Family Therapy in San Luis Obispo, CA

Photo of Daniel Zacarias Messiter, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Daniel Zacarias Messiter
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
Daniel is a graduate of Cal Poly’s Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy program.
Emotions are a river, and sometimes the current can feel overwhelming. You do not have to navigate your river alone. Daniel creates a safe and welcoming environment for people to relieve stress, tension and learn new tools to aid in emotional navigation. His approach is client-centered, focusing on the depth of your experiences, and finding new insight and resolutions to the difficulties in your life.
Daniel is a graduate of Cal Poly’s Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy program.
Emotions are a river, and sometimes the current can feel overwhelming. You do not have to navigate your river alone. Daniel creates a safe and welcoming environment for people to relieve stress, tension and learn new tools to aid in emotional navigation. His approach is client-centered, focusing on the depth of your experiences, and finding new insight and resolutions to the difficulties in your life.
(805) 516-0921 View (805) 516-0921
Photo of Anne Appel - Anne Appel, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anne Appel, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Over the past 30+ years its been my privilege to assist individuals and couples work through obstacles that have prevented them from experiencing meaningful and peaceful lives and relationships. My clients are coping with the everyday stress of marriage and family concerns, parenting, aging, health issues, career and financial challenges, loss or other critical and stressful situations. With those stressors often come depression, anxiety and a whole host of other symptoms.
Over the past 30+ years its been my privilege to assist individuals and couples work through obstacles that have prevented them from experiencing meaningful and peaceful lives and relationships. My clients are coping with the everyday stress of marriage and family concerns, parenting, aging, health issues, career and financial challenges, loss or other critical and stressful situations. With those stressors often come depression, anxiety and a whole host of other symptoms.
(805) 774-1256 View (805) 774-1256
Photo of Denise C Williamson - Denise C Williamson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Denise C Williamson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
With over 10 years' experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been dedicated towards helping individual adults resolve their issues.
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or having relationship problems? Or, perhaps you just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life? Together we can focus on your healing, replacing any negative patterns, and promoting a more positive future. You deserve support and guidance towards achieving your dreams. I invite you to visit my website at www.brighterlifestyle.com.
With over 10 years' experience as a Marriage and Family Therapist, I have been dedicated towards helping individual adults resolve their issues.
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or having relationship problems? Or, perhaps you just can't shake the feeling that there should be more to life? Together we can focus on your healing, replacing any negative patterns, and promoting a more positive future. You deserve support and guidance towards achieving your dreams. I invite you to visit my website at www.brighterlifestyle.com.
(805) 322-3648 View (805) 322-3648
Photo of Aleksandra Marinovic, PsyD, Psychologist
Aleksandra Marinovic
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
My approach includes CBT, family systems, DBT, and positive psychology treatment methods.
Thank you for considering me as a potential partner in your journey of healing & self-discovery. I have 20 yrs. of clinical experience in the mental health field working primarily with adults & college-age students struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, family/relationship problems, trauma, life-transitions, personal growth, & self-acceptance. I was born and raised in Europe & am open to also working with clients who are from a wide range of countries & are experiencing difficulties in adjusting to life in the U.S. I am warm, caring, non-judgmental, & able to provide you a safe space to address today's stressors.
My approach includes CBT, family systems, DBT, and positive psychology treatment methods.
Thank you for considering me as a potential partner in your journey of healing & self-discovery. I have 20 yrs. of clinical experience in the mental health field working primarily with adults & college-age students struggling with substance abuse, depression, anxiety, family/relationship problems, trauma, life-transitions, personal growth, & self-acceptance. I was born and raised in Europe & am open to also working with clients who are from a wide range of countries & are experiencing difficulties in adjusting to life in the U.S. I am warm, caring, non-judgmental, & able to provide you a safe space to address today's stressors.
(858) 434-8137 View (858) 434-8137
Photo of Julia Richardson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia Richardson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
My name is Julia Richardson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California since January 1999. My License number is MFT35516. I work with children from age 10 and up. I also work with adolescents, adults, couples and families. My framework in working with individuals, couples and families is through a relational lens that incorporates brain science, attachment theory and mindsight. I see each (individual, couple dyad and family) as a magnificent portrait that comes to therapy when their life patterns are stuck in rigidity or chaos.
