Family Therapy in Apple Valley, MN
![Photo of Shannon Pollreis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba762789-f2b7-4cbf-8ca0-7d2a5bb9d718/1/320x400.jpeg)
My approach is as individual and unique as you, your family or partnership(s) are.
Do you identify as LGBTQIA+ and/or have non-traditional relationship dynamics? Do you feel disconnected from your partner(s) or self? We can navigate the barriers which prevent you from having the connections you desire with others and yourself. Do you respond in ways that you just don't understand and feel out of your control at times? Let's work together to understand and change patterns which no longer serve you. Are you unsure of the path you are on and want to embark on a journey that matches with your authentic self, but first need to figure out what that means to you? I can help guide you in self exploration.
My approach is as individual and unique as you, your family or partnership(s) are.
Do you identify as LGBTQIA+ and/or have non-traditional relationship dynamics? Do you feel disconnected from your partner(s) or self? We can navigate the barriers which prevent you from having the connections you desire with others and yourself. Do you respond in ways that you just don't understand and feel out of your control at times? Let's work together to understand and change patterns which no longer serve you. Are you unsure of the path you are on and want to embark on a journey that matches with your authentic self, but first need to figure out what that means to you? I can help guide you in self exploration.
![Photo of Heather Hartwig, MSW, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5246de1a-1750-4505-bcc7-103b8372be6a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
I believe that every one of us is trying our best and sometimes we need help from a professional to offer us additional perspective. Each one of us is the expert in our own lives, but we do not always see the water we are swimming in that might be causing us distress. Therapy is a collaborative process where we explore what works best for you. I would love to partner with you to help you find your way forward.
I use a variety of therapeutic techniques including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
I believe that every one of us is trying our best and sometimes we need help from a professional to offer us additional perspective. Each one of us is the expert in our own lives, but we do not always see the water we are swimming in that might be causing us distress. Therapy is a collaborative process where we explore what works best for you. I would love to partner with you to help you find your way forward.
![Photo of Judy Marie LaVone, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/023f6dbb-e3a4-4c8b-96ea-1777588e0fdb/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy coming alongside individuals, couples, and families, and helping those who would like to work through their challenges with stress, anxiety, PTSD, depression, ADHD, academic difficulties, family problems, or other mental health concerns. I believe it is important to develop a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients, to be compassionate, to listen carefully to them, to encourage them and empower them, to help them experience healing and hope in their lives.
I enjoy coming alongside individuals, couples, and families, and helping those who would like to work through their challenges with stress, anxiety, PTSD, depression, ADHD, academic difficulties, family problems, or other mental health concerns. I believe it is important to develop a strong therapeutic alliance with my clients, to be compassionate, to listen carefully to them, to encourage them and empower them, to help them experience healing and hope in their lives.
![Photo of David Karan - Oak Ridge Center](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54eed3e0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are a group of mental health professionals in a private practice setting, committed to providing high quality, compassionate and comprehensive psychiatric and psychological care. Our group includes Certified Nurse Practitioners, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors and Licensed Clinical Social worker. Oak Ridge Center has been providing care in Apple Valley, Minnesota, to individuals in the Metro area since 2004.
We are a group of mental health professionals in a private practice setting, committed to providing high quality, compassionate and comprehensive psychiatric and psychological care. Our group includes Certified Nurse Practitioners, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors and Licensed Clinical Social worker. Oak Ridge Center has been providing care in Apple Valley, Minnesota, to individuals in the Metro area since 2004.
![Photo of Cynthia Peterson, MAC, MA, LP, LPCC, RPT-S, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d0aa91f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been in the counseling and psychology field for the past 20 years. I know that it is difficult to ask for help. However, people sometimes need additional support beyond their family and friends. I work with, adults and adolescents that experience low self-esteem, relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, addiction, trauma, and have trouble regulating their emotions. If you are a parent looking for services for your child, I am a registered play therapist and I will work with your child to resolve fears, worries, sadness, and build healthy esteem and assist you in providing on-going support to your child.
