Family Therapy in Arlington, WA

Photo of Lori D. Wolff, MA, MHP, LMFT, CMHS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori D. Wolff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MHP, LMFT, CMHS
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223
The ultimate goal at Harmony in Tranquility: Counseling for the Soul, is to support individuals and families in building healthier and happier lives. Starting internally, creating further external success and happiness. My expertise includes individual, family, and couple's therapy (to include child and adolescent treatment). I believe in the utmost respect of individuals and emphasize the importance of dignity and worth within each person. See Link(s): https://youtu.be/XvoWIkFik5o / https://youtu.be/nlF-L2VqeVI / https://harmonyintranquility.clientsecure.me/
The ultimate goal at Harmony in Tranquility: Counseling for the Soul, is to support individuals and families in building healthier and happier lives. Starting internally, creating further external success and happiness. My expertise includes individual, family, and couple's therapy (to include child and adolescent treatment). I believe in the utmost respect of individuals and emphasize the importance of dignity and worth within each person. See Link(s): https://youtu.be/XvoWIkFik5o / https://youtu.be/nlF-L2VqeVI / https://harmonyintranquility.clientsecure.me/
(253) 528-7475 View (253) 528-7475
Photo of Kimberly Miller, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kimberly Miller
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223
I work primarily with adults, adolescents, and teens. My specialty is individuals and families affected by mood disorders (bipolar & depression) and associated trauma. I work also with individuals and their family affected by schizophrenia, trauma, anxiety, sexual abuse & assault, dissociative disorders, psychosis, and autism (ASD). Counseling with individuals is collaborative. Your identified issues and goals inform our treatment plan. In therapy we will look at your relationships since the complexity and intensity of many of our challenges are revealed and rooted in relationship.
I work primarily with adults, adolescents, and teens. My specialty is individuals and families affected by mood disorders (bipolar & depression) and associated trauma. I work also with individuals and their family affected by schizophrenia, trauma, anxiety, sexual abuse & assault, dissociative disorders, psychosis, and autism (ASD). Counseling with individuals is collaborative. Your identified issues and goals inform our treatment plan. In therapy we will look at your relationships since the complexity and intensity of many of our challenges are revealed and rooted in relationship.
(425) 615-7881 View (425) 615-7881
Photo of Cecilia Hamill, MS, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Cecilia Hamill
Counselor, MS, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223
My work has included considerable focus in crisis management/stabilization services and therapy for youth (preferably involving the family, when possible).
I am a proponent of holistic healing - treating the whole person (mind, body, spirit). I enjoy employing creative mediums in the therapeutic process to include symbolic (Jungian), artistic, musical and written expression. There are many constructive ways to channel life's challenges, stressors and traumas. It is imperative to find meaningful, healthy ways to cope. My clinical background is diverse and has included work with teens and adults in the area of trauma and addiction. Additionally, I have many years of experience working with individuals and families contending with various physical and/or developmental disabilities.
My work has included considerable focus in crisis management/stabilization services and therapy for youth (preferably involving the family, when possible).
I am a proponent of holistic healing - treating the whole person (mind, body, spirit). I enjoy employing creative mediums in the therapeutic process to include symbolic (Jungian), artistic, musical and written expression. There are many constructive ways to channel life's challenges, stressors and traumas. It is imperative to find meaningful, healthy ways to cope. My clinical background is diverse and has included work with teens and adults in the area of trauma and addiction. Additionally, I have many years of experience working with individuals and families contending with various physical and/or developmental disabilities.
(425) 363-0026 View (425) 363-0026
Photo of Yvonne Huber-Ito, MSW, MHP, SWAIC, MHCA, DSW, Counselor
Yvonne Huber-Ito
Counselor, MSW, MHP, SWAIC, MHCA, DSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223  (Online Only)
I am a Native American descendant and I am very passionate in working with Native Americans regarding Historic Trauma, strengthening the family unit, parenting issues, adolescent issues, loss and grief .
When I am introduced to a new client, I want to know why the client has chosen therapy and what needs and goals the client has. Once we discuss this then we will determine the path that we should use to meet those goals. Normally I use Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior therapy or Cognitive Behavior Therapy because I feel that these two types of therapy work well with a variety of issues. I strongly believe in a strength based client focused type of therapy. Everyone has inner strength and I would help you identify those strengths
I am a Native American descendant and I am very passionate in working with Native Americans regarding Historic Trauma, strengthening the family unit, parenting issues, adolescent issues, loss and grief .
