Family Systems Therapists in Venice, CA

Photo of Peter Smick, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Peter Smick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
My integrative approach combines: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Attachment-Based Trauma Therapy.
Do past hurts haunt your interpersonal relationships? Childhood trauma can feel like a monster best kept hidden away in the dark. Out of sight, out of mind - until it's triggered again. As Carl Jung said, "what you resist not only persists, but will grow in size." Through this lens, I offer a compassionate and integrative approach to healing the deep wounds of relational trauma. Collaboratively, as a therapeutic team, we cultivate and create a safe space for acknowledging and nourishing the inner child, establishing self-worth, building self-esteem and developing skills for managing complex relationships with self and other.
My integrative approach combines: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Attachment-Based Trauma Therapy.
Do past hurts haunt your interpersonal relationships? Childhood trauma can feel like a monster best kept hidden away in the dark. Out of sight, out of mind - until it's triggered again. As Carl Jung said, "what you resist not only persists, but will grow in size." Through this lens, I offer a compassionate and integrative approach to healing the deep wounds of relational trauma. Collaboratively, as a therapeutic team, we cultivate and create a safe space for acknowledging and nourishing the inner child, establishing self-worth, building self-esteem and developing skills for managing complex relationships with self and other.
(424) 484-2467 View (424) 484-2467
Photo of Kimberly Low, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kimberly Low
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
I am trained and experienced in attachment-focused therapy, Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), Family systems and Psychodynamic therapy.
I am passionate about helping Individuals and families create change in their lives by feeling safe enough to face their fears by building strength and confidence in the therapy space where ultimately they gain the tools to solve their own problems. Are you overwhelmed by a crisis that appears unsolvable? Do you fear your life is spinning out of control? Life is challenging and we can feel overwhelmed. With support and guidance, a solution is possible.
I am trained and experienced in attachment-focused therapy, Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), Family systems and Psychodynamic therapy.
I am passionate about helping Individuals and families create change in their lives by feeling safe enough to face their fears by building strength and confidence in the therapy space where ultimately they gain the tools to solve their own problems. Are you overwhelmed by a crisis that appears unsolvable? Do you fear your life is spinning out of control? Life is challenging and we can feel overwhelmed. With support and guidance, a solution is possible.
(415) 727-7993 View (415) 727-7993
Photo of Lauren Elizabeth Taus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Elizabeth Taus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
Waitlist for new clients
My toolkit includes psychodynamic and insight oriented therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, family systems work, stress management, mindfulness, somatic techniques and ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP).
I’m a licensed psychotherapist, and a yoga and meditation teacher based in Venice Beach, California. I am dedicated to supporting you on your journey home - to yourself. As a therapist, I see individuals, families and couples. My practice areas of expertise include stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief and loss, trauma, addictions, relationship difficulties, creative blocks, and life transitions. My approach is individualized. I’ll meet you where you are, and offer you an individualized treatment plan based on my education and trainings.
My toolkit includes psychodynamic and insight oriented therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, family systems work, stress management, mindfulness, somatic techniques and ketamine assisted psychotherapy (KAP).
I’m a licensed psychotherapist, and a yoga and meditation teacher based in Venice Beach, California. I am dedicated to supporting you on your journey home - to yourself. As a therapist, I see individuals, families and couples. My practice areas of expertise include stress, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, grief and loss, trauma, addictions, relationship difficulties, creative blocks, and life transitions. My approach is individualized. I’ll meet you where you are, and offer you an individualized treatment plan based on my education and trainings.
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Photo of Jacqueline Jackson, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jacqueline Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90292  (Online Only)
I believe in creating a safe and nurturing environment by providing empathy, unconditional positive regard, and a genuine approach in the treatment process. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities in order to meet each individuals unique needs. During my work in the past 14 years, I have been trained to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, relational/intimacy issues, and grief. I also integrate mindfulness meditation, CBT, healthy living practices and family systems techniques as a strategy to facilitate growth, healing, and balance. When we are able to rise out of our suffering, we can then begin the process of self-awakening.
I believe in creating a safe and nurturing environment by providing empathy, unconditional positive regard, and a genuine approach in the treatment process. I utilize a variety of treatment modalities in order to meet each individuals unique needs. During my work in the past 14 years, I have been trained to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, relational/intimacy issues, and grief. I also integrate mindfulness meditation, CBT, healthy living practices and family systems techniques as a strategy to facilitate growth, healing, and balance. When we are able to rise out of our suffering, we can then begin the process of self-awakening.