My name is Julia Richardson. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of California since January 1999. My License number is MFT35516. I work with children from age 10 and up. I also work with adolescents, adults, couples and families. My framework in working with individuals, couples and families is through a relational lens that incorporates brain science, attachment theory and mindsight. I see each (individual, couple dyad and family) as a magnificent portrait that comes to therapy when their life patterns are stuck in rigidity or chaos.
(805) 800-8685 View (805) 800-8685
Photo of Lynlee April Olivera, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynlee April Olivera
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I provide compassionate, science based treatment for Anticipatory Anxiety, AKA General Anxiety Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD is a psychological disorder that can torment and debilitate its sufferers not to mention the upheaval and anguish it brings to family and loved ones. Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) and/or Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) treatment is standard. If this sounds like the above information describes you or a loved one, I would love to work along side you. You don't have to walk alone in your journey with mental health.
I provide compassionate, science based treatment for Anticipatory Anxiety, AKA General Anxiety Disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). OCD is a psychological disorder that can torment and debilitate its sufferers not to mention the upheaval and anguish it brings to family and loved ones. Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), Inference-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (I-CBT) and/or Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT) treatment is standard. If this sounds like the above information describes you or a loved one, I would love to work along side you. You don't have to walk alone in your journey with mental health.
(805) 316-7173 View (805) 316-7173
Photo of Danielle Atencio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Atencio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
My therapeutic strengths encompass depressive disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use issues, family dynamics, and transitions related to life changes.
“Your journey is unique; I am here to walk alongside you.” This is my guiding principle, both as a person and as a therapist. Life presents us with an array of challenges and obstacles, and I believe that the power of connection and genuine support can be transformative. I approach therapy with a client-centered, strength-based philosophy, where our work together will focus on navigating life's complexities while uncovering the strengths and aspirations that reside within you. In our sessions, we will process your experiences, confront difficult emotions, and nurture your personal growth.
My therapeutic strengths encompass depressive disorders, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use issues, family dynamics, and transitions related to life changes.
“Your journey is unique; I am here to walk alongside you.” This is my guiding principle, both as a person and as a therapist. Life presents us with an array of challenges and obstacles, and I believe that the power of connection and genuine support can be transformative. I approach therapy with a client-centered, strength-based philosophy, where our work together will focus on navigating life's complexities while uncovering the strengths and aspirations that reside within you. In our sessions, we will process your experiences, confront difficult emotions, and nurture your personal growth.
(805) 303-8665 View (805) 303-8665
Photo of Lori Butterworth - Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, PhD, MEd, PsyD, Psychologist
Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health
Psychologist, PhD, MEd, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Specialties: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, 
Exposure & Response Prevention, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Family-Based Treatment, etc.
If you’re a parent or caregiver looking for mental health treatment for your child or teen, we’re here to help. The CCAMH Treatment Center specializes in evidence-based treatments that have been extensively researched and shown to be effective. We will do a full assessment and evaluation to determine the best treatment to address the young person's specific condition. We use evidence-based treatments for anxiety disorders and OCD, depression and mood disorders, attention deficit and behavior disorders and trauma. We work with the entire family and provide support and tools for parents including monthly virtual parent-drop in groups.
Specialties: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, 
Exposure & Response Prevention, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Family-Based Treatment, etc.
If you’re a parent or caregiver looking for mental health treatment for your child or teen, we’re here to help. The CCAMH Treatment Center specializes in evidence-based treatments that have been extensively researched and shown to be effective. We will do a full assessment and evaluation to determine the best treatment to address the young person's specific condition. We use evidence-based treatments for anxiety disorders and OCD, depression and mood disorders, attention deficit and behavior disorders and trauma. We work with the entire family and provide support and tools for parents including monthly virtual parent-drop in groups.
(805) 307-3328 View (805) 307-3328
Photo of Dr. Lori Butterworth, PsyD, MEd, MA, Psychological Associate
Dr. Lori Butterworth
Psychological Associate, PsyD, MEd, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Please don't hesitate to reach out; I am here to help find support for your child and family.
