Family Therapy in Madison, WI

Photo of Njemeh Barrow - Gladden: Therapy & Counseling Services, MSW, LCSW, ICS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gladden: Therapy & Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ICS
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53718  (Online Only)
I will guide you towards your goals, help you heal, reconnect your family, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
My favorite question to ask is, ‘Is that okay with you?’, because this is your life, and you get the ability to dictate how it should look. Seeking therapy takes a great deal of courage and finding a therapist who is the right fit for you can seem overwhelming. Congratulations on taking that first step.
I will guide you towards your goals, help you heal, reconnect your family, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
My favorite question to ask is, ‘Is that okay with you?’, because this is your life, and you get the ability to dictate how it should look. Seeking therapy takes a great deal of courage and finding a therapist who is the right fit for you can seem overwhelming. Congratulations on taking that first step.
(608) 585-8176 View (608) 585-8176
Photo of Sarah A Watt, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah A Watt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53719
Are you dealing with concerns about family building, infertility, postpartum depression or anxiety? Are you struggling with a difficult life transition, communicating with your partner, or issues with work-life balance? Do you feel you need extra support and reassurance? Therapy can provide an outside perspective and teach skills necessary to help you create the kind of life you are looking for. Change is possible and sustainable. I have over 18 years experience with helping individuals and couples in a number of areas.
Are you dealing with concerns about family building, infertility, postpartum depression or anxiety? Are you struggling with a difficult life transition, communicating with your partner, or issues with work-life balance? Do you feel you need extra support and reassurance? Therapy can provide an outside perspective and teach skills necessary to help you create the kind of life you are looking for. Change is possible and sustainable. I have over 18 years experience with helping individuals and couples in a number of areas.
(608) 709-0190 View (608) 709-0190
Photo of Bekah Barry, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Bekah Barry
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53717
Hello! I am a Marriage and Family therapist who is passionate about helping people improve their relationships and their mental health. I provide individual, couple, and family therapy to folks who are looking for immediate symptom relief and sustainable growth. I work with people who are six and older to find happier, healthier ways of living. I can help you with: Anxiety, Depression, Life transitions, Work stressors, Low self-esteem, Divorce and loss of relationships, Grief and loss, Parenting, Family Issues, and Relationship Difficulties.
Hello! I am a Marriage and Family therapist who is passionate about helping people improve their relationships and their mental health. I provide individual, couple, and family therapy to folks who are looking for immediate symptom relief and sustainable growth. I work with people who are six and older to find happier, healthier ways of living. I can help you with: Anxiety, Depression, Life transitions, Work stressors, Low self-esteem, Divorce and loss of relationships, Grief and loss, Parenting, Family Issues, and Relationship Difficulties.
(608) 237-8000 x485 View (608) 237-8000 x485
Photo of James F McGloin Jr, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James F McGloin Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
"The focus of our work tends to be the PERSONAL CHANGE AND GROWTH OF EACH PERSON either to solve the marital problems or to dissolve the marriage as constructively as possible, with a minimum of hostility, and with attention to the well-being of each person in the family.
I have practiced psychotherapy since 1971, with a special interest in the emotional and relationship problems of adults and couples. I work with adults in acute distress as well as those with persisting difficulties that interfere with effective functioning and the full enjoyment of adult life. I ESPECIALLY WORK WITH COUPLES WHO ARE UNHAPPY IN THEIR MARRIAGE. In my view, emotionally committed relationships tend to be A HOTBED FOR REACTIVATION OF UNFINISHED BUSINESS from the past that can produce unexpected misery.
"The focus of our work tends to be the PERSONAL CHANGE AND GROWTH OF EACH PERSON either to solve the marital problems or to dissolve the marriage as constructively as possible, with a minimum of hostility, and with attention to the well-being of each person in the family.
I have practiced psychotherapy since 1971, with a special interest in the emotional and relationship problems of adults and couples. I work with adults in acute distress as well as those with persisting difficulties that interfere with effective functioning and the full enjoyment of adult life. I ESPECIALLY WORK WITH COUPLES WHO ARE UNHAPPY IN THEIR MARRIAGE. In my view, emotionally committed relationships tend to be A HOTBED FOR REACTIVATION OF UNFINISHED BUSINESS from the past that can produce unexpected misery.
