Family Therapy in Portsmouth, NH

Photo of William B Gunn, PhD, Psychologist
William B Gunn
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
What can create problems as well as the discovery of solutions is impacted by physical, psychological and social (often family) factors.
I work with individuals and couples who are in distress and want to develop a "better self" in their work lives, their relationships, and in their view of themselves. I believe we all have the ability to heal ourselves from painful circumstances. As a therapist I work to co-create a safe environment and relationship in which clients can explore difficult topics and create meaningful change.
What can create problems as well as the discovery of solutions is impacted by physical, psychological and social (often family) factors.
I work with individuals and couples who are in distress and want to develop a "better self" in their work lives, their relationships, and in their view of themselves. I believe we all have the ability to heal ourselves from painful circumstances. As a therapist I work to co-create a safe environment and relationship in which clients can explore difficult topics and create meaningful change.
(978) 712-9155 View (978) 712-9155
Photo of Charles Schindler, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charles Schindler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Charles Schindler is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. He graduated from the University of Maine with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Child and Family Relationships. He earned a Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work with a focus on Trauma Recovery from Boston University. Charles has worked in the field of mental health since 2008, first treating teens and then focusing on treating adults with varying mental health diagnoses. Charles worked at The Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester for 7 years as a Psychotherapist.
Charles Schindler is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. He graduated from the University of Maine with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Child and Family Relationships. He earned a Masters Degree in Clinical Social Work with a focus on Trauma Recovery from Boston University. Charles has worked in the field of mental health since 2008, first treating teens and then focusing on treating adults with varying mental health diagnoses. Charles worked at The Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester for 7 years as a Psychotherapist.
(603) 657-5141 View (603) 657-5141
Photo of Philip A Meher - New England Anger Management - Rev. Philip Meher , MA, MEd, LCMHC, CAMT, Counselor
New England Anger Management - Rev. Philip Meher
Counselor, MA, MEd, LCMHC, CAMT
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03802
As a clinical mental health professional, an Army Family Life Chaplain, VA therapist, and also a Christian ordained pastoral counselor (of 30+ years) I assist individuals in the community struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, anger, grief, and trauma (PTSD). In addition to this I do marriage/couples therapy, pre-marital counseling, and spiritual/faith related counseling.
As a clinical mental health professional, an Army Family Life Chaplain, VA therapist, and also a Christian ordained pastoral counselor (of 30+ years) I assist individuals in the community struggling with issues related to anxiety, depression, anger, grief, and trauma (PTSD). In addition to this I do marriage/couples therapy, pre-marital counseling, and spiritual/faith related counseling.
(603) 736-7017 View (603) 736-7017
Photo of Laurie A. Couture, MEd, LCMHC, LMHC, Counselor
Laurie A. Couture
Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
If you are willing to put in the rewarding work of partnering with me to help your child heal, smile, thrive, regain a passion for learning, or reconnect at the heart, then I will be a great therapeutic fit for your child and family.
Welcome! I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and EMDR clinician who specializes in treating childhood developmental trauma and attachment challenges in children and youths ages toddler to age 22 with their parents or guardians involved in the treatment. I provide both teletherapy and in-person therapy sessions for children, youths, and their parents, as well as parenting group workshops, parent and professional consulting, and trainings for professionals.
If you are willing to put in the rewarding work of partnering with me to help your child heal, smile, thrive, regain a passion for learning, or reconnect at the heart, then I will be a great therapeutic fit for your child and family.
Welcome! I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and EMDR clinician who specializes in treating childhood developmental trauma and attachment challenges in children and youths ages toddler to age 22 with their parents or guardians involved in the treatment. I provide both teletherapy and in-person therapy sessions for children, youths, and their parents, as well as parenting group workshops, parent and professional consulting, and trainings for professionals.
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Photo of Wendy Quinn, PsyD, LADC, ADTR, Psychologist
Wendy Quinn
Psychologist, PsyD, LADC, ADTR
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
During this medical crisis, Dr. Quinn is providing TelePsychology through a secure web portal. With thirty-five years of experience in the field of mental health, Dr. Quinn specializes in the effective treatment of eating disorders, addictions & trauma through individual, couples & family therapy for adults, children and adolescents. In treating clients with eating disorders, Dr. Quinn works closely with families, primary care physicians, psychiatrists and inpatient facilities to coordinate treatment. Dr. Quinn also incorporates expressive therapies (art & movement) with verbal therapy to access inner pain and promote deep healing.