When I am introduced to a new client, I want to know why the client has chosen therapy and what needs and goals the client has. Once we discuss this then we will determine the path that we should use to meet those goals. Normally I use Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior therapy or Cognitive Behavior Therapy because I feel that these two types of therapy work well with a variety of issues. I strongly believe in a strength based client focused type of therapy. Everyone has inner strength and I would help you identify those strengths
(360) 531-7842 View (360) 531-7842
Photo of Jentry Wright, MS, LMHCA, MFT
Jentry Wright
Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LMHCA, MFT
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223
Your Couple & Family life changes over the years, along with your needs.
Accepting new clients for October and November. In person or telehealth. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families, & adolescence from all cultural, ethnic, spiritual, & socioeconomic backgrounds. With a Masters of Science in Marriage & Family Therapy and a Graduate Certificate in Systemic Couple & Family Therapy, l use mindfulness and holistic approaches to help you connect with your needs and goals, build better relationships with yourself and those around you, and help you overcome and face life transitions and challenges.
Your Couple & Family life changes over the years, along with your needs.
Accepting new clients for October and November. In person or telehealth. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, families, & adolescence from all cultural, ethnic, spiritual, & socioeconomic backgrounds. With a Masters of Science in Marriage & Family Therapy and a Graduate Certificate in Systemic Couple & Family Therapy, l use mindfulness and holistic approaches to help you connect with your needs and goals, build better relationships with yourself and those around you, and help you overcome and face life transitions and challenges.
(360) 913-3539 View (360) 913-3539
Photo of Melissa Brady, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Brady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223  (Online Only)
I also have availability for adolescents aged 13+ and families, working with adolescents and parents on behavioral issues and family relationships.
Hello and welcome. Therapy offers a chance to heal, to grow, and to change. My goal as a therapist is to meet my clients where they are, work with them on identifying goals, and walk with them on their journey toward healing and wellness. I offer a safe space for this therapy journey. It is a privilege and honor to work with someone in therapy. I cherish being a part of their life and journey. I view therapy as a partnership between client and therapist. My approach is collaborative, and strengths based. I pull from various evidence-based treatment modalities I have training in, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
I also have availability for adolescents aged 13+ and families, working with adolescents and parents on behavioral issues and family relationships.
Hello and welcome. Therapy offers a chance to heal, to grow, and to change. My goal as a therapist is to meet my clients where they are, work with them on identifying goals, and walk with them on their journey toward healing and wellness. I offer a safe space for this therapy journey. It is a privilege and honor to work with someone in therapy. I cherish being a part of their life and journey. I view therapy as a partnership between client and therapist. My approach is collaborative, and strengths based. I pull from various evidence-based treatment modalities I have training in, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(360) 523-9760 x214 View (360) 523-9760 x214
Photo of Alyssa Campbell, LSWAIC, CTSS, C-CBE, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, CTSS, C-CBE
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223
Waitlist for new clients
Drawing from a holistic perspective, I do my best to integrate various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment Theory, trauma-informed, empowerment, and strengths-based approaches.
Whether you're dealing with complex PTSD, a survivor of abuse and/or trauma, facing perinatal or postpartum challenges, grieving, aging with dignity, or part of the LGBTQiA+ community, I want you to feel safe and valued during our therapeutic sessions. As your needs and experiences are the priority, tailored care is especially important to me and we will work together to determine what works best for you and your goals for treatment, even as they evolve over time. The process is yours and we will take things one step at a time; even when feelings or challenges seem overwhelming, you don't have to be alone.
Drawing from a holistic perspective, I do my best to integrate various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment Theory, trauma-informed, empowerment, and strengths-based approaches.
Whether you're dealing with complex PTSD, a survivor of abuse and/or trauma, facing perinatal or postpartum challenges, grieving, aging with dignity, or part of the LGBTQiA+ community, I want you to feel safe and valued during our therapeutic sessions. As your needs and experiences are the priority, tailored care is especially important to me and we will work together to determine what works best for you and your goals for treatment, even as they evolve over time. The process is yours and we will take things one step at a time; even when feelings or challenges seem overwhelming, you don't have to be alone.
