Family Therapy in Durham, NC

Photo of Christine Pavey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Pavey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Using tools and perspectives from object relations theory, internal family systems therapy, ACT, and DBT we can help you to grow.
As a psychodynamic and attachment oriented therapist, I believe that the foundation of therapeutic treatment is a safe and supportive relationship between therapist and client. The process of treatment often uses the therapeutic relationship itself to uncover relational patterns from earlier in life that may be causing pain or dysfunction in the present day. By identifying the historical antecedent to a seemingly confusing or inappropriate emotional response, client and therapist are able to disrupt maladaptive patterns and choose new, more values congruent responses.
Using tools and perspectives from object relations theory, internal family systems therapy, ACT, and DBT we can help you to grow.
As a psychodynamic and attachment oriented therapist, I believe that the foundation of therapeutic treatment is a safe and supportive relationship between therapist and client. The process of treatment often uses the therapeutic relationship itself to uncover relational patterns from earlier in life that may be causing pain or dysfunction in the present day. By identifying the historical antecedent to a seemingly confusing or inappropriate emotional response, client and therapist are able to disrupt maladaptive patterns and choose new, more values congruent responses.
(919) 323-3120 x27 View (919) 323-3120 x27
Photo of Tavi Hawn, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tavi Hawn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
Whether you're seeking someone knowledgeable about gender identity, family building, mixed race identities, narcissistic abuse recovery, trauma recovery, anxiety, incorporating your cultural practices into therapy, I'm here for it! Energy work, nature, and walk therapy too.
Gen Xers, ya'll doing okay? People raising kids, what about you? Parents of trans, nonbinary, and gender expansive young or older people, how are you holding up? Those of you trying to recover from narcissistic abuse, domestic abuse or IPV, those of you trying to recover from any form of trauma, those of you who feel anxious as hell, I want to help ease the stress, fear, and pain. I've got over 15 years of clinical experience and a whole lotta life experience at this point that informs my work. While what we face is nothing new, it's also true that this is a really hard time for so many reasons. Let's start by validating that.
Whether you're seeking someone knowledgeable about gender identity, family building, mixed race identities, narcissistic abuse recovery, trauma recovery, anxiety, incorporating your cultural practices into therapy, I'm here for it! Energy work, nature, and walk therapy too.
Gen Xers, ya'll doing okay? People raising kids, what about you? Parents of trans, nonbinary, and gender expansive young or older people, how are you holding up? Those of you trying to recover from narcissistic abuse, domestic abuse or IPV, those of you trying to recover from any form of trauma, those of you who feel anxious as hell, I want to help ease the stress, fear, and pain. I've got over 15 years of clinical experience and a whole lotta life experience at this point that informs my work. While what we face is nothing new, it's also true that this is a really hard time for so many reasons. Let's start by validating that.
(919) 689-4065 View (919) 689-4065
Photo of Wanda Ceres - Sozo Life And Wellness Center, PLLC, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sozo Life And Wellness Center, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
Each of us at some point in our lives face painful life situations and challenges, some of which we can navigate alone, but others requiring help. Sometimes family and friends can provide that support but many times having a non-biased perspective is more appropriate and effective. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I use appropriate psychological methods used within the field of mental health professionals and add the insights of Biblical Truth to help those who are hurting and facing such situations effectively overcome them and move forward to experience a more purposeful and satisfying and life.
Each of us at some point in our lives face painful life situations and challenges, some of which we can navigate alone, but others requiring help. Sometimes family and friends can provide that support but many times having a non-biased perspective is more appropriate and effective. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I use appropriate psychological methods used within the field of mental health professionals and add the insights of Biblical Truth to help those who are hurting and facing such situations effectively overcome them and move forward to experience a more purposeful and satisfying and life.