(424) 644-6487 View (424) 644-6487
Photo of Elinor Jewett, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elinor Jewett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291
I am influenced by current brain research, Attachment Theory, Family Systems, Client Centered and Humanistic Psychology.
I work with individuals, couples and families to relieve depression, anxiety, conflict and address overwhelming life issues. I understand feeling lost and alone. We can guide you on a discovery of meaning and purpose. Happiness is deserved and within our power. I can help you form and grow relationships where you feel loved, comforted and seen. We can address family conflict, emotional distance and build a life-long partnership with children, parents and partners. I can support you with life transitions like employment changes and personal loss to reclaim your dreams. Every day matters. Change is constant and ours to direct.
I am influenced by current brain research, Attachment Theory, Family Systems, Client Centered and Humanistic Psychology.
I work with individuals, couples and families to relieve depression, anxiety, conflict and address overwhelming life issues. I understand feeling lost and alone. We can guide you on a discovery of meaning and purpose. Happiness is deserved and within our power. I can help you form and grow relationships where you feel loved, comforted and seen. We can address family conflict, emotional distance and build a life-long partnership with children, parents and partners. I can support you with life transitions like employment changes and personal loss to reclaim your dreams. Every day matters. Change is constant and ours to direct.
(310) 751-7547 View (310) 751-7547
Photo of Rima Danielle Jomaa, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rima Danielle Jomaa
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291  (Online Only)
I use techniques from CBT, Family Systems theory & Narrative therapy as well as hypnosis & psychedelic integration.
I create a confidential space for you to safely explore your mental health concerns & gain practical tools to apply to your daily life. I offer short- & long-term therapy. I collaborate with you to understand your needs & goals. Then I create a treatment plan that is unique for you, based on what you need. I teach tools that have been proven to work in the past for my clients or for me. My clients tend to struggle with anxiety, depression, self-comparison, body image/EDs, trauma, abuse, substance use/addiction, relationship issues, spirituality questions, lack of self-esteem/confidence, stress, setting boundaries, & communication.
I use techniques from CBT, Family Systems theory & Narrative therapy as well as hypnosis & psychedelic integration.
I create a confidential space for you to safely explore your mental health concerns & gain practical tools to apply to your daily life. I offer short- & long-term therapy. I collaborate with you to understand your needs & goals. Then I create a treatment plan that is unique for you, based on what you need. I teach tools that have been proven to work in the past for my clients or for me. My clients tend to struggle with anxiety, depression, self-comparison, body image/EDs, trauma, abuse, substance use/addiction, relationship issues, spirituality questions, lack of self-esteem/confidence, stress, setting boundaries, & communication.
(442) 255-7027 View (442) 255-7027
Photo of Brittny McCarthy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittny McCarthy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
I utilize a blend of therapeutic approaches, meeting client’s “where they are," integrating attachment, mindfulness, EMDR, family systems, positive psychology, + mind-body awareness.
It takes courage to discover personal insight, to address current challenges, and/or to heal past wounds. And, we arrive to therapy for various reasons. Sometimes, we come as individuals, sometimes as a couple or a family. Together, we address your goals so that you can gain a better understanding of what may need to transform in order to live your best life-- whether it's a life transition, such as divorce or career change, the desire for different coping skills, addressing compulsions or addictions, experiencing loss and moving through the grief process, identifying a sense of purpose, or making sense of a traumatic experience.
I utilize a blend of therapeutic approaches, meeting client’s “where they are," integrating attachment, mindfulness, EMDR, family systems, positive psychology, + mind-body awareness.
It takes courage to discover personal insight, to address current challenges, and/or to heal past wounds. And, we arrive to therapy for various reasons. Sometimes, we come as individuals, sometimes as a couple or a family. Together, we address your goals so that you can gain a better understanding of what may need to transform in order to live your best life-- whether it's a life transition, such as divorce or career change, the desire for different coping skills, addressing compulsions or addictions, experiencing loss and moving through the grief process, identifying a sense of purpose, or making sense of a traumatic experience.
(310) 254-9361 View (310) 254-9361
Photo of Tara Vatankhah, MA, LMFT, RYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tara Vatankhah
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RYT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
The natural ebb & flow of life can at times make us feel disconnected, lost or confused. Therapy can facilitate in building self-awareness & help put the pieces back together. I would feel honored to be part of your healing journey. The suffering we experience can become a gift if we work through it. The foundation of my therapeutic approach is based on the idea that wisdom lives within all of us. My hope is to help you tap into & live from that place of connection to your own unique inner compass. I utilize mindfulness, somatic, narrative, CBT & family systems theoretical frameworks to help you create & lead a more fulfilling life.
