Family Therapy in Bellevue, WA

Photo of Aaron C Glade, PhD, LMFT, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aaron C Glade
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I work closely with other sexual addiction professionals as we treat the entire system (acting out partner, affected partner and family).
At it's core, therapy is a process of healing and change. The decision to address an addiction, change your struggling marriage or address the other issues that hold you back is a difficult, but important step. I work with you to strengthen your relationships, create intimate connections, and sort through the baggage of life. My approach is positive, supportive and challenging when needed. In addition to addiction work, I also do "general practitioner" work like depression, anxiety, couple/marital therapy, and other mental health issues. My office is a safe and affirming space for all gender and sexual orientations.
I work closely with other sexual addiction professionals as we treat the entire system (acting out partner, affected partner and family).
At it's core, therapy is a process of healing and change. The decision to address an addiction, change your struggling marriage or address the other issues that hold you back is a difficult, but important step. I work with you to strengthen your relationships, create intimate connections, and sort through the baggage of life. My approach is positive, supportive and challenging when needed. In addition to addiction work, I also do "general practitioner" work like depression, anxiety, couple/marital therapy, and other mental health issues. My office is a safe and affirming space for all gender and sexual orientations.
(206) 966-4806 View (206) 966-4806
Photo of Madeline Berry, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Madeline Berry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Evidence-based modalities of treatment are foundational to my practice, such as CBT, DBT and Family Systems Theory.
Overwhelmed by anxious thoughts? Wondering if your relationship with food and body image is healthy? Wanting to unlearn the harmful thought patterns you seem to find yourself in over and over? I offer a space to explore and process emotions, and learn more about yourself and the internal narratives that are keeping you from your fullest, healthiest life. I provide tangible coping skills and a supportive partner beside you as you walk along your therapy path. I believe the relationship I build with my clients is important, because making sure you feel safe and heard matters greatly to me.
Evidence-based modalities of treatment are foundational to my practice, such as CBT, DBT and Family Systems Theory.
Overwhelmed by anxious thoughts? Wondering if your relationship with food and body image is healthy? Wanting to unlearn the harmful thought patterns you seem to find yourself in over and over? I offer a space to explore and process emotions, and learn more about yourself and the internal narratives that are keeping you from your fullest, healthiest life. I provide tangible coping skills and a supportive partner beside you as you walk along your therapy path. I believe the relationship I build with my clients is important, because making sure you feel safe and heard matters greatly to me.
(206) 558-9087 View (206) 558-9087
Photo of Tina Ensminger, MA, LMFT, CST, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tina Ensminger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
It would be my privilege to walk beside you and your family toward greater wholeness.
Are you feeling "stuck" as a result of painful life circumstances or relationships? Do you have sexual intimacy concerns and unsure where to turn for help? Are you struggling to cope with issues related to parenting, illness, aging or other life transitions? Do you desire something different in your life, but are not quite sure where to start? I work with individual adults and couples who want to feel better and create deeper, more satisfying relationships.
It would be my privilege to walk beside you and your family toward greater wholeness.
Are you feeling "stuck" as a result of painful life circumstances or relationships? Do you have sexual intimacy concerns and unsure where to turn for help? Are you struggling to cope with issues related to parenting, illness, aging or other life transitions? Do you desire something different in your life, but are not quite sure where to start? I work with individual adults and couples who want to feel better and create deeper, more satisfying relationships.
(206) 557-6927 View (206) 557-6927
Photo of Dr. Alice Huang, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Alice Huang
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
I have learned much from working with people of multicultural backgrounds, as well as the LGBT community, Veterans & their partners, cancer patients and their family, and more.
Welcoming couples clients! Relationship problems are common, and you have taken a courageous step by seeking therapy. As one of the few psychologists specializing in couple therapy, I have supported hundreds of couples by providing effective, evidence-based treatments that scientific research has shown to bring significant and lasting improvement. My own research on relationships has been published in peer-reviewed journals, and featured here in Psychology Today, international media outlets such as Business Insider Germany and New York Times Best Seller Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown.
I have learned much from working with people of multicultural backgrounds, as well as the LGBT community, Veterans & their partners, cancer patients and their family, and more.