(608) 247-5018 View (608) 247-5018
Photo of Ann Veilleux, MSSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Veilleux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705  (Online Only)
Specialties: Internal Family Systems, Gestalt Therapy, EMD, Psychodynamic Individual Therapy and Couples Therapy.
I have over 40 years of experience doing psychotherapy. I have become particularly skilled at seeing what is happening with individuals, and between couples, and I share that so that you can understand what you are dealing with. We work collaboratively and creatively; I check to be sure my directions and suggestions are meaningful to you. I make sure that you are learning something significant about yourself in every session. You deserve the respect and support you need to go into uncharted territory. I care about my clients and my clients know it; that is the inspiration that keeps my work exciting to me.
Specialties: Internal Family Systems, Gestalt Therapy, EMD, Psychodynamic Individual Therapy and Couples Therapy.
I have over 40 years of experience doing psychotherapy. I have become particularly skilled at seeing what is happening with individuals, and between couples, and I share that so that you can understand what you are dealing with. We work collaboratively and creatively; I check to be sure my directions and suggestions are meaningful to you. I make sure that you are learning something significant about yourself in every session. You deserve the respect and support you need to go into uncharted territory. I care about my clients and my clients know it; that is the inspiration that keeps my work exciting to me.
(608) 406-2875 View (608) 406-2875
Photo of David Michael Guilfoose - David Michael Guilfoose, MPsych, MEdu, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Michael Guilfoose
Licensed Professional Counselor, MPsych, MEdu
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53719
David is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in guiding adults in exploring and identifying patterns that influence anxiety and depression. He has more than 20 years experience working with individuals across the lifespan in a diversity of work settings. David is thoughtful and compassionate with an educational background in philosophy and psychology. Some of the approaches he identifies with to influence positive growth and healing are Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, phylosophical and Holistic modalities. David works both virtually and in-person and can be contacted by phone or email.
David is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in guiding adults in exploring and identifying patterns that influence anxiety and depression. He has more than 20 years experience working with individuals across the lifespan in a diversity of work settings. David is thoughtful and compassionate with an educational background in philosophy and psychology. Some of the approaches he identifies with to influence positive growth and healing are Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, phylosophical and Holistic modalities. David works both virtually and in-person and can be contacted by phone or email.
(608) 828-3636 View (608) 828-3636
Photo of Emma Shore, MS, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Emma Shore
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53703
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I’m passionate about meeting people where they’re at and working together from there. I believe people are experts on their own lives. In our work together, I’ll collaborate with you to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to heal and build a life and relationships that are authentic to you. In my work I consider the many factors, both internal and external, that influence clients’ lives. I’ll get to know you and what you bring to therapy as an individual, while also considering the relationships, interactions, and larger systems that impact you.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I’m passionate about meeting people where they’re at and working together from there. I believe people are experts on their own lives. In our work together, I’ll collaborate with you to create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to heal and build a life and relationships that are authentic to you. In my work I consider the many factors, both internal and external, that influence clients’ lives. I’ll get to know you and what you bring to therapy as an individual, while also considering the relationships, interactions, and larger systems that impact you.
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Photo of Margaret A Lambert, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret A Lambert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53719
Margaret Lambert, MSW, LCSW, is a psychotherapist, teacher and author. She specializes in all areas of adult relationships. Her approach is eclectic in nature but has a strong foundation in Family Systems, with a Cognitive-Behavioral and Mindfulness approach. Margaret has training and experience with grief and loss, marital issues, divorce recovery, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. She is currently facilitating the following seminars: Rebuilding When Your Relationship Ends, Dating Dementia: Keeping Your Brain in the Dating Game, Beyond the Looking Glass: Women's Self-Esteem & Empowerment & Quest:Men's Self-Esteem & Empowerment
Margaret Lambert, MSW, LCSW, is a psychotherapist, teacher and author. She specializes in all areas of adult relationships. Her approach is eclectic in nature but has a strong foundation in Family Systems, with a Cognitive-Behavioral and Mindfulness approach. Margaret has training and experience with grief and loss, marital issues, divorce recovery, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem. She is currently facilitating the following seminars: Rebuilding When Your Relationship Ends, Dating Dementia: Keeping Your Brain in the Dating Game, Beyond the Looking Glass: Women's Self-Esteem & Empowerment & Quest:Men's Self-Esteem & Empowerment
(608) 433-9346 x1 View (608) 433-9346 x1
Photo of Jeff Peterson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeff Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53713
Surely this isn’t how life is supposed to go…right? You feel like you’re doing the same thing day in and day out, and whatever used to work isn’t anymore. The impacts are showing up in every area of your life: family, work, your love life—all of it. If you’re here feeling out of ideas, like this daily grind of overwhelm, uncertainty, or anxiety is wearing you down, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to stay stuck. I’m here to help you make powerful moves toward positive change: setting healthy boundaries, managing stress, feeling heard & supported in your relationships, and moving from merely surviving to truly thriving.