The natural ebb & flow of life can at times make us feel disconnected, lost or confused. Therapy can facilitate in building self-awareness & help put the pieces back together. I would feel honored to be part of your healing journey. The suffering we experience can become a gift if we work through it. The foundation of my therapeutic approach is based on the idea that wisdom lives within all of us. My hope is to help you tap into & live from that place of connection to your own unique inner compass. I utilize mindfulness, somatic, narrative, CBT & family systems theoretical frameworks to help you create & lead a more fulfilling life.
(213) 376-3065 View (213) 376-3065
Photo of Hyim J Ross, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hyim J Ross
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291
Struggling with emotion disregulation? Anxious or depressed? Self medicating? You will have to create new patterns of behavior and thought to deal with the old destructive behaviors and thoughts. Self-compassion through self awareness. I can help you thrive and cultivate emotional sobriety. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with emotional disregulation and/or dealing with addiction-be that drugs, alcohol, sex, gaming, smart phones, intensity, pills, marijuana, etc. With over a decade of experience in helping people, you will learn skills to deal with your challenges as well as address the roots of your suffering.
Struggling with emotion disregulation? Anxious or depressed? Self medicating? You will have to create new patterns of behavior and thought to deal with the old destructive behaviors and thoughts. Self-compassion through self awareness. I can help you thrive and cultivate emotional sobriety. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with emotional disregulation and/or dealing with addiction-be that drugs, alcohol, sex, gaming, smart phones, intensity, pills, marijuana, etc. With over a decade of experience in helping people, you will learn skills to deal with your challenges as well as address the roots of your suffering.
(510) 491-9284 View (510) 491-9284
Photo of Kevin Kunkel, MA, LMFT, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kevin Kunkel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
The first steps to beginning therapy can seem hard. I want you to have hope, that If you are feeling stuck in unhealthy feelings or thoughts or needing support through stressful life events, there are effective holistic strategies for finding relief and bringing you back into balance. Trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, grieving are all experiences of the body as much as the mind, and effective therapy should integrate both. Through a compassionate, accepting relationship and an innovative somatic approach, I have found success in guiding clients to find relief of their symptoms and struggles in their body, mind, and hearts.
The first steps to beginning therapy can seem hard. I want you to have hope, that If you are feeling stuck in unhealthy feelings or thoughts or needing support through stressful life events, there are effective holistic strategies for finding relief and bringing you back into balance. Trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, grieving are all experiences of the body as much as the mind, and effective therapy should integrate both. Through a compassionate, accepting relationship and an innovative somatic approach, I have found success in guiding clients to find relief of their symptoms and struggles in their body, mind, and hearts.
(424) 269-7337 View (424) 269-7337
Photo of Hardy Lansaw, LMFT, CADC, CAS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hardy Lansaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CADC, CAS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
I work with clients who are frustrated with the process of therapy, being controlled by their mood, and high conflict relationship dynamics . My goal is to help you trust your instincts, regulate emotion, speak authentically, & improve relationships. While exploring past trauma & disappointment is critical, I believe complementing the process with specific skills to change behavior patterns is crucial. I'm trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy through Marsha Linehan's BTech. Think of it as therapy including skills training. Let me help you improve your relationship with yourself & get you closer to the things you want in life.
I work with clients who are frustrated with the process of therapy, being controlled by their mood, and high conflict relationship dynamics . My goal is to help you trust your instincts, regulate emotion, speak authentically, & improve relationships. While exploring past trauma & disappointment is critical, I believe complementing the process with specific skills to change behavior patterns is crucial. I'm trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy through Marsha Linehan's BTech. Think of it as therapy including skills training. Let me help you improve your relationship with yourself & get you closer to the things you want in life.
(424) 365-1960 View (424) 365-1960
Photo of Daniel-Ardeshir Ravanshenas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel-Ardeshir Ravanshenas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291
Affordable and accessible therapy is a necessity. I have two main concentrations to my practice: 1) I work with those interested in a confidential therapeutic setting to resolve complex psychological states and feelings (such as anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, trauma, childhood, relationship difficulties, personal grief, fear, shame, worthlessness, and existential questions about meaning-in-life). 2) I work in a consultant capacity for individuals with prescribed short-term, career-minded professional goals (public speaking, presentations, social skills, deadlines, writer's block, and management strategies).
