Family Therapy in Bethesda, MD

Photo of Morgan Russo, LGMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Morgan Russo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LGMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
With individuals I use a combination of psychodynamic, IFS (Internal Family Systems), and CBT.
My clients are looking for a change, whether they are couples or individuals. My couples generally say they are looking for "better communication," however that often translates into looking for a deeper connection and bond with each other. I work with couples to understand their histories, their arguments, and learn how to connect instead of disconnect. The individuals I see in general have anxiety. I work with them to understand why they have anxiety, where it came from, and how to 'release' that anxious part.
With individuals I use a combination of psychodynamic, IFS (Internal Family Systems), and CBT.
My clients are looking for a change, whether they are couples or individuals. My couples generally say they are looking for "better communication," however that often translates into looking for a deeper connection and bond with each other. I work with couples to understand their histories, their arguments, and learn how to connect instead of disconnect. The individuals I see in general have anxiety. I work with them to understand why they have anxiety, where it came from, and how to 'release' that anxious part.
(240) 376-4054 View (240) 376-4054
Photo of Tara Gogolinski, MS, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Tara Gogolinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20810  (Online Only)
I founded Rising Tides Therapy Center, PLLC with the heartfelt mission of helping couples enhance their communication and deepen their connection. As a Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience working with couples in high-stress relationships, I bring both confidence and passion to providing comprehensive, evidence-based therapy. My goal is to support couples who are committed to each other but feel stuck in a cycle of negativity and misunderstanding, guiding them towards a more fulfilling and harmonious relationship.
I founded Rising Tides Therapy Center, PLLC with the heartfelt mission of helping couples enhance their communication and deepen their connection. As a Marriage and Family Therapist with over a decade of experience working with couples in high-stress relationships, I bring both confidence and passion to providing comprehensive, evidence-based therapy. My goal is to support couples who are committed to each other but feel stuck in a cycle of negativity and misunderstanding, guiding them towards a more fulfilling and harmonious relationship.
(984) 360-8014 View (984) 360-8014
Photo of Nanci Brown, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nanci Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
I am an experienced therapist working with individuals and coupl for over 20 years. During this time I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and couples. My clients begin therapy as a means of overcoming obstacles or issues that prevent them from moving forward toward the individual goals they have set for themselves, whatever they may be. I help them assess and explore clear and realistic goals. I developed my early expertise working with adolescents with social, emotional, family or school issues. Since my early practice and training, I have gone on to also develop expertise in individual, couple and family counseling.
I am an experienced therapist working with individuals and coupl for over 20 years. During this time I have worked with children, adolescents, adults and couples. My clients begin therapy as a means of overcoming obstacles or issues that prevent them from moving forward toward the individual goals they have set for themselves, whatever they may be. I help them assess and explore clear and realistic goals. I developed my early expertise working with adolescents with social, emotional, family or school issues. Since my early practice and training, I have gone on to also develop expertise in individual, couple and family counseling.
(301) 686-7903 View (301) 686-7903
Photo of Elizabeth Blocker Ebaugh, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Blocker Ebaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20810
I have some training in EMDR and Family Constellations.
After 26 years of practice I see my ideal client as one who is ready for change. Ultimately, life is the method by which we grow. I work with a variety of tools to meet each client where they are. I have faith that we can all meet the challenges within ourselves and in life and find the inner capacity to move forward. My clients have ranged from those healing from a recent or historical trauma to those wanting life coaching. I have a holistic/systemic vision of my clients and enjoy working with body, mind spirit when appropriate.
I have some training in EMDR and Family Constellations.
After 26 years of practice I see my ideal client as one who is ready for change. Ultimately, life is the method by which we grow. I work with a variety of tools to meet each client where they are. I have faith that we can all meet the challenges within ourselves and in life and find the inner capacity to move forward. My clients have ranged from those healing from a recent or historical trauma to those wanting life coaching. I have a holistic/systemic vision of my clients and enjoy working with body, mind spirit when appropriate.
(301) 852-7515 View (301) 852-7515
Photo of Dr. Martha Gross, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Martha Gross
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20815
I have been in private practice for 45 years and specialize in sexual dysfunction,step family issues and major life transitions.
