Family Therapy in Portland, OR

Photo of Holly Wigmore, MS, NCC
Holly Wigmore
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical approach is rooted in Internal Family System Therapy.
I think of counseling as a journey. Maybe you're not sure what the next steps are to get where you want to go. Perhaps you are feeling a lost, stuck, or unsure of what peak to journey to next. Maybe you've lost reception completely and need help syncing GPS to even find where you are! That's where I come in. As a therapist, I see my role as journeying alongside you on your unique path of self-exploration. I have a backpack of supplies and tools for us to get there but ultimately, it is your journey that we will be on.
My clinical approach is rooted in Internal Family System Therapy.
I think of counseling as a journey. Maybe you're not sure what the next steps are to get where you want to go. Perhaps you are feeling a lost, stuck, or unsure of what peak to journey to next. Maybe you've lost reception completely and need help syncing GPS to even find where you are! That's where I come in. As a therapist, I see my role as journeying alongside you on your unique path of self-exploration. I have a backpack of supplies and tools for us to get there but ultimately, it is your journey that we will be on.
(503) 907-6890 View (503) 907-6890
Photo of Lisa Majchrzak, MA
Lisa Majchrzak
MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
Are you feeling stressed and overwhelmed with the challenges of every day life such as relationship & parenting concerns, loss, grief & over thinking everything? Do you notice mental and emotional patterns holding you back from living a more joyful & empowered life? Your Soulful Journey, LLC is a confidential online space offering compassionate support on your path to healing. I have a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology and Marriage & Family Therapy with twenty years of experience utilizing interventions such as Gestalt, Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness & Somatic Therapy resulting in less anxiety & increased inner peace.
Are you feeling stressed and overwhelmed with the challenges of every day life such as relationship & parenting concerns, loss, grief & over thinking everything? Do you notice mental and emotional patterns holding you back from living a more joyful & empowered life? Your Soulful Journey, LLC is a confidential online space offering compassionate support on your path to healing. I have a Master's Degree in Clinical Psychology and Marriage & Family Therapy with twenty years of experience utilizing interventions such as Gestalt, Cognitive Behavioral, Mindfulness & Somatic Therapy resulting in less anxiety & increased inner peace.
(415) 360-0861 View (415) 360-0861
Photo of Alexandria Moore, MFT-I, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Alexandria Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome. My name is Alexandria (she/her). I help people repair relationships, connect back to the body, and nurture a love of self. We will work to understand how your family of origin and cultural influences shape you, freeing you to choose how you show up in the world. From years of teaching yoga, I have a deep regard for the connection between mind and body. I will often ask you to consider, can you be curious and nonjudgmental towards your body to create a healing mindset? This will support our larger work, as we practice awareness that every thought and emotion has a physical, embodied component.
Welcome. My name is Alexandria (she/her). I help people repair relationships, connect back to the body, and nurture a love of self. We will work to understand how your family of origin and cultural influences shape you, freeing you to choose how you show up in the world. From years of teaching yoga, I have a deep regard for the connection between mind and body. I will often ask you to consider, can you be curious and nonjudgmental towards your body to create a healing mindset? This will support our larger work, as we practice awareness that every thought and emotion has a physical, embodied component.
(971) 206-3566 View (971) 206-3566
Photo of Aaron Pomerantz, LMFT
Aaron Pomerantz
LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
I am LGBTQ friendly, respect each individual's spiritual or religious path, and believe in family of choice.
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I have found psychotherapy to be a powerful means to create lasting and meaningful change in lives. I consider myself to be an interactive, collaborative, and relational therapist and specialize in the treatment of individuals and couples. I am accepting new clients using telemedicine at this time. I am now in two offices, seeing Clients in Oregon and Colorado.
I am LGBTQ friendly, respect each individual's spiritual or religious path, and believe in family of choice.
With over 20 years of experience in the mental health field, I have found psychotherapy to be a powerful means to create lasting and meaningful change in lives. I consider myself to be an interactive, collaborative, and relational therapist and specialize in the treatment of individuals and couples. I am accepting new clients using telemedicine at this time. I am now in two offices, seeing Clients in Oregon and Colorado.
