Family Therapy in Ottawa, ON

Photo of Patrick J Pretty, MA, RP/PA, CCC, Registered Psychotherapist
Patrick J Pretty
Registered Psychotherapist, MA, RP/PA, CCC
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2P
Accepting New Clients! Therapy services I offer include and are not limited to: • anxiety and depression • emotional management • co-dependency issues • communication • family of origin issues • grief work • men’s issues / challenges • personal and interpersonal growth • self-esteem / self-care • stress management and much more!
Accepting New Clients! Therapy services I offer include and are not limited to: • anxiety and depression • emotional management • co-dependency issues • communication • family of origin issues • grief work • men’s issues / challenges • personal and interpersonal growth • self-esteem / self-care • stress management and much more!
(343) 308-9187 View (343) 308-9187
Photo of Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Clinic Canada, RP, MA, ABA, CCC, PMP, Registered Psychotherapist
Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Clinic Canada
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, MA, ABA, CCC, PMP
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N
Soteldo Psychotherapy (Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Clinic). My name is Raquel Soteldo, a Registered Psychotherapist, MA, ABA, PMP. I am a Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician who works with Trauma-related symptoms: High Anxiety, Unhealthy attachments and relationships either within the family, romantic or workplace interaction. I work with individuals to secure attachments to self, leave insecure/anxious attachments to abusive people, and establish new/better attachments to the world. I work with undiagnosed ADHD, Depression, Anxiety and C-PTSD/Trauma. To book pls email me or use soteldotherapy.securevideo.com/Book.
Soteldo Psychotherapy (Narcissistic Abuse Recovery Clinic). My name is Raquel Soteldo, a Registered Psychotherapist, MA, ABA, PMP. I am a Certified Narcissistic Abuse Treatment Clinician who works with Trauma-related symptoms: High Anxiety, Unhealthy attachments and relationships either within the family, romantic or workplace interaction. I work with individuals to secure attachments to self, leave insecure/anxious attachments to abusive people, and establish new/better attachments to the world. I work with undiagnosed ADHD, Depression, Anxiety and C-PTSD/Trauma. To book pls email me or use soteldotherapy.securevideo.com/Book.
(343) 312-5283 View (343) 312-5283
Photo of Theresa Barker, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Theresa Barker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1N  (Online Only)
I am a Nationally Certified Custody Evaluator through Professional Academy of Custody Evaluators (PACE). As a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been conducting comprehensive/forensic custody evaluations for over 20 years. I conduct evaluations including a full range of highly complex custody and co-parenting issues. I have training specific to Estrangement, Parental Alienation, Pathological Enmeshment, Domestic Violence/Intimate Partner Violence, and mental health issues with a focus on evidence based practice. I also have understanding of Borderline, Narcissistic, and Sociopathic Personality Disorders.
I am a Nationally Certified Custody Evaluator through Professional Academy of Custody Evaluators (PACE). As a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been conducting comprehensive/forensic custody evaluations for over 20 years. I conduct evaluations including a full range of highly complex custody and co-parenting issues. I have training specific to Estrangement, Parental Alienation, Pathological Enmeshment, Domestic Violence/Intimate Partner Violence, and mental health issues with a focus on evidence based practice. I also have understanding of Borderline, Narcissistic, and Sociopathic Personality Disorders.
(343) 308-2536 View (343) 308-2536
Photo of Amelie Cardinal, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Amelie Cardinal
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1M
Our counsellors meet each child and family with openness and compassion.
Is your child experiencing frequent worries, difficulty sitting still and paying attention in school, or difficulty making friends? Are you hoping your child will gain new coping strategies to manage difficult emotions? Our counsellors at Attached Kids support children to develop new coping strategies to manage childhood anxiety, ADHD, grief/loss, low self-esteem, big life changes, aggressive behaviour, and other common concerns children face. We also work directly with parents/caregivers to develop new strategies to support their children's challenging behaviours and emotional development.
Our counsellors meet each child and family with openness and compassion.
Is your child experiencing frequent worries, difficulty sitting still and paying attention in school, or difficulty making friends? Are you hoping your child will gain new coping strategies to manage difficult emotions? Our counsellors at Attached Kids support children to develop new coping strategies to manage childhood anxiety, ADHD, grief/loss, low self-esteem, big life changes, aggressive behaviour, and other common concerns children face. We also work directly with parents/caregivers to develop new strategies to support their children's challenging behaviours and emotional development.
