Photo of Lisa Fargnoli - Lighthouse Psychotherapy and Coaching, LLC, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lighthouse Psychotherapy and Coaching, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Ellington, CT 06029
Waitlist for new clients
I am so glad to help you with your healing journey. I have worked with most populations, and my specialties are working with people who have PTSD, dementia/Alzheimer's, anxiety, depression and family/relationship issues, and I am a divorce mediator. I am an authorized Oasis trainer, so mindfulness is an important part of my practice, as it soothes us mentally and physically.
I am so glad to help you with your healing journey. I have worked with most populations, and my specialties are working with people who have PTSD, dementia/Alzheimer's, anxiety, depression and family/relationship issues, and I am a divorce mediator. I am an authorized Oasis trainer, so mindfulness is an important part of my practice, as it soothes us mentally and physically.
(860) 968-2827 View (860) 968-2827

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Chelsea M Koziara, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea M Koziara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Windsor Locks, CT 06096  (Online Only)
I have 11 years of experience in developing and assessing various communication styles and family dynamics.
Life is tough, sometimes downright exhausting managing and juggling so many things all at once. Sometimes, all it takes is one thing to put us at a point where we could really use someone to talk it out. I enjoy working with my clients to give them the tools to grow, learn more about themselves, and to persevere through life’s challenges, trials and tribulations. If you are having problems within your own life, or within your family or work environment, I want you to know that I am here to help you. I am experienced with individual, marriage and family therapy.
I have 11 years of experience in developing and assessing various communication styles and family dynamics.
Life is tough, sometimes downright exhausting managing and juggling so many things all at once. Sometimes, all it takes is one thing to put us at a point where we could really use someone to talk it out. I enjoy working with my clients to give them the tools to grow, learn more about themselves, and to persevere through life’s challenges, trials and tribulations. If you are having problems within your own life, or within your family or work environment, I want you to know that I am here to help you. I am experienced with individual, marriage and family therapy.
(860) 813-3571 View (860) 813-3571
Photo of Jody Koval - Growth Through Change, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jody Koval - Growth Through Change
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06040  (Online Only)
"I was referred to Jody by a dear friend while struggling through a severe family crisis.
Hello, I am experienced in helping successfully cope with life's adjustments (including stress and anger management, relationship issues, addiction, grief, and caregiver issues). Life's changes can leave us challenged with feelings of uncertainty, frustration, hopelessness, isolation, and depression. I utilize an eclectic approach (mostly Mindful Cognitive Behavorial) as everyone is different and within the complex individual, moments and experiences are different as well. I strive to work with each individual, with compassion, patience, and dignity, with the goal that they can fully function and live their life to its fullest.
"I was referred to Jody by a dear friend while struggling through a severe family crisis.
Hello, I am experienced in helping successfully cope with life's adjustments (including stress and anger management, relationship issues, addiction, grief, and caregiver issues). Life's changes can leave us challenged with feelings of uncertainty, frustration, hopelessness, isolation, and depression. I utilize an eclectic approach (mostly Mindful Cognitive Behavorial) as everyone is different and within the complex individual, moments and experiences are different as well. I strive to work with each individual, with compassion, patience, and dignity, with the goal that they can fully function and live their life to its fullest.
(860) 756-5792 View (860) 756-5792
Photo of Bao Chau Van, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bao Chau Van
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Enfield, CT 06082
Therapy can be used differently to each individual, couple or family.
Welcome! I have openings for in-office and telehealth options for residents of MA, RI and CT. You want to make a change in your life? I am here for you. It takes courage to look for help and I am glad that you are here. Everyone needs help in life now and then. You can click on the website link to view availability and to schedule your appointment. I believe every challenge that we encounter is an opportunity for growth and creativity.
Therapy can be used differently to each individual, couple or family.
Welcome! I have openings for in-office and telehealth options for residents of MA, RI and CT. You want to make a change in your life? I am here for you. It takes courage to look for help and I am glad that you are here. Everyone needs help in life now and then. You can click on the website link to view availability and to schedule your appointment. I believe every challenge that we encounter is an opportunity for growth and creativity.
(413) 340-5194 View (413) 340-5194
Photo of Charles A. Dooley, PhD, Psychologist
Charles A. Dooley
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Enfield, CT 06082
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluation. Most referrals reflect concerns around life-long problems as well as recent changes in functioning that concern friends and family. Most of the time, patients and their families/supports are looking for empathy and clarification around real-world problems. This in-depth clarification allows for real-world treatment recommendations that can make a difference. Lengths are taken to minimize time in office. These include telephone and video interviews as well as electronically submitted forms and fact sheets.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in comprehensive psychological and neuropsychological evaluation. Most referrals reflect concerns around life-long problems as well as recent changes in functioning that concern friends and family. Most of the time, patients and their families/supports are looking for empathy and clarification around real-world problems. This in-depth clarification allows for real-world treatment recommendations that can make a difference. Lengths are taken to minimize time in office. These include telephone and video interviews as well as electronically submitted forms and fact sheets.
