your quality of life. Based on my core values of insight, compassion, and empowerment, I am passionate about providing a warm and welcoming therapeutic experience tailored to the individual. I provide an integrative style of intervention, drawing from both professional training, as well as lived experiences. Over and above the 'type' of therapy delivered, I am client-centred, and believe in a validating and constructive therapeutic relationship as the main vehicle toward change.
My expertise includes mood and anxiety disorders, adolescent mental health, men's mental health and behavioural change, relationship and family stressors, trauma, workplace injury, personality disorders, grief and loss, anger management, offending behaviours, and substance use issues.
I am an experienced clinical psychologist readily available to assist you in understanding and improving your quality of life. Based on my core values of insight, compassion, and empowerment, I am passionate about providing a warm and welcoming therapeutic experience tailored to the individual. I provide an integrative style of intervention, drawing from both professional training, as well as lived experiences. Over and above the 'type' of therapy delivered, I am client-centred, and believe in a validating and constructive therapeutic relationship as the main vehicle toward change.
(02) 4504 0257 View (02) 4504 0257
Photo of Alicia Marie Garrett - Not taking new clients currently, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Not taking new clients currently
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Hobart, TAS 7000
Hi, I'm Alicia. I am passionate about providing specialist mental health support. I have worked with teens, adults and families experiencing a diverse range of difficulties including; anxiety, depression, family violence, relationship difficulties/breakdowns, personality disorders, complex trauma/trauma, disordered eating, low self-esteem and substance misuse. I believe in developing respectful, authentic and open-minded relationships with each person I work with. My approach is inclusive, relaxed and when appropriate humorous and playful.
Hi, I'm Alicia. I am passionate about providing specialist mental health support. I have worked with teens, adults and families experiencing a diverse range of difficulties including; anxiety, depression, family violence, relationship difficulties/breakdowns, personality disorders, complex trauma/trauma, disordered eating, low self-esteem and substance misuse. I believe in developing respectful, authentic and open-minded relationships with each person I work with. My approach is inclusive, relaxed and when appropriate humorous and playful.
(07) 5240 9990 View (07) 5240 9990
Photo of Tessa Taylor - Paediatric Feeding International Dr. Tessa Taylor, PhD, MAPS, Psychologist
Paediatric Feeding International Dr. Tessa Taylor
Psychologist, PhD, MAPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hobart, TAS 7000
Reclaim the joy of family mealtimes! Next to breathing, feeding is the first and most important thing we have to do in life, connected to almost every other aspect of a child’s life and development, occuring multiple times a day, everyday. No human behaviour has greater biological and social significance. We're available internationally for symptoms of paediatric feeding disorders (PFD), avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), baby bottle or feeding tube dependence (tube weaning), food selectivity ('picky'/'fussy' eaters), mealtime behaviour, skills (utensils, cup drinking, chewing), medication refusal, and pica.
Reclaim the joy of family mealtimes! Next to breathing, feeding is the first and most important thing we have to do in life, connected to almost every other aspect of a child’s life and development, occuring multiple times a day, everyday. No human behaviour has greater biological and social significance. We're available internationally for symptoms of paediatric feeding disorders (PFD), avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), baby bottle or feeding tube dependence (tube weaning), food selectivity ('picky'/'fussy' eaters), mealtime behaviour, skills (utensils, cup drinking, chewing), medication refusal, and pica.
(02) 9188 5084 View (02) 9188 5084
Photo of Sara Phillips - Sara Phillips @ Deep Eco Soul Wisdom , PACFA, Counsellor
Sara Phillips @ Deep Eco Soul Wisdom
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lindisfarne, TAS 7015
Through Internal Family Systems (IFS therapy) we will explore how to integrate and heal parts of your inner AND outer ecosystem (relationships, community, earth).
Warm, friendly and down-to-earth Internal Family Systems, IFS informed therapy where you feel seen, heard, and welcome. You will be guided to explore and understand your parts (emotions, sensations, thoughts, core beliefs) and your values. This strengths-based healing process will support you to grow in curiousity, compassion, courage, creativity and deepen your connection to your Self, to others and to the world around you. Each session will support you to develop strategies to heal parts and shift mood, energy, thoughts, emotions, body awareness and to deepen your relationships and sense of belonging. In Hobart & online.
Through Internal Family Systems (IFS therapy) we will explore how to integrate and heal parts of your inner AND outer ecosystem (relationships, community, earth).
