Family Therapy in Lynchburg City County, VA

Photo of Deshea Graham, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deshea Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
I love therapy because I believe it is the perfect problem-solving option for people searching for a confidential and effective support system outside of family and friends. Whether you’re looking for long-term therapy or just one coaching session, my approach is highly structured, evidence-based, and comprehensive. My goal is to provide a comprehensive framework to help you facilitate significant life changes. Your first appointment will serve as a biopsychosocial session.
I love therapy because I believe it is the perfect problem-solving option for people searching for a confidential and effective support system outside of family and friends. Whether you’re looking for long-term therapy or just one coaching session, my approach is highly structured, evidence-based, and comprehensive. My goal is to provide a comprehensive framework to help you facilitate significant life changes. Your first appointment will serve as a biopsychosocial session.
(434) 533-9908 View (434) 533-9908
Photo of Kimberly Plourde - Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy Lynchburg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy Lynchburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504
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.
(434) 443-6808 View (434) 443-6808
Photo of Shojuana Ayers, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shojuana Ayers
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
I specialize in several treatment approaches to include: cognitive behavioral therapy, reality therapy, & family systems therapy.
Seeking therapy is the first step to restoring your life. Hello, my name is Shojuana Ayers. I have over 13 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, families and couples with a wide range of concerns. My job as a therapist is to help guide individuals through a healing experience from there current situation through self-awareness, the use of positive coping strategies, and empowerment. My role is to help empower individuals and guide them to realize there inner strength.
I specialize in several treatment approaches to include: cognitive behavioral therapy, reality therapy, & family systems therapy.
Seeking therapy is the first step to restoring your life. Hello, my name is Shojuana Ayers. I have over 13 years of clinical experience working with children, adolescents, families and couples with a wide range of concerns. My job as a therapist is to help guide individuals through a healing experience from there current situation through self-awareness, the use of positive coping strategies, and empowerment. My role is to help empower individuals and guide them to realize there inner strength.
(434) 686-7467 View (434) 686-7467
Photo of Bryan John Prinzivalli, MA, LPC, ACS, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bryan John Prinzivalli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24504
I enjoy working with children of all ages and their families and seeing lasting change take place both in the child and the family dynamics.
Having worked extensively with children, adolescents and their families, I would say my ideal client is pre-teen to adult working through behavioral struggles including impulse control, defiance, hyperactivity, etc. I work closely with and honor the family unit and also work with couples, relationship and marriage counseling for the betterment of that unit. I also have worked with and specialize in treatment of dual diagnosis, particularly when addictive behaviors are a primary concern. Being trained in ASAM criteria I also work with additive behaviors in both adolescent and adults.
I enjoy working with children of all ages and their families and seeing lasting change take place both in the child and the family dynamics.
Having worked extensively with children, adolescents and their families, I would say my ideal client is pre-teen to adult working through behavioral struggles including impulse control, defiance, hyperactivity, etc. I work closely with and honor the family unit and also work with couples, relationship and marriage counseling for the betterment of that unit. I also have worked with and specialize in treatment of dual diagnosis, particularly when addictive behaviors are a primary concern. Being trained in ASAM criteria I also work with additive behaviors in both adolescent and adults.
(434) 478-1721 View (434) 478-1721
Photo of Lisa Kilgore, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Kilgore
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
About me I love to camp, read and spend time with my family and friends. I have been married for 35 years and have 2 sons. I have one granddaughter with whom I love spending time. I am an animal lover with 5 dogs and 2 cats. I started on my journey in 2004. I have always been fascinated by the human mind. I decided to return to school after both my boys were grown. I graduated in 2007 with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Hollins University. I worked as a preschool teacher for several years then decided I wanted to help those who suffered from depression, anxiety and other behavioral/personality disorders.
About me I love to camp, read and spend time with my family and friends. I have been married for 35 years and have 2 sons. I have one granddaughter with whom I love spending time. I am an animal lover with 5 dogs and 2 cats. I started on my journey in 2004. I have always been fascinated by the human mind. I decided to return to school after both my boys were grown. I graduated in 2007 with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Hollins University. I worked as a preschool teacher for several years then decided I wanted to help those who suffered from depression, anxiety and other behavioral/personality disorders.