(343) 803-7493 View (343) 803-7493
Photo of Kwaku Boafo, MA, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Kwaku Boafo
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
My areas of expertise include (but are not limited to) working through interpersonal stress, relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, spirituality and faith, identity issues, family systems, minority and acculturative stress related issues.
Currently Accepting Clients! If you’re reading this – I want you to know that you are valued, your story deserves to be heard, and deep beneath those layers, you possess every seed of change! Life was never meant to be “uncomplicated”, after all, aren’t we all complex and dynamic individuals who experience self discovery each and every day? I believe we all have strengths and inner resources to work on challenging goals, improve relationships, and develop healthy tools to navigate future uncertainties. Taking those initial steps towards self-improvement and healing is a bold and noteworthy step!
My areas of expertise include (but are not limited to) working through interpersonal stress, relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, spirituality and faith, identity issues, family systems, minority and acculturative stress related issues.
Currently Accepting Clients! If you’re reading this – I want you to know that you are valued, your story deserves to be heard, and deep beneath those layers, you possess every seed of change! Life was never meant to be “uncomplicated”, after all, aren’t we all complex and dynamic individuals who experience self discovery each and every day? I believe we all have strengths and inner resources to work on challenging goals, improve relationships, and develop healthy tools to navigate future uncertainties. Taking those initial steps towards self-improvement and healing is a bold and noteworthy step!
(343) 453-1914 View (343) 453-1914
Photo of Laura Mayne, BA, MC, Registered Psychotherapist
Laura Mayne
Registered Psychotherapist, BA, MC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
Relationships can be a source of your greatest joys and your biggest challenges. And struggles within your relationships, whether it’s with your partner, a family member or in the workplace, can impact your enjoyment of your daily life. With over 30 years of experience, I have worked with couples and individuals in transforming their relationships from a source of pain and conflict to one of strength and growth. I bring my lived experience as a married lesbian and mother to a young adult to my practice. With Heartswell Counselling, I offer you a safe, inclusive space to explore your feelings and enhance your heart’s well-being.
Relationships can be a source of your greatest joys and your biggest challenges. And struggles within your relationships, whether it’s with your partner, a family member or in the workplace, can impact your enjoyment of your daily life. With over 30 years of experience, I have worked with couples and individuals in transforming their relationships from a source of pain and conflict to one of strength and growth. I bring my lived experience as a married lesbian and mother to a young adult to my practice. With Heartswell Counselling, I offer you a safe, inclusive space to explore your feelings and enhance your heart’s well-being.
(343) 800-0084 View (343) 800-0084
Photo of Melissa Thivierge, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Melissa Thivierge
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2M
I specialize in attachment disruptions, adoption support, children in care, trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and family support. I work alongside children, youth, adults, and families that are seeking a safe, and non-judgemental space to explore their struggles, relationships, emotional distress, and behavioural challenges.
I specialize in attachment disruptions, adoption support, children in care, trauma, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and family support. I work alongside children, youth, adults, and families that are seeking a safe, and non-judgemental space to explore their struggles, relationships, emotional distress, and behavioural challenges.
(343) 304-6453 View (343) 304-6453
Photo of Dr. Mahin Tavakoli, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Mahin Tavakoli
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1R
I am a Clinical Psychologist, fully registered by the College of Psychologists of Ontario. I provide assessment, psychodiagnosis, counselling, and psychotherapy services to individuals with a variety of psychological needs. My areas of expertise include: Depression, Anxiety, Adjustment to Life Changes, Emotion Regulation, Family of Origin Issues, Identity Issues, Interpersonal Problems, Panic, Phobias, Premarital Counselling, Procrastination, Self-Esteem, Stress/Coping, Trauma, Workplace Issues, Immigrant Issues, Culturally Sensitive Assessment & Psychotherapy.
I am a Clinical Psychologist, fully registered by the College of Psychologists of Ontario. I provide assessment, psychodiagnosis, counselling, and psychotherapy services to individuals with a variety of psychological needs. My areas of expertise include: Depression, Anxiety, Adjustment to Life Changes, Emotion Regulation, Family of Origin Issues, Identity Issues, Interpersonal Problems, Panic, Phobias, Premarital Counselling, Procrastination, Self-Esteem, Stress/Coping, Trauma, Workplace Issues, Immigrant Issues, Culturally Sensitive Assessment & Psychotherapy.
(613) 209-0600 View (613) 209-0600
Photo of Kelsey Voth, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Kelsey Voth
Registered Social Worker, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
Because whole-person wellness is impacted by a variety of physical, psychological, social, structural, and spiritual factors, I draw on a wide variety of approaches in my work including attachment, mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and emotion-focused therapy.