During this medical crisis, Dr. Quinn is providing TelePsychology through a secure web portal. With thirty-five years of experience in the field of mental health, Dr. Quinn specializes in the effective treatment of eating disorders, addictions & trauma through individual, couples & family therapy for adults, children and adolescents. In treating clients with eating disorders, Dr. Quinn works closely with families, primary care physicians, psychiatrists and inpatient facilities to coordinate treatment. Dr. Quinn also incorporates expressive therapies (art & movement) with verbal therapy to access inner pain and promote deep healing.
(603) 685-3145 View (603) 685-3145
Photo of Jennifer Casey - Jennifer Casey, LADC Counseling, LLC , LADC, BS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Jennifer Casey, LADC Counseling, LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, BS
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I offer DWI Restoration Groups, Family and/or Marital Groups, Impaired Driver Services, and Women's Groups.
Substance Abuse Evaluations are my speciality, I offer quality work at a quick turn around time-frame. I’m here to help. You CAN build a life that doesn’t rely on substances. And since substance use is often a result of underlying causes, I can help you understand the issues that first led to alcohol or drug use, and help develop the skills needed to avoid the stresses that might cause a relapse. I'll help you build a support system and achieve a balanced, meaningful life – one that doesn’t rely on substances.
I offer DWI Restoration Groups, Family and/or Marital Groups, Impaired Driver Services, and Women's Groups.
Substance Abuse Evaluations are my speciality, I offer quality work at a quick turn around time-frame. I’m here to help. You CAN build a life that doesn’t rely on substances. And since substance use is often a result of underlying causes, I can help you understand the issues that first led to alcohol or drug use, and help develop the skills needed to avoid the stresses that might cause a relapse. I'll help you build a support system and achieve a balanced, meaningful life – one that doesn’t rely on substances.
(207) 618-9431 View (207) 618-9431
Photo of Kristin Trapane-Otis, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristin Trapane-Otis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I am a licensed social worker in the state of NH. My true love is working with children and families. My main goal is to develop a positive rapport with all members. Good work can not begin until all are comfortable. I specialize in treating children with anxiety, depression, ADHD and ODD as well as family conflict that often accompanies these issues. I work to give parents the support needed to better relate to their children, at the same time giving the child the opportunity to have the confidential and secure environment to explore their own feelings, behaviors and goals.
I am a licensed social worker in the state of NH. My true love is working with children and families. My main goal is to develop a positive rapport with all members. Good work can not begin until all are comfortable. I specialize in treating children with anxiety, depression, ADHD and ODD as well as family conflict that often accompanies these issues. I work to give parents the support needed to better relate to their children, at the same time giving the child the opportunity to have the confidential and secure environment to explore their own feelings, behaviors and goals.
(603) 303-2090 View (603) 303-2090
Photo of Megan Drake Stillman, LMHC, Counselor
Megan Drake Stillman
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
You only have one body & accepting it might seem impossible. Many people turn to food, exercise, perfectionism, & anxiety to cope. However, they find themselves caught in an unbreakable cycle of unhappiness. Speaking with a therapist helps you to identify your unhelpful patterns, honor your strengths, create a toolbox of strategies, & learn to talk to yourself with compassion. My specialty is in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety and body image. Eating disorders rarely exist in isolation. I am experienced in treating co-occurring symptoms including social challenges, family issues, depression, ADHD, & trauma.
You only have one body & accepting it might seem impossible. Many people turn to food, exercise, perfectionism, & anxiety to cope. However, they find themselves caught in an unbreakable cycle of unhappiness. Speaking with a therapist helps you to identify your unhelpful patterns, honor your strengths, create a toolbox of strategies, & learn to talk to yourself with compassion. My specialty is in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety and body image. Eating disorders rarely exist in isolation. I am experienced in treating co-occurring symptoms including social challenges, family issues, depression, ADHD, & trauma.
(978) 678-9135 View (978) 678-9135
Photo of Susan E Norman, LICSW, BCD, QCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan E Norman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD, QCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
As a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work with 30 years experience, I've worked in hospitals, clinics, guidance centers, courts, and on psychiatric emergency teams. I have advanced training in eating disorders&depression and have consulted to the community on issues of ADHD, obesity,alcoholism, grief,parenting, geriatric care and trained graduate students from area colleges in short/ long term psychotherapy. The foundation of my training is psychodynamic. Additional training in cognitive behavior, family systems, and coaching, has created an integrated approach to my treatment of individuals, couples,and families. Careful assessment determines which approach best suits each patient.