(971) 319-9750 View (971) 319-9750
Photo of Todd Ransford, PhD, Psychologist
Todd Ransford
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
I enjoy working with families, couples, and individuals who are experiencing relationship problems. I also have a background in treating depression and anxiety. My approach emphasizes helping people achieve practical results and is based in family systems and cognitive behavior theories. One of my guiding beliefs is that people are basically competent and are always seeking to solve problems on their own. In most cases this works well, but sometimes people get stuck and their attempted solutions either have no effect or make things worse. I see my role as helping people get "unstuck."
I enjoy working with families, couples, and individuals who are experiencing relationship problems. I also have a background in treating depression and anxiety. My approach emphasizes helping people achieve practical results and is based in family systems and cognitive behavior theories. One of my guiding beliefs is that people are basically competent and are always seeking to solve problems on their own. In most cases this works well, but sometimes people get stuck and their attempted solutions either have no effect or make things worse. I see my role as helping people get "unstuck."
(971) 407-4964 View (971) 407-4964
Photo of Brian Smith, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brian Smith
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97216
Families are at the heart of every society, which starts as couples, who in and of themselves are unique individuals. In this life, we all will have challenges. No one (and no family or couple) is perfect, and sometimes we all need help. The ideal client is brave enough to consider that they may want or need help. It takes courage to ask for help, which doesn't make them weak - it makes them bright. The ideal client loves themselves and those in their life enough to be their best. The good news is that you don't have to try and do this alone. Let me help. Personal, private, and tailored to your needs service.
Families are at the heart of every society, which starts as couples, who in and of themselves are unique individuals. In this life, we all will have challenges. No one (and no family or couple) is perfect, and sometimes we all need help. The ideal client is brave enough to consider that they may want or need help. It takes courage to ask for help, which doesn't make them weak - it makes them bright. The ideal client loves themselves and those in their life enough to be their best. The good news is that you don't have to try and do this alone. Let me help. Personal, private, and tailored to your needs service.
(503) 713-6067 x106 View (503) 713-6067 x106
Photo of Brynna Sibilla, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brynna Sibilla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
I am certified in both Internal Family Systems and Coherence Therapy.
I have been in practice since 1994 and know that change, growth and healing is possible in the context of a therapeutic relationship. My style is safe, warm and straightforward. We will increase your access to and awareness of underlying beliefs and heighten your ability to tune into and better meet your own needs. You will learn to better tolerate your emotions and bodily sensations, developing an enhanced ability to healthfully soothe yourself. You will cultivate greater courage, clarity and flexibility. My clients create relationships with greater intimacy and become more consistently authentic, creative and effective.
I am certified in both Internal Family Systems and Coherence Therapy.
I have been in practice since 1994 and know that change, growth and healing is possible in the context of a therapeutic relationship. My style is safe, warm and straightforward. We will increase your access to and awareness of underlying beliefs and heighten your ability to tune into and better meet your own needs. You will learn to better tolerate your emotions and bodily sensations, developing an enhanced ability to healthfully soothe yourself. You will cultivate greater courage, clarity and flexibility. My clients create relationships with greater intimacy and become more consistently authentic, creative and effective.
(971) 236-5258 View (971) 236-5258
Photo of Amalia Labis - Blossom Counseling, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Blossom Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I identify as a daughter, granddaughter, sibling, single parent, immigrant, and as a parent of neurodivergent children in a bi-cultural, bi-racial family.
Do you sometimes feel lonely, frustrated, or unsure about how to parent your child (neurotypical, neurodiverse, highly sensitive, biological, foster, adopted, step-child or inner child)? Has your child received a recent diagnosis and you are wondering what it means and how to start helping them? Is your family experiencing high parental conflict or has been through a recent life transition and needs guidance and support? Or, perhaps, raising your child has caused you to re-examine your own childhood and relationships with members of your family of origin? If so, I would love to be on your "team".
I identify as a daughter, granddaughter, sibling, single parent, immigrant, and as a parent of neurodivergent children in a bi-cultural, bi-racial family.
Do you sometimes feel lonely, frustrated, or unsure about how to parent your child (neurotypical, neurodiverse, highly sensitive, biological, foster, adopted, step-child or inner child)? Has your child received a recent diagnosis and you are wondering what it means and how to start helping them? Is your family experiencing high parental conflict or has been through a recent life transition and needs guidance and support? Or, perhaps, raising your child has caused you to re-examine your own childhood and relationships with members of your family of origin? If so, I would love to be on your "team".