(919) 799-2640 View (919) 799-2640
Photo of Gage Howe, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gage Howe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
Waitlist for new clients
Accepting New Clients - I work with people navigating issues of Anxiety, OCD, Life Transitions, Depression, Trauma, Identity, Self-esteem, and Relationships. I will work with you to emphasize acceptance, mindfulness, self-compassion, and using values to move toward a healthier well-being. I have experience working in outpatient community mental health, hospital, college, and the private practice settings. My self interests include backpacking, playing music, burritos, naps, documentaries, procrastination, attending concerts, gardening, and time with family and friends.
Accepting New Clients - I work with people navigating issues of Anxiety, OCD, Life Transitions, Depression, Trauma, Identity, Self-esteem, and Relationships. I will work with you to emphasize acceptance, mindfulness, self-compassion, and using values to move toward a healthier well-being. I have experience working in outpatient community mental health, hospital, college, and the private practice settings. My self interests include backpacking, playing music, burritos, naps, documentaries, procrastination, attending concerts, gardening, and time with family and friends.
(336) 530-5695 View (336) 530-5695
Photo of Rebecca Martinez Fitzgerald, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Martinez Fitzgerald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
I have experience supporting new parents through the postpartum period, survivors of abuse and violence, and family members through estrangement.
Loneliness is the worst. Isolation shows up in many forms, including shame, stress, mistrust, and unproductive conflict. People grow and heal in the context of secure relationships, and I aim to help clients create and sustain them. It's my pleasure to work with couples, partnerships and individuals who are experiencing distress, coping with trauma, or struggling with identity development.
I have experience supporting new parents through the postpartum period, survivors of abuse and violence, and family members through estrangement.
Loneliness is the worst. Isolation shows up in many forms, including shame, stress, mistrust, and unproductive conflict. People grow and heal in the context of secure relationships, and I aim to help clients create and sustain them. It's my pleasure to work with couples, partnerships and individuals who are experiencing distress, coping with trauma, or struggling with identity development.
(919) 626-9715 View (919) 626-9715
Photo of Jose Velasquez, PhD, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jose Velasquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701  (Online Only)
I am a clinical social worker with over ten years of experience and licensed in multiple states. I am a U.S. Army veteran with much experience working with service members, veterans, and military family members. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma, abuse, sleeping disorders, and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.
I am a clinical social worker with over ten years of experience and licensed in multiple states. I am a U.S. Army veteran with much experience working with service members, veterans, and military family members. I have experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma, abuse, sleeping disorders, and depression. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs.
(850) 679-6981 View (850) 679-6981
Photo of Jonathan Farber, PhD, Psychologist
Jonathan Farber
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27701
I work with individuals and couples, as well as children, in both DC and Chapel Hill. I do best with adults who are educated or reflective: many are scientists, artists, health and business professionals, or psychotherapists, and some are not pursuing conventional achievement.Some see me for family or work problems, some for help dealing with a chronic health issue or a loss, some to change longstanding emotional and interpersonal patterns involving anxiety, anger, or intimacy. We may try quick and simple approaches first, because sometimes they work, but if not we can go more deeply into the individual's unique personal narrative.
I work with individuals and couples, as well as children, in both DC and Chapel Hill. I do best with adults who are educated or reflective: many are scientists, artists, health and business professionals, or psychotherapists, and some are not pursuing conventional achievement.Some see me for family or work problems, some for help dealing with a chronic health issue or a loss, some to change longstanding emotional and interpersonal patterns involving anxiety, anger, or intimacy. We may try quick and simple approaches first, because sometimes they work, but if not we can go more deeply into the individual's unique personal narrative.
(919) 351-1352 View (919) 351-1352
Photo of Vann Joines, PhD, Psychologist
Vann Joines
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27701
I am certified as a Transactional Analyst, a Redecision Therapist, a Marital and Family Therapist, a Group Psychotherapist, and an Advanced Integrative Therapist which combines a psychodynamic approach with Energy Psychology.
My experience is that the psychological symptoms we experience in the present are the ways we have tried to protect ourselves from the experience of the early trauma that we went through in childhood, and that by clearing the early trauma, we can release the symptoms in the present. My approach is to help clients identify and resolve the early trauma so they can have a joyous life in the present.
