Photo of Alyssa B Vida, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alyssa B Vida
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92591  (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Clients- Hello and Welcome! I'm glad you're here today. I’m Alyssa Safran Vida, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, passionate about helping clients to achieve mental wellness, positive change, and fullness of life. I believe that reaching out for help takes courage, but that’s where the healing begins, one conversation at a time. Whether you are experiencing new or ongoing challenges, my job is to provide a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to talk, process, problem solve, and heal.
Now Accepting New Clients- Hello and Welcome! I'm glad you're here today. I’m Alyssa Safran Vida, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, passionate about helping clients to achieve mental wellness, positive change, and fullness of life. I believe that reaching out for help takes courage, but that’s where the healing begins, one conversation at a time. Whether you are experiencing new or ongoing challenges, my job is to provide a safe, compassionate, non-judgmental space for you to talk, process, problem solve, and heal.
(951) 482-8631 View (951) 482-8631
Photo of Ben Novell - Novell & Novell Counseling Services, Inc, LMFT, LCSW, LPCC, AMFT
Novell & Novell Counseling Services, Inc
LMFT, LCSW, LPCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92591
We have been one of the leading groups of mental health professionals in Southwest Riverside since 1990. We have become a valuable resource to the community through our many outpatient services, outreach and educational programs. The focus of our practice is on individual, couples and family therapy. However, other expertise and services include play therapy, attachment therapy, group therapy, and co-parenting. From our Support Staff, to our multidisciplinary team of clinicians, we have continued to create a safe and secure office environment where our clients feel comfortable, supported and engaged.
We have been one of the leading groups of mental health professionals in Southwest Riverside since 1990. We have become a valuable resource to the community through our many outpatient services, outreach and educational programs. The focus of our practice is on individual, couples and family therapy. However, other expertise and services include play therapy, attachment therapy, group therapy, and co-parenting. From our Support Staff, to our multidisciplinary team of clinicians, we have continued to create a safe and secure office environment where our clients feel comfortable, supported and engaged.
(951) 338-9907 View (951) 338-9907
Photo of David Caulfield, MA,  MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Caulfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92590
I'm a classically trained Marriage, Family, Child and Individual counselor. I have helped couples work out relationship problems for over 35 years. I confess to being a romantic who finds great joy in seeing people have happy, successful relationships!
I'm a classically trained Marriage, Family, Child and Individual counselor. I have helped couples work out relationship problems for over 35 years. I confess to being a romantic who finds great joy in seeing people have happy, successful relationships!
(951) 724-5308 View (951) 724-5308
Photo of Raymond F. Cameron, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Raymond F. Cameron
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92592
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who has been helping Teens, Individuals, and Families to achieve their fullest potential by over coming life struggles such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, unexpected crisis, social anxiety, alcohol & drug use, self harm, family / couple conflict, intimate partner violence, child abuse & Men's Issues.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is true to who you really are. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions or unresolved emotional experiences that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you are teen, individual, couple, or family seeking support and guidance to overcome life's challenges or ready to take a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist who has been helping Teens, Individuals, and Families to achieve their fullest potential by over coming life struggles such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, unexpected crisis, social anxiety, alcohol & drug use, self harm, family / couple conflict, intimate partner violence, child abuse & Men's Issues.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is true to who you really are. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions or unresolved emotional experiences that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you are teen, individual, couple, or family seeking support and guidance to overcome life's challenges or ready to take a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(951) 970-6254 View (951) 970-6254
Photo of John Lucas - John Lucas, Lighthouse Counseling Services, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Lucas, Lighthouse Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
I have been a referral source for Focus on the Family for several years.
LOVE YOURSELF MORE!!!!!!! To me that is the key to better living! If every word and action was based on that principle our lives would run great!! I am a Christian therapist who works mostly with couples issues, adolescents and individual growth. I strive to give tools to deal with conflict, communication, parenting and anger. I started my practice dealing with children, but now most of my work is helping adolescents and adults with all kinds of relational issues. I have been married thirty two years and have five children ages twenty-three to thirteen .
I have been a referral source for Focus on the Family for several years.