Warm, friendly and down-to-earth Internal Family Systems, IFS informed therapy where you feel seen, heard, and welcome. You will be guided to explore and understand your parts (emotions, sensations, thoughts, core beliefs) and your values. This strengths-based healing process will support you to grow in curiousity, compassion, courage, creativity and deepen your connection to your Self, to others and to the world around you. Each session will support you to develop strategies to heal parts and shift mood, energy, thoughts, emotions, body awareness and to deepen your relationships and sense of belonging. In Hobart & online.
(03) 6164 5243 View (03) 6164 5243
Photo of Nerissa Stanley, MA, AAFT, Counsellor
Nerissa Stanley
Counsellor, MA, AAFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Hobart, TAS 7000
Hi, I’m Nerissa. I’m a mental health occupational therapist, family therapist and life coach passionate about supporting my clients to form healthy and loving relationships with themselves and others, build deeper awareness into how past experiences and traumas impact their life and creating space for healing, empowerment and conscious creation of positive and sustainable change. I come to private practice with over ten years’ experience working in the public mental health sector across both adult and child and adolescent services. I have worked with individuals, couples and families.
Hi, I’m Nerissa. I’m a mental health occupational therapist, family therapist and life coach passionate about supporting my clients to form healthy and loving relationships with themselves and others, build deeper awareness into how past experiences and traumas impact their life and creating space for healing, empowerment and conscious creation of positive and sustainable change. I come to private practice with over ten years’ experience working in the public mental health sector across both adult and child and adolescent services. I have worked with individuals, couples and families.
(03) 6163 9803 View (03) 6163 9803
Photo of Miro Rainsford, PhD, PACFA, Counsellor
Miro Rainsford
Counsellor, PhD, PACFA
Verified Verified
I am an openly out member of the LGBTQIA+ community and am keen to support clients with any issues related to diversity in gender identity, bodies, or sexuality, including questioning identity and coming out, understanding diverse identities, experiencing discrimination and abuse, and building relationships with family, friends and in the workplace.
Hi, I’m Miro, and I am a counsellor and psychotherapist based in Hobart, I am available to support teenagers and young people, adults, and elder members of our community. I have experience supporting clients with a range of concerns, and have a personal focus on mental health counselling and supporting survivors of trauma, including childhood trauma, family violence and sexual assault. I am trained in a wide range of evidence-based therapies including CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and contemporary trauma-informed therapies including EMDR.
I am an openly out member of the LGBTQIA+ community and am keen to support clients with any issues related to diversity in gender identity, bodies, or sexuality, including questioning identity and coming out, understanding diverse identities, experiencing discrimination and abuse, and building relationships with family, friends and in the workplace.
Hi, I’m Miro, and I am a counsellor and psychotherapist based in Hobart, I am available to support teenagers and young people, adults, and elder members of our community. I have experience supporting clients with a range of concerns, and have a personal focus on mental health counselling and supporting survivors of trauma, including childhood trauma, family violence and sexual assault. I am trained in a wide range of evidence-based therapies including CBT, ACT, Schema Therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, and contemporary trauma-informed therapies including EMDR.
(03) 6155 4201 View (03) 6155 4201
Photo of Jen Wiedman, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen Wiedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Hobart, TAS 7000
Waitlist for new clients
I'm passionate about my specialities in family violence, homelessness, LGBTIQ+ issues, and womxn's health and wellbeing matters.
I'm the practice Owner, Director & Principal Therapist of Wild Calm Therapies. People who reach out and connect with me, are usually womxn or LGBTIQ+ adults, with difficulties in self, relationship, family, career, community or identity, or professionals / leaders in human services or health and medical fields. These folks are usually already highly reflective and have a readiness and willingness to work on issues affecting and surrounding them. Therapy is a form of self-care, self-love and self-investment.
I'm passionate about my specialities in family violence, homelessness, LGBTIQ+ issues, and womxn's health and wellbeing matters.
I'm the practice Owner, Director & Principal Therapist of Wild Calm Therapies. People who reach out and connect with me, are usually womxn or LGBTIQ+ adults, with difficulties in self, relationship, family, career, community or identity, or professionals / leaders in human services or health and medical fields. These folks are usually already highly reflective and have a readiness and willingness to work on issues affecting and surrounding them. Therapy is a form of self-care, self-love and self-investment.