(413) 477-5570 View (413) 477-5570
Photo of Ashle Hupchick, LADC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashle Hupchick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LADC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, CT 06040  (Online Only)
Have you ever been weighed down by feelings of anxiety or depression? Do you struggle with trauma? Are you struggling with your gender identity or sexuality? Do you find yourself in the cycle of substance abuse? Are you stuck in a cycle of negative thinking? Untangling these challenges in life can be exhausting, stressful, and overwhelming. Let's work together to navigate your thoughts and find more balance and peace in your life. We are all shaped by our life experiences. My therapeutic approach is to meet you where you are at and focus on the changes you want for your life, utilizing person centered and trauma informed care.
Have you ever been weighed down by feelings of anxiety or depression? Do you struggle with trauma? Are you struggling with your gender identity or sexuality? Do you find yourself in the cycle of substance abuse? Are you stuck in a cycle of negative thinking? Untangling these challenges in life can be exhausting, stressful, and overwhelming. Let's work together to navigate your thoughts and find more balance and peace in your life. We are all shaped by our life experiences. My therapeutic approach is to meet you where you are at and focus on the changes you want for your life, utilizing person centered and trauma informed care.
(860) 891-2980 View (860) 891-2980
Photo of Heather Costello, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Costello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Windsor Locks, CT 06096  (Online Only)
Telehealth ONLY.For many, the "golden" years(later middle-age through end of life)are a time full of welcomed change and reflection. Still, medical conditions, relationship changes, and new life circumstances are just a few of the many stressors leaving seniors and caregivers feeling overwhelmed. I have counseled seniors living with dementia, as well as depression and anxiety. I have coached caregivers who find themselves balancing work responsibilities with care needs of children and aging parents. Most of my clients have similar goals: to be happier,improve relationships,and find a better quality of life.
Telehealth ONLY.For many, the "golden" years(later middle-age through end of life)are a time full of welcomed change and reflection. Still, medical conditions, relationship changes, and new life circumstances are just a few of the many stressors leaving seniors and caregivers feeling overwhelmed. I have counseled seniors living with dementia, as well as depression and anxiety. I have coached caregivers who find themselves balancing work responsibilities with care needs of children and aging parents. Most of my clients have similar goals: to be happier,improve relationships,and find a better quality of life.
(959) 214-2380 View (959) 214-2380
Photo of Leslie Haun, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Haun
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vernon, CT 06066
Not accepting new clients
I provide supportive, compassionate therapy for individuals age 18 and older. My practice emphasizes our experience of and participation in relationships. Our connections to others are vitally important in this life, whether you're someone who has many social and emotional attachments or prefers to enjoy just a few. When you encounter difficulties in your relationships, be it with your partner, family, friends or coworkers, I can help. If you're feeling worried, sad, frustrated, or hopeless about a relationship in your life you should give me a call.
I provide supportive, compassionate therapy for individuals age 18 and older. My practice emphasizes our experience of and participation in relationships. Our connections to others are vitally important in this life, whether you're someone who has many social and emotional attachments or prefers to enjoy just a few. When you encounter difficulties in your relationships, be it with your partner, family, friends or coworkers, I can help. If you're feeling worried, sad, frustrated, or hopeless about a relationship in your life you should give me a call.
(860) 333-6639 View (860) 333-6639

Online Therapists

Photo of Cora Chiru, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cora Chiru
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenwich, CT 06830  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
There are times you just need to talk to someone. Family and friends mean well but they might say "don't worry about it" or "everyone feels like that once in awhile" but you need more. That's the best thing about therapy, the focus is you! Therapy is flexible and there can be a variety of ways to do it. I prefer a slow approach since the most important component of therapy is the relationship between the therapist and client.
There are times you just need to talk to someone. Family and friends mean well but they might say "don't worry about it" or "everyone feels like that once in awhile" but you need more. That's the best thing about therapy, the focus is you! Therapy is flexible and there can be a variety of ways to do it. I prefer a slow approach since the most important component of therapy is the relationship between the therapist and client.