(503) 994-1360 View (503) 994-1360
Photo of Gudmund Lee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gudmund Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223
I own and operate my own practice in SW Portland called the Willamette Family Counseling Center.
My approach to therapy is compassionate and direct. I will be respectful, but I will also be honest. I routinely give homework assignments as part of therapy, with the belief that if you accomplish the task you will start to experience the change you seek. I will try to understand both the nature and context of your problem and the potential impact of change before I offer helpful solutions. I will ask you about where you are trying to go, and we will work together to develop a practical plan to help you get there.
I own and operate my own practice in SW Portland called the Willamette Family Counseling Center.
My approach to therapy is compassionate and direct. I will be respectful, but I will also be honest. I routinely give homework assignments as part of therapy, with the belief that if you accomplish the task you will start to experience the change you seek. I will try to understand both the nature and context of your problem and the potential impact of change before I offer helpful solutions. I will ask you about where you are trying to go, and we will work together to develop a practical plan to help you get there.
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Photo of Arah Erickson, MS, NCC, LPC-A
Arah Erickson
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Welcome! I'm so glad you are here. I offer therapy to individual adults in Oregon facing concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship and family issues and self-esteem. I often focus on supporting clients through life transitions including those working through mid-life concerns, career and family changes, transition to college, cancer diagnosis and survivorship and grief and loss. My style is warm, compassionate, and accepting. I want you to know you are safe, seen and heard. I will partner with you in moving toward change through gaining fresh insight, feeling self-compassion, and seeing your strengths.
Welcome! I'm so glad you are here. I offer therapy to individual adults in Oregon facing concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship and family issues and self-esteem. I often focus on supporting clients through life transitions including those working through mid-life concerns, career and family changes, transition to college, cancer diagnosis and survivorship and grief and loss. My style is warm, compassionate, and accepting. I want you to know you are safe, seen and heard. I will partner with you in moving toward change through gaining fresh insight, feeling self-compassion, and seeing your strengths.
(971) 293-2603 View (971) 293-2603
Photo of Jacqueline Cape - Jacqueline R. Cape, Ph.D., PhD, Psychologist
Jacqueline R. Cape, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
Structural Family Therapy addresses and repairs unhealthy boundaries, conflicts, and builds healthy family interactions.
Welcome. I approach therapy as a collaborative and respectful process to help individuals, couples, and families learn new, adaptive ways to relieve emotional distress from anxiety or depression, illness, loss, grief, and trauma, therefore, becoming much more empowered and successful in their lives. In couples therapy, partners learn to manage and repair conflict, improve sexual intimacy, recover from betrayal, and enhance trust and friendship. Family therapy creates healthy patterns, routines, and behaviors to improve and heal maladaptive family dynamics and learn respectful and loving ways to communicate more successfully.
Structural Family Therapy addresses and repairs unhealthy boundaries, conflicts, and builds healthy family interactions.
Welcome. I approach therapy as a collaborative and respectful process to help individuals, couples, and families learn new, adaptive ways to relieve emotional distress from anxiety or depression, illness, loss, grief, and trauma, therefore, becoming much more empowered and successful in their lives. In couples therapy, partners learn to manage and repair conflict, improve sexual intimacy, recover from betrayal, and enhance trust and friendship. Family therapy creates healthy patterns, routines, and behaviors to improve and heal maladaptive family dynamics and learn respectful and loving ways to communicate more successfully.
(503) 647-6336 View (503) 647-6336
Photo of Tessa Henry, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tessa Henry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Tessa and I am currently accepting new client's in Oregon! I believe that my role as a therapist is to support and validate the life events that you share with me. My hope is that therapy sessions are a collaborative effort where client and therapist work together to establish realistic steps toward change. I am here to help with the ups and downs of your personal journey. My therapies of choice are person-centered practices, art therapy, solution-focused, and family systems theory, with elements of both cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies.
Hello, my name is Tessa and I am currently accepting new client's in Oregon! I believe that my role as a therapist is to support and validate the life events that you share with me. My hope is that therapy sessions are a collaborative effort where client and therapist work together to establish realistic steps toward change. I am here to help with the ups and downs of your personal journey. My therapies of choice are person-centered practices, art therapy, solution-focused, and family systems theory, with elements of both cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapies.