(07) 3186 8323 View (07) 3186 8323
Photo of Nadia Mahjouri, ACA-L1, Counsellor
Nadia Mahjouri
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Sandy Bay, TAS 7005
Hi, my name is Nadia. I’m a registered counsellor, group facilitator, mediator and the mother of five in a blended family. I specialise in perinatal mental health, from pregnancy anxiety, miscarriage and infant loss, processing birth trauma, to postnatal depression, relationship problems when children arrive, and the challenges of blended families. I also have a special interest in supporting parents of gender diverse or gender questioning children of all ages.
Hi, my name is Nadia. I’m a registered counsellor, group facilitator, mediator and the mother of five in a blended family. I specialise in perinatal mental health, from pregnancy anxiety, miscarriage and infant loss, processing birth trauma, to postnatal depression, relationship problems when children arrive, and the challenges of blended families. I also have a special interest in supporting parents of gender diverse or gender questioning children of all ages.
(03) 6163 9980 View (03) 6163 9980
Photo of Cate Harding Counselling Continuum, MC, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Cate Harding Counselling Continuum
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
Hobart, TAS 7000
I have extensively supported individuals experiencing Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Family violence, Grief and loss, Relationship breakdowns, Stress and Trauma.
Sometimes life can feel like a lot. You may be anxious, grieving, feeling vulnerable or a little lost. Counselling allows you the opportunity to be seen and heard and explore what's going on. Occasionally your past can impact your here and now, and the way you deal with situations. I believe that effective therapy comes from being flexible with the therapeutic modalities used, and meeting you where you are at. I value and foster the importance of a collaborative approach to therapy. I offer a safe space for you to explore your experiences and to develop skills and understanding, which you can take into your day to day life.
I have extensively supported individuals experiencing Abuse, Anxiety, Depression, Family violence, Grief and loss, Relationship breakdowns, Stress and Trauma.
Sometimes life can feel like a lot. You may be anxious, grieving, feeling vulnerable or a little lost. Counselling allows you the opportunity to be seen and heard and explore what's going on. Occasionally your past can impact your here and now, and the way you deal with situations. I believe that effective therapy comes from being flexible with the therapeutic modalities used, and meeting you where you are at. I value and foster the importance of a collaborative approach to therapy. I offer a safe space for you to explore your experiences and to develop skills and understanding, which you can take into your day to day life.
(03) 6144 6089 View (03) 6144 6089
Photo of Saria J Phillips, MA, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Saria J Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Hobart, TAS 7000
Saria works with couples, family systems and individuals by utilising a range of evidenced based therapies including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Internal Family Systems therapy, Emotionally Focused therapy, ACT, CBT and often incorporates creative techniques such as narrative therapy, sand tray work and visual arts.
Hi there! I'm a family therapist with a Master’s degree from the Bouverie centre, Latrobe University and an accredited mental health social worker, with a Bachelor’s degree from University of Tasmania. I have been providing treatment and support to children, adolescents and families impacted by mental illness, grief and loss, and trauma for 18 years. In recent years I have expanded my practice to working with adult individuals, and couples to navigate challenges with mental health and relationships. I am also a passionate provider of Clinical Supervision for mental health, and allied health practitioners.
Saria works with couples, family systems and individuals by utilising a range of evidenced based therapies including Dialectical Behaviour Therapy, Internal Family Systems therapy, Emotionally Focused therapy, ACT, CBT and often incorporates creative techniques such as narrative therapy, sand tray work and visual arts.
Hi there! I'm a family therapist with a Master’s degree from the Bouverie centre, Latrobe University and an accredited mental health social worker, with a Bachelor’s degree from University of Tasmania. I have been providing treatment and support to children, adolescents and families impacted by mental illness, grief and loss, and trauma for 18 years. In recent years I have expanded my practice to working with adult individuals, and couples to navigate challenges with mental health and relationships. I am also a passionate provider of Clinical Supervision for mental health, and allied health practitioners.
(03) 6173 7336 View (03) 6173 7336
Photo of Shannon Robertson, PsychD, ACA-L2, Counsellor
Shannon Robertson
Counsellor, PsychD, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Hobart, TAS 7000
I am a therapist at Robertson & Ling, a specialised private counselling practice in Hobart. I provide targeted and effective counselling for grief, relationships, parenting (including working with separated parents to establish a healthy co-parenting relationship) and family law (including counselling for individuals/couples with Family Violence Orders in place). I facilitate individual or group parenting programs for 123 Magic Emotion Coaching and Engaging Adolescents. I am passionate about grief and loss work and adept at providing guidance for parents/caregivers on how to respond to child/adolescent grief.