I have been in the counseling and psychology field for the past 20 years. I know that it is difficult to ask for help. However, people sometimes need additional support beyond their family and friends. I work with, adults and adolescents that experience low self-esteem, relationship problems, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, addiction, trauma, and have trouble regulating their emotions. If you are a parent looking for services for your child, I am a registered play therapist and I will work with your child to resolve fears, worries, sadness, and build healthy esteem and assist you in providing on-going support to your child.
![Photo of Mary L Bauer, MA, MHP, LADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/546edbd4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary L Bauer
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, MHP, LADC
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124 (Online Only)
I have immediate openings. Hello, my name is Mary Bauer. I am Psychotherapist and Licensed Substance Use Professional who has been in the business for about 20 years. I specialize in depression, stress/anxiety, anger, alcohol and/or drug problems, individual, family, financial problems, child/teen problems, and couple problems, or just feeling lonely. I will do face to face as needed in Fridley where office is located or we make arrangements for face to face. I take insurance and private pay. I would love to help you with your struggles.
I have immediate openings. Hello, my name is Mary Bauer. I am Psychotherapist and Licensed Substance Use Professional who has been in the business for about 20 years. I specialize in depression, stress/anxiety, anger, alcohol and/or drug problems, individual, family, financial problems, child/teen problems, and couple problems, or just feeling lonely. I will do face to face as needed in Fridley where office is located or we make arrangements for face to face. I take insurance and private pay. I would love to help you with your struggles.
![Photo of Linda Pellmann - Living Whole and Holy Counseling, LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/501bde91-b0e2-445e-bb47-b2f46d03820a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Living Whole and Holy Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124 (Online Only)
I'll meet you where you are at, listen to your story and work to understand your treatment needs using sound integrative family system theory and Christian faith.
Covid fatigue is heightening our stress and relation issues. Loss of what is familiar is challenging. It's time to talk to someone to get a different perspective, new coping method or help with a significant lifestyle change. Grief, anxiety and depression are increasing due to the stress of the pandemic. Issues you are experiencing for yourself, your relationship, marriage and family are heightened causing elevated emotional, spiritual and physical distress. I see you as an individual made of body, soul and spirit in God's image and beleive you are worthy of dignity. I'd like to help you live well through a systemic approach.
I'll meet you where you are at, listen to your story and work to understand your treatment needs using sound integrative family system theory and Christian faith.
Covid fatigue is heightening our stress and relation issues. Loss of what is familiar is challenging. It's time to talk to someone to get a different perspective, new coping method or help with a significant lifestyle change. Grief, anxiety and depression are increasing due to the stress of the pandemic. Issues you are experiencing for yourself, your relationship, marriage and family are heightened causing elevated emotional, spiritual and physical distress. I see you as an individual made of body, soul and spirit in God's image and beleive you are worthy of dignity. I'd like to help you live well through a systemic approach.
![Photo of Judith Ann Richardson-Mahre, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b8a98434-2bef-41f7-8e63-79f55737d5e4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Judith Ann Richardson-Mahre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Apple Valley, MN 55124
I’m a compassionate and action-oriented therapist, coach and family/educator with extensive expertise in ADHD, parenting, couples and families.
Are you going through a tough time, struggling with long-term mental illness, out-of-control kids, floundering relationships, or personal struggles that are affecting you and those around you? I can help! I can fully relate to the stress and joy of parenting and partnering in unique family situations. I’m passionate about working with individuals and families to identify their strengths and struggles and then expanding & exploiting those strengths to help you navigate through to happiness and joy.
I’m a compassionate and action-oriented therapist, coach and family/educator with extensive expertise in ADHD, parenting, couples and families.
Are you going through a tough time, struggling with long-term mental illness, out-of-control kids, floundering relationships, or personal struggles that are affecting you and those around you? I can help! I can fully relate to the stress and joy of parenting and partnering in unique family situations. I’m passionate about working with individuals and families to identify their strengths and struggles and then expanding & exploiting those strengths to help you navigate through to happiness and joy.
