Photo of Lauren Smith, LCSW, MSW, DSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, DSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701  (Online Only)
Dr. Lauren Smith holds a BA in Psychology with a minor in Children's Studies and a master's degree in social work from Washington University in St. Louis. She was licensed in the state of Florida in 2020. She earned her doctorate degree in social work at Walden University in 2021. She has worked in various settings including foster care, jails, and schools. She specializes in working with children and adolescents who have experienced trauma, depression, and anxiety. She also has experience with behavioral concerns, anger, and familial problems. In her private practice, Dr. Lauren offers individual and family counseling sessions.
Dr. Lauren Smith holds a BA in Psychology with a minor in Children's Studies and a master's degree in social work from Washington University in St. Louis. She was licensed in the state of Florida in 2020. She earned her doctorate degree in social work at Walden University in 2021. She has worked in various settings including foster care, jails, and schools. She specializes in working with children and adolescents who have experienced trauma, depression, and anxiety. She also has experience with behavioral concerns, anger, and familial problems. In her private practice, Dr. Lauren offers individual and family counseling sessions.
(727) 261-2919 View (727) 261-2919
Photo of Courtney Renee Lloyd, LCSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Renee Lloyd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
Ever so often, we reach crossroads in our lives that require support in deciding which path to take. Sometimes we simply need a sounding board to allow us to sort things that are confusing. Other times, we have a good idea regarding what we wish to accomplish yet we need a platform to develop a plan of action in order to improve our quality of life. We may be grieving or bound by emotional trauma that plagues us. We may have family conflicts, relationship issues, parenting challenges or simply seek a better understanding of who we are and what motivates us.
Ever so often, we reach crossroads in our lives that require support in deciding which path to take. Sometimes we simply need a sounding board to allow us to sort things that are confusing. Other times, we have a good idea regarding what we wish to accomplish yet we need a platform to develop a plan of action in order to improve our quality of life. We may be grieving or bound by emotional trauma that plagues us. We may have family conflicts, relationship issues, parenting challenges or simply seek a better understanding of who we are and what motivates us.
(727) 761-3740 View (727) 761-3740
Photo of Grace Walker, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Grace Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33712
As an individual and couples therapist, I use therapeutic techniques such as Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, CBT techniques, and Gottman Couples Therapy (along with a large dose of compassion) to help you apply your efforts in the real world.
You deserve a life full of purpose, meaning, and fulfillment. It is highly possible that challenges like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, big life transitions or grief have you drifting away from the person you want to be. My passion lies in helping others move closer towards their version of their ideal self. I believe that working on your relationship with yourself can also have a positive impact other relationships in your life. If your goal is to rediscover yourself or make an impact in your relationships, it is much easier with a helping hand.
As an individual and couples therapist, I use therapeutic techniques such as Emotionally Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems, CBT techniques, and Gottman Couples Therapy (along with a large dose of compassion) to help you apply your efforts in the real world.
You deserve a life full of purpose, meaning, and fulfillment. It is highly possible that challenges like anxiety, depression, relationship issues, big life transitions or grief have you drifting away from the person you want to be. My passion lies in helping others move closer towards their version of their ideal self. I believe that working on your relationship with yourself can also have a positive impact other relationships in your life. If your goal is to rediscover yourself or make an impact in your relationships, it is much easier with a helping hand.
(727) 353-6343 View (727) 353-6343
Photo of Skye Stern, LMHC, Counselor
Skye Stern
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33713
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has 20 years of experience specializing in child and adolescent therapy. I am very passionate about my work, it is such a significant part of who I am. My philosophy is to use a positive approach to counseling, building upon the strengths of both the client as well as the family. Although my career started working with younger children, over the years I expanded my practice to include adolescents, and now adolescent therapy has become my primary specialty! I also work with older children and young adults!
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has 20 years of experience specializing in child and adolescent therapy. I am very passionate about my work, it is such a significant part of who I am. My philosophy is to use a positive approach to counseling, building upon the strengths of both the client as well as the family. Although my career started working with younger children, over the years I expanded my practice to include adolescents, and now adolescent therapy has become my primary specialty! I also work with older children and young adults!