I am certified as a Transactional Analyst, a Redecision Therapist, a Marital and Family Therapist, a Group Psychotherapist, and an Advanced Integrative Therapist which combines a psychodynamic approach with Energy Psychology.
My experience is that the psychological symptoms we experience in the present are the ways we have tried to protect ourselves from the experience of the early trauma that we went through in childhood, and that by clearing the early trauma, we can release the symptoms in the present. My approach is to help clients identify and resolve the early trauma so they can have a joyous life in the present.
(919) 300-7807 View (919) 300-7807
Photo of Josie Campbell, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Josie Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27703
Hello! I'm so glad you're here. I work to support folks of all ages to address eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and family of origin concerns. I'm passionate about working with queer and trans folks and individuals who identify as neurodivergent. I'm deeply committed to maintaining an anti-racist, neurodiversity-affirming, and harm-reduction centered practice, considering clients and their challenges in the context of oppressive systems.
Hello! I'm so glad you're here. I work to support folks of all ages to address eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and family of origin concerns. I'm passionate about working with queer and trans folks and individuals who identify as neurodivergent. I'm deeply committed to maintaining an anti-racist, neurodiversity-affirming, and harm-reduction centered practice, considering clients and their challenges in the context of oppressive systems.
(919) 626-8646 View (919) 626-8646
Photo of Karen Sue Landis - Karen Landis, LCSW, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Landis, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27712
The modalities that I use for treatment are: Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Insight-oriented therapy and brief Solution Focused Therapy.
Hello, my name is Karen Landis and I am a clinical social worker. I have a private practice in Durham, NC. I have 29 years of experience of working with families and children. I have 16 years of experience working with individual adults. I treat clients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Adjustment Disorders, school-related issues, grief and loss, parent-child relational issues and more. I have also worked with some children on the higher-functioning end of the Autistic Spectrum.
The modalities that I use for treatment are: Family Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Insight-oriented therapy and brief Solution Focused Therapy.
Hello, my name is Karen Landis and I am a clinical social worker. I have a private practice in Durham, NC. I have 29 years of experience of working with families and children. I have 16 years of experience working with individual adults. I treat clients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Adjustment Disorders, school-related issues, grief and loss, parent-child relational issues and more. I have also worked with some children on the higher-functioning end of the Autistic Spectrum.
(919) 351-8357 View (919) 351-8357
Photo of Stephanie Skalos - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Durham, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Durham
Counselor
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
We offer individual counseling, psychiatry/medication management (virtual only), family counseling, couples therapy/marriage counseling, and child & teen therapy.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(919) 283-4343 View (919) 283-4343
Photo of Jazmyn Jones, MSW, LCSWA
Jazmyn Jones
LCSW Associate , MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27707
I enjoy working with clients that present with a full range of behavioral, emotional, family, and life skills difficulties they seek to change in their lives. Areas I work with include, but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, social isolation, social skills, interpersonal relationship skills, and emotional regulation skills. I help clients to navigate through different stages of life and how they affect their presenting concerns. I work with individuals who have dual/differential diagnosis using empirically validated techniques. This approach allows me to take a focused, action-oriented approach to help clients elicit change.
I enjoy working with clients that present with a full range of behavioral, emotional, family, and life skills difficulties they seek to change in their lives. Areas I work with include, but are not limited to, anxiety, depression, social isolation, social skills, interpersonal relationship skills, and emotional regulation skills. I help clients to navigate through different stages of life and how they affect their presenting concerns. I work with individuals who have dual/differential diagnosis using empirically validated techniques. This approach allows me to take a focused, action-oriented approach to help clients elicit change.
(919) 626-8238 View (919) 626-8238
Photo of Kierra Staton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kierra Staton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
Kierra has a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Appalachian State University.
Kierra Staton is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and grief-informed professional with 6 years of experience in mental health. Kierra is passionate about helping those who have experienced complex trauma, abandonment, or loss in their family or community. She enjoys helping individuals, couples, and families build on their strengths and bring resilience and comfort back into their lives. She creates a compassionate and nonjudgmental environment where her clients can be their authentic selves. Kierra specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and major life transitions.