Welcoming couples clients! Relationship problems are common, and you have taken a courageous step by seeking therapy. As one of the few psychologists specializing in couple therapy, I have supported hundreds of couples by providing effective, evidence-based treatments that scientific research has shown to bring significant and lasting improvement. My own research on relationships has been published in peer-reviewed journals, and featured here in Psychology Today, international media outlets such as Business Insider Germany and New York Times Best Seller Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown.
(425) 906-7157 View (425) 906-7157
Photo of Tim Ludeman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tim Ludeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
You thought that you were going to have a great marriage, but so far that hasn't been working out. You hate the idea of divorce, but also hate the idea of coming home from work and having a big fight, so maybe you just avoid each other in order to keep the peace. You've perfected how to go through the motions with your friends and family, but behind closed doors, the two of you can hardly look each other in the eye. Or maybe you are struggling with a job you don't like, being too busy and stressed out all the time, or feeling stuck in a life you know should be better. You were created to live a dynamic life, and this isn't it.
You thought that you were going to have a great marriage, but so far that hasn't been working out. You hate the idea of divorce, but also hate the idea of coming home from work and having a big fight, so maybe you just avoid each other in order to keep the peace. You've perfected how to go through the motions with your friends and family, but behind closed doors, the two of you can hardly look each other in the eye. Or maybe you are struggling with a job you don't like, being too busy and stressed out all the time, or feeling stuck in a life you know should be better. You were created to live a dynamic life, and this isn't it.
(503) 406-4221 View (503) 406-4221
Photo of Ellen Bovarnick, MBA, MSW, MHP, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellen Bovarnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, MHP, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I focus on supporting clients in navigating the unique challenges in their lives. I draw on my training and 20+ years of experience in many treatment techniques including family systems, psychodynamic, gestalt, transactional analysis, EFT, mindfulness, bereavement and cognitive behavioral therapies in my work. I tailor my work to the client's needs while building on their existing skill sets and supporting their innate strengths.
As a therapist, I focus on supporting clients in navigating the unique challenges in their lives. I draw on my training and 20+ years of experience in many treatment techniques including family systems, psychodynamic, gestalt, transactional analysis, EFT, mindfulness, bereavement and cognitive behavioral therapies in my work. I tailor my work to the client's needs while building on their existing skill sets and supporting their innate strengths.
(206) 800-7423 View (206) 800-7423
Photo of Vicki Skelton - Centered Mind Counseling Services, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vicki Skelton - Centered Mind Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adolescents, teens and adults and couples struggling with depression, bipolar, anxiety, disordered eating, relationship issues, and adjustment to life transitions. I’ve worked in the middle and high-school settings, helping adolescents and teens address issues of low self-esteem, stress and anxiety, lack of academic motivation, bullying, peer pressure, anger management, and family problems. Having had personal experience with infertility, I have a passion for working with those struggling in this area, helping them with the feelings of frustration, stress, loss and relationship challenges.
I enjoy working with adolescents, teens and adults and couples struggling with depression, bipolar, anxiety, disordered eating, relationship issues, and adjustment to life transitions. I’ve worked in the middle and high-school settings, helping adolescents and teens address issues of low self-esteem, stress and anxiety, lack of academic motivation, bullying, peer pressure, anger management, and family problems. Having had personal experience with infertility, I have a passion for working with those struggling in this area, helping them with the feelings of frustration, stress, loss and relationship challenges.
(425) 222-2891 View (425) 222-2891
Photo of Lisa Coll, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa Coll
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Life comes with joy and pain, love and anger, accomplishments and mess-ups, and sometimes confusion. The times when we struggle and feel stuck or confused as individuals, as couples & as parents are often signals that it’s time to grow. I work collaboratively with my clients and have great success utilizing techniques from Internal Family Systems (IFS) as well as Narrative and Psychodynamic therapy to treat trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, grief and eating disorders. I also work with individuals, couples and families facing every day parenting, life and relationship challenges.
Life comes with joy and pain, love and anger, accomplishments and mess-ups, and sometimes confusion. The times when we struggle and feel stuck or confused as individuals, as couples & as parents are often signals that it’s time to grow. I work collaboratively with my clients and have great success utilizing techniques from Internal Family Systems (IFS) as well as Narrative and Psychodynamic therapy to treat trauma, anxiety, panic, depression, grief and eating disorders. I also work with individuals, couples and families facing every day parenting, life and relationship challenges.