As humans, growth is our birthright. It guides our everyday choices and interactions and ultimately leads us to live in ways that feel peaceful, free, and aligned with our values. But it's really hard to grow when we're overwhelmed or in "survival mode." If you're tired of just going through the motions - feeling empty, numb, disconnected, or out of control - I would be honoured to partner with you on your journey back to yourself, whether that includes working through things that happened in the past or exploring the path forward.
Because whole-person wellness is impacted by a variety of physical, psychological, social, structural, and spiritual factors, I draw on a wide variety of approaches in my work including attachment, mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and emotion-focused therapy.
As humans, growth is our birthright. It guides our everyday choices and interactions and ultimately leads us to live in ways that feel peaceful, free, and aligned with our values. But it's really hard to grow when we're overwhelmed or in "survival mode." If you're tired of just going through the motions - feeling empty, numb, disconnected, or out of control - I would be honoured to partner with you on your journey back to yourself, whether that includes working through things that happened in the past or exploring the path forward.
(343) 801-0955 View (343) 801-0955
Photo of Hayley Maynard, RSW, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Hayley Maynard
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2E
Approaching with a trauma informed lens, we will draw on Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Self-Compassion, Gottman therapy (with couples) and more.
I work with people who experience intense emotions with the aim of coming to understand these feelings as not only real, but also important, valid, and meaningful. Generally, this includes teens (13+), young adults, adults, and couples who are hoping to work toward managing their feelings in a way that allows them to interact with the world, and their loved ones, more effectively. As someone who focuses on this area of feelings work I have developed strong skills working with anxiety, BPD, ADHD, trauma, and grief, as these areas are often interconnected. Clients often describe me as warm, kind, and (at least a little bit) funny.
Approaching with a trauma informed lens, we will draw on Internal Family Systems, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Self-Compassion, Gottman therapy (with couples) and more.
I work with people who experience intense emotions with the aim of coming to understand these feelings as not only real, but also important, valid, and meaningful. Generally, this includes teens (13+), young adults, adults, and couples who are hoping to work toward managing their feelings in a way that allows them to interact with the world, and their loved ones, more effectively. As someone who focuses on this area of feelings work I have developed strong skills working with anxiety, BPD, ADHD, trauma, and grief, as these areas are often interconnected. Clients often describe me as warm, kind, and (at least a little bit) funny.
(343) 430-5462 View (343) 430-5462
Photo of Sophia Nicoli - Willow Roots Therapy- Counselling Services, RP, RMFT, MSc, Registered Psychotherapist
Willow Roots Therapy- Counselling Services
Registered Psychotherapist, RP, RMFT, MSc
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N
Waitlist for new clients
I provide counselling to individuals, couples and families with emphasis on a Family Systems approach.
Some of the issues I focus on are depression, anxiety, communication skills’ building, pre and post-marital conflict, attention-deficit disorder (ADHD), intimacy/ relationship issues and any day-to-day life concerns. If you feel ready to explore your feelings and you are willing to work on yourself, please contact me to set up an appointment.
I provide counselling to individuals, couples and families with emphasis on a Family Systems approach.
Some of the issues I focus on are depression, anxiety, communication skills’ building, pre and post-marital conflict, attention-deficit disorder (ADHD), intimacy/ relationship issues and any day-to-day life concerns. If you feel ready to explore your feelings and you are willing to work on yourself, please contact me to set up an appointment.
(343) 429-6192 View (343) 429-6192
Photo of Christine Nabukeera - Serenity Seekers Counselling and Consulting, PhD, Registered Social Worker
Serenity Seekers Counselling and Consulting
Registered Social Worker, PhD
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2J  (Online Only)
I provide counselling to adults experiencing anxiety, marginalization in the workplace, family violence, depression, grief and bereavement, significant life transitions, including the mental health effects of violent displacement caused by wars and armed conflicts.
I am a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW), Registration No: 845753. My approach to counselling is client-cantered, strength-based, trauma informed with sensitivity to diverse human experiences and cultural differences.
I provide counselling to adults experiencing anxiety, marginalization in the workplace, family violence, depression, grief and bereavement, significant life transitions, including the mental health effects of violent displacement caused by wars and armed conflicts.
I am a Registered Social Worker with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW), Registration No: 845753. My approach to counselling is client-cantered, strength-based, trauma informed with sensitivity to diverse human experiences and cultural differences.