LOVE YOURSELF MORE!!!!!!! To me that is the key to better living! If every word and action was based on that principle our lives would run great!! I am a Christian therapist who works mostly with couples issues, adolescents and individual growth. I strive to give tools to deal with conflict, communication, parenting and anger. I started my practice dealing with children, but now most of my work is helping adolescents and adults with all kinds of relational issues. I have been married thirty two years and have five children ages twenty-three to thirteen .
(951) 291-0442 View (951) 291-0442
Photo of Cylystina Marie Cruz Nevel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cylystina Marie Cruz Nevel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92592
Hi! My name is Cylystina Nevel, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I use many different modalities and techniques during therapy to fit each unique person. I look forward to meeting you! I have worked with children from 5-18 who have experienced suicidal ideation and attempts and have been hospitalized. I have worked with children aged 5-18 who have severe behaviors. I have also worked with the incarcerated adult population. As well as adults with severe mental illness and psychosis.
Hi! My name is Cylystina Nevel, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I use many different modalities and techniques during therapy to fit each unique person. I look forward to meeting you! I have worked with children from 5-18 who have experienced suicidal ideation and attempts and have been hospitalized. I have worked with children aged 5-18 who have severe behaviors. I have also worked with the incarcerated adult population. As well as adults with severe mental illness and psychosis.
(951) 277-6195 View (951) 277-6195
Photo of Maria Paola Cortes Elser, APCC, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Paola Cortes Elser
Marriage & Family Therapist, APCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92590  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with family issues, Domestic violence, mental illness , physical, sexual, or emotional abuse , I can help you.
I was born in Colombia and as immigrant:I understand the challenges that come from this transition, mentally ,culturally and spiritually. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from an University in Colombia, and a master’s degree in Professional clinical counseling in the USA. I am also about to obtain my license as Marriage and family Therapist. With 6 years in this field, I specialize in DV, PTSD, Sexual and physical abuse, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar and Personality Disorders, as well as Substance abuse. I speak English and Spanish, and my motivation is to provide support to families who struggle with mental illness.
If you are struggling with family issues, Domestic violence, mental illness , physical, sexual, or emotional abuse , I can help you.
I was born in Colombia and as immigrant:I understand the challenges that come from this transition, mentally ,culturally and spiritually. I have a bachelor’s degree in psychology from an University in Colombia, and a master’s degree in Professional clinical counseling in the USA. I am also about to obtain my license as Marriage and family Therapist. With 6 years in this field, I specialize in DV, PTSD, Sexual and physical abuse, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar and Personality Disorders, as well as Substance abuse. I speak English and Spanish, and my motivation is to provide support to families who struggle with mental illness.
(951) 386-2880 View (951) 386-2880
Photo of Michelle Kelley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Kelley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92590
Welcome! My name is Michelle Kelley and I am a LCSW providing individual, family, and couples therapy in the Temecula Valley. I have extensive experience working with families and adults. I often treat trauma with a focus on childhood experiences and how they affect individuals throughout the life span. Through modalities like EMDR, CBT, and DBT I work collaboratively with my clients to aid in management of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other symptoms. If you are looking to address current struggles, past experiences, or are wanting to improve your relationships and life satisfaction please feel free to contact me.
Welcome! My name is Michelle Kelley and I am a LCSW providing individual, family, and couples therapy in the Temecula Valley. I have extensive experience working with families and adults. I often treat trauma with a focus on childhood experiences and how they affect individuals throughout the life span. Through modalities like EMDR, CBT, and DBT I work collaboratively with my clients to aid in management of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other symptoms. If you are looking to address current struggles, past experiences, or are wanting to improve your relationships and life satisfaction please feel free to contact me.
(951) 397-2349 View (951) 397-2349
Photo of Paris Conner, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Paris Conner
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92590
My name is Paris Conner, besides being a Registered Nurse practitioner for over 30 years specializing in Women’s Health, Chronic Medical Conditions and Mental Illness, I am also an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor and Health Coach. As I discovered my gift is to guide people through personal challenges, help ease emotional burdens and empower people to achieve a new mindset. My job is to be a cheerleader, guide, and a support to help people manage their own life. Everyone has the capacity to manage his or her own problems in their own time at their own pace and in their own way.