(360) 205-1283 View (360) 205-1283
Photo of Kristina Coyle, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina Coyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223
YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Let me help you discover new ways to relate to your child avoid missing work, and ENJOY the time you have with your child and family! Its hard work, but it's worth it! .
Completely Vaccinated! SATURDAY AND EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE!!!! *** For well over a decade I have worked with children, adolescents, and families to heal relationships that have been strained due to trauma, attachment disruption, divorce, behavioral challenges, and chronic mental health conditions. After earning my Certification in Play Therapy I have seen profound changes in my clients. Let me show you and your family the power of therapeutic PLAY! Using your child's primary language of play, behaviors shift and they learn how to appropriately express their feelings and needs.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE! Let me help you discover new ways to relate to your child avoid missing work, and ENJOY the time you have with your child and family! Its hard work, but it's worth it! .
Completely Vaccinated! SATURDAY AND EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE!!!! *** For well over a decade I have worked with children, adolescents, and families to heal relationships that have been strained due to trauma, attachment disruption, divorce, behavioral challenges, and chronic mental health conditions. After earning my Certification in Play Therapy I have seen profound changes in my clients. Let me show you and your family the power of therapeutic PLAY! Using your child's primary language of play, behaviors shift and they learn how to appropriately express their feelings and needs.
(360) 386-1618 View (360) 386-1618
Photo of Daniel Richard Roberson, LMHC, MS
Daniel Richard Roberson
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223
Waitlist for new clients
My clients come from a variety of backgrounds and ages seeking healing and understanding of their relationships and meaning in life. Some suffer from substance addiction, others from work stress, and many from wounded relationships in their family. Their goals are redemption of their suffering, building new ways of relating to others and clearing the pain of the past from clouding the joy of the present. I am licensed in Washington and Idaho.
My clients come from a variety of backgrounds and ages seeking healing and understanding of their relationships and meaning in life. Some suffer from substance addiction, others from work stress, and many from wounded relationships in their family. Their goals are redemption of their suffering, building new ways of relating to others and clearing the pain of the past from clouding the joy of the present. I am licensed in Washington and Idaho.
(360) 615-3167 View (360) 615-3167
Photo of Heather Whaley, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Whaley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223
I offer individual and family/ couples counseling services.
Life is unpredictable and can often leave us in a place of vulnerability. Life can get busy changes occur, and our relationships can be affected. Often times we just need someone to talk with for a different perspective or a different way of approaching a life challenge. Often times we just may be unable to articulate what we need as we navigate our feelings and what we want for our own personal goals and outcomes. When we push our needs aside they can resurface in ways that become unmanageable, making it hard to connect with others.
I offer individual and family/ couples counseling services.
Life is unpredictable and can often leave us in a place of vulnerability. Life can get busy changes occur, and our relationships can be affected. Often times we just need someone to talk with for a different perspective or a different way of approaching a life challenge. Often times we just may be unable to articulate what we need as we navigate our feelings and what we want for our own personal goals and outcomes. When we push our needs aside they can resurface in ways that become unmanageable, making it hard to connect with others.
(360) 495-1988 View (360) 495-1988
Photo of Serena S Perry, MA, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Serena S Perry
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223  (Online Only)
Therapy is an incredible tool for healing, exploration, and liberation. I am specially trained in lending a neutral ear as you navigate new truths and find growth in old wounds. As a relationship therapy specialist, I know that enriching connections to Self, Partners, Family, and Community are key to achieving the high quality of life that you deserve. My role is to help you gain confidence, truth, and a chance to re-author your life’s narrative. I work with individuals, people in relationships (couples, spouses, polycules, etc.), and families of all kinds. I draw from a strengths-based narrative approach that is client-centered.
Therapy is an incredible tool for healing, exploration, and liberation. I am specially trained in lending a neutral ear as you navigate new truths and find growth in old wounds. As a relationship therapy specialist, I know that enriching connections to Self, Partners, Family, and Community are key to achieving the high quality of life that you deserve. My role is to help you gain confidence, truth, and a chance to re-author your life’s narrative. I work with individuals, people in relationships (couples, spouses, polycules, etc.), and families of all kinds. I draw from a strengths-based narrative approach that is client-centered.