Affordable and accessible therapy is a necessity. I have two main concentrations to my practice: 1) I work with those interested in a confidential therapeutic setting to resolve complex psychological states and feelings (such as anxiety, depression, addiction, eating disorders, trauma, childhood, relationship difficulties, personal grief, fear, shame, worthlessness, and existential questions about meaning-in-life). 2) I work in a consultant capacity for individuals with prescribed short-term, career-minded professional goals (public speaking, presentations, social skills, deadlines, writer's block, and management strategies).
(424) 353-3211 View (424) 353-3211
Photo of Daniela Morse, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Daniela Morse
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
Many people come to therapy feeling stuck, dissatisfied in relationships, anxious, depressed, and unsafe or uncomfortable in their bodies. Most people know what they want to change but it’s difficult because we are habitual creatures; we want to show up in the world in a different way but we’re drawn to the familiar way of doing and being. I can help you understand more about how your history, and the history of the generations before you, influences your current way of being in the world. I can help you get present and discover a more authentic way of living.
Many people come to therapy feeling stuck, dissatisfied in relationships, anxious, depressed, and unsafe or uncomfortable in their bodies. Most people know what they want to change but it’s difficult because we are habitual creatures; we want to show up in the world in a different way but we’re drawn to the familiar way of doing and being. I can help you understand more about how your history, and the history of the generations before you, influences your current way of being in the world. I can help you get present and discover a more authentic way of living.
(310) 256-2461 View (310) 256-2461
Photo of Danielle Birrittella, LMFT, MA, MFA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Danielle Birrittella
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, MFA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
My role as a psychotherapist is to accompany people on their courageous journeys of healing, discovery, and self-expression. I enjoy working with individuals who are curious and inspired to take their inner work seriously. I believe that the narratives we tell about ourselves hold tremendous power and that, through our work together, we can become more conscious of how these stories shape our lives in order to find opportunities for new understanding and meaning making. As a depth psychotherapist, I have reverence for the wisdom of psyche, the unconscious, to help guide us to explore parts of ourselves in order to become more whole.
My role as a psychotherapist is to accompany people on their courageous journeys of healing, discovery, and self-expression. I enjoy working with individuals who are curious and inspired to take their inner work seriously. I believe that the narratives we tell about ourselves hold tremendous power and that, through our work together, we can become more conscious of how these stories shape our lives in order to find opportunities for new understanding and meaning making. As a depth psychotherapist, I have reverence for the wisdom of psyche, the unconscious, to help guide us to explore parts of ourselves in order to become more whole.
(424) 233-1239 View (424) 233-1239
Photo of Erin Allen Brower, MA, LMHC, CE, Counselor
Erin Allen Brower
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CE
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
With over 20 years of experience in clinical therapeutic work, I am trained to transform relationships of all kinds. Gottman and EFT trained, I will help to strengthen your personal and professional bonds. I have spent my career helping individuals to facilitate every type of relationship. I teach clients to establish kind, clear, and honest communication and create environments where sustainable healthy relationships are formed. My approach to well-being is rooted in providing clients with the ability to form safe, healthy connections, build transparent and effective communication, and the skills to create healthy attachment.
With over 20 years of experience in clinical therapeutic work, I am trained to transform relationships of all kinds. Gottman and EFT trained, I will help to strengthen your personal and professional bonds. I have spent my career helping individuals to facilitate every type of relationship. I teach clients to establish kind, clear, and honest communication and create environments where sustainable healthy relationships are formed. My approach to well-being is rooted in providing clients with the ability to form safe, healthy connections, build transparent and effective communication, and the skills to create healthy attachment.
(310) 361-1604 View (310) 361-1604
Photo of Shannon Magnis - Dr. Shannon Magnis -  Group Therapy, PhD, CGP, Psychologist
Dr. Shannon Magnis - Group Therapy
Psychologist, PhD, CGP
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291
I have 20 years experience helping individuals, couples and groups find deeper meaning, satisfaction and inspiration in their unique experience of life. Individuals are often led to therapy by symptoms - anxiety, depression, panic attacks, failed relationships, compulsions and addictions, phobias, post-traumatic reactions and self-destructive behavior. Although symptoms can seem random and be destructive, they are important messengers guiding us toward introspection and growth. In psychotherapy we discover what lies beneath the surface of symptoms; we uncover that which has previously been unconscious.