(203) 962-1386 View (203) 962-1386
Photo of Al Mayer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Al Mayer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stratford, CT 06614  (Online Only)
My experience includes providing individual psychotherapy, couples counseling, marriage and family therapy; group therapy, drug and alcohol counseling.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, fatigued? Maybe feeling stuck? Perhaps you are experiencing problems in relationships with family, or coworkers. Perhaps feeling overwhelmed with life in general. You might be thinking of getting help but you're experiencing problems in asking for or reaching out for help. Well, you are not alone because many people find it hard to reach out for help. My name is Al Mayer. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Connecticut. I have over 30 years experience in helping clients to make choices to empower them to move forward and reach whatever their true goal is.
My experience includes providing individual psychotherapy, couples counseling, marriage and family therapy; group therapy, drug and alcohol counseling.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed, fatigued? Maybe feeling stuck? Perhaps you are experiencing problems in relationships with family, or coworkers. Perhaps feeling overwhelmed with life in general. You might be thinking of getting help but you're experiencing problems in asking for or reaching out for help. Well, you are not alone because many people find it hard to reach out for help. My name is Al Mayer. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Connecticut. I have over 30 years experience in helping clients to make choices to empower them to move forward and reach whatever their true goal is.
(475) 265-6939 View (475) 265-6939
Photo of Jessica Marshall, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Marshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamden, CT 06518
Our Heal at HOME program offers in-home individual therapy services for Seniors, Home bound and Medically complex/compromised client's and their family/caretakers.
Behavioral Health & Wellness, LLC is a group counseling practice with locations in Hamden, CT and statewide telehealth. Offices are handicap accessible. We are located at a bus stop. Our practice is made up of 31 licensed clinicians' who provide evidenced based treatment, tailored to meet the individual patient's needs. We also offer in home psychotherapy through our HEAL at HOME program. We treat ages 6-Seniors We believe that recovery is possible for all individuals and we look forward to supporting you through your healing journey.
Our Heal at HOME program offers in-home individual therapy services for Seniors, Home bound and Medically complex/compromised client's and their family/caretakers.
Behavioral Health & Wellness, LLC is a group counseling practice with locations in Hamden, CT and statewide telehealth. Offices are handicap accessible. We are located at a bus stop. Our practice is made up of 31 licensed clinicians' who provide evidenced based treatment, tailored to meet the individual patient's needs. We also offer in home psychotherapy through our HEAL at HOME program. We treat ages 6-Seniors We believe that recovery is possible for all individuals and we look forward to supporting you through your healing journey.
(203) 916-1217 View (203) 916-1217
Photo of Vivian Jean Reddin, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vivian Jean Reddin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pawcatuck, CT 06379
I will do my best to advocate for you: coordinating care with other medical professionals, getting help with work issues, school problems, as well as conflicts with friends, family members, or co-workers.
I AM TAKING NEW PATIENTS! Are you feeling stuck and ready to make life changes? Is stress ruining your fun? Are you grieving? I believe in treating people unconditionally with respect and non-judgment. Learn to slow down your thoughts to decrease anxiety and depression by focusing on what you have control over. Create more structure to decrease anxiety. Learn effective breathing and muscle relaxation to ease chronic pain and improve sleep. I incorporate Yoga into the healing practice to relieve stress and increase joy. Art and play can help children and youth express emotions when working with them.
I will do my best to advocate for you: coordinating care with other medical professionals, getting help with work issues, school problems, as well as conflicts with friends, family members, or co-workers.
I AM TAKING NEW PATIENTS! Are you feeling stuck and ready to make life changes? Is stress ruining your fun? Are you grieving? I believe in treating people unconditionally with respect and non-judgment. Learn to slow down your thoughts to decrease anxiety and depression by focusing on what you have control over. Create more structure to decrease anxiety. Learn effective breathing and muscle relaxation to ease chronic pain and improve sleep. I incorporate Yoga into the healing practice to relieve stress and increase joy. Art and play can help children and youth express emotions when working with them.
(860) 390-5400 View (860) 390-5400
Photo of Leesa Sklover, PhD, LPC, MA-MT, C-IAYT, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leesa Sklover
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MA-MT, C-IAYT, CRC
Verified Verified
Branford, CT 06405
All Relationships, Family Therapy, Couples therapy-Coaching programs.
I listen with caring and compassion. Lifetime experience with counseling and integrative therapies, 27 years. Gain a sense of meaning as I witness your life and needs, making you feel understood. Specializing in Family and Couple enhancement. Pregnancy, Prenatal-Postpartum support. Parent, Child, Adult Therapy, Entertainment/ Sports industry- Mental Performance, Creative Guidance. Speaker-Therapist-Canyon Ranch Spa (12 yrs), Hospitals, Crisis Work-First Responders. People seeking counseling are often in transitional life stages. Turn doubt and anxiety around. It's a pleasure looking at life and relationships, with the right person.