![Photo of Brittany Luddington, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c26cf9fe-db27-49f0-b20e-64f393a78082/1/320x400.png)
Brittany Luddington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124 (Online Only)
I absolutely adore working with people who are ready to face the things in life keeping them stuck and walking alongside them in the journey of getting to where they want to be. Whether it's interpersonal challenges with friends, family, or partners, professional transitions, identity shifts, or anything in between, I'm here for it! My ideal client is someone who is excited (even if a little nervous..) about the journey of therapy, regardless of why they are starting or re-starting, and are open to direct and honest conversation, practicing skills between sessions, and doing the incredible work of shifting toward intentional living.
I absolutely adore working with people who are ready to face the things in life keeping them stuck and walking alongside them in the journey of getting to where they want to be. Whether it's interpersonal challenges with friends, family, or partners, professional transitions, identity shifts, or anything in between, I'm here for it! My ideal client is someone who is excited (even if a little nervous..) about the journey of therapy, regardless of why they are starting or re-starting, and are open to direct and honest conversation, practicing skills between sessions, and doing the incredible work of shifting toward intentional living.
![Photo of Carrie K. Wolfson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5d9659-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/6/320x400.jpeg)
Carrie K. Wolfson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124
Waitlist for new clients
Unlike others, Foundations Family Therapy is able to provide a more comprehensive view and treatment of the individual child, as well as providing the help needed for families, academic development, and behavioral supports.
Working with children/youth who have social and emotional deficits is my passion. As a systems therapist I am committed to assisting each child/youth while also working with the family to handle difficulties that come with having a child with unique needs. My clients may have autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other mood/impulse control concerns which cause behavioral and relationship difficulties. Treatment plans are based on concepts of "Social Thinking" as well as behavioral and play-based interventions, CBT and Family Therapy approaches to maximize the learning and retention of skills across multiple settings.
Unlike others, Foundations Family Therapy is able to provide a more comprehensive view and treatment of the individual child, as well as providing the help needed for families, academic development, and behavioral supports.
Working with children/youth who have social and emotional deficits is my passion. As a systems therapist I am committed to assisting each child/youth while also working with the family to handle difficulties that come with having a child with unique needs. My clients may have autism, ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other mood/impulse control concerns which cause behavioral and relationship difficulties. Treatment plans are based on concepts of "Social Thinking" as well as behavioral and play-based interventions, CBT and Family Therapy approaches to maximize the learning and retention of skills across multiple settings.
![Photo of Laura S Ehlert - Child Psychology Services, LLC, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4959af59-2676-479c-92bd-7096b16cfd92/2/320x400.jpeg)
Child Psychology Services, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Apple Valley, MN 55124
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Laura Ehlert, PsyD, LP specializes in working with children who display developmental issues such as ADHD, poor emotion regulation, impulsivity, processing/learning deficits, social skills delays and poor behavior management. Clients and families interested in understanding how their child's brain and sensory systems work to create these behavioral and emotional issues will find my approach to be very effective and supportive to everyone in the family system or school environment.
Dr. Laura Ehlert, PsyD, LP specializes in working with children who display developmental issues such as ADHD, poor emotion regulation, impulsivity, processing/learning deficits, social skills delays and poor behavior management. Clients and families interested in understanding how their child's brain and sensory systems work to create these behavioral and emotional issues will find my approach to be very effective and supportive to everyone in the family system or school environment.
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![Photo of Lynne Silva-Breen, MDiv, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b2e871-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lynne Silva-Breen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Apple Valley, MN 55124 (Online Only)
Consulting Therapist - Family Therapist / Supervisor / Pastoral Counselor
Consulting Therapist - Family Therapist / Supervisor / Pastoral Counselor
![Photo of Cindy Lou Fischer Hancock, LMFT, LADC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e92478-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Cindy Lou Fischer Hancock
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124
I specialize in individual and family therapy.
My focus in therapy is to provide an environment where clients can develop coping skills and explore their own thoughts and feelings. By providing evidence-based practices including CBT and DBT, mind-body skills work clients can increase their awareness of how their own thought patterns and their impact emotionally. I have a history of skills in developing rapport and making effective progress with clients who have co-occurring disorders of mental health and addictions. My approach is integrative, collaborative, client-centered and includes alternative complimentary modalities. and co-occurring disorders from Alfred Adler Graduate School.
I specialize in individual and family therapy.