Surely this isn’t how life is supposed to go…right? You feel like you’re doing the same thing day in and day out, and whatever used to work isn’t anymore. The impacts are showing up in every area of your life: family, work, your love life—all of it. If you’re here feeling out of ideas, like this daily grind of overwhelm, uncertainty, or anxiety is wearing you down, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to stay stuck. I’m here to help you make powerful moves toward positive change: setting healthy boundaries, managing stress, feeling heard & supported in your relationships, and moving from merely surviving to truly thriving.
(608) 291-4615 View (608) 291-4615
Photo of Alexandra Dorn, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexandra Dorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53715
My treatment modalities often include: ACT, CBT, DBT, Emotion Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Mutimodal Treatments.
I am experienced in treating a variety of mental-health-related concerns amongst adults of various ages and offer therapy to couples. I strive to always provide an open, accepting and honest environment that allows you the ability to embrace vulnerabilities in an effort to generate change. With newfound insight, you will have ability to navigate current and future obstacles successfully, and live a self-congruent and fulfilling life. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with disordered eating, substance use, and trauma-related experiences that may be negatively impacting current well-being.
My treatment modalities often include: ACT, CBT, DBT, Emotion Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Mutimodal Treatments.
I am experienced in treating a variety of mental-health-related concerns amongst adults of various ages and offer therapy to couples. I strive to always provide an open, accepting and honest environment that allows you the ability to embrace vulnerabilities in an effort to generate change. With newfound insight, you will have ability to navigate current and future obstacles successfully, and live a self-congruent and fulfilling life. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with disordered eating, substance use, and trauma-related experiences that may be negatively impacting current well-being.
(715) 322-3133 View (715) 322-3133
Photo of Pamela Polzer, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamela Polzer
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53702  (Online Only)
I have devoted the past 20 years following my passion of working with, and treating, individuals and their family members who have a severe and persistent mental illness, (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression). I am continuing my passion through the services of my outpatient practice. I believe in the dignity of the human spirit and treating all people with compassion and respect while promoting health, wellness and healing from within.
I have devoted the past 20 years following my passion of working with, and treating, individuals and their family members who have a severe and persistent mental illness, (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression). I am continuing my passion through the services of my outpatient practice. I believe in the dignity of the human spirit and treating all people with compassion and respect while promoting health, wellness and healing from within.
(608) 400-4348 View (608) 400-4348
Photo of Caitlin M Roberts, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caitlin M Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who enjoys working with adolescents, teens, adults, couples and families. I am also a proud member of the LGBTQAI community and love supporting clients in my community. Some areas of interest and expertise include Anxiety, Depression, Trauma disorders, Gender and sexuality, Life transitions, Attachment styles, ADHD and Autism, Personality disorders, Relationship issues, Grief, Widowed people, Panic disorder, Chronic illness and pain, Changing patterns of people-pleasing and Assertiveness training, Parenting concerns, and using Art and creativity as therapeutic tools.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who enjoys working with adolescents, teens, adults, couples and families. I am also a proud member of the LGBTQAI community and love supporting clients in my community. Some areas of interest and expertise include Anxiety, Depression, Trauma disorders, Gender and sexuality, Life transitions, Attachment styles, ADHD and Autism, Personality disorders, Relationship issues, Grief, Widowed people, Panic disorder, Chronic illness and pain, Changing patterns of people-pleasing and Assertiveness training, Parenting concerns, and using Art and creativity as therapeutic tools.