Kierra has a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy from Appalachian State University.
Kierra Staton is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and grief-informed professional with 6 years of experience in mental health. Kierra is passionate about helping those who have experienced complex trauma, abandonment, or loss in their family or community. She enjoys helping individuals, couples, and families build on their strengths and bring resilience and comfort back into their lives. She creates a compassionate and nonjudgmental environment where her clients can be their authentic selves. Kierra specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationship issues, and major life transitions.
(919) 229-4253 View (919) 229-4253
Photo of Kyle Anne Gouchoe-Hanas, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyle Anne Gouchoe-Hanas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705
I strive to support my clients as they navigate anxiety, depression, learning differences, eating disorders, family trauma, identity exploration and many other challenges and transitions. Applying an intersectional lens to all the experiences and identities that shape our lives is also essential to my practice.
I strive to support my clients as they navigate anxiety, depression, learning differences, eating disorders, family trauma, identity exploration and many other challenges and transitions. Applying an intersectional lens to all the experiences and identities that shape our lives is also essential to my practice.
(919) 336-0906 View (919) 336-0906
Photo of Katrina Kuzyszyn-Jones, PsyD, Psychologist
Katrina Kuzyszyn-Jones
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
Waitlist for new clients
But, over time, I've focused on more holistic approaches such as ACT, mindfulness, solution focused and family systems approaches.
Do you find yourself struggling to find purpose and meaning in your job and life? When you come home at the end of a stressful workday, do you find yourself unable to turn off your brain when you just want to relax and enjoy the company of your family? Do you recognize patterns that need to change, but you just can’t figure out how to put change into action? Does perfection get in the way of progress? Together we can develop a holistic plan for action that helps you develop healthy habits, grow personally and be a leader in your life and work.
But, over time, I've focused on more holistic approaches such as ACT, mindfulness, solution focused and family systems approaches.
Do you find yourself struggling to find purpose and meaning in your job and life? When you come home at the end of a stressful workday, do you find yourself unable to turn off your brain when you just want to relax and enjoy the company of your family? Do you recognize patterns that need to change, but you just can’t figure out how to put change into action? Does perfection get in the way of progress? Together we can develop a holistic plan for action that helps you develop healthy habits, grow personally and be a leader in your life and work.
(919) 344-0962 View (919) 344-0962
Photo of Alison W. Silver, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison W. Silver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713
Each child and family is unique — Alison Silver will work with parents and children to determine the best way to address their concerns.
Alison Silver is a licensed clinical social worker with two decades of experience working with children and families in a variety of settings including residential treatment, outpatient clinics, schools, and community-based treatment. She is a professional member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and the North Carolina Society for Clinical Social Work. She provides individual therapy, play therapy, and parent guidance for children birth-18 years old and specializes in working with preschool-age children.
Each child and family is unique — Alison Silver will work with parents and children to determine the best way to address their concerns.
Alison Silver is a licensed clinical social worker with two decades of experience working with children and families in a variety of settings including residential treatment, outpatient clinics, schools, and community-based treatment. She is a professional member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and the North Carolina Society for Clinical Social Work. She provides individual therapy, play therapy, and parent guidance for children birth-18 years old and specializes in working with preschool-age children.
(984) 205-4206 View (984) 205-4206
Photo of Katie Brader, LMFT, LPC, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie Brader
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, SEP
Not Verified Not Verified
Durham, NC 27707
She works with numerous issues including situational and persistent depression, anxiety, family discord, motor vehicle accidents, significant abuse histories, medical traumas, and life transitions.
Reaching out for help can be hard. Katie admires and respects the bravery involved in doing so. After living in Austin, TX, for 9 years she's glad to be back on the east coast! Katie received her Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward's University, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner (SEP), a Bodywork and Somatic Education Practitioner (BASE(tm)), and is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). Services for individuals, families, couples/same-sex partners, teens, and children are available.