(434) 505-8781 View (434) 505-8781
Photo of Pamela Pierce, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Pierce
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504  (Online Only)
Pamela completed her bachelor's degree in Family and Consumer Sciences from Jacksonville State University and her Master of Science (MS) in Mental Health Counseling at Walden University.
Pamela Pierce is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, anger, and behavioral issues in youth and adults. She has 9 years of experience working with at-risk adolescents and adults with severe mental illness in a behavioral health setting. Pamela has worked with individuals and couples in a private practice setting for 2 years. She has a passion for collaboratively assisting individuals working through their anxiety, depression, and anger. It is Pamela's experience that behavioral issues tend to stem from an underlying issue.
Pamela completed her bachelor's degree in Family and Consumer Sciences from Jacksonville State University and her Master of Science (MS) in Mental Health Counseling at Walden University.
Pamela Pierce is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, anger, and behavioral issues in youth and adults. She has 9 years of experience working with at-risk adolescents and adults with severe mental illness in a behavioral health setting. Pamela has worked with individuals and couples in a private practice setting for 2 years. She has a passion for collaboratively assisting individuals working through their anxiety, depression, and anger. It is Pamela's experience that behavioral issues tend to stem from an underlying issue.
(434) 505-4907 View (434) 505-4907
Photo of Sierra Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sierra Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
My area of interest includes Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, Relationship Issues, Conflict Resolution, Anger Management, Grief & Loss, Substance Abuse, Trauma, Teens, Young Adults, Family Conflict, Parent Coaching, and Christian Counseling.
I am a Licensed professional counselor. I provide therapy for individuals in the state of Virginia and Texas. I offer tele health (Virtual) sessions. I utilize Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Strength Based Therapy, motivational interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, and Multisystemic therapy.
My area of interest includes Anxiety, Depression, Self-esteem, Relationship Issues, Conflict Resolution, Anger Management, Grief & Loss, Substance Abuse, Trauma, Teens, Young Adults, Family Conflict, Parent Coaching, and Christian Counseling.
I am a Licensed professional counselor. I provide therapy for individuals in the state of Virginia and Texas. I offer tele health (Virtual) sessions. I utilize Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Strength Based Therapy, motivational interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, and Multisystemic therapy.
(434) 595-5842 View (434) 595-5842
Photo of Bobbie Jo Stone-Seamster, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bobbie Jo Stone-Seamster
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
During her spare time, she enjoys spending time in nature, and at home with her close family, friends, siamese cat, and beagle dog.
Available via Video session only Age: 49 Language: English Specialties: Trauma, Veterans, Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement-Grief Counseling, Co-morbidity, Codependency, Substance abuse, Domestic Violence, health disabilities, Life Management Counseling, Mood Disorders, Parenting Issues/stressors, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Stress Management. not currently accepting marriage or couples counseling at this time. Years of Experience: 22 years Bobbie began her career in the human services field as a social worker and child abuse investigator with the Department of Social Services in VA.
During her spare time, she enjoys spending time in nature, and at home with her close family, friends, siamese cat, and beagle dog.
Available via Video session only Age: 49 Language: English Specialties: Trauma, Veterans, Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement-Grief Counseling, Co-morbidity, Codependency, Substance abuse, Domestic Violence, health disabilities, Life Management Counseling, Mood Disorders, Parenting Issues/stressors, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Stress Management. not currently accepting marriage or couples counseling at this time. Years of Experience: 22 years Bobbie began her career in the human services field as a social worker and child abuse investigator with the Department of Social Services in VA.
(571) 462-6794 View (571) 462-6794
Photo of Jean Odachowski - Red Door Counseling Services, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Red Door Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501  (Online Only)
My goal is to learn about my clients and their needs by listening to what is most important to them and instilling hope. I have experience working with mothers of young children who need support in managing behaviors, sensory and developmental needs of their child. Building a warm and compassionate relationship is key in therapy in my view. Helping my clients enhance their relationships by working through past trauma and past negative relationships is one of my key goals. I enjoy working with teens and other adults who are trying to find their way in the world of relationships, work, family and changing communities.