(971) 306-8109 View (971) 306-8109
Photo of Kalpana Krishnamurthy, MS, NCC
Kalpana Krishnamurthy
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
May be it goes against your cultural or family norms, or may be you’ve had bad experiences with white therapists.
May be you are wondering if therapy is really for you, especially if you are a person of color? As a South Asian who was once skeptical of therapy, I get it. Clients I work with are often dealing with anxiety or depression, grief and loss, parenting, exploring or navigating racial and cultural identities, exploring gender identity or preparing for gender affirming surgery, or working on their romantic relationship. Some clients aren't "working" on anything, but looking to create time each week to process, slow down, and have a regular space to check in with themselves. Where ever you are starting, I bring my curiosity and humor.
May be it goes against your cultural or family norms, or may be you’ve had bad experiences with white therapists.
May be you are wondering if therapy is really for you, especially if you are a person of color? As a South Asian who was once skeptical of therapy, I get it. Clients I work with are often dealing with anxiety or depression, grief and loss, parenting, exploring or navigating racial and cultural identities, exploring gender identity or preparing for gender affirming surgery, or working on their romantic relationship. Some clients aren't "working" on anything, but looking to create time each week to process, slow down, and have a regular space to check in with themselves. Where ever you are starting, I bring my curiosity and humor.
(971) 402-2099 View (971) 402-2099
Photo of Samuel Krulewitch, LCSW, CCSOT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samuel Krulewitch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCSOT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
I have experience with CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy and Family Systems Therapy, while I can also provide Motivational Interviewing to work with people exactly where they are at, with total non-judgment, and compassionate positive regard.
I am currently accepting new clients! I have specific experience working with teenagers and their families going through tough times. I am also comfortable working with middle-aged and young adults dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, mental illnesses.
I have experience with CBT, DBT, Narrative Therapy and Family Systems Therapy, while I can also provide Motivational Interviewing to work with people exactly where they are at, with total non-judgment, and compassionate positive regard.
I am currently accepting new clients! I have specific experience working with teenagers and their families going through tough times. I am also comfortable working with middle-aged and young adults dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, mental illnesses.
(503) 427-1949 View (503) 427-1949
Photo of Shannon Calcott, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Calcott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
I offer individual talk therapy from a person-centered perspective to adults struggling with mood and behavioral disorders; grief and loss; family conflict; academic and career decision-making; phase-of-life problems; job stress; relationship problems; social stressors; individualized future planning; and personal growth/exploration.
Whether you would like to improve your relationships with partners, friends, or family, explore feelings of grief in your own way without pressure to "get back to normal already," or find that sense of self and purpose that you might be missing, I provide a safe and confidential environment to process thoughts and feelings and gain insight, feedback and understanding.
I offer individual talk therapy from a person-centered perspective to adults struggling with mood and behavioral disorders; grief and loss; family conflict; academic and career decision-making; phase-of-life problems; job stress; relationship problems; social stressors; individualized future planning; and personal growth/exploration.
Whether you would like to improve your relationships with partners, friends, or family, explore feelings of grief in your own way without pressure to "get back to normal already," or find that sense of self and purpose that you might be missing, I provide a safe and confidential environment to process thoughts and feelings and gain insight, feedback and understanding.
(503) 766-3982 View (503) 766-3982
Photo of Gillian Boudreau, PhD, Psychologist
Gillian Boudreau
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212
I use insight-oriented, mindfulness-based, trauma-informed and ND affirming approaches including Internal Family Systems therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and a licensed school psychologist. I hold a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Long Island University in Brooklyn, NY. Urban and rural, inpatient and outpatient work settings have taught me about the many challenges an individual may face including experiences of oppression and injustice, as well as a deep appreciation for the richness of the human experience. My style is described as warm, analytical and collaborative, balancing deep emotional work with elements of humor and lightness when appropriate. I aim to help clients address the root of complex challenges, in a safe and supported way.
I use insight-oriented, mindfulness-based, trauma-informed and ND affirming approaches including Internal Family Systems therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and a licensed school psychologist. I hold a Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Long Island University in Brooklyn, NY. Urban and rural, inpatient and outpatient work settings have taught me about the many challenges an individual may face including experiences of oppression and injustice, as well as a deep appreciation for the richness of the human experience. My style is described as warm, analytical and collaborative, balancing deep emotional work with elements of humor and lightness when appropriate. I aim to help clients address the root of complex challenges, in a safe and supported way.