(608) 705-7138 View (608) 705-7138
Photo of Kelsey Penkal, APSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelsey Penkal
Pre-Licensed Professional, APSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
I utilize a variety of different modalities, such as the NeuroAffective Relational Model, Family Systems Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, to figure out the best approach that is personalized to each client.
I am a neurodivergent friendly therapist who specializes in ADHD, life transitions, chronic illness, burnout and internal conflict. I strive to provide an environment that is safe and genuine, with a touch of humor. We all deserve a supportive space to be seen and heard so we can heal and grow. I am currently in the process of acurring hours towards my LCSW and am offering sessions at a discounted rate.
I utilize a variety of different modalities, such as the NeuroAffective Relational Model, Family Systems Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, to figure out the best approach that is personalized to each client.
I am a neurodivergent friendly therapist who specializes in ADHD, life transitions, chronic illness, burnout and internal conflict. I strive to provide an environment that is safe and genuine, with a touch of humor. We all deserve a supportive space to be seen and heard so we can heal and grow. I am currently in the process of acurring hours towards my LCSW and am offering sessions at a discounted rate.
(608) 636-8339 View (608) 636-8339
Photo of Levy O'Brion, MS, LPC, Counselor
Levy O'Brion
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53704
I also draw upon many therapeutic approaches including Mindfulness and Internal Family Systems.
I enjoy working with teens and adults to help explore and identify and resolve issues related to worry, tension, feeling overwhelmed or on edge, stress, grief, loss, relationships, work, school, feeling hopeless, helpless, anger, behavior, guilt, sleep, low energy and concentration.
I also draw upon many therapeutic approaches including Mindfulness and Internal Family Systems.
I enjoy working with teens and adults to help explore and identify and resolve issues related to worry, tension, feeling overwhelmed or on edge, stress, grief, loss, relationships, work, school, feeling hopeless, helpless, anger, behavior, guilt, sleep, low energy and concentration.
(608) 818-8297 View (608) 818-8297
Photo of Michelle Marking, MSSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Marking
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53705
Some clients benefit from cognitive behavior therapy; family systems theory; mindfulness; solution focused; and trauma therapy.
Life presents many challenges and changes. I have been providing mental health services to children, teens, adults and families for many years. My goal is to listen and assist clients in making changes that will increase their ability to live and enjoy life. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of children, teens and adults. I enjoy the variety of ages and issues clients present.
Some clients benefit from cognitive behavior therapy; family systems theory; mindfulness; solution focused; and trauma therapy.
Life presents many challenges and changes. I have been providing mental health services to children, teens, adults and families for many years. My goal is to listen and assist clients in making changes that will increase their ability to live and enjoy life. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of children, teens and adults. I enjoy the variety of ages and issues clients present.
(608) 546-9058 x225 View (608) 546-9058 x225
Photo of Carolyn J. Moynihan-Bradt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolyn J. Moynihan-Bradt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53711
Carolyn Moynihan-Bradt, M.S.W., has practiced individual, marriage and family therapy for thirty-five years. She networks on the national level as a leading voice among hr colleagues: lecturing, teaching, writing and researching while maintaining a private practice in Madison, Wisconsin. Moynihan-Bradt brings an inter-generational family systems perspective to therapy with an emphasis on person change. She listens with enormous respect for the individual and their unique history and she possesses a rare depth of understanding. She specializes in emotional issues surrounding life transitions, separation and divorce, stepfamilies, rebalancing families after a loss, and young professional.
Carolyn Moynihan-Bradt, M.S.W., has practiced individual, marriage and family therapy for thirty-five years. She networks on the national level as a leading voice among hr colleagues: lecturing, teaching, writing and researching while maintaining a private practice in Madison, Wisconsin. Moynihan-Bradt brings an inter-generational family systems perspective to therapy with an emphasis on person change. She listens with enormous respect for the individual and their unique history and she possesses a rare depth of understanding. She specializes in emotional issues surrounding life transitions, separation and divorce, stepfamilies, rebalancing families after a loss, and young professional.