(813) 793-7438 View (813) 793-7438
Photo of LaRay Price - Tranquil Mind Counseling and Wellness Center, IMFT, PhD, LMSW, LCSW, LCPC, Psychologist
Tranquil Mind Counseling and Wellness Center
Psychologist, IMFT, PhD, LMSW, LCSW, LCPC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
In addition, we offer resources for family members to ensure they have support in navigating the unique challenges of being a military family.
Are you struggling to find the right therapist because it feels like no one understands you? At the Veterans Center for Wellness, we understand the unique challenges and sacrifices that military service members and their families endure. You may struggle with PTSD, anxiety, depression, or the emotional toll of transitioning back to civilian life. The path to healing may seem daunting, but you're not alone. We are here to help you navigate through these challenges, overcome obstacles, and find the balance you need to thrive. When you choose you choose us, you're choosing a community that genuinely cares and seeks to understand you.
In addition, we offer resources for family members to ensure they have support in navigating the unique challenges of being a military family.
Are you struggling to find the right therapist because it feels like no one understands you? At the Veterans Center for Wellness, we understand the unique challenges and sacrifices that military service members and their families endure. You may struggle with PTSD, anxiety, depression, or the emotional toll of transitioning back to civilian life. The path to healing may seem daunting, but you're not alone. We are here to help you navigate through these challenges, overcome obstacles, and find the balance you need to thrive. When you choose you choose us, you're choosing a community that genuinely cares and seeks to understand you.
(813) 445-4397 View (813) 445-4397
Photo of Alexa Buford, LCSW, RYT 200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexa Buford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT 200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33711  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping clients with eating disorders, relational issues, teenage mental health, depression, and anxiety. I create a warm, compassionate, and collaborative environment where clients can feel seen and heard, and explore their unique needs and goals. I use evidence-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and family systems therapy, as well as mindfulness and meditation techniques to help clients develop greater self-awareness and emotional regulation. With training in EMDR therapy and certification as a yoga teacher, I offer a holistic approach.
I specialize in helping clients with eating disorders, relational issues, teenage mental health, depression, and anxiety. I create a warm, compassionate, and collaborative environment where clients can feel seen and heard, and explore their unique needs and goals. I use evidence-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and family systems therapy, as well as mindfulness and meditation techniques to help clients develop greater self-awareness and emotional regulation. With training in EMDR therapy and certification as a yoga teacher, I offer a holistic approach.
(727) 205-7418 View (727) 205-7418
Photo of Katherine Planchard - Ellie Mental Health - St Petersburg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ellie Mental Health - St Petersburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
Our clinic has a diverse group of therapists with a range of specialties including play therapy, family therapy, therapy for the LGBTQ+ community, and more.
Ellie Mental Health was proudly founded on the principle of destigmatizing mental health care. The mental health care industry is full of barriers and we’ve made it our goal to find innovative ways to break down these barriers for our community. At Ellie Mental Health – St. Petersburg, we are committed to filling the gap in care by providing high quality mental health services. If you are ready to take the next step on your healing journey, then we are here to support you along the way! We offer therapy to individuals, couples, and families, ages five through the golden years.
Our clinic has a diverse group of therapists with a range of specialties including play therapy, family therapy, therapy for the LGBTQ+ community, and more.
Ellie Mental Health was proudly founded on the principle of destigmatizing mental health care. The mental health care industry is full of barriers and we’ve made it our goal to find innovative ways to break down these barriers for our community. At Ellie Mental Health – St. Petersburg, we are committed to filling the gap in care by providing high quality mental health services. If you are ready to take the next step on your healing journey, then we are here to support you along the way! We offer therapy to individuals, couples, and families, ages five through the golden years.
(727) 472-5182 View (727) 472-5182
Photo of David Smith, LCSW, CASDCS, CFTP, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASDCS, CFTP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
I have deep professional, academic, and personal experience in trauma, neurodiversity (Autism, ADHD), family/parenting issues, and mood struggles including depression, anxiety, and grief.
Taking charge of your healing journey is a heroic step. Much like training for an athletic challenge, it requires dedication, courage, determination, and self-love - as well as a good coach. We will do incredible work together if you are motivated to commit to your own growth process, are curious and open-minded, and are willing to do the sometimes difficult mental, emotional, and spiritual work to change habits and patterns that no longer serve you or those you care about. I'm especially passionate about working with healers, helpers, teachers