My name is Paris Conner, besides being a Registered Nurse practitioner for over 30 years specializing in Women’s Health, Chronic Medical Conditions and Mental Illness, I am also an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor and Health Coach. As I discovered my gift is to guide people through personal challenges, help ease emotional burdens and empower people to achieve a new mindset. My job is to be a cheerleader, guide, and a support to help people manage their own life. Everyone has the capacity to manage his or her own problems in their own time at their own pace and in their own way.
(951) 972-6262 View (951) 972-6262
Photo of Dr. Kathryn Tull, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Kathryn Tull
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92591
Every individual, couple or family deserves unique and personalized treatment.
" I wish we could communicate better " . " Why don't they listen to me?" . " I'm sick of feeling so bad!" If this sounds familiar, help is possible. You can shift your relationship. You can experience more clarity and connection. You can regain peace. Communication, effective personal functioning, self awareness, and connection in your relationships are my specialities. Compassionate, effective and personalized guidance can ignite effective communication skills, self awareness, conflict reduction, re-establishing harmony, connection, intimacy and respect, and being able to feel and manage your feelings. I invite you to call me and get acquainted.
Every individual, couple or family deserves unique and personalized treatment.
" I wish we could communicate better " . " Why don't they listen to me?" . " I'm sick of feeling so bad!" If this sounds familiar, help is possible. You can shift your relationship. You can experience more clarity and connection. You can regain peace. Communication, effective personal functioning, self awareness, and connection in your relationships are my specialities. Compassionate, effective and personalized guidance can ignite effective communication skills, self awareness, conflict reduction, re-establishing harmony, connection, intimacy and respect, and being able to feel and manage your feelings. I invite you to call me and get acquainted.
(424) 294-8848 View (424) 294-8848
Photo of Cynthia L Robles - Cynthia L. Robles, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia L. Robles, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92592  (Online Only)
I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1988.
Telehealth appointments are available! Se Habla Espanol. Your emotional health and relationships are important, and you deserve to receive quality assistance with these vital aspects of your life. As a therapist, I am dedicated to assist you to maximize your potential and live a full, gratifying life. Every client with whom I work deserves personalized care, respect, and responsiveness. This attitude helps clients feel safe enough to consider new ways of approaching life's challenges. Whether you seek individual, couple's or family therapy (or perhaps some combination of these) I invite you to call for an appointment.
I have been a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 1988.
Telehealth appointments are available! Se Habla Espanol. Your emotional health and relationships are important, and you deserve to receive quality assistance with these vital aspects of your life. As a therapist, I am dedicated to assist you to maximize your potential and live a full, gratifying life. Every client with whom I work deserves personalized care, respect, and responsiveness. This attitude helps clients feel safe enough to consider new ways of approaching life's challenges. Whether you seek individual, couple's or family therapy (or perhaps some combination of these) I invite you to call for an appointment.
(951) 290-0302 View (951) 290-0302
Photo of Kristin Herzberg Purdy, PhD, Psychologist
Kristin Herzberg Purdy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92590
I have helped individuals strengthen intimate and family relationships and have provided resources and support to those who have endured abusive relationships.
In my work with individuals and couples, I believe in fostering a safe and supportive environment in which we can build a solid therapeutic relationship and you will feel empowered to achieve personal growth and a sense of self-sufficiency. I practice empirically-supported treatments, and also understand that every person is unique. Thus, flexibility is important in order to meet your individual needs. I also enjoy teaching stress management, mindfulness and other skills in order to help you to live a meaningful and fulfilling life consistent with your values and goals. I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety and depression.
I have helped individuals strengthen intimate and family relationships and have provided resources and support to those who have endured abusive relationships.
In my work with individuals and couples, I believe in fostering a safe and supportive environment in which we can build a solid therapeutic relationship and you will feel empowered to achieve personal growth and a sense of self-sufficiency. I practice empirically-supported treatments, and also understand that every person is unique. Thus, flexibility is important in order to meet your individual needs. I also enjoy teaching stress management, mindfulness and other skills in order to help you to live a meaningful and fulfilling life consistent with your values and goals. I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety and depression.
(619) 554-8640 View (619) 554-8640
Photo of Dr. Martha Ruiz-Shank, PsyD, QME, Psychologist
Dr. Martha Ruiz-Shank
Psychologist, PsyD, QME
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92591
I have experience providing individual, couple, and family therapy.
Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the BRAVEST thing we will ever do -Brené Brown- Reaching out for help can be scary but I challenge you to take a step and start the work within. Most people struggle with change and return back to their old ways because it resonates comfort with familiarity. Change comes with uncertainty but I promise, if you commit and invest in yourself, you will not be disappointed with the outcome. Once you start seeing life from a new perspective, you will begin to feel and think differently. Remember, you are courageous. You are strong. Allow yourself the opportunity for growth.
I have experience providing individual, couple, and family therapy.
Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the BRAVEST thing we will ever do -Brené Brown- Reaching out for help can be scary but I challenge you to take a step and start the work within. Most people struggle with change and return back to their old ways because it resonates comfort with familiarity. Change comes with uncertainty but I promise, if you commit and invest in yourself, you will not be disappointed with the outcome. Once you start seeing life from a new perspective, you will begin to feel and think differently. Remember, you are courageous. You are strong. Allow yourself the opportunity for growth.
(951) 309-9746 View (951) 309-9746
Photo of Sarah Ruminson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah Ruminson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92592
Hello, I am Sarah Ruminson LMFT 140887, and I have worked in the mental health field for over 3 years. I worked for a community-based mental health company which provided me the opportunity to treat all ages and a variety of diagnoses. I have worked with a variety of clients ranging from infantry to elderly. I am open to all ages and really enjoy working with children. I gravitate toward using CBT, DBT, Client-centered, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, and Family Systems approaches.
Hello, I am Sarah Ruminson LMFT 140887, and I have worked in the mental health field for over 3 years. I worked for a community-based mental health company which provided me the opportunity to treat all ages and a variety of diagnoses. I have worked with a variety of clients ranging from infantry to elderly. I am open to all ages and really enjoy working with children. I gravitate toward using CBT, DBT, Client-centered, Solution Focused, Psychodynamic, and Family Systems approaches.
(951) 349-4754 View (951) 349-4754
Photo of Tania Beltran, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tania Beltran
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92592
Hello! My name is Tania Beltran, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with more than 5 years of experience as a bilingual clinician based in California. I provide services to children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups. I have provided services to children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups. I have been helping individuals with anxiety, social difficulties, Anger management, Depression, domestic violence victims, trauma, and grief. I utilize an eclectic approach to treatment using a variety of skills and techniques from evidenced-based practices and a trauma-informed approach.
Hello! My name is Tania Beltran, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with more than 5 years of experience as a bilingual clinician based in California. I provide services to children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups. I have provided services to children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups. I have been helping individuals with anxiety, social difficulties, Anger management, Depression, domestic violence victims, trauma, and grief. I utilize an eclectic approach to treatment using a variety of skills and techniques from evidenced-based practices and a trauma-informed approach.
(951) 337-4946 View (951) 337-4946
Photo of Blaine Carman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Blaine Carman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92591
I specialize in treating troubled couple relationships, family conflicts, stress and anxiety management, spiritual dilemmas, post-divorce counseling, sexual addiction and problems resulting from major life transitions.
"Do you find yourself repeating the same old patterns in relationships and keep getting disappointed? Would you like to dramatically change your results? I have been facilitating transformation and growth in individuals and organizations for more than 20 years. I have a passion for helping people uncover what's blocking them in their growth or in relationships and implement effective strategies to bring about positive change. As a licensed MFT, I love working with adults from 18 to 80 who are trying to find solutions and answers to life's difficult questions and challenges and help them produce tangible results.
I specialize in treating troubled couple relationships, family conflicts, stress and anxiety management, spiritual dilemmas, post-divorce counseling, sexual addiction and problems resulting from major life transitions.
"Do you find yourself repeating the same old patterns in relationships and keep getting disappointed? Would you like to dramatically change your results? I have been facilitating transformation and growth in individuals and organizations for more than 20 years. I have a passion for helping people uncover what's blocking them in their growth or in relationships and implement effective strategies to bring about positive change. As a licensed MFT, I love working with adults from 18 to 80 who are trying to find solutions and answers to life's difficult questions and challenges and help them produce tangible results.
(951) 842-3549 View (951) 842-3549
Photo of Susan Watkins - Susan Watkins MFT, MA, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Watkins MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92592
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in counseling children and adolescents, individuals, couples and families in a non-judgmental and compassionate manner.