She works with numerous issues including situational and persistent depression, anxiety, family discord, motor vehicle accidents, significant abuse histories, medical traumas, and life transitions.
Reaching out for help can be hard. Katie admires and respects the bravery involved in doing so. After living in Austin, TX, for 9 years she's glad to be back on the east coast! Katie received her Master of Arts in Counseling from St. Edward's University, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a Somatic Experiencing® Practitioner (SEP), a Bodywork and Somatic Education Practitioner (BASE(tm)), and is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). Services for individuals, families, couples/same-sex partners, teens, and children are available.
(919) 842-3701 View (919) 842-3701
Photo of Amelia Diane Glenn- Research Triangle Counseling, LCMHC-A, Counselor
Amelia Diane Glenn- Research Triangle Counseling
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27709  (Online Only)
With advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Theory, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Neurotherapy, I’m equipped to help you navigate your journey and achieve your goals.
My life is a testament that where you start doesn't determine your destiny. Driven by a deep commitment to person-centered care, I’m here to help you uncover and embrace your true, authentic self. The work ahead may be challenging, but it’s a crucial step toward healing and overcoming your past. I’ll support you every step of the way, offering a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable and understood. Let's embark on this important work together.
With advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment Theory, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Neurotherapy, I’m equipped to help you navigate your journey and achieve your goals.
My life is a testament that where you start doesn't determine your destiny. Driven by a deep commitment to person-centered care, I’m here to help you uncover and embrace your true, authentic self. The work ahead may be challenging, but it’s a crucial step toward healing and overcoming your past. I’ll support you every step of the way, offering a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel comfortable and understood. Let's embark on this important work together.
(704) 837-1292 View (704) 837-1292
Photo of Alexa Adamo Valverde, MS, MA, LPC, LCMHC, Counselor
Alexa Adamo Valverde
Counselor, MS, MA, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27713
Waitlist for new clients
Are you stuck and needing to process childhood trauma? Is your adolescent/teen sad, anxious or angry, and you know they need help? Do you feel like no one understands the challenges of creating a family (infertility, perinatal loss, miscarriage, IVF, adoption)? I shifted careers into mental health counseling in 2016 after 20 years of community advocacy to address injustice and empower women, children, and communities. I am a healing-centered, trauma-focused therapist now because I believe you - and your family - deserve guidance and support to reimagine and re-author your life narrative.
Are you stuck and needing to process childhood trauma? Is your adolescent/teen sad, anxious or angry, and you know they need help? Do you feel like no one understands the challenges of creating a family (infertility, perinatal loss, miscarriage, IVF, adoption)? I shifted careers into mental health counseling in 2016 after 20 years of community advocacy to address injustice and empower women, children, and communities. I am a healing-centered, trauma-focused therapist now because I believe you - and your family - deserve guidance and support to reimagine and re-author your life narrative.
(919) 343-0718 View (919) 343-0718
Photo of Asenath Devaney, PhD, Psychologist
Asenath Devaney
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27701  (Online Only)
Asenath Devaney is a Licensed Psychologist who specializes in providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. Asenath has been providing individual, group, and family therapy within varied mental health settings (psychosocial rehabilitation, residential treatment centers, and school-based treatment) for over 20 years. Asenath completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology and Theater from Wheaton College, her Educational Specialist (Ed.S) in School Psychology from Florida International University, and her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in School Psychology from North Carolina State University.
Asenath Devaney is a Licensed Psychologist who specializes in providing therapy to children, adolescents, and adults. Asenath has been providing individual, group, and family therapy within varied mental health settings (psychosocial rehabilitation, residential treatment centers, and school-based treatment) for over 20 years. Asenath completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Psychology and Theater from Wheaton College, her Educational Specialist (Ed.S) in School Psychology from Florida International University, and her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in School Psychology from North Carolina State University.
(984) 230-4513 View (984) 230-4513
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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.