My goal is to learn about my clients and their needs by listening to what is most important to them and instilling hope. I have experience working with mothers of young children who need support in managing behaviors, sensory and developmental needs of their child. Building a warm and compassionate relationship is key in therapy in my view. Helping my clients enhance their relationships by working through past trauma and past negative relationships is one of my key goals. I enjoy working with teens and other adults who are trying to find their way in the world of relationships, work, family and changing communities.
(276) 409-8150 View (276) 409-8150
Photo of Judith Henderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judith Henderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 15 years of experience in a variety of roles and settings including inpatient psychiatry, family and adolescent counseling, intensive community treatment and extensive history working in corrections with inmates. I am currently employed as a Clinical Supervisor with a local Drug Treatment Court. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and have helped many clients with past trauma, addiction and comorbid mental health diagnoses. I approach all of my clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 15 years of experience in a variety of roles and settings including inpatient psychiatry, family and adolescent counseling, intensive community treatment and extensive history working in corrections with inmates. I am currently employed as a Clinical Supervisor with a local Drug Treatment Court. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and have helped many clients with past trauma, addiction and comorbid mental health diagnoses. I approach all of my clients
(757) 798-8406 View (757) 798-8406
Photo of Sarah Embry, MA
Sarah Embry
Resident in Marriage and Family Therapy, MA
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
When working with couples/families, I utilize Gottman Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Each of us come with a unique set of life experiences. My hope is to provide you with a space to explore the impact of these life experiences and the role they play in your individual and relational functioning! My professional experience is reflected in a variety of settings including trauma-work, depression, anxiety, life transitions, attachment, pre-marital counseling, marriage counseling, and family counseling. If there is one thing you should know about what I believe it’s this: context matters! It matters because it provides meaning to the social, cultural, and environmental factors that influence the life of every human.
When working with couples/families, I utilize Gottman Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Each of us come with a unique set of life experiences. My hope is to provide you with a space to explore the impact of these life experiences and the role they play in your individual and relational functioning! My professional experience is reflected in a variety of settings including trauma-work, depression, anxiety, life transitions, attachment, pre-marital counseling, marriage counseling, and family counseling. If there is one thing you should know about what I believe it’s this: context matters! It matters because it provides meaning to the social, cultural, and environmental factors that influence the life of every human.
(434) 436-1019 View (434) 436-1019
Photo of William John Manning, LCSW, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
William John Manning
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501
Folks that come to me for support struggle to manage the thoughts and feelings that lead to relapse and mental health crises. My experience tells me that these folks feel disconnected from themselves and their community. Establishing connectivity to their friends, family, and their broader social setting is crucial for wellness and for healing. Everyone has the goal of contentment and peace of mind, and substance abuse more than most challenges undermines the fulfillment of these basic needs. To heal and prosper, substance abusers and trauma survivors need to practice self care in the bio psychosocial-spiritual way of life.
Folks that come to me for support struggle to manage the thoughts and feelings that lead to relapse and mental health crises. My experience tells me that these folks feel disconnected from themselves and their community. Establishing connectivity to their friends, family, and their broader social setting is crucial for wellness and for healing. Everyone has the goal of contentment and peace of mind, and substance abuse more than most challenges undermines the fulfillment of these basic needs. To heal and prosper, substance abusers and trauma survivors need to practice self care in the bio psychosocial-spiritual way of life.
(434) 204-4131 View (434) 204-4131
Photo of Erin Teigen, MSW, LCSW, RYT-200, VSW, CEIP-MH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Teigen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RYT-200, VSW, CEIP-MH
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24501
Are you ready to feel empowered and notice you feel most relaxed with animals and in nature? Perhaps, traditional-talk therapy doesn't feel quite right for you and you're curious about an experiential approach to heal and grow. When working with me and our amazing animals (horses, goats, dogs) on the farm, you can anticipate learning to leverage your strengths, building resilience and finding meaning through challenges. I provide care for children, adolescents, adults and families, many of whom need help with anxiety, depression, stress, panic attacks, trauma, PTSD, grief, ADHD, family issues, and coping with disease and disability.