As a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work with 30 years experience, I've worked in hospitals, clinics, guidance centers, courts, and on psychiatric emergency teams. I have advanced training in eating disorders&depression and have consulted to the community on issues of ADHD, obesity,alcoholism, grief,parenting, geriatric care and trained graduate students from area colleges in short/ long term psychotherapy. The foundation of my training is psychodynamic. Additional training in cognitive behavior, family systems, and coaching, has created an integrated approach to my treatment of individuals, couples,and families. Careful assessment determines which approach best suits each patient.
(617) 446-3125 View (617) 446-3125
Photo of Robyn Powley, MEd, BCBA
Robyn Powley
MEd, BCBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
Does your child's behavior leave you feeling overwhelmed? Behaviors can leave the whole family feeling stressed and disconnected. With over 30 years of experience in special education, working with families in both schools and homes to navigate a wide range of behaviors- from autism and emotional disorders to typical developmental stages and anxiety. I focus on creating supportive environments for your entire family. Using evidenced based strategies focused on positive reinforcement and replacement behaviors help individuals develop the skills they need to succeed.
Does your child's behavior leave you feeling overwhelmed? Behaviors can leave the whole family feeling stressed and disconnected. With over 30 years of experience in special education, working with families in both schools and homes to navigate a wide range of behaviors- from autism and emotional disorders to typical developmental stages and anxiety. I focus on creating supportive environments for your entire family. Using evidenced based strategies focused on positive reinforcement and replacement behaviors help individuals develop the skills they need to succeed.
(855) 908-6277 View (855) 908-6277
Photo of Diane Lambert, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Lambert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
My speciality is Internal Family Systems therapy (IFS) & I'm a gender specialist, working with transgender individuals and their families.
I have 36+ years of experience providing counseling to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and groups. Currently I'm seeing clients via telehealth only. Using IFS, I offer effective ways for addressing trauma, anxiety and depression; I have extensive experience helping individuals with codependency, and self esteem issues. I provide compassionate and empowering assistance to those in pain. With children, I have much experience treating ADHD, social anxiety. I currently work with parents only. My group focuses on Women's Codependency recovery issues. I offer gender affirming care and work with the LGBTQ+ community.
My speciality is Internal Family Systems therapy (IFS) & I'm a gender specialist, working with transgender individuals and their families.
I have 36+ years of experience providing counseling to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and groups. Currently I'm seeing clients via telehealth only. Using IFS, I offer effective ways for addressing trauma, anxiety and depression; I have extensive experience helping individuals with codependency, and self esteem issues. I provide compassionate and empowering assistance to those in pain. With children, I have much experience treating ADHD, social anxiety. I currently work with parents only. My group focuses on Women's Codependency recovery issues. I offer gender affirming care and work with the LGBTQ+ community.
(207) 358-6257 View (207) 358-6257
Photo of Lisa Boldin, MBA/MSW, LICSW, TCTSY-F, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Boldin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA/MSW, LICSW, TCTSY-F
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Here at Exeter Family Therapy, I believe in the practice of “listening with the ear of the heart”, recognizing the importance of each person’s story as the basis for healing. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a focus on working with those who have experienced trauma, I employ trauma informed practices grounded in creating safe relationships, cultivating a reflective process, & building on strengths & opportunities for self-empowerment. I help clients improve their relationships, increase self-awareness, manage challenges & navigate life transitions, by incorporating mindfulness & somatic awareness to support their process.
Here at Exeter Family Therapy, I believe in the practice of “listening with the ear of the heart”, recognizing the importance of each person’s story as the basis for healing. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a focus on working with those who have experienced trauma, I employ trauma informed practices grounded in creating safe relationships, cultivating a reflective process, & building on strengths & opportunities for self-empowerment. I help clients improve their relationships, increase self-awareness, manage challenges & navigate life transitions, by incorporating mindfulness & somatic awareness to support their process.
(603) 606-1233 x208 View (603) 606-1233 x208
Photo of John Potter - John Potter, Behavior Pathways, LLC, BCBA-D, PsyD
John Potter, Behavior Pathways, LLC
BCBA-D, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Welcome! My practice offers in-home behavioral consultation and treatment for adolescents. Guided by ABA, ACT and SBT therapies, we'll address areas of concern, set goals and develop in-home supports to help your child build skills, improve behavior, and gain a sense of well-being. The impact on your child’s social/emotional functioning, self-esteem, and relationships, as well as your family dynamic, is profound. I have 30 years of experience helping adolescents, including 24 years as a school psychologist and behavior specialist in NH schools. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you! John Potter, Behavior Pathways, LLC.