My focus in therapy is to provide an environment where clients can develop coping skills and explore their own thoughts and feelings. By providing evidence-based practices including CBT and DBT, mind-body skills work clients can increase their awareness of how their own thought patterns and their impact emotionally. I have a history of skills in developing rapport and making effective progress with clients who have co-occurring disorders of mental health and addictions. My approach is integrative, collaborative, client-centered and includes alternative complimentary modalities. and co-occurring disorders from Alfred Adler Graduate School.
![Photo of Mary A Palmer, LICSW, LMFT, TEP, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d847548-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Mary A Palmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LICSW, LMFT, TEP
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124
I will bring to my work with clients my post-graduate training in Family Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Neurolinguistic Programming, Hypnosis, DBT, EMDR, Transactional Analysis, and a certification as a Practitioner/Trainer in Psychodrama, Sociometry, and Group Psychotherapy.
During my forty years in the field I am continually amazed at the power of human connection. My goal as a psychotherapist is to enable each individual that I work with to experience their most empowered, real and authentic self in the here and now. This experience in therapy includes concentrating on strengths that we all have yet in our darkest times fade from our awareness. My commitment to my clients is to have available as many options as possible so no matter what the presenting issue, I will have the skills needed.
I will bring to my work with clients my post-graduate training in Family Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, Neurolinguistic Programming, Hypnosis, DBT, EMDR, Transactional Analysis, and a certification as a Practitioner/Trainer in Psychodrama, Sociometry, and Group Psychotherapy.
During my forty years in the field I am continually amazed at the power of human connection. My goal as a psychotherapist is to enable each individual that I work with to experience their most empowered, real and authentic self in the here and now. This experience in therapy includes concentrating on strengths that we all have yet in our darkest times fade from our awareness. My commitment to my clients is to have available as many options as possible so no matter what the presenting issue, I will have the skills needed.
![Photo of Diane R Grinnell, MEdS, LICSW, LSP, LSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f77ce13-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Diane R Grinnell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEdS, LICSW, LSP, LSSW
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124
I am an Educational Psychologist who has 30 years of experience in clinical, hospital, and school settings. My specialty areas include children, adolescents, and adults. Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy. Specific areas I treat include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, Post concussion symptoms, Adjustment Disorders, eating disorders, Bipolar Affective Disorders, Autism Spectrum and Sensory Integration Disorders, learning disorders, and chronic mental health issues. I use DBT, CBT, Behavioral Therapies, Expanded Mindfulness strategies. I am also a certified pastor.
I am an Educational Psychologist who has 30 years of experience in clinical, hospital, and school settings. My specialty areas include children, adolescents, and adults. Individual Therapy, Couples Therapy, Marriage and Family Therapy. Specific areas I treat include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, PTSD, Post concussion symptoms, Adjustment Disorders, eating disorders, Bipolar Affective Disorders, Autism Spectrum and Sensory Integration Disorders, learning disorders, and chronic mental health issues. I use DBT, CBT, Behavioral Therapies, Expanded Mindfulness strategies. I am also a certified pastor.
![Photo of Katie deRegnier, MEd, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43eddb65-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have been doing individual, family, and couples counseling in a private practice setting since 2013.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or unable to feel control over your life, you are not alone. I believe most people at some time in their life are in need of support and guidance through difficult periods. Throughout the therapeutic process, it is important to me to establish a good foundation and relationship with my clients in order to share a bond of trust and acceptance. Throughout our journey, I incorporate skills which help my clients to understand themselves better, as well as give them coping strategies for relief along the way.
I have been doing individual, family, and couples counseling in a private practice setting since 2013.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or unable to feel control over your life, you are not alone. I believe most people at some time in their life are in need of support and guidance through difficult periods. Throughout the therapeutic process, it is important to me to establish a good foundation and relationship with my clients in order to share a bond of trust and acceptance. Throughout our journey, I incorporate skills which help my clients to understand themselves better, as well as give them coping strategies for relief along the way.
![Photo of Gary Paul Muchow - BHSI, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d09fd10-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are a behavioral health practice of prescribers, psychologists, marriage-family therapists, and clinical social workers committed to providing high quality and comprehensive care for adults, adolescents and children. Whether you arrange individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, medication consultation, or psychological testing, our fully licensed and credentialed clinicians can coordinate all of these services. For your convenience, we offer flexible appointment scheduling, including evening hours and telehealth appointments.