I have 20 years experience helping individuals, couples and groups find deeper meaning, satisfaction and inspiration in their unique experience of life. Individuals are often led to therapy by symptoms - anxiety, depression, panic attacks, failed relationships, compulsions and addictions, phobias, post-traumatic reactions and self-destructive behavior. Although symptoms can seem random and be destructive, they are important messengers guiding us toward introspection and growth. In psychotherapy we discover what lies beneath the surface of symptoms; we uncover that which has previously been unconscious.
(310) 340-0978 View (310) 340-0978
Photo of Shawnee Isaac-Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shawnee Isaac-Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291
I am a Jungian Psychotherapist and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker whose goal is to assist my clients in developing more meaningful, centered lives. I have a compassionate and supportive style and enjoy working with both individuals and couples, honoring the uniqueness of each individual by creating a safe and nurturing environment.
I am a Jungian Psychotherapist and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker whose goal is to assist my clients in developing more meaningful, centered lives. I have a compassionate and supportive style and enjoy working with both individuals and couples, honoring the uniqueness of each individual by creating a safe and nurturing environment.
(424) 373-8855 View (424) 373-8855
Photo of Judith Bin-Nun, PhD, LMFT, LPCC, MAPsych, MA Ed, Marriage & Family Therapist
Judith Bin-Nun
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LPCC, MAPsych, MA Ed
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
My website www.drjudybin-nun describes my practice and offers endorsements and photos of art-maker therapy and Animal Assisted Therapy. I offer a warm,supportive and creative approach to individual growth and having faith to live in the present tense. I have worked with children and teens my entire life and offer parent guidance and family sessions. I treat individuals and couples as well. Working from a place of warmth and dedication, I help my patient to leave behind self limiting beliefs and learn positivity to enhance growth.
My website www.drjudybin-nun describes my practice and offers endorsements and photos of art-maker therapy and Animal Assisted Therapy. I offer a warm,supportive and creative approach to individual growth and having faith to live in the present tense. I have worked with children and teens my entire life and offer parent guidance and family sessions. I treat individuals and couples as well. Working from a place of warmth and dedication, I help my patient to leave behind self limiting beliefs and learn positivity to enhance growth.
(310) 301-9992 View (310) 301-9992
Photo of Eric E Paulson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eric E Paulson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90294
Eric Paulson is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and EMDR practitioner located in Venice/Santa Monica, CA. For over 25 years, Eric has immersed himself in the helping profession exploring both traditional and non-traditional approaches to healing. Throughout his career, he has worked with adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups in the treatment of attachment and developmental trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, dissociative disorders, spiritual emergencies, and psychedelic experience preparation and integration.
Eric Paulson is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and EMDR practitioner located in Venice/Santa Monica, CA. For over 25 years, Eric has immersed himself in the helping profession exploring both traditional and non-traditional approaches to healing. Throughout his career, he has worked with adolescents, adults, couples, families and groups in the treatment of attachment and developmental trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, dissociative disorders, spiritual emergencies, and psychedelic experience preparation and integration.
(424) 334-6852 View (424) 334-6852
Photo of Deenah Vollmer, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Deenah Vollmer
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
I help adults, couples, and teens feel better, less stuck, and more aligned in their relationships, careers, and creative pursuits. My office is a judgment-free place to explore thoughts and feelings, no matter how banal or extreme they may seem. Together we identify patterns and adaptations that no longer serve us. As we become less reactive, we find we have more agency in our lives. We communicate better with others, develop more meaningful relationships, and begin to live the lives we always dreamed of living.
I help adults, couples, and teens feel better, less stuck, and more aligned in their relationships, careers, and creative pursuits. My office is a judgment-free place to explore thoughts and feelings, no matter how banal or extreme they may seem. Together we identify patterns and adaptations that no longer serve us. As we become less reactive, we find we have more agency in our lives. We communicate better with others, develop more meaningful relationships, and begin to live the lives we always dreamed of living.
(626) 772-6294 View (626) 772-6294
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Family Systems Therapists
Family Systems therapists view problems within the family as the result not of particular members' behaviors, but of the family's group dynamic. The family is seen as a complex system having its own language, roles, rules, beliefs, needs and patterns. The therapist helps each individual member understand how their childhood family operated, their role in that system, and how that experience has shaped their role in the current family.