Welcome! My practice offers in-home behavioral consultation and treatment for adolescents. Guided by ABA, ACT and SBT therapies, we'll address areas of concern, set goals and develop in-home supports to help your child build skills, improve behavior, and gain a sense of well-being. The impact on your child’s social/emotional functioning, self-esteem, and relationships, as well as your family dynamic, is profound. I have 30 years of experience helping adolescents, including 24 years as a school psychologist and behavior specialist in NH schools. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you! John Potter, Behavior Pathways, LLC.
(603) 205-2783 View (603) 205-2783
Photo of Dr. Laura Sproch, PhD, CEDS, Psychologist
Dr. Laura Sproch
Psychologist, PhD, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
I specialize in cognitive behavioral, behavioral, family-based, and behavioral family therapy.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, disordered eating, negative body image, trichotillomania, and/or obsessive-compulsive symptoms, please contact me. I am a clinical psychologist who believes in offering treatments that work, are based in science, and have an end goal (i.e., evidence-based treatment). I work primarily with individuals with eating disorders, anxiety, and depression; however also enjoy supporting folks through interpersonal difficulties, life transitions, and grief and loss. I know how difficult change can be and offer a compassionate approach that values working toward your personal goals.
I specialize in cognitive behavioral, behavioral, family-based, and behavioral family therapy.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, disordered eating, negative body image, trichotillomania, and/or obsessive-compulsive symptoms, please contact me. I am a clinical psychologist who believes in offering treatments that work, are based in science, and have an end goal (i.e., evidence-based treatment). I work primarily with individuals with eating disorders, anxiety, and depression; however also enjoy supporting folks through interpersonal difficulties, life transitions, and grief and loss. I know how difficult change can be and offer a compassionate approach that values working toward your personal goals.
(207) 288-7576 View (207) 288-7576
Photo of Milena Glynn, MS, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Milena Glynn
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
It is my privilege to support you in that as an individual, couple, or family.
Life stressors, difficulty in communication, and transitions are just some of the issues that can negatively impact our emotional well-being and our relationships. Perhaps the past is lingering in your life and inhibiting stronger connections and self-compassion. Perhaps anxiety or worry are preventing you from reaching your goals, feeling safe again, or partaking in your relationships in the way you would like to. Engaging in therapy with a therapist you feel comfortable with can help you gain the tools to navigate life's challenges and improve communication and connection.
It is my privilege to support you in that as an individual, couple, or family.
Life stressors, difficulty in communication, and transitions are just some of the issues that can negatively impact our emotional well-being and our relationships. Perhaps the past is lingering in your life and inhibiting stronger connections and self-compassion. Perhaps anxiety or worry are preventing you from reaching your goals, feeling safe again, or partaking in your relationships in the way you would like to. Engaging in therapy with a therapist you feel comfortable with can help you gain the tools to navigate life's challenges and improve communication and connection.
(855) 521-3914 View (855) 521-3914
Photo of Julia E Ovalle, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia E Ovalle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801  (Online Only)
I have experience with a wide array of areas including but not limited to anxiety, depression, co-occurring disorders, grief, addiction, relationship difficulties, career/educational enhancement, life transitions and family work.
My view of therapy is an opportunity to engage in a collaborative process by which the therapist and client work together towards enriching lifestyle, and enhancing overall well-being. Additional treatment modalities I draw from include cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques aimed to help reframe and replace negative thought patterns leading to healthier responses in challenging situations. Furthermore, I work from a strengths based perspective that amplifies each individual's unique qualities through the process of self-discovery, healing and acceptance of self and others.
I have experience with a wide array of areas including but not limited to anxiety, depression, co-occurring disorders, grief, addiction, relationship difficulties, career/educational enhancement, life transitions and family work.
My view of therapy is an opportunity to engage in a collaborative process by which the therapist and client work together towards enriching lifestyle, and enhancing overall well-being. Additional treatment modalities I draw from include cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques aimed to help reframe and replace negative thought patterns leading to healthier responses in challenging situations. Furthermore, I work from a strengths based perspective that amplifies each individual's unique qualities through the process of self-discovery, healing and acceptance of self and others.