All Relationships, Family Therapy, Couples therapy-Coaching programs.
I listen with caring and compassion. Lifetime experience with counseling and integrative therapies, 27 years. Gain a sense of meaning as I witness your life and needs, making you feel understood. Specializing in Family and Couple enhancement. Pregnancy, Prenatal-Postpartum support. Parent, Child, Adult Therapy, Entertainment/ Sports industry- Mental Performance, Creative Guidance. Speaker-Therapist-Canyon Ranch Spa (12 yrs), Hospitals, Crisis Work-First Responders. People seeking counseling are often in transitional life stages. Turn doubt and anxiety around. It's a pleasure looking at life and relationships, with the right person.
(203) 872-9525 View (203) 872-9525
Photo of Robert J Nesbitt Jr., LCSW, DSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert J Nesbitt Jr.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Haven, CT 06513
I am Dr. Robert Nesbitt, Jr., LCSW, founder of The Dover Counseling Center. At our center, we're dedicated to empowering individuals like yourself to achieve self-sufficiency and gain insight into the root causes of daily challenges. Whether you seek individual talk therapy, couples counseling, or family and group therapy, we are here to offer the guidance and support that you need.
I am Dr. Robert Nesbitt, Jr., LCSW, founder of The Dover Counseling Center. At our center, we're dedicated to empowering individuals like yourself to achieve self-sufficiency and gain insight into the root causes of daily challenges. Whether you seek individual talk therapy, couples counseling, or family and group therapy, we are here to offer the guidance and support that you need.
(475) 250-1626 View (475) 250-1626
Photo of Shari L O'Reilly, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shari L O'Reilly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wallingford, CT 06492
Reaching out is the first step. I provide my clients with a compassionate environment to help them facilitate the positive change they are looking for. I have an in-depth understanding of how trauma affects both the mind and body. I have experience in working with children, adolescents and adults. I also provide positive family building therapy. Together we can choose strategies that help you reach your goals. We all deserve brain wellness. I offer evening and weekend appointments that can support those with busy schedules. I understand that financial concerns vary for my clients and I am available for free phone consultations.
Reaching out is the first step. I provide my clients with a compassionate environment to help them facilitate the positive change they are looking for. I have an in-depth understanding of how trauma affects both the mind and body. I have experience in working with children, adolescents and adults. I also provide positive family building therapy. Together we can choose strategies that help you reach your goals. We all deserve brain wellness. I offer evening and weekend appointments that can support those with busy schedules. I understand that financial concerns vary for my clients and I am available for free phone consultations.
(860) 316-4067 View (860) 316-4067
Photo of Elizabeth Calderon - Hartford Mediation Services , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hartford Mediation Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bloomfield, CT 06002
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years experience in the practice of helping couples effectuate change in their relationships and increase effective communication.
Offering divorce mediation services to those decided or considering divorce. Divorce is an unfortunate reality for many couples, and the stigma surrounding these circumstances can be daunting and painful. The approach taken towards divorce can greatly impact the emotional and financial outcomes for both parties and everyone involved including children. There is a growing societal trend towards divorces that are less contentious and less costly. Mediation. This shift in attitude has created a significant change on how divorce affects couples and families, helping the separation be amicable and efficient.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 10 years experience in the practice of helping couples effectuate change in their relationships and increase effective communication.
Offering divorce mediation services to those decided or considering divorce. Divorce is an unfortunate reality for many couples, and the stigma surrounding these circumstances can be daunting and painful. The approach taken towards divorce can greatly impact the emotional and financial outcomes for both parties and everyone involved including children. There is a growing societal trend towards divorces that are less contentious and less costly. Mediation. This shift in attitude has created a significant change on how divorce affects couples and families, helping the separation be amicable and efficient.
(860) 397-6512 View (860) 397-6512
Photo of Edward J Schork, PhD, Psychologist
Edward J Schork
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Greenwich, CT 06830
Welcome! Feeling stressed, overwhelmed, unfulfilled or invalidated at work or in your relationships? Experiencing intense sadness, anxiety, anger, loneliness, stuck in unsatisfying or self-defeating patterns? Worried about a struggling child or challenged by a troubled teen or difficult family member? Having romantic/marital difficulties, contemplating breakup/divorce? I can help. Together we can build a compassionate, empathic "team effort" that builds upon & enhances your existing strengths, helps you learn new, optimal coping strategies & communication & relationship skills, heals pain and suffering, overcomes obstacles, optimizes career, school or family wellbeing & success, enhances feelings of life satisfaction and fulfillment, and maximizes your and your loved ones' potential.