(914) 335-3915 View (914) 335-3915
Photo of Lynn J. Gardner-Roberts, LMHCA, SUDPT, DVIT, AAC, Counselor
Lynn J. Gardner-Roberts
Counselor, LMHCA, SUDPT, DVIT, AAC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Everyone faces challenges in their lives that may cause stress, concerns, or behaviors that lead to a desire for change. In these times of transition it can be helpful to have a guide who is not a family member or friend; someone who can help by offering new ideas & help to create concrete goals to move toward positive change. My intent is to facilitate that process. I believe in addressing the “whole person”: mentally, physically, emotionally & spiritually, in ways that fit you & your needs because it's You, by Us.
Everyone faces challenges in their lives that may cause stress, concerns, or behaviors that lead to a desire for change. In these times of transition it can be helpful to have a guide who is not a family member or friend; someone who can help by offering new ideas & help to create concrete goals to move toward positive change. My intent is to facilitate that process. I believe in addressing the “whole person”: mentally, physically, emotionally & spiritually, in ways that fit you & your needs because it's You, by Us.
(360) 818-4203 View (360) 818-4203
Photo of Josh Caldwell, MS, LMHCA, Counselor
Josh Caldwell
Counselor, MS, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Molina happily accepted. Life can get so out of control that we feel like we are running behind a train, never able to keep up or get on board. If you connect with any of the following statements, we should talk. I feel overwhelmed to the point of shutting down. I want to make life changes. Intrusive thoughts are ambushing me. Procrastination, yep. Depression and anxiety have infiltrated my life. I feel exhausted after social engagements. My family acts like the trauma never happened. I don’t know if I love my partner. I never expected this kind of financial or employment instability. I just need to talk to someone.
Molina happily accepted. Life can get so out of control that we feel like we are running behind a train, never able to keep up or get on board. If you connect with any of the following statements, we should talk. I feel overwhelmed to the point of shutting down. I want to make life changes. Intrusive thoughts are ambushing me. Procrastination, yep. Depression and anxiety have infiltrated my life. I feel exhausted after social engagements. My family acts like the trauma never happened. I don’t know if I love my partner. I never expected this kind of financial or employment instability. I just need to talk to someone.
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Photo of Jackie Groves, MA, LMHC
Jackie Groves
Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in a whole- family approach to therapy and I love working with caregivers to support growth and change at home.
Hi! I'm Jackie and my superpower is connecting with young people. I've been working with children and adolescents from around the globe for over 25 years. As an educator, I learned about the developmental stages that shape a child's needs, emotions, and behavior. Now, as a therapist, I'm thrilled to engage with children and their families in a way that builds strength and resilience. I received my MA in Counseling from NYU and a post-graduate certificate in Play Therapy from Antioch University where I discovered a passion for Play Therapy, Child-Parent Relationship Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy.
I believe in a whole- family approach to therapy and I love working with caregivers to support growth and change at home.
Hi! I'm Jackie and my superpower is connecting with young people. I've been working with children and adolescents from around the globe for over 25 years. As an educator, I learned about the developmental stages that shape a child's needs, emotions, and behavior. Now, as a therapist, I'm thrilled to engage with children and their families in a way that builds strength and resilience. I received my MA in Counseling from NYU and a post-graduate certificate in Play Therapy from Antioch University where I discovered a passion for Play Therapy, Child-Parent Relationship Therapy, and Sand Tray Therapy.
(206) 888-6358 View (206) 888-6358
Photo of Francine B. Baffa, PhD, LCSW, BCBA-D, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Francine B. Baffa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, BCBA-D
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
Creating an engaged therapeutic relationship is where we start. I became a therapist because I believe in the power of relationships. Moved by my own experiences, I wanted to guide others to push past perceived limitations, obstacles, and fear to live a full and meaningful life. We all have the ability to grow, heal, and move forward. I have over 20 years of experience providing individual and group therapy, focusing on parent coaching, family systems work, and navigating depression and anxiety. I have sat across and heard many stories of loss and courage with an open heart - let's work together to explore yours.
Creating an engaged therapeutic relationship is where we start. I became a therapist because I believe in the power of relationships. Moved by my own experiences, I wanted to guide others to push past perceived limitations, obstacles, and fear to live a full and meaningful life. We all have the ability to grow, heal, and move forward. I have over 20 years of experience providing individual and group therapy, focusing on parent coaching, family systems work, and navigating depression and anxiety. I have sat across and heard many stories of loss and courage with an open heart - let's work together to explore yours.