(343) 644-5162 View (343) 644-5162
Photo of Veronica Valladares, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Veronica Valladares
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K2P
I would be honored to accompany you and your family on the path to a more fulfilling and balanced life.
I firmly believe every child and parent has an inherent desire to do well, and when they aren't, they just need a little help getting there. Together, we can achieve that. In my practice, I work alongside children, youth, and families to support them through life's challenges so they can develop the skills to thrive. While I bring my expertise as a psychotherapist, I recognize that each individual is ultimately the expert in their own life. In therapy, I aim to co-create a space where I can serve as a guide to help your child explore, reflect, and progress towards growth.
I would be honored to accompany you and your family on the path to a more fulfilling and balanced life.
I firmly believe every child and parent has an inherent desire to do well, and when they aren't, they just need a little help getting there. Together, we can achieve that. In my practice, I work alongside children, youth, and families to support them through life's challenges so they can develop the skills to thrive. While I bring my expertise as a psychotherapist, I recognize that each individual is ultimately the expert in their own life. In therapy, I aim to co-create a space where I can serve as a guide to help your child explore, reflect, and progress towards growth.
(343) 338-5166 View (343) 338-5166
Photo of Leigh Karos, PhD, CPsych, Psychologist
Leigh Karos
Psychologist, PhD, CPsych
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1N
I have been providing psychological assessment and therapy services since 1997. In private practice, I work with individuals (adults, adolescents, children), couples and families experiencing a wide range of concerns. Special areas of interest include depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal difficulties, parenting, family conflict, separation and divorce. I also am experienced in working with individuals facing issues related to self, identity, and sexuality as well as unique challenges confronted by LGBTTIQQ2S individuals and their families.
I have been providing psychological assessment and therapy services since 1997. In private practice, I work with individuals (adults, adolescents, children), couples and families experiencing a wide range of concerns. Special areas of interest include depression, anxiety, trauma, interpersonal difficulties, parenting, family conflict, separation and divorce. I also am experienced in working with individuals facing issues related to self, identity, and sexuality as well as unique challenges confronted by LGBTTIQQ2S individuals and their families.
(613) 402-2484 View (613) 402-2484
Photo of Jaden Bailey, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jaden Bailey
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2S  (Online Only)
I offer effective strategies and evidence-based therapies like EMDR, CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
I am dedicated to guiding you on your personal growth and transformation journey. Together, we'll not only understand any challenges you may be facing but also work towards developing coping mechanisms and fostering resilience. Whether you're striving for self-discovery, seeking personal growth, or navigating life transitions, I provide compassionate guidance, a safe space, and practical support to help you on this empowering path.
I offer effective strategies and evidence-based therapies like EMDR, CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy.
I am dedicated to guiding you on your personal growth and transformation journey. Together, we'll not only understand any challenges you may be facing but also work towards developing coping mechanisms and fostering resilience. Whether you're striving for self-discovery, seeking personal growth, or navigating life transitions, I provide compassionate guidance, a safe space, and practical support to help you on this empowering path.
(343) 304-6556 View (343) 304-6556
Photo of Dr. Esha Chakraborti, PsyD, CPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Esha Chakraborti
Psychologist, PsyD, CPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1G  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
She deeply respects, accepts, and incorporates a client's family, culture, and other beliefs within therapy.
Are you struggling to find balance, navigating life changes, or longing for fulfilling relationships?...counselling with Esha can help! Esha offers a safe space for venting and exploring challenges, aiming for growth and clarity. With expertise in overcoming anxiety, managing changes, and building healthy relationships, Esha believes counselling isn't just about specific problems—it's about finding balance and embracing life. It's time to quiet your confused/negative inner voice and find relief. Esha offers collaborative, supportive counseling, blending emotional and practical coping skills.
She deeply respects, accepts, and incorporates a client's family, culture, and other beliefs within therapy.
Are you struggling to find balance, navigating life changes, or longing for fulfilling relationships?...counselling with Esha can help! Esha offers a safe space for venting and exploring challenges, aiming for growth and clarity. With expertise in overcoming anxiety, managing changes, and building healthy relationships, Esha believes counselling isn't just about specific problems—it's about finding balance and embracing life. It's time to quiet your confused/negative inner voice and find relief. Esha offers collaborative, supportive counseling, blending emotional and practical coping skills.