(603) 732-9256 View (603) 732-9256
Photo of Alan Nemetz, PhD, Psychologist
Alan Nemetz
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
During that time I served on the faculty of the Couples and Family Clinic in the Department of Psychiatry at the Cambridge Health Alliance.
It is a privilege to introduce myself to you. I am a Licensed Psychologist located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire with more than 30 years of clinical experience in private practice, outpatient clinic, and inpatient settings. My clinical interests include mind-body medicine, health psychology, and optimal performance. I would describe myself as compassionate and thoughtful, with a good sense of humor.
During that time I served on the faculty of the Couples and Family Clinic in the Department of Psychiatry at the Cambridge Health Alliance.
It is a privilege to introduce myself to you. I am a Licensed Psychologist located in Portsmouth, New Hampshire with more than 30 years of clinical experience in private practice, outpatient clinic, and inpatient settings. My clinical interests include mind-body medicine, health psychology, and optimal performance. I would describe myself as compassionate and thoughtful, with a good sense of humor.
(603) 502-1217 View (603) 502-1217
Photo of Catherine Forbes, PhD, Psychologist
Catherine Forbes
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, trauma-informed, and gender affirming interventions, with specialized training in CBT, transgender health, and trauma.
Stress, depression, anxiety, traumas, family issues, identity concerns - so many of us of all ages face these and many other challenges. Are you hoping to reduce your distress and increase your engagement in life and experience of joy? Would you like more satisfying, healthy relationships? Looking for support through your gender journey and access to needed affirming medical services? Your experiences are valid and you matter. Positive change is possible.
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, trauma-informed, and gender affirming interventions, with specialized training in CBT, transgender health, and trauma.
Stress, depression, anxiety, traumas, family issues, identity concerns - so many of us of all ages face these and many other challenges. Are you hoping to reduce your distress and increase your engagement in life and experience of joy? Would you like more satisfying, healthy relationships? Looking for support through your gender journey and access to needed affirming medical services? Your experiences are valid and you matter. Positive change is possible.
(833) 691-5541 View (833) 691-5541
Photo of Kimberly Meurillon, LCMHC, PMH-C, Counselor
Kimberly Meurillon
Counselor, LCMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Waitlist for new clients
This Fall, I am starting a fellowship in Couple Therapy at the Psychodynamic Couple and Family Institute of NE.
I'm passionate about working with individuals navigating depression, anxiety, mania, and perinatal mental health concerns. Engaging in therapy can be particularly meaningful when experiencing interpersonal conflicts and going through major life events: such as the onset of a mood disorder, preparing for life after high school and college, moving to a new community, adjusting to early parenthood, or coping with pregnancy loss.
This Fall, I am starting a fellowship in Couple Therapy at the Psychodynamic Couple and Family Institute of NE.
I'm passionate about working with individuals navigating depression, anxiety, mania, and perinatal mental health concerns. Engaging in therapy can be particularly meaningful when experiencing interpersonal conflicts and going through major life events: such as the onset of a mood disorder, preparing for life after high school and college, moving to a new community, adjusting to early parenthood, or coping with pregnancy loss.
(603) 691-3745 View (603) 691-3745
Photo of Joshua S Hagar, MS, LCPC, LCMHC, MLADC, Counselor
Joshua S Hagar
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LCMHC, MLADC
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, NH 03801
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, My name is Josh Hagar. I am a multi-licensed Mental Health Counselor (ME & NH) and Master's Level - Licensed Drug & Alcohol Counselor (NH) committed to helping those in need learn how to identify unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. My work focuses on a progress based approach utilizing interventions that fit your specific needs. I believe in taking a collaborative path to helping clients reach their goals. I’m passionate about working with diverse clientele. My specialties include extensive work with addiction/alcoholism treatment, family issues, LGBTQIA+ challenges, and co-occurring disorders.
Hello, My name is Josh Hagar. I am a multi-licensed Mental Health Counselor (ME & NH) and Master's Level - Licensed Drug & Alcohol Counselor (NH) committed to helping those in need learn how to identify unhelpful thought patterns and behaviors. My work focuses on a progress based approach utilizing interventions that fit your specific needs. I believe in taking a collaborative path to helping clients reach their goals. I’m passionate about working with diverse clientele. My specialties include extensive work with addiction/alcoholism treatment, family issues, LGBTQIA+ challenges, and co-occurring disorders.
(603) 932-4652 View (603) 932-4652
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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.