Navigating life's stresses, dealing with relationship disappointments and regaining self confidence and hope are issues that we can confront together. I will help you become aware of your harmful patterns of behavior and replace them with new healthier ones. Through awareness learned in therapy, you will develop a new sense of comfort and satisfaction with your life.
I have been in private practice for 45 years and specialize in sexual dysfunction,step family issues and major life transitions.
Navigating life's stresses, dealing with relationship disappointments and regaining self confidence and hope are issues that we can confront together. I will help you become aware of your harmful patterns of behavior and replace them with new healthier ones. Through awareness learned in therapy, you will develop a new sense of comfort and satisfaction with your life.
(202) 390-7162 View (202) 390-7162
Photo of Larry Letich, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larry Letich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20817  (Online Only)
Are you a smart, feelingful, sometimes intense man or woman who knows you can make more of your life than you have? Are you going through a turbulent time, frustrated with yourself and life, struggling in a relationship, knowing you're not fully using your talents and intelligence? It could be adult ADHD is tripping you up in ways you don't realize. Or it could be other emotional, relational or family issues. You want someone who listens closely to what you feel and what's going on in your life and your relationships, not just to "validate" you but to understand, see the whole picture and help you move forward on all levels.
Are you a smart, feelingful, sometimes intense man or woman who knows you can make more of your life than you have? Are you going through a turbulent time, frustrated with yourself and life, struggling in a relationship, knowing you're not fully using your talents and intelligence? It could be adult ADHD is tripping you up in ways you don't realize. Or it could be other emotional, relational or family issues. You want someone who listens closely to what you feel and what's going on in your life and your relationships, not just to "validate" you but to understand, see the whole picture and help you move forward on all levels.
(240) 230-3495 View (240) 230-3495
Photo of Diana Seasonwein, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Seasonwein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Many of us at one time or another need the help of an experienced therapist. Are you spending most days not feeling good, suffering from mood swings, anxiety or depression? Are you or your family/peers concerned about your drinking? Perhaps you are stuck, like "super glue" to old damaging behavior patterns, which can spell doom for a satisfying relationship. Have you reached a point in your life where you need help moving forward? If you have tried everything and nothing has worked, perhaps it's time to see a licensed therapist.
Many of us at one time or another need the help of an experienced therapist. Are you spending most days not feeling good, suffering from mood swings, anxiety or depression? Are you or your family/peers concerned about your drinking? Perhaps you are stuck, like "super glue" to old damaging behavior patterns, which can spell doom for a satisfying relationship. Have you reached a point in your life where you need help moving forward? If you have tried everything and nothing has worked, perhaps it's time to see a licensed therapist.
(202) 643-5904 View (202) 643-5904
Photo of Hetty Irmer Barnett - Four Corners Counseling & Well-Being, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Four Corners Counseling & Well-Being
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I am certified in the Internal Family Systems "Self Leadership" model of therapy for individuals and couples.
Are you looking for a therapist who understands you? With me, you will find a safe space to be yourself and explore whatever is getting in the way of the life you want. I will help you gain the insights and tools to move beyond your struggles into an authentic, self-led, thriving life. If spirituality is important to you, I will help you include spirituality and new mindfulness practices into your healing and growth. I specialize in therapy for thinking women, couples on the brink, and those seeking life balance. Together, let's move beyond problems to possibilities.
I am certified in the Internal Family Systems "Self Leadership" model of therapy for individuals and couples.
Are you looking for a therapist who understands you? With me, you will find a safe space to be yourself and explore whatever is getting in the way of the life you want. I will help you gain the insights and tools to move beyond your struggles into an authentic, self-led, thriving life. If spirituality is important to you, I will help you include spirituality and new mindfulness practices into your healing and growth. I specialize in therapy for thinking women, couples on the brink, and those seeking life balance. Together, let's move beyond problems to possibilities.
(301) 842-6564 View (301) 842-6564
Photo of David Pellegrini, PhD, Psychologist
David Pellegrini
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20815
In addition to my therapy practice, I consult to family business owners, CEOs, and mission-driven nonprofits.
I draw on 40+ years of experience in the practice of individual, group, and couples therapy. I work with a diversity of adult clients from varied circumstances and backgrounds. Nevertheless, they generally share a common aspiration to discover a more vital, passionate, and creative approach to meeting life's challenges. My intention is to establish a safe and authentic collaboration in pursuit of your aspirations and goals. I bring compassion, humor, insight and engagement to the therapeutic work. My approach integrates elements of the best, well-established therapeutic approaches, tailored to your unique needs and challenges.