I am a therapist at Robertson & Ling, a specialised private counselling practice in Hobart. I provide targeted and effective counselling for grief, relationships, parenting (including working with separated parents to establish a healthy co-parenting relationship) and family law (including counselling for individuals/couples with Family Violence Orders in place). I facilitate individual or group parenting programs for 123 Magic Emotion Coaching and Engaging Adolescents. I am passionate about grief and loss work and adept at providing guidance for parents/caregivers on how to respond to child/adolescent grief.
(03) 6155 0217 View (03) 6155 0217
Photo of Zipporah Oliver O.a.m., MAPS, Psychologist
Zipporah Oliver O.a.m.
Psychologist, MAPS
Verified Verified
Hobart, TAS 7000  (Online Only)
My approach is eclectic, drawing from a repertoire of training which includes study in psychodynamic, cognitive behaviour, family therapy, couples counselling and solutions focussed therapies.
I am a registered psychologist with over 32 years of experience. I am committed to applying my skills to help clients achieve the optimum outcome. I bring to my practice a dedication to integrity and a lifetime commitment to helping people cope with life challenges. I counsel adults, couples and adolescents and offer telehealth appointments Australia wide. In 2006 I was awarded the Order of Australia for honorary work in disability and broad-spectrum community service. I have an ongoing commitment to professional development and standard of practice.
My approach is eclectic, drawing from a repertoire of training which includes study in psychodynamic, cognitive behaviour, family therapy, couples counselling and solutions focussed therapies.
I am a registered psychologist with over 32 years of experience. I am committed to applying my skills to help clients achieve the optimum outcome. I bring to my practice a dedication to integrity and a lifetime commitment to helping people cope with life challenges. I counsel adults, couples and adolescents and offer telehealth appointments Australia wide. In 2006 I was awarded the Order of Australia for honorary work in disability and broad-spectrum community service. I have an ongoing commitment to professional development and standard of practice.
(03) 9068 5216 View (03) 9068 5216
Steph Murray
Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
Hobart, TAS 7000  (Online Only)
If you're ready to explore your neurodivergent identity, navigate difficult family dynamics, or process trauma with someone who truly understands, I'm here for you.
I am Steph, an AuADHDer psychologist passionate about helping you embrace your unique strengths and thrive in a world that may not always understand or appreciate neurodivergence. I'm not just a professional with knowledge—I also bring my own lived experiences to the table. If you're struggling with family dynamics, processing childhood trauma, or feel like no one truly understands your world, I'm here to listen and provide support without judgment.
If you're ready to explore your neurodivergent identity, navigate difficult family dynamics, or process trauma with someone who truly understands, I'm here for you.
I am Steph, an AuADHDer psychologist passionate about helping you embrace your unique strengths and thrive in a world that may not always understand or appreciate neurodivergence. I'm not just a professional with knowledge—I also bring my own lived experiences to the table. If you're struggling with family dynamics, processing childhood trauma, or feel like no one truly understands your world, I'm here to listen and provide support without judgment.
(07) 5235 7890 View (07) 5235 7890
Photo of Sarah Elliott, AMHSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Elliott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AMHSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hobart, TAS 7000
I offer over 20 years experience with complex presentations and family work.
Specialising in high risk children, adolescents and young adults. Self harm, suicidality, complex trauma, relational trauma. Clinical family assessment and therapy. Anxiety and mood disorders, personality disorder, parenting challenges, online issues, separated families. Covid related anxiety.
I offer over 20 years experience with complex presentations and family work.
Specialising in high risk children, adolescents and young adults. Self harm, suicidality, complex trauma, relational trauma. Clinical family assessment and therapy. Anxiety and mood disorders, personality disorder, parenting challenges, online issues, separated families. Covid related anxiety.
(03) 8771 4151 View (03) 8771 4151
Photo of Kia Bishop, PsyBA Prov, Psychologist
Kia Bishop
Psychologist, PsyBA Prov
Verified Verified
Hobart, TAS 7000  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Kia! I proudly wear many hats - I'm an AuDHDer, a parent, and a Provisional Psychologist. I can honestly say I'm absolutely loving what I do! My focus is supporting late-identified adults, parents navigating the intricacies of family life with neurodivergent children, partners navigating neurodiversity in relationships, and anyone on their unique neurodivergent journey. I can't express how excited I am to work with you, to be part of your journey, and to help you discover the strength and beauty in your own neurodiversity.