If you’re a parent looking for mental health support for your child or teen, I'm here to help. My experience with youth mental health has spanned three decades. As a former high school teacher, founder of Jacob's Heart Children's Cancer, the Children's Hospice Coalition, and the Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, I have worked with hundreds of youth and families. I use evidence-based, family-centered care and specialize in youth-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), exposure response prevention (ERP), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
Please don't hesitate to reach out; I am here to help find support for your child and family.
If you’re a parent looking for mental health support for your child or teen, I'm here to help. My experience with youth mental health has spanned three decades. As a former high school teacher, founder of Jacob's Heart Children's Cancer, the Children's Hospice Coalition, and the Center for Child and Adolescent Mental Health, I have worked with hundreds of youth and families. I use evidence-based, family-centered care and specialize in youth-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), exposure response prevention (ERP), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
(831) 830-0203 View (831) 830-0203
Photo of Amy R Overby, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy R Overby
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
You are here so you already making progress and are ready to make a change! You want your child to be happy and successful and are doing your best to help him. You'd like to have less arguing and enjoy your family more. Parenting is such a difficult job. It can really help to have someone with experience look at your situation from the outside and help you to see alternative ways of interacting. You have what it takes to improve your family relationships, but you could use a guide. Your child or teen may need to learn how to cope with new situations. I would like to help you to bring out the strengths in you and your family.
You are here so you already making progress and are ready to make a change! You want your child to be happy and successful and are doing your best to help him. You'd like to have less arguing and enjoy your family more. Parenting is such a difficult job. It can really help to have someone with experience look at your situation from the outside and help you to see alternative ways of interacting. You have what it takes to improve your family relationships, but you could use a guide. Your child or teen may need to learn how to cope with new situations. I would like to help you to bring out the strengths in you and your family.
(805) 804-3753 View (805) 804-3753
Photo of Elena Vladu, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elena Vladu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Even people living in San Luis Obispo county- the "happiest place on Earth" need, on occasion, professional support for life's stresses and emotional challenges.I specialize in professional men and women's issues: How to choose the right life or business partner, balancing work and family, cultivating assertiveness, strengthening self-esteem. Families with sensitive children: Quiet, dreamy, introverted, socially awkward, and easily misunderstood - even by their own parents. Artists' dilemmas: Performance anxiety, blocked creativity, survival as an artist in a tough economy. Immigrants with their feet in two worlds: Redefining the meaning of "home," breaking through the language barrier, developing a bi- cultural identity.
Even people living in San Luis Obispo county- the "happiest place on Earth" need, on occasion, professional support for life's stresses and emotional challenges.I specialize in professional men and women's issues: How to choose the right life or business partner, balancing work and family, cultivating assertiveness, strengthening self-esteem. Families with sensitive children: Quiet, dreamy, introverted, socially awkward, and easily misunderstood - even by their own parents. Artists' dilemmas: Performance anxiety, blocked creativity, survival as an artist in a tough economy. Immigrants with their feet in two worlds: Redefining the meaning of "home," breaking through the language barrier, developing a bi- cultural identity.
(805) 585-5974 View (805) 585-5974
Photo of Ann Marie Donnelly, PhD, Psychologist
Ann Marie Donnelly
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Gain clarity and find meaning: Client centered, in depth psychotherapy, specializing on life transitions. Support through difficult passages, such as physical conditions, family discordance, or complicated interpersonal issues.
Gain clarity and find meaning: Client centered, in depth psychotherapy, specializing on life transitions. Support through difficult passages, such as physical conditions, family discordance, or complicated interpersonal issues.
(805) 321-1812 View (805) 321-1812
Photo of Brian Abell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Abell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
In providing treatment I pull from a variety of modalities in order to tailor the experience to the individual, couple, family, or group that I am working with.
I am an LCSW with 30 years of experience in mental health. During that time I have been everything from an “Overnight/ Stay-awake” in residential facilities, a crisis intervention worker performing suicide and homicide evaluations, to being a Clinical Director of a mental health program for a large company. A couple things that have remained consistent throughout this time has been a major desire to help others and a gift for building rapport and strong working relationships with people of all ages and backgrounds.
In providing treatment I pull from a variety of modalities in order to tailor the experience to the individual, couple, family, or group that I am working with.