(206) 672-2289 View (206) 672-2289
Photo of Issy K Kleiman - Counseling Services for Wellbeing, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Counseling Services for Wellbeing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223
Mood Disorders, depression/anxiety, Parenting Concerns, Child and Adolescent Behavioral Problems Women’s Issues, pregnancy-related difficulties, PPD, Body image Personal Growth, introspective, spiritual, and emotional exploration Trauma and Loss Interpersonal Issues Interpersonal Issues Family Matters Self-Injury, Transitional Concerns, Addiction.
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
Mood Disorders, depression/anxiety, Parenting Concerns, Child and Adolescent Behavioral Problems Women’s Issues, pregnancy-related difficulties, PPD, Body image Personal Growth, introspective, spiritual, and emotional exploration Trauma and Loss Interpersonal Issues Interpersonal Issues Family Matters Self-Injury, Transitional Concerns, Addiction.
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
(206) 426-0366 View (206) 426-0366
Photo of Christopher Sturgeon, PhD, (cand), Counselor
Christopher Sturgeon
Counselor, PhD, (cand)
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223
People treated at Westwinds Behavioral Health get better. The front line treatment is predominantly CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) along with Narrative Therapy. Clients prioritize & identify goals they desire to reach. They learn the tools to construct the functionality & desired outcomes for their lives. Therapy is a client centered approach regardless of the presenting issues. When things are not working out in life folks discover that each of us has within us resources to author our desired next chapter of life. Personalized success is identified by individual, couple & family accomplishment & achieving desired results.
People treated at Westwinds Behavioral Health get better. The front line treatment is predominantly CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) along with Narrative Therapy. Clients prioritize & identify goals they desire to reach. They learn the tools to construct the functionality & desired outcomes for their lives. Therapy is a client centered approach regardless of the presenting issues. When things are not working out in life folks discover that each of us has within us resources to author our desired next chapter of life. Personalized success is identified by individual, couple & family accomplishment & achieving desired results.
(206) 202-3890 View (206) 202-3890
Photo of Connie Guy, MS, LMHC, CMHS, Counselor
Connie Guy
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223  (Online Only)
Changes and transitions are hard for all of us. Sometimes they can be great things like a new job, relationship or family member and other times they are hard changes like a death or the loss of something important to us. Other times they are the result of a trauma that may be recent or may have happened a while ago. I have several years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, families and couples adapt creatively to these transitions in order to help them become the person they were created to be.
Changes and transitions are hard for all of us. Sometimes they can be great things like a new job, relationship or family member and other times they are hard changes like a death or the loss of something important to us. Other times they are the result of a trauma that may be recent or may have happened a while ago. I have several years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, families and couples adapt creatively to these transitions in order to help them become the person they were created to be.
(360) 519-5846 View (360) 519-5846
Photo of Laura Marie - Laura Marie Counseling PLLC, LMHC, Counselor
Laura Marie Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223  (Online Only)
I work with individuals, couples, adults, late teens, family's and elders.
I offer client focused counseling for late adolescence, teens, adults and mature adults 65 and over.  I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, Life change, relationships and family.  With specific experience and expertise with individuals of all ages seeking a change in life. Things like finding your passion and life path, navigating through life, depression, emotional stress, anxiety and creating balance. Using different techniques, practices and theories. I offer a gentle, warm, non-judgmental, real life in approach to counseling . Using different techniques and counseling styles to fit your unique needs.
I work with individuals, couples, adults, late teens, family's and elders.
I offer client focused counseling for late adolescence, teens, adults and mature adults 65 and over.  I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, Life change, relationships and family.  With specific experience and expertise with individuals of all ages seeking a change in life. Things like finding your passion and life path, navigating through life, depression, emotional stress, anxiety and creating balance. Using different techniques, practices and theories. I offer a gentle, warm, non-judgmental, real life in approach to counseling . Using different techniques and counseling styles to fit your unique needs.
(360) 526-8829 View (360) 526-8829
Photo of Dr. Vance Whippo, DMin, MA, LMHCA, CCC, MHP, Counselor
Dr. Vance Whippo
Counselor, DMin, MA, LMHCA, CCC, MHP
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223
Most clients come to me from the military and emergency services but I also work with many relationships as they struggle with anxiety and mild depression, largely stemming from work-related stress and a lack of work-life balance. They are highly motivated and self-aware, acknowledging their need for help and actively seeking it. They have a supportive network but feel isolated in their experiences, yearning for a space to express their feelings without judgment. They also want to explore underlying issues contributing to their mental health challenges, such as perfectionism and fear of failure.