Hi, I'm Kia! I proudly wear many hats - I'm an AuDHDer, a parent, and a Provisional Psychologist. I can honestly say I'm absolutely loving what I do! My focus is supporting late-identified adults, parents navigating the intricacies of family life with neurodivergent children, partners navigating neurodiversity in relationships, and anyone on their unique neurodivergent journey. I can't express how excited I am to work with you, to be part of your journey, and to help you discover the strength and beauty in your own neurodiversity.
(02) 9100 0590 View (02) 9100 0590
Photo of Carly Dober, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Carly Dober
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hobart, TAS 7000
I work with people of various cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds in both specialist health services (justice, family violence), schools (from Prep to Year 12) and specialist mental health services (adult residential services). I also facilitate group wellbeing programs for individuals & businesses, and have co-facilitated group workshops focused on teaching people practical skills to manage distress. I work best with people who are ready to take what we discuss in session, and implement this in their lives. I am a Director on the board with Australian Association of Psychologists Incorporated (AAPi).
I work with people of various cultures and socioeconomic backgrounds in both specialist health services (justice, family violence), schools (from Prep to Year 12) and specialist mental health services (adult residential services). I also facilitate group wellbeing programs for individuals & businesses, and have co-facilitated group workshops focused on teaching people practical skills to manage distress. I work best with people who are ready to take what we discuss in session, and implement this in their lives. I am a Director on the board with Australian Association of Psychologists Incorporated (AAPi).
1300 286 125 View 1300 286 125
Photo of Claire Prince, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Claire Prince
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Hobart, TAS 7000  (Online Only)
Claire is a Registered Psychologist with over 25 years’ experience working with individuals across all ages from young children, adults through to the elderly. Claire is a compassionate psychologist who will work with you to identify ways to effectively manage your issues and build stronger foundations for life. She has worked with many different presenting issues and has a special interest in peri and postnatal issues, trauma, children and family issues, work issues and workers compensation. Claire can also assist with forensic work or court letters.
Claire is a Registered Psychologist with over 25 years’ experience working with individuals across all ages from young children, adults through to the elderly. Claire is a compassionate psychologist who will work with you to identify ways to effectively manage your issues and build stronger foundations for life. She has worked with many different presenting issues and has a special interest in peri and postnatal issues, trauma, children and family issues, work issues and workers compensation. Claire can also assist with forensic work or court letters.
1800 327 477 x1 View 1800 327 477 x1
Photo of Derek Boylen, MC, ACA-L4, Counsellor
Derek Boylen
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hobart, TAS 7000
I've been working with individuals, couples and families for over 25 years and as a husband and father of nine children I've had a lot of personal experience in the area of marriage and family life.
Hi, I'm a practicing counsellor, as well as a lecturer in the Discipline of Counselling with the University of Notre Dame, Australia and Director of the Centre for Life, Marriage and Family and agency of the Catholic Archdiocese of Perth in Western Australia.
I've been working with individuals, couples and families for over 25 years and as a husband and father of nine children I've had a lot of personal experience in the area of marriage and family life.
Hi, I'm a practicing counsellor, as well as a lecturer in the Discipline of Counselling with the University of Notre Dame, Australia and Director of the Centre for Life, Marriage and Family and agency of the Catholic Archdiocese of Perth in Western Australia.
(08) 6490 9752 View (08) 6490 9752
Photo of Nadia Rasheed, PACFA, Counsellor
Nadia Rasheed
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Hobart, TAS 7000  (Online Only)
I am a clinical Counsellor and Supervisor, offering video call sessions throughout Australia. I am dedicated to providing a quality counselling service. Using a trauma-informed model of care, I recognise the profound impact stress, anxiety and trauma can have on your well-being and your connection to yourself and family. Together, in your sessions, I will support you in setting goals for your wellness journey, empowering you to regain control, find relief and feel connected again.
I am a clinical Counsellor and Supervisor, offering video call sessions throughout Australia. I am dedicated to providing a quality counselling service. Using a trauma-informed model of care, I recognise the profound impact stress, anxiety and trauma can have on your well-being and your connection to yourself and family. Together, in your sessions, I will support you in setting goals for your wellness journey, empowering you to regain control, find relief and feel connected again.
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Family Therapy Counsellors

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.