Are you ready to feel empowered and notice you feel most relaxed with animals and in nature? Perhaps, traditional-talk therapy doesn't feel quite right for you and you're curious about an experiential approach to heal and grow. When working with me and our amazing animals (horses, goats, dogs) on the farm, you can anticipate learning to leverage your strengths, building resilience and finding meaning through challenges. I provide care for children, adolescents, adults and families, many of whom need help with anxiety, depression, stress, panic attacks, trauma, PTSD, grief, ADHD, family issues, and coping with disease and disability.
(434) 216-0707 View (434) 216-0707
Photo of R. Mike Anderson, EdD, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
R. Mike Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
If you are in need of help during the most difficult times of a significant loss, feeling stuck in life, having trouble with a family member, work relationships or just need coaching and guidance through the stresses of daily living, allow me to help you navigate and chart a path to get your energy and zest in life back!.
Hello, As a clinical director, I understand the importance of understanding and honoring the needs of my clients. My Life experience and clinical understanding inspires me to co-create change with and for my clients. My faith and family have helped me stay balanced and energized for service. I love helping clients uncover facts that were hidden from view. I love seeing a person's eyes light up when they uncover unconscious truths that emerge during counseling. I love seeing the smile and life come back into a person who had begun to doubt whether solutions could be found. It’s exciting! I love my job!
If you are in need of help during the most difficult times of a significant loss, feeling stuck in life, having trouble with a family member, work relationships or just need coaching and guidance through the stresses of daily living, allow me to help you navigate and chart a path to get your energy and zest in life back!.
Hello, As a clinical director, I understand the importance of understanding and honoring the needs of my clients. My Life experience and clinical understanding inspires me to co-create change with and for my clients. My faith and family have helped me stay balanced and energized for service. I love helping clients uncover facts that were hidden from view. I love seeing a person's eyes light up when they uncover unconscious truths that emerge during counseling. I love seeing the smile and life come back into a person who had begun to doubt whether solutions could be found. It’s exciting! I love my job!
(434) 478-0743 x201 View (434) 478-0743 x201
Photo of Berkley Holston, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Berkley Holston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24503
Waitlist for new clients
I was born and raised in Lynchburg, Virginia, but have had the amazing opportunity to live and work all over the country including: Washington, DC; New Orleans, LA; Miami, FL and Boulder, CO. Lynchburg is by far my favorite place and I was happy to return home in 2005. I enjoy cooking, gardening, reading and spending time with my family and friends. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I graduated from the University of Northern Colorado in 2003 with an undergraduate degree in Psychology and a Masters degree in Community Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Counseling.
I was born and raised in Lynchburg, Virginia, but have had the amazing opportunity to live and work all over the country including: Washington, DC; New Orleans, LA; Miami, FL and Boulder, CO. Lynchburg is by far my favorite place and I was happy to return home in 2005. I enjoy cooking, gardening, reading and spending time with my family and friends. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I graduated from the University of Northern Colorado in 2003 with an undergraduate degree in Psychology and a Masters degree in Community Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage and Family Counseling.
(434) 277-2074 View (434) 277-2074
Photo of Christine Conde, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Conde
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
Now as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) I have been working in private practice for 6 years.
Do you ever feel so sad that it is difficult to get through the day? Or do you worry so much that you are having trouble focusing or concentrating? Life can be challenging and overwhelming at times and it can be hard to figure out how to cope with these tough situations. It can be even more difficult to deal with these things if we do not have the proper tools to help us deal with these challenges. I can help by providing the necessary tools and techniques to guide you through these difficult times. In 2016 I graduated from Capella University with a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Now as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) I have been working in private practice for 6 years.