(604) 653-3309 View (604) 653-3309
Photo of Vanessa Krichbaum, MACP, Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Vanessa Krichbaum
Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying), MACP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ottawa, ON K1S
During our time together, we may use different therapy modalities such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), emotion focused therapy (EFT), family systems theory, mindfulness-based therapy and solution-focused therapy, depending on what is comfortable for you.
Life is a journey which can present us with challenges that are sometimes too difficult to handle alone. As a client-centred therapist, I work from a non-judgemental, empathy-based perspective. My commitment is to accompany you on your journey towards self-understanding and compassion. I work with individuals, couples and families, ages 14+ experiencing various concerns and challenges in their lives such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, post-partum depression, peri and menopausal changes, stress, parenting, relationship issues, grief, and identity exploration.
During our time together, we may use different therapy modalities such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), emotion focused therapy (EFT), family systems theory, mindfulness-based therapy and solution-focused therapy, depending on what is comfortable for you.
Life is a journey which can present us with challenges that are sometimes too difficult to handle alone. As a client-centred therapist, I work from a non-judgemental, empathy-based perspective. My commitment is to accompany you on your journey towards self-understanding and compassion. I work with individuals, couples and families, ages 14+ experiencing various concerns and challenges in their lives such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, post-partum depression, peri and menopausal changes, stress, parenting, relationship issues, grief, and identity exploration.
(343) 341-4975 View (343) 341-4975
Photo of Jennifer Kogan, MSW, LICSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Jennifer Kogan
Registered Social Worker, MSW, LICSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1Z  (Online Only)
Life does not always go where we expect it to – disappointments, losses and transitions happen. Whether it’s family, relationships, work or school pressures it can all get overwhelming sometimes. Together, we can explore what you need to feel more connected to yourself and those you care about.
Life does not always go where we expect it to – disappointments, losses and transitions happen. Whether it’s family, relationships, work or school pressures it can all get overwhelming sometimes. Together, we can explore what you need to feel more connected to yourself and those you care about.
(343) 500-7471 View (343) 500-7471
Photo of Randall Cole, RSW, MScSW, BA, Registered Social Worker
Randall Cole
Registered Social Worker, RSW, MScSW, BA
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K2B
Accepting new clients... I believe that every individual, couple or family is unique and deserving of dignity, respect and the right to define happiness and fulfillment in the ways most meaningful to them. Sometimes, our life experiences and unresolved trauma can present barriers and obstacles to achieving goals to be our best versions of ourselves. We can feel stuck and overwhelmed. But the good news is we don't need to stay there! You are taking an incredibly brave first step by being here and searching for a professional whose experience resonates with your needs, and I would like to help.
Accepting new clients... I believe that every individual, couple or family is unique and deserving of dignity, respect and the right to define happiness and fulfillment in the ways most meaningful to them. Sometimes, our life experiences and unresolved trauma can present barriers and obstacles to achieving goals to be our best versions of ourselves. We can feel stuck and overwhelmed. But the good news is we don't need to stay there! You are taking an incredibly brave first step by being here and searching for a professional whose experience resonates with your needs, and I would like to help.
(343) 501-1816 View (343) 501-1816
Photo of Julia Thomas - Psychotherapist Holistic Nurse Coach, RN, Msc(A)
Julia Thomas - Psychotherapist Holistic Nurse Coach
RN, Msc(A)
Verified Verified
Ottawa, ON K1S  (Online Only)
, motivational interviewing, internal family systems, meditation/mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, breathwork).
I work with adults (18+yrs) who are challenged by depression, stress, anxiety, and/or trauma. I am particularly experienced in working with those who are struggling with relationships, poor self-confidence/self-esteem, addiction/substance use recovery, burnout, loss and/or grief, or adjusting to major life transitions (e.g., divorce, career, parenthood, retirement). Being a nurse also makes me uniquely positioned to help support others who work in healthcare. So many of my clients are nurses or other health care professionals who are struggling with work-life balance, burnout, or emotional challenges in their personal lives.
, motivational interviewing, internal family systems, meditation/mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, breathwork).
I work with adults (18+yrs) who are challenged by depression, stress, anxiety, and/or trauma. I am particularly experienced in working with those who are struggling with relationships, poor self-confidence/self-esteem, addiction/substance use recovery, burnout, loss and/or grief, or adjusting to major life transitions (e.g., divorce, career, parenthood, retirement). Being a nurse also makes me uniquely positioned to help support others who work in healthcare. So many of my clients are nurses or other health care professionals who are struggling with work-life balance, burnout, or emotional challenges in their personal lives.
(289) 512-0464 View (289) 512-0464
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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.