In addition to my therapy practice, I consult to family business owners, CEOs, and mission-driven nonprofits.
I draw on 40+ years of experience in the practice of individual, group, and couples therapy. I work with a diversity of adult clients from varied circumstances and backgrounds. Nevertheless, they generally share a common aspiration to discover a more vital, passionate, and creative approach to meeting life's challenges. My intention is to establish a safe and authentic collaboration in pursuit of your aspirations and goals. I bring compassion, humor, insight and engagement to the therapeutic work. My approach integrates elements of the best, well-established therapeutic approaches, tailored to your unique needs and challenges.
(202) 559-4841 View (202) 559-4841
Photo of Jane Baxter, PhD, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Baxter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
Waitlist for new clients
I also incorporate my knowledge gained from my own therapy and training, parenting three teenagers, my marriage, family history, workshop leader and author of "How to Manage Your Depression with Exercise" into our sessions.
Feeling heard -- with thoughtfulness and curiosity -- and being challenged, helps you develop insight and strategies for life changes. Patients tell me they appreciate the rewards of our collaborative process, and their lives show the benefits. Together, we will explore your life, deciphering your concerns and building upon your strengths. We will look at anxious, dark or self-critical thoughts that may be the source of problematic behaviors, and identify patterns and solutions. We will work together to help you achieve happiness and success. Of note, I was voted as one of the areas' best therapists in the Washingtonian Magazine.
I also incorporate my knowledge gained from my own therapy and training, parenting three teenagers, my marriage, family history, workshop leader and author of "How to Manage Your Depression with Exercise" into our sessions.
Feeling heard -- with thoughtfulness and curiosity -- and being challenged, helps you develop insight and strategies for life changes. Patients tell me they appreciate the rewards of our collaborative process, and their lives show the benefits. Together, we will explore your life, deciphering your concerns and building upon your strengths. We will look at anxious, dark or self-critical thoughts that may be the source of problematic behaviors, and identify patterns and solutions. We will work together to help you achieve happiness and success. Of note, I was voted as one of the areas' best therapists in the Washingtonian Magazine.
(202) 509-0646 View (202) 509-0646
Photo of Cynthia L Rebholz, MS, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia L Rebholz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20811  (Online Only)
Medical Family Therapy: I assist individuals/families coping with chronic medical issues.
Everyone needs support sometimes. You may be looking to tune-up your life, or rekindle your relationship, I understand coping with stress and issues can leave you feeling alone and questioning yourself. If you're feeling anxious or wondering what's happened to your loving relationship, let's talk. Getting to the heart of the matter can resolve barriers, create connection.and decrease stress. I'll help you process your next steps and regain confidence, utilizing multiple approaches to help you find peace and balance. You will discover keys to dissolving issues including parallel lives, anxiety, trauma, and depression.
Medical Family Therapy: I assist individuals/families coping with chronic medical issues.
Everyone needs support sometimes. You may be looking to tune-up your life, or rekindle your relationship, I understand coping with stress and issues can leave you feeling alone and questioning yourself. If you're feeling anxious or wondering what's happened to your loving relationship, let's talk. Getting to the heart of the matter can resolve barriers, create connection.and decrease stress. I'll help you process your next steps and regain confidence, utilizing multiple approaches to help you find peace and balance. You will discover keys to dissolving issues including parallel lives, anxiety, trauma, and depression.
(240) 770-2862 View (240) 770-2862
Photo of Katherine Hannon - Katherine Hannon: Fertility & Infertility Therapy, LCPC, LPC, NCC, MA, BCC, Counselor
Katherine Hannon: Fertility & Infertility Therapy
Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC, MA, BCC
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
Waitlist for new clients
You may experience relationship difficulties with partners, friends, and family.
Finding a therapist who is a great match is essential when you turn to counseling to help build or grow your family. You likely feel stressed, depressed, or isolated as you have encountered setbacks. I help individuals and couples experiencing infertility, coping with pregnancy loss, considering third-party reproduction or adoption, or deciding to live child-free. I have more than 20 years working with RESOLVE, the National Infertility Association. We will work as a team as I teach you to make challenging decisions, manage stress, enhance your relationship, heal from loss, and manage symptoms of depression and anxiety.