(971) 306-4786 View (971) 306-4786
Photo of Molly McDavitt - Molly McDavitt Counseling, LLC, LAT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Molly McDavitt Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LAT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I have training and expertise in trauma focused cognitive behavior therapy and family systems.
PLEASE NOTE I AM NOT TAKING NEW INDIVIDUAL CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. PLEASE CONTACT ME IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN MY GROUPS LISTED BELOW. I am a Licensed Art Therapist (LAT) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) offering individual, group, and family art therapy and counseling services for children, adolescents, and adults. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and love to work creatively with people to address issues in a new and different way. I am trained in both art therapy and general counseling so I can use any combination depending on your preference and what will best fit your needs.
I have training and expertise in trauma focused cognitive behavior therapy and family systems.
PLEASE NOTE I AM NOT TAKING NEW INDIVIDUAL CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. PLEASE CONTACT ME IF YOU ARE INTERESTED IN MY GROUPS LISTED BELOW. I am a Licensed Art Therapist (LAT) and Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) offering individual, group, and family art therapy and counseling services for children, adolescents, and adults. I have over 20 years of experience in the mental health field and love to work creatively with people to address issues in a new and different way. I am trained in both art therapy and general counseling so I can use any combination depending on your preference and what will best fit your needs.
(503) 897-1073 View (503) 897-1073
Photo of Kit Kryger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kit Kryger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I have over 35 years of specialized training and experience in trauma informed care, collaborative problem solving, child and family therapy, couples and individual life transitions.
Everyone goes through challenges situations in life and while you my have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it, in fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. If you struggle with anxiety, depression, marital/relational difficulties and are committed to making long lasting changes in your life by acquiring the long-lasting benefits and tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome those challenges-take the first step.
I have over 35 years of specialized training and experience in trauma informed care, collaborative problem solving, child and family therapy, couples and individual life transitions.
Everyone goes through challenges situations in life and while you my have successfully navigated through other difficulties you've faced, there's nothing wrong with seeking out extra support when you need it, in fact, therapy is for people who have enough self-awareness to realize they need a helping hand, and that is something to be admired. If you struggle with anxiety, depression, marital/relational difficulties and are committed to making long lasting changes in your life by acquiring the long-lasting benefits and tools you need to avoid triggers, re-direct damaging patterns, and overcome those challenges-take the first step.
(971) 351-2323 View (971) 351-2323
Photo of Andrea Grace Karpinski, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Grace Karpinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have dedicated much of my professional life to working with children and families. In my family work, I have enjoyed working with adults and have expanded my practice to include adults. I have worked in a variety of positions which include the following: therapist, youth advocate, teacher, youth employment specialist, Big Brother/Big Sister Coordinator, parent/teen mediator, mentor, coach, youth crew leader and Peace Corps Volunteer. These experiences have provided a wealth of insight into the human condition. They have enriched my life and often inform my work as a therapist.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have dedicated much of my professional life to working with children and families. In my family work, I have enjoyed working with adults and have expanded my practice to include adults. I have worked in a variety of positions which include the following: therapist, youth advocate, teacher, youth employment specialist, Big Brother/Big Sister Coordinator, parent/teen mediator, mentor, coach, youth crew leader and Peace Corps Volunteer. These experiences have provided a wealth of insight into the human condition. They have enriched my life and often inform my work as a therapist.
(503) 406-9103 View (503) 406-9103
Photo of Kathleen Barnes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Barnes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
My name is Kathleen Barnes, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated from University of Southern California with my MSW in children, family and military clinical social work. I have experience working with diverse populations using many counseling techniques to include Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Protocol, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma therapy, Motivational therapy and Brief Intervention Solution-based focused therapy. My experience is with individuals that struggle from stress and anxiety from everyday life to severe or mild mental health symptoms and trauma/PTSD.
My name is Kathleen Barnes, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I graduated from University of Southern California with my MSW in children, family and military clinical social work. I have experience working with diverse populations using many counseling techniques to include Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Protocol, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Trauma therapy, Motivational therapy and Brief Intervention Solution-based focused therapy. My experience is with individuals that struggle from stress and anxiety from everyday life to severe or mild mental health symptoms and trauma/PTSD.
(971) 320-7376 View (971) 320-7376
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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.