(608) 247-5295 View (608) 247-5295
Photo of Jeff Hamm, MSW, CAPSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeff Hamm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CAPSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53703
I work with adults, especially those grappling with aging-related issues and the effects of cognitive changes in themselves or their loved ones. Our work together will be guided by your needs, desires, and goals. This might include working on challenging relationships, loss and grief, difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, or critical life decisions. For individuals and families on the dementia journey, I offer support, education, validation, referrals, and assistance in planning. I am happy to consult with family members on an as-needed basis. I am also willing to meet at a client’s home as needed and appropriate.
I work with adults, especially those grappling with aging-related issues and the effects of cognitive changes in themselves or their loved ones. Our work together will be guided by your needs, desires, and goals. This might include working on challenging relationships, loss and grief, difficult life transitions, depression, anxiety, or critical life decisions. For individuals and families on the dementia journey, I offer support, education, validation, referrals, and assistance in planning. I am happy to consult with family members on an as-needed basis. I am also willing to meet at a client’s home as needed and appropriate.
(608) 889-3035 View (608) 889-3035
Photo of Ellanora Ward, PhD, Psychologist
Ellanora Ward
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53713
I also provide family and couples therapy.
I try and help people increase the "quality" of their lives which often means helping people whose thinking/behavior and feelings don't seem to connect.I use many different approaches to therapy and draw upon numerous orientations if helpful to the client's goal of change. I strongly advocate for the mind/body connection; healthy mind helps the body be healthier. Past issues are of importance but don't have to be the major focus. I can help you with depression, anxiety, relationship issues and PTSD. I am proud to be a Tricare provider.
I also provide family and couples therapy.
I try and help people increase the "quality" of their lives which often means helping people whose thinking/behavior and feelings don't seem to connect.I use many different approaches to therapy and draw upon numerous orientations if helpful to the client's goal of change. I strongly advocate for the mind/body connection; healthy mind helps the body be healthier. Past issues are of importance but don't have to be the major focus. I can help you with depression, anxiety, relationship issues and PTSD. I am proud to be a Tricare provider.
(608) 729-7012 View (608) 729-7012
Photo of Lois Ann Hadley, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, CADC, NCGC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lois Ann Hadley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, CADC, NCGC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53715
We encourage the participation of all interested family members/significant others if the client requests.
I began my career in social work and community activism. I worked as a child and family social worker, drug and alcohol counselor and treating eating disorders. After completing graduate studies/ Marriage and Family Therapist training, I entered private practice. I provide training on Problem Gambling and specialize in trauma and addictive-compulive behaviors. It is a gift and a mission to be able to help people attain their life goals. I believe that all individuals can attain healthy, serene and fulfilling lives if they are honest, open-minded and willing to work toward those ends.
We encourage the participation of all interested family members/significant others if the client requests.
I began my career in social work and community activism. I worked as a child and family social worker, drug and alcohol counselor and treating eating disorders. After completing graduate studies/ Marriage and Family Therapist training, I entered private practice. I provide training on Problem Gambling and specialize in trauma and addictive-compulive behaviors. It is a gift and a mission to be able to help people attain their life goals. I believe that all individuals can attain healthy, serene and fulfilling lives if they are honest, open-minded and willing to work toward those ends.
(608) 291-5152 View (608) 291-5152
Photo of Jennifer Hector - Laughing Heart Play Therapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laughing Heart Play Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53701
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience working with young children, teens and families. I hold specialized training in evidenced-based play therapy, sensory processing disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, trauma-informed therapy, parent-child attachment, and attachment parenting. Through the use of play, relational and somatic therapies, I assist children and families in resolving difficulties and achieving a greater sense of well-being. My holistic approach creates a sacred space for clients and cultivates each individual’s and family’s innate capacity to heal.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience working with young children, teens and families. I hold specialized training in evidenced-based play therapy, sensory processing disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, trauma-informed therapy, parent-child attachment, and attachment parenting. Through the use of play, relational and somatic therapies, I assist children and families in resolving difficulties and achieving a greater sense of well-being. My holistic approach creates a sacred space for clients and cultivates each individual’s and family’s innate capacity to heal.
(608) 580-5115 View (608) 580-5115
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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.