You may experience relationship difficulties with partners, friends, and family.
Finding a therapist who is a great match is essential when you turn to counseling to help build or grow your family. You likely feel stressed, depressed, or isolated as you have encountered setbacks. I help individuals and couples experiencing infertility, coping with pregnancy loss, considering third-party reproduction or adoption, or deciding to live child-free. I have more than 20 years working with RESOLVE, the National Infertility Association. We will work as a team as I teach you to make challenging decisions, manage stress, enhance your relationship, heal from loss, and manage symptoms of depression and anxiety.
(703) 951-4641 View (703) 951-4641
Photo of Thomas Knebel, MSW, Intern , Pre-Licensed Professional
Thomas Knebel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, Intern
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20810  (Online Only)
I am committed to providing a calm, safe, welcoming space, regardless of your sexuality, gender, culture, or spirituality. As an Enneagram Type 9, “the Peacekeeper,” I feel a natural ease with appreciating various perspectives. I use the Internal Family Systems model, which has a somatic focus and is an extension of mindfulness. I will be a compassionate companion, as you grow access to your innate, inner strengths. IFS provides a path to real, lasting change, and increased inner harmony. I welcome whatever you are struggling with including stress, relationship concerns, depression, feeling stuck or 'that' something is missing.
I am committed to providing a calm, safe, welcoming space, regardless of your sexuality, gender, culture, or spirituality. As an Enneagram Type 9, “the Peacekeeper,” I feel a natural ease with appreciating various perspectives. I use the Internal Family Systems model, which has a somatic focus and is an extension of mindfulness. I will be a compassionate companion, as you grow access to your innate, inner strengths. IFS provides a path to real, lasting change, and increased inner harmony. I welcome whatever you are struggling with including stress, relationship concerns, depression, feeling stuck or 'that' something is missing.
(240) 973-3132 View (240) 973-3132
Photo of Marissa Nelson, LMFT, CST, CSE, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marissa Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST, CSE
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20815
Couples therapy is my calling and life passion. I created IntimacyMoons for Couples as an intensive transformation model and was voted Best Couples Retreat by Women's Health, Bustle, Livestrong, Matador Network, Madame Noire and Black Enterprise Magazines. Not only am I a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist but I am also a Certified Sex Therapist, and Certified Sexuality Educator by the American Association of Sexuality Educators and Therapists (AASECT).
Couples therapy is my calling and life passion. I created IntimacyMoons for Couples as an intensive transformation model and was voted Best Couples Retreat by Women's Health, Bustle, Livestrong, Matador Network, Madame Noire and Black Enterprise Magazines. Not only am I a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist but I am also a Certified Sex Therapist, and Certified Sexuality Educator by the American Association of Sexuality Educators and Therapists (AASECT).
(202) 932-0332 View (202) 932-0332
Photo of Marie Aleman, MS, LCPC, LPC, Counselor
Marie Aleman
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20815  (Online Only)
Marie Aleman is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about integrating psychology and Catholic-Christian anthropology in order to restore hope and healing to suffering individuals. Marie uses a combination of emotionally-focused, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and interpersonal techniques in order to meet the particular needs of each client. Mrs. Alemán’s therapy is informed by her Christian faith, her educational training, and her personal experience as a wife and mother. Marie works to heal clients through individual, parent-child, family, or couple counseling formats.
Marie Aleman is a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about integrating psychology and Catholic-Christian anthropology in order to restore hope and healing to suffering individuals. Marie uses a combination of emotionally-focused, cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and interpersonal techniques in order to meet the particular needs of each client. Mrs. Alemán’s therapy is informed by her Christian faith, her educational training, and her personal experience as a wife and mother. Marie works to heal clients through individual, parent-child, family, or couple counseling formats.
(321) 616-8868 View (321) 616-8868
Photo of Lisa Makstein, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Makstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814  (Online Only)
I work collaboratively as a divorce coach alongside attorneys to create a more positive outcome for the entire family.