I am an LCSW with 30 years of experience in mental health. During that time I have been everything from an “Overnight/ Stay-awake” in residential facilities, a crisis intervention worker performing suicide and homicide evaluations, to being a Clinical Director of a mental health program for a large company. A couple things that have remained consistent throughout this time has been a major desire to help others and a gift for building rapport and strong working relationships with people of all ages and backgrounds.
(714) 452-1365 View (714) 452-1365
Photo of Randi Fabrick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Randi Fabrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
I'm Randi Fabrick, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as a Registered Dietitian, and I have been working for many years providing supportive counseling to both individuals and families. I have worked in various settings and currently focus on women's health needs, including life transitions, pregnancy and postpartum, and family dynamics. I also enjoy working with teens to help them with their overall coping and focusing on their goals for the future. I incorporate CBT, interpersonal and family systems, supportive counseling, mindfulness, and other positive coping techniques that help with anxiety and depression.
I'm Randi Fabrick, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as a Registered Dietitian, and I have been working for many years providing supportive counseling to both individuals and families. I have worked in various settings and currently focus on women's health needs, including life transitions, pregnancy and postpartum, and family dynamics. I also enjoy working with teens to help them with their overall coping and focusing on their goals for the future. I incorporate CBT, interpersonal and family systems, supportive counseling, mindfulness, and other positive coping techniques that help with anxiety and depression.
(562) 632-5910 View (562) 632-5910
Photo of Carolina Sagastume, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolina Sagastume
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
My name is Carolina Sagastume and I have been working as a bilingual (Spanish/English) mental health therapist for the past 16 years. I currently hold an active license as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 52852) and have extensive experience providing individual, family, and group therapy. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit with adolescents, young adults, and older adults who may be experiencing different challenges in life. I work with anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, trauma, life transitions, and relationship difficulties.
My name is Carolina Sagastume and I have been working as a bilingual (Spanish/English) mental health therapist for the past 16 years. I currently hold an active license as a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 52852) and have extensive experience providing individual, family, and group therapy. I have found that my style and approach are a good fit with adolescents, young adults, and older adults who may be experiencing different challenges in life. I work with anxiety, depression, ADHD, grief, trauma, life transitions, and relationship difficulties.
(657) 571-1896 View (657) 571-1896
Photo of Mike S Hibdon - Change Takes Action Consulting, CADC II, ICADC, MATC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Change Takes Action Consulting
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC II, ICADC, MATC
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93409
CTA has been in the forefront in the movement to bring the treatment for SUD into the mainstream medical clinics and family practices, by developing medicated assisted treatment programs (MAT).
Opiate use disorder, Alcoholism, Meth, Cocaine, internet Addiction. Relapse prevention, Drug, and Alcohol Education and Training for school districts, medical centers, and first responders. Making A life change can seem overwhelming, but I have learned it only takes a little action and a little help and guidance and your life can change.
CTA has been in the forefront in the movement to bring the treatment for SUD into the mainstream medical clinics and family practices, by developing medicated assisted treatment programs (MAT).
Opiate use disorder, Alcoholism, Meth, Cocaine, internet Addiction. Relapse prevention, Drug, and Alcohol Education and Training for school districts, medical centers, and first responders. Making A life change can seem overwhelming, but I have learned it only takes a little action and a little help and guidance and your life can change.
(209) 251-6784 View (209) 251-6784
Photo of Kirsten Angeliyan, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kirsten Angeliyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
I employ Humanistic, Client-Centered, Internal Family Systems, & Trauma Informed CBT approaches.
Kirsten specializes in working with adults to heal wounds of childhood trauma and resolve internal conflicts that may contribute to depression, mood disorders, anxiety and co-dependency. With an emphasis on inner-work, self compassion, and healing in the here-and-now, she offers an approach to therapy that seeks to strengthen self-esteem and worthiness. She seeks to develop a positive therapeutic alliance with her clients which can support the way safely, authentically and with reverence to the human experience.
I employ Humanistic, Client-Centered, Internal Family Systems, & Trauma Informed CBT approaches.