We are a behavioral health practice of prescribers, psychologists, marriage-family therapists, and clinical social workers committed to providing high quality and comprehensive care for adults, adolescents and children. Whether you arrange individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, medication consultation, or psychological testing, our fully licensed and credentialed clinicians can coordinate all of these services. For your convenience, we offer flexible appointment scheduling, including evening hours and telehealth appointments.
![Photo of David R Bradshaw - Healing Connections Therapy Center, MSEd, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5243a3af-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Healing Connections Therapy Center
Psychologist, MSEd, LP
Not Verified Not Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124
Our specialties include personality disorders, DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), trauma informed therapy, marriage and family therapy, addictions, depression, anxiety, adolescents, EMDR, PTSD, grief/loss, and life transitions.
We are a multi-disciplinary team offering medication management, individual therapy, couples and family counseling, and group therapy to provide you with comprehensive care for treatment of many mental health issues. Our groups and individual therapy have proven to change destructive behaviors, improve ability to manage mood, and enhance stress management skills. Our goal is to be of support by helping individuals develop and strengthen skills that promote well-being and success in daily living. We look forward to working with you.
Our specialties include personality disorders, DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), trauma informed therapy, marriage and family therapy, addictions, depression, anxiety, adolescents, EMDR, PTSD, grief/loss, and life transitions.
We are a multi-disciplinary team offering medication management, individual therapy, couples and family counseling, and group therapy to provide you with comprehensive care for treatment of many mental health issues. Our groups and individual therapy have proven to change destructive behaviors, improve ability to manage mood, and enhance stress management skills. Our goal is to be of support by helping individuals develop and strengthen skills that promote well-being and success in daily living. We look forward to working with you.
![Photo of William S. Mills, MA, LMFT, LADC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/793ff24a-dc84-41f6-9bab-b5c812e8387a/2/320x400.jpeg)
William S. Mills
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
Apple Valley, MN 55124
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) licensed as a LMFT in 5 states: MN, NE, ND, WA, ID.
Are you feeling stuck and/or overwhelmed? The challenge is learning how to deal with the present circumstances and, at the same time, continue to move forward in your life. We all encounter what I call, emotional pain. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or relationship issues that are causing you to worry and suffer, I can help. As we work together, we will focus on developing the kind of psychological flexibility that will help you deal with mental health and other issues that you may be experiencing that are causing you pain and suffering.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) licensed as a LMFT in 5 states: MN, NE, ND, WA, ID.
Are you feeling stuck and/or overwhelmed? The challenge is learning how to deal with the present circumstances and, at the same time, continue to move forward in your life. We all encounter what I call, emotional pain. If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or relationship issues that are causing you to worry and suffer, I can help. As we work together, we will focus on developing the kind of psychological flexibility that will help you deal with mental health and other issues that you may be experiencing that are causing you pain and suffering.
![Photo of Lynn Whalen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74b42545-e9dd-4ca2-b140-3fb6719b78f9/1/320x400.png)
I will work to gather information in areas such as, but not limited to, why is the client seeking therapy services; physical health concerns (current and history); medications; family and social histories; mental health symptoms (current and history); as well as information surrounding current living environment.
Lynn Whalen, MSW, LICSW My primary focus in my practice is guiding clients through the healing process and resolving issues related to traumas and adverse life events to address the mental health issues they are facing. My goal is to help clients understand the “Why” in what they are experiencing in their life. This is accomplished through a combination of education, discussion, reflection, and intervention.
I will work to gather information in areas such as, but not limited to, why is the client seeking therapy services; physical health concerns (current and history); medications; family and social histories; mental health symptoms (current and history); as well as information surrounding current living environment.
Lynn Whalen, MSW, LICSW My primary focus in my practice is guiding clients through the healing process and resolving issues related to traumas and adverse life events to address the mental health issues they are facing. My goal is to help clients understand the “Why” in what they are experiencing in their life. This is accomplished through a combination of education, discussion, reflection, and intervention.
See more therapy options for Apple Valley
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.