Welcome! Feeling stressed, overwhelmed, unfulfilled or invalidated at work or in your relationships? Experiencing intense sadness, anxiety, anger, loneliness, stuck in unsatisfying or self-defeating patterns? Worried about a struggling child or challenged by a troubled teen or difficult family member? Having romantic/marital difficulties, contemplating breakup/divorce? I can help. Together we can build a compassionate, empathic "team effort" that builds upon & enhances your existing strengths, helps you learn new, optimal coping strategies & communication & relationship skills, heals pain and suffering, overcomes obstacles, optimizes career, school or family wellbeing & success, enhances feelings of life satisfaction and fulfillment, and maximizes your and your loved ones' potential.
(203) 463-4194 View (203) 463-4194
Photo of Marcie Dimenstein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcie Dimenstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hamden, CT 06518
Additional Services include Care Management for Elders, facilitating support when the family can not.
As we age we have many challenges and transitions which affect us - some positive and some negative. What we do with these transitions are the key to finding joy in our life. Most of the time we are completely capable of navigating these stressors with our own personal resources. Sometimes a little extra support is required: whether it is obtaining insight, learning new behaviors or just having a skilled listener. My various skills learned over thirty years can do that. I can provide the support and skills that are needed.
Additional Services include Care Management for Elders, facilitating support when the family can not.
As we age we have many challenges and transitions which affect us - some positive and some negative. What we do with these transitions are the key to finding joy in our life. Most of the time we are completely capable of navigating these stressors with our own personal resources. Sometimes a little extra support is required: whether it is obtaining insight, learning new behaviors or just having a skilled listener. My various skills learned over thirty years can do that. I can provide the support and skills that are needed.
(203) 710-0500 View (203) 710-0500
Photo of Joel Becker, PhD, Psychologist
Joel Becker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Family involvement often occurs.
A substantial subgroup recovering from COVID-19 are experiencing cognitive and/or Neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with the infection. I am providing screening and assessment of such symptoms. I am also working with the treatment of individuals recovering from COVID-19 providing Behavioral Medicine services. Panic attacks and overwhelming Anxiety including, Obsessive Compulsive Symptoms, PTSD, and Phobias have been observed. Alterations in mental status, decreased attention, focus, and cognitive fatigue are some of the neurocognitive symptoms worked with. The latest research and Best Practice Treatments are utilized.
Family involvement often occurs.
A substantial subgroup recovering from COVID-19 are experiencing cognitive and/or Neuropsychiatric symptoms associated with the infection. I am providing screening and assessment of such symptoms. I am also working with the treatment of individuals recovering from COVID-19 providing Behavioral Medicine services. Panic attacks and overwhelming Anxiety including, Obsessive Compulsive Symptoms, PTSD, and Phobias have been observed. Alterations in mental status, decreased attention, focus, and cognitive fatigue are some of the neurocognitive symptoms worked with. The latest research and Best Practice Treatments are utilized.
(888) 674-5845 View (888) 674-5845
Photo of Millie Bryant-Giannini, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Millie Bryant-Giannini
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Wilton, CT 06897
I utilize an eclectic style in my practice and pull from diverse therapeutic modalities including: CBT, DBT, family systems, psychodynamic, and strategic approaches.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety and depression, experiencing grief, feeling overwhelmed about the future, or simply looking to carve out some space to build insight and self care, you are not alone. I have over 20 years of professional experience helping children, adolescents, adults, and families sharpen their skills to more effectively work through stress, loss, transitions, and the unexpected obstacles that life has thrown their way. Empowering individuals and families to reconnect with themselves, redefine themselves, rediscover their inner strengths, and rebuild their emotional well-being is my passion and commitment.
I utilize an eclectic style in my practice and pull from diverse therapeutic modalities including: CBT, DBT, family systems, psychodynamic, and strategic approaches.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety and depression, experiencing grief, feeling overwhelmed about the future, or simply looking to carve out some space to build insight and self care, you are not alone. I have over 20 years of professional experience helping children, adolescents, adults, and families sharpen their skills to more effectively work through stress, loss, transitions, and the unexpected obstacles that life has thrown their way. Empowering individuals and families to reconnect with themselves, redefine themselves, rediscover their inner strengths, and rebuild their emotional well-being is my passion and commitment.
(203) 665-8062 View (203) 665-8062

See more therapy options for Ellington

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.