Kirsten specializes in working with adults to heal wounds of childhood trauma and resolve internal conflicts that may contribute to depression, mood disorders, anxiety and co-dependency. With an emphasis on inner-work, self compassion, and healing in the here-and-now, she offers an approach to therapy that seeks to strengthen self-esteem and worthiness. She seeks to develop a positive therapeutic alliance with her clients which can support the way safely, authentically and with reverence to the human experience.
(805) 590-4730 View (805) 590-4730
Photo of Sarah Whitmore Boe, MA, SUDCC, AMFT, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Sarah Whitmore Boe
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, SUDCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Do you have a family member that suffers from addiction? Do you feel frustrated and lost about how to help them, or how to act around them? Have you lost yourself too? I can help you navigate this trying time while making progress towards a solution.
Are your habits getting in the way of living your best life? Do you consider yourself a "functioning" substance user? Maybe you are ready to change but 12-step programs or rehab are not for you. My approach is coaching-based, and solution focused. Sessions focus on authentic self-discovery, recognizing and removing patterns that are keeping you stuck, setting realistic goals, and developing strategy to achieve them. I work well with individuals in a transition period of their lives, and with those who are motivated to make a change. I will help you develop a plan and accountability.
Do you have a family member that suffers from addiction? Do you feel frustrated and lost about how to help them, or how to act around them? Have you lost yourself too? I can help you navigate this trying time while making progress towards a solution.
Are your habits getting in the way of living your best life? Do you consider yourself a "functioning" substance user? Maybe you are ready to change but 12-step programs or rehab are not for you. My approach is coaching-based, and solution focused. Sessions focus on authentic self-discovery, recognizing and removing patterns that are keeping you stuck, setting realistic goals, and developing strategy to achieve them. I work well with individuals in a transition period of their lives, and with those who are motivated to make a change. I will help you develop a plan and accountability.
(805) 429-6428 View (805) 429-6428
Photo of Andrew Giron Rodriguez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrew Giron Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
Andrew has strong clinical experience working with Veterans, Substance Abuse, Addictions, Developing Coping Skills, Family Relational Support, Developing Strategies for managing Stress and Anxiety, Life Skills, and Conflict Management.
Andrew enjoys working with diverse populations and cultural backgrounds. With a client centered focus Andrew looks to build clients self-esteem and promote empowerment. Sessions often focus on building coping skills and strategies to deal with every day issues that can at times diminish the quality of life we have. Andrew has an immense passion for the Psychology field and being able to help those that seek support. Andrew considers it a privilege to work in our Central Coast Community and have the opportunity to give back to the local community through counseling services.
Andrew has strong clinical experience working with Veterans, Substance Abuse, Addictions, Developing Coping Skills, Family Relational Support, Developing Strategies for managing Stress and Anxiety, Life Skills, and Conflict Management.
Andrew enjoys working with diverse populations and cultural backgrounds. With a client centered focus Andrew looks to build clients self-esteem and promote empowerment. Sessions often focus on building coping skills and strategies to deal with every day issues that can at times diminish the quality of life we have. Andrew has an immense passion for the Psychology field and being able to help those that seek support. Andrew considers it a privilege to work in our Central Coast Community and have the opportunity to give back to the local community through counseling services.
(805) 973-0084 View (805) 973-0084
Photo of Marcia Bronstein Lcsw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marcia Bronstein Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Are You feeling stressed, frustrated, and exhausted by the everyday challenges of parenting. Although many times kids are simply dealing with the ordinary issues of growing up, their behavior and reactions may go beyond what’s expected or appropriate and gets in the way of the things they want or need, or impacts the way the family operates. Counseling can help children, parents and families express feelings and thoughts effectively and, can help families cope with everyday life transitions such as; separation, divorce, blended families, moving, serious illness, or gaining new family members. I offer therapy for college students.
Are You feeling stressed, frustrated, and exhausted by the everyday challenges of parenting. Although many times kids are simply dealing with the ordinary issues of growing up, their behavior and reactions may go beyond what’s expected or appropriate and gets in the way of the things they want or need, or impacts the way the family operates. Counseling can help children, parents and families express feelings and thoughts effectively and, can help families cope with everyday life transitions such as; separation, divorce, blended families, moving, serious illness, or gaining new family members. I offer therapy for college students.
(805) 317-4493 View (805) 317-4493
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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.