(425) 598-0193 View (425) 598-0193
Photo of Dustin Ducharme, PhD, Psychologist
Dustin Ducharme
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Please get in touch for a free phone consultation to discuss your needs and goals to help you determine if I'm the right fit for you and your family.
I have over 10 years experience providing mental health services across outpatient, school, and residential settings. My work is guided by well researched approaches shown to be effective for the problems that I treat, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). As a former school psychologist, I welcome and emphasize collaboration with my client's school districts to create effective wrap-around support. I aim to incorporating real world experience into treatment where possible and meet clients outdoors or for activities on a case-by-case basis.
Please get in touch for a free phone consultation to discuss your needs and goals to help you determine if I'm the right fit for you and your family.
I have over 10 years experience providing mental health services across outpatient, school, and residential settings. My work is guided by well researched approaches shown to be effective for the problems that I treat, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). As a former school psychologist, I welcome and emphasize collaboration with my client's school districts to create effective wrap-around support. I aim to incorporating real world experience into treatment where possible and meet clients outdoors or for activities on a case-by-case basis.
(425) 537-4155 View (425) 537-4155
Photo of Carol Lee Smith, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Lee Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Adlerian theory integrates humanistic, cognitive behavioral (CBT), family systems, existential and psycho-dynamic theories.
At times in your life when issues or relationships can seem overwhelming or physical challenges keep you from living up to your true potential, working with an experienced therapist can help you find resolution and personal growth. I specialize in treating adolescents, adults, couples, seniors and caregivers experiencing anxiety, stress or depression. Therapy can provide the opportunity to discuss current life challenges in a safe and confidential space. My approach is collaborative and supportive as we work together to understand your unique pattern of thoughts and behaviors that may currently get in the way when trying to resolve difficult life issues.
Adlerian theory integrates humanistic, cognitive behavioral (CBT), family systems, existential and psycho-dynamic theories.
At times in your life when issues or relationships can seem overwhelming or physical challenges keep you from living up to your true potential, working with an experienced therapist can help you find resolution and personal growth. I specialize in treating adolescents, adults, couples, seniors and caregivers experiencing anxiety, stress or depression. Therapy can provide the opportunity to discuss current life challenges in a safe and confidential space. My approach is collaborative and supportive as we work together to understand your unique pattern of thoughts and behaviors that may currently get in the way when trying to resolve difficult life issues.
(425) 276-7087 View (425) 276-7087
Photo of Serena Stark, MSW, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Serena Stark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Serena uses a trauma-informed and strength based-approach, and she uses elements from Polyvagal Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Feminist Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to build relationship with the self.
Serena’s areas of focus include gender-based violence, eating disorders (including ARFID), LGBTQ+ related struggles, and autism spectrum disorder. Serena also focuses on the commonly co-occurring experiences such as depression and anxiety. She uses a trauma-informed and feminist theory based approach in her sessions with clients.
Serena uses a trauma-informed and strength based-approach, and she uses elements from Polyvagal Theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Feminist Theory, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to build relationship with the self.
Serena’s areas of focus include gender-based violence, eating disorders (including ARFID), LGBTQ+ related struggles, and autism spectrum disorder. Serena also focuses on the commonly co-occurring experiences such as depression and anxiety. She uses a trauma-informed and feminist theory based approach in her sessions with clients.
(425) 242-3522 View (425) 242-3522
Photo of Kristin M Kalning, MA, LMTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kristin M Kalning
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am trained as a family therapist, and am keenly aware of the ways in which anxiety and OCD can affect important relationships.
I work primarily with adolescents and adults experiencing obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and a wide range of anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Social Anxiety Disorder. I recognize that reaching out for help can be a scary and vulnerable experience. My first priority is to ensure that my clients feel safe, respected, and accepted. My style is direct, compassionate, curious, and playful.
I am trained as a family therapist, and am keenly aware of the ways in which anxiety and OCD can affect important relationships.
I work primarily with adolescents and adults experiencing obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and a wide range of anxiety disorders including Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Social Anxiety Disorder. I recognize that reaching out for help can be a scary and vulnerable experience. My first priority is to ensure that my clients feel safe, respected, and accepted. My style is direct, compassionate, curious, and playful.