Most clients come to me from the military and emergency services but I also work with many relationships as they struggle with anxiety and mild depression, largely stemming from work-related stress and a lack of work-life balance. They are highly motivated and self-aware, acknowledging their need for help and actively seeking it. They have a supportive network but feel isolated in their experiences, yearning for a space to express their feelings without judgment. They also want to explore underlying issues contributing to their mental health challenges, such as perfectionism and fear of failure.
(360) 964-5415 View (360) 964-5415
Photo of Aqssa Chaudhry, LMHC, NCC, MS, MHP, Counselor
Aqssa Chaudhry
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MS, MHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223  (Online Only)
Your subconscious wiring is creating your current life. Let us gently rewire and recode. You may feel trapped in your own mind or feeling stuck. The therapeutic relationship between a client and a therapist allows for authentic, honest communication that can feel like a breath of fresh air after going through life telling people we are “fine” when we aren't. We all have a complex and emotional story to tell. I want to help you align with your true desires and values so that you can create the life you want. You get to have abundance, ease, grace, and peace.
Your subconscious wiring is creating your current life. Let us gently rewire and recode. You may feel trapped in your own mind or feeling stuck. The therapeutic relationship between a client and a therapist allows for authentic, honest communication that can feel like a breath of fresh air after going through life telling people we are “fine” when we aren't. We all have a complex and emotional story to tell. I want to help you align with your true desires and values so that you can create the life you want. You get to have abundance, ease, grace, and peace.
(206) 208-9677 View (206) 208-9677
Photo of Curran Otis - Tranquil Waters Counseling, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Tranquil Waters Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223
Waitlist for new clients
Today you woke up feeling alone, disconnected from those you love, and wondering who you are and how your life got to this place. The pain you feel and the crushing weight of fear and anxiety feels like if you concentrate on it one more second, it will consume all that you are. You feel numb, life is no longer enjoyable, and you can't remember the last time you felt alive.
Today you woke up feeling alone, disconnected from those you love, and wondering who you are and how your life got to this place. The pain you feel and the crushing weight of fear and anxiety feels like if you concentrate on it one more second, it will consume all that you are. You feel numb, life is no longer enjoyable, and you can't remember the last time you felt alive.
(425) 382-8853 View (425) 382-8853
Photo of Chris Davis - Sound Resilience Health, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Sound Resilience Health
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223
We are accepting new clients! Connect with our therapists through our convenient Telehealth/virtual therapy services! Get the support you need from the comfort of your own space. We are mental health therapists committed to helping people experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship challenges, and other struggles that are making life difficult. When we work together, you will regain your strength, security, happiness, and self-confidence. One of my goals is to provide you with the skills, knowledge, and tools you need to tackle your stressors, reduce your stress, recover from trauma, and gain self-confidence.
We are accepting new clients! Connect with our therapists through our convenient Telehealth/virtual therapy services! Get the support you need from the comfort of your own space. We are mental health therapists committed to helping people experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship challenges, and other struggles that are making life difficult. When we work together, you will regain your strength, security, happiness, and self-confidence. One of my goals is to provide you with the skills, knowledge, and tools you need to tackle your stressors, reduce your stress, recover from trauma, and gain self-confidence.
(360) 228-2753 View (360) 228-2753
Photo of Dan Duval, MA, LMHC
Dan Duval
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223
I believe that people have the answers to their own questions inside of themselves and work in tandem with clients to discover their own solutions in respectful partnership. I have over 30 years of experience and work with people from all walks of life. I work with adults and youth (age 14-65). I have encountered people who have experienced trauma of many types and endevour to walk beside them as they revisit their experience and express their truth. I work with those who have diffiuclty with anger, anxiety and depression. I have training and experience with people in LGBTQ, Trans, Poly, BDSM and other marginalized communities.
I believe that people have the answers to their own questions inside of themselves and work in tandem with clients to discover their own solutions in respectful partnership. I have over 30 years of experience and work with people from all walks of life. I work with adults and youth (age 14-65). I have encountered people who have experienced trauma of many types and endevour to walk beside them as they revisit their experience and express their truth. I work with those who have diffiuclty with anger, anxiety and depression. I have training and experience with people in LGBTQ, Trans, Poly, BDSM and other marginalized communities.
(206) 337-3672 View (206) 337-3672
1
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.