Do you ever feel so sad that it is difficult to get through the day? Or do you worry so much that you are having trouble focusing or concentrating? Life can be challenging and overwhelming at times and it can be hard to figure out how to cope with these tough situations. It can be even more difficult to deal with these things if we do not have the proper tools to help us deal with these challenges. I can help by providing the necessary tools and techniques to guide you through these difficult times. In 2016 I graduated from Capella University with a Master's Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy.
(434) 595-4891 View (434) 595-4891
Photo of Patricia G Dugger, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia G Dugger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Attachment based family therapy, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior therapy.
I enjoy working with all types of clients. The Lord called me into this field due to knowing many teens dabbling in drugs and having no idea how to help them or even talk to them. I knew many women who were worried about their children and dissatisfied with their lives. I love helping people help themselves!
Attachment based family therapy, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior therapy.
I enjoy working with all types of clients. The Lord called me into this field due to knowing many teens dabbling in drugs and having no idea how to help them or even talk to them. I knew many women who were worried about their children and dissatisfied with their lives. I love helping people help themselves!
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Photo of Neil Binette, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Neil Binette
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) with over 20 years of experience guiding clients toward depth and quality of relationships.
It is my hope that as a result of therapy, you will develop healthier ways of coping and find a new perspective on life. By progressing toward your goals, not only do I hope you feel better, but that you grow and learn more about yourself and how you want to relate to others. I work with clients through a relational approach to therapy using techniques from Emotionally Focused Therapy and the Gottman Method. We will enrich the quality of your relationships through self expression and normalizing your emotions.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) with over 20 years of experience guiding clients toward depth and quality of relationships.
It is my hope that as a result of therapy, you will develop healthier ways of coping and find a new perspective on life. By progressing toward your goals, not only do I hope you feel better, but that you grow and learn more about yourself and how you want to relate to others. I work with clients through a relational approach to therapy using techniques from Emotionally Focused Therapy and the Gottman Method. We will enrich the quality of your relationships through self expression and normalizing your emotions.
(434) 608-9425 View (434) 608-9425
Lynnette Shadoan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
Lynnette is a seasoned counselor who has worked for Light Counseling since March of 1999, when she served as the Executive Director. She then moved to Lexington, Kentucky, but she continues to work as a telehealth counselor for the agency. She loves being able to live near family while still providing counseling services. Lynnette focuses on clients of all ages, but her focus is on providing marriage counseling, conflict resolution within families, and helping individuals cope with codependency problems. She also treats a variety of clinical mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, grief, and more. Her therapeutic appr
Lynnette is a seasoned counselor who has worked for Light Counseling since March of 1999, when she served as the Executive Director. She then moved to Lexington, Kentucky, but she continues to work as a telehealth counselor for the agency. She loves being able to live near family while still providing counseling services. Lynnette focuses on clients of all ages, but her focus is on providing marriage counseling, conflict resolution within families, and helping individuals cope with codependency problems. She also treats a variety of clinical mental health problems, such as depression, anxiety, grief, and more. Her therapeutic appr
(434) 474-1336 View (434) 474-1336
Photo of Jarel Brown, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jarel Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Everyone has a story. Our life experiences often become the stories that shape who we are, what we believe and how we behave. Whether it’s an experience from your past or a present situation I want to hear your story. I’d be honored to meet you where you are and walk with you to where you want to be. Along the way I’ll help you understand your struggle through a new lens and we will work together to identify and build a life worth living. I specialize in working with adolescents (ages 13-18) and adults dealing with issues of inter/intrapersonal conflict, family conflict, adjustment, anger, anxiety, and depression.
Everyone has a story. Our life experiences often become the stories that shape who we are, what we believe and how we behave. Whether it’s an experience from your past or a present situation I want to hear your story. I’d be honored to meet you where you are and walk with you to where you want to be. Along the way I’ll help you understand your struggle through a new lens and we will work together to identify and build a life worth living. I specialize in working with adolescents (ages 13-18) and adults dealing with issues of inter/intrapersonal conflict, family conflict, adjustment, anger, anxiety, and depression.
(434) 478-1644 View (434) 478-1644
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See more therapy options for Lynchburg City County

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.