Most people, at some point in their lives, encounter periods of difficulty, change and transition; when personal issues affect their work or relationships. Families are under a great deal of stress in today's world, more so today, than ever. Recognizing the need for additional support is a sign of strength and courage. Finding the right therapist, one that listens to your concerns, understands your challenges, and genuinely connects with you, can be difficult. My goal is to provide a warm, supportive environment, in which clients can develop coping strategies, problem solving skills, and confidence.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in counseling children and adolescents, individuals, couples and families in a non-judgmental and compassionate manner.
Most people, at some point in their lives, encounter periods of difficulty, change and transition; when personal issues affect their work or relationships. Families are under a great deal of stress in today's world, more so today, than ever. Recognizing the need for additional support is a sign of strength and courage. Finding the right therapist, one that listens to your concerns, understands your challenges, and genuinely connects with you, can be difficult. My goal is to provide a warm, supportive environment, in which clients can develop coping strategies, problem solving skills, and confidence.
(951) 309-2669 View (951) 309-2669
Photo of Helen E Faunce, M, A, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Helen E Faunce
Marriage & Family Therapist, M, A, MFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92589
I am an owner and also the clinical director of Aurora Family Counseling. With over 20 years of experience as a therapist, I am a strong therapist but do not dictate your goals. You will be offered insights and support to facilitate your growth and to help relieve emotional distress. I have extensive experience with domestic violence and have done hundreds of groups for the court system. Every one needs love and respect. With the proper tools, this can become A reality.
I am an owner and also the clinical director of Aurora Family Counseling. With over 20 years of experience as a therapist, I am a strong therapist but do not dictate your goals. You will be offered insights and support to facilitate your growth and to help relieve emotional distress. I have extensive experience with domestic violence and have done hundreds of groups for the court system. Every one needs love and respect. With the proper tools, this can become A reality.
(951) 293-4631 View (951) 293-4631
Photo of Tanika Gayle - Collaborative Psychology Group, Psy D, LCSW, LMFT, Psychologist
Collaborative Psychology Group
Psychologist, Psy D, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temecula, CA 92590
We offer individual, couples and family therapy and medication management.
We are a diverse group practice and consider it a privilege in being apart of helping you discover how to operate from the best in you. Our goal as therapists is to work collaboratively with individuals, couples and families in a process of self-reflection, self-validation and self confrontation while acting with integrity and operating from the best in themselves. We work with individuals to assist them in developing satisfying, meaningful relationships by helping them attain a balance between autonomy and connection to others.
We offer individual, couples and family therapy and medication management.
We are a diverse group practice and consider it a privilege in being apart of helping you discover how to operate from the best in you. Our goal as therapists is to work collaboratively with individuals, couples and families in a process of self-reflection, self-validation and self confrontation while acting with integrity and operating from the best in themselves. We work with individuals to assist them in developing satisfying, meaningful relationships by helping them attain a balance between autonomy and connection to others.
(951) 447-8236 View (951) 447-8236
Photo of Lani Espinas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lani Espinas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temecula, CA 92589  (Online Only)
Individual, couples, family, and adolescent therapy services available in English and Spanish.
I was trained in rendering brief and short term therapy since we all want quick results. How do I do that? I am interactive with my clients and not just provide “talk therapy”, but rather, we will co-create a plan together to help you achieve positive results. I hold my clients accountable and will assign homework. I will give you my input, impressions, and at times, challenge you when those defenses are up. In life, when we’re faced with challenges, it only promotes growth and strength. At the same time, we will give you the positive regard, reflective listening, and be your cheerleader. We will empower you, not enable you.
Individual, couples, family, and adolescent therapy services available in English and Spanish.
I was trained in rendering brief and short term therapy since we all want quick results. How do I do that? I am interactive with my clients and not just provide “talk therapy”, but rather, we will co-create a plan together to help you achieve positive results. I hold my clients accountable and will assign homework. I will give you my input, impressions, and at times, challenge you when those defenses are up. In life, when we’re faced with challenges, it only promotes growth and strength. At the same time, we will give you the positive regard, reflective listening, and be your cheerleader. We will empower you, not enable you.
(310) 991-3055 View (310) 991-3055
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.