(425) 364-6891 View (425) 364-6891
Photo of Michelle Kusterman, Counselor
Michelle Kusterman
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005  (Online Only)
I believe in the importance of celebrating diversity and empowering individuals through a personalized therapeutic process. Having commitment and compassion at the forefront of services, to achieve best results and outcomes. I have provided services in the mental health field for eight years, serving children, adults, and families through individual, family, and group counseling settings. I am dedicated to helping identify the strengths and unique gifts of every individual, to help you reach your personal goals in therapy and beyond.
I believe in the importance of celebrating diversity and empowering individuals through a personalized therapeutic process. Having commitment and compassion at the forefront of services, to achieve best results and outcomes. I have provided services in the mental health field for eight years, serving children, adults, and families through individual, family, and group counseling settings. I am dedicated to helping identify the strengths and unique gifts of every individual, to help you reach your personal goals in therapy and beyond.
(360) 964-3498 x1 View (360) 964-3498 x1
Photo of Katie Rains, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Katie Rains
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I also believe our romantic and family relationships are some of the most complex and important aspects of our lives, and I help individuals build and maintain connections.
I offer results-driven therapy for bright, ambitious adults who are ready to take the necessary steps toward building a healthy, fulfilling life. Unlike traditional talk therapy, my approach is action-oriented. Our work together will focus not just on understanding the reasons behind your current challenges, but on the concrete actions you can take to create real, lasting change. I’ll help you identify, understand, and replace dysfunctional patterns in your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Together we will break through the emotional barriers preventing you from living the life you want.
I also believe our romantic and family relationships are some of the most complex and important aspects of our lives, and I help individuals build and maintain connections.
I offer results-driven therapy for bright, ambitious adults who are ready to take the necessary steps toward building a healthy, fulfilling life. Unlike traditional talk therapy, my approach is action-oriented. Our work together will focus not just on understanding the reasons behind your current challenges, but on the concrete actions you can take to create real, lasting change. I’ll help you identify, understand, and replace dysfunctional patterns in your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Together we will break through the emotional barriers preventing you from living the life you want.
(425) 470-4539 View (425) 470-4539
Photo of Doug McClosky, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Doug McClosky
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Welcome. I apply my 37 plus years of experience to assist adults, adolescents, and children who are seeking happier, better balanced lives. My approach is accepting, hopeful, creative, and sometimes humorous. I use different techniques according to my client's needs, preferences and age. I am influenced by Positive Psychology and Adlerian Psychology. Within this framework, sessions may include cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, play, art, and the exploration of existential themes. I use an Adlerian approach to child / family therapy. This approach is the basis of the popular "Positive Discipline" series.
Welcome. I apply my 37 plus years of experience to assist adults, adolescents, and children who are seeking happier, better balanced lives. My approach is accepting, hopeful, creative, and sometimes humorous. I use different techniques according to my client's needs, preferences and age. I am influenced by Positive Psychology and Adlerian Psychology. Within this framework, sessions may include cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, play, art, and the exploration of existential themes. I use an Adlerian approach to child / family therapy. This approach is the basis of the popular "Positive Discipline" series.
(206) 569-8951 View (206) 569-8951
Photo of Molly Reback, MSW, LISCW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Molly Reback
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISCW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004  (Online Only)
I would be honored to spend some time getting to know you or your family, hearing about what you are experiencing, and how I might be able to support you.
I come to the therapy room with extensive training and experience. I have worked in both top rated healthcare organizations with adults and their families as well treatment centers for children and adolescents. I truly enjoy working with people throughout the lifespan. In addition, I have extensive background working with physicians and nurses navigating the myriad of stressors that come with working in healthcare. I have a unique understanding of what it means to work on the front lines - whether we are the leader during a crisis, the primary emotional support person in our family or the head of an organization.
I would be honored to spend some time getting to know you or your family, hearing about what you are experiencing, and how I might be able to support you.
I come to the therapy room with extensive training and experience. I have worked in both top rated healthcare organizations with adults and their families as well treatment centers for children and adolescents. I truly enjoy working with people throughout the lifespan. In addition, I have extensive background working with physicians and nurses navigating the myriad of stressors that come with working in healthcare. I have a unique understanding of what it means to work on the front lines - whether we are the leader during a crisis, the primary emotional support person in our family or the head of an organization.
(425) 842-7615 View (425) 842-7615
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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.