As a psychotherapist for the past 30+ years, I feel passionate about helping people experience more joy and contentment in their relationships and in their lives. I believe that every crisis or problem that arises also provides an opportunity for healing and growth. Whether you are depressed, anxious, having marital conflicts, parenting difficulties, recovering from a traumatic experience, or in the midst of a life transition, we can problem-solve together and discover new possibilities for you. My style can best be described as interactive and engaging. I am a supportive listener, yet give honest feedback and offer suggestions for positive actions.
I work collaboratively as a divorce coach alongside attorneys to create a more positive outcome for the entire family.
As a psychotherapist for the past 30+ years, I feel passionate about helping people experience more joy and contentment in their relationships and in their lives. I believe that every crisis or problem that arises also provides an opportunity for healing and growth. Whether you are depressed, anxious, having marital conflicts, parenting difficulties, recovering from a traumatic experience, or in the midst of a life transition, we can problem-solve together and discover new possibilities for you. My style can best be described as interactive and engaging. I am a supportive listener, yet give honest feedback and offer suggestions for positive actions.
(301) 485-6939 View (301) 485-6939
Photo of Playfulleigh Home - PlayfulLeigh Psyched, LLC, PhD, LCPC, MS/MA, LGPC, Counselor
PlayfulLeigh Psyched, LLC
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, MS/MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20816  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We work with individuals, families, and children. We specialize in trauma including generational trauma, perinatal, immigrants, parent-child relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and family conflict. Our greatest intention is to help you understand yourself better and improve your quality of life and relationships. We tailor our approach to the needs of each person or family, responding to your unique problems, identities, and realities. This is not a one-size-fits-all practice because we are trauma-informed and social-emotional focused practices from a social justice framework.
We work with individuals, families, and children. We specialize in trauma including generational trauma, perinatal, immigrants, parent-child relationship issues, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and family conflict. Our greatest intention is to help you understand yourself better and improve your quality of life and relationships. We tailor our approach to the needs of each person or family, responding to your unique problems, identities, and realities. This is not a one-size-fits-all practice because we are trauma-informed and social-emotional focused practices from a social justice framework.
(301) 835-2610 View (301) 835-2610
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Bethesda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20814
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.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Katrin I Kutlucinar, MA, LGPC, Counselor
Katrin I Kutlucinar
Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bethesda, MD 20814
I use EMDR for Trauma, Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy for Bipolar Disorder (ISRT), CBT-P for Psychosis, I am a Certified Trauma Professional, and I am one of a handful of clinicians in the United States trained in Family-Focused Therapy for Bipolar Disorder (FFT).
You need to talk to someone. You're in a stressful place in your life. Not only is your desire for clarity and comfort at its peak but your need to find the right therapist is a leap of faith. Seeing me, you may find our sessions to be empowering, challenging, yet comfortable, and at times humorous. You can become energized by the unfolding of your story, and gaining new insights into your thoughts and feelings that no longer work for you. Are you having difficulties adjusting to life with a mental health disorder or struggling to make sense of a traumatic experience?
I use EMDR for Trauma, Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy for Bipolar Disorder (ISRT), CBT-P for Psychosis, I am a Certified Trauma Professional, and I am one of a handful of clinicians in the United States trained in Family-Focused Therapy for Bipolar Disorder (FFT).
You need to talk to someone. You're in a stressful place in your life. Not only is your desire for clarity and comfort at its peak but your need to find the right therapist is a leap of faith. Seeing me, you may find our sessions to be empowering, challenging, yet comfortable, and at times humorous. You can become energized by the unfolding of your story, and gaining new insights into your thoughts and feelings that no longer work for you. Are you having difficulties adjusting to life with a mental health disorder or struggling to make sense of a traumatic experience?
(301) 685-7654 View (301) 685-7654
Photo of Briana Rahming,  LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Briana Rahming
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bethesda, MD 20817
My ideal client is motivated for therapy. Their issues can include spiritual confusion, perinatal struggles, relationship concerns, family conflict, boundary needs, and/or a desire for greater self-awareness. They desire true change, which comes with a combination of empathy, education, and constructive feedback, if necessary, from the clinician.
My ideal client is motivated for therapy. Their issues can include spiritual confusion, perinatal struggles, relationship concerns, family conflict, boundary needs, and/or a desire for greater self-awareness. They desire true change, which comes with a combination of empathy, education, and constructive feedback, if necessary, from the clinician.
(240) 916-1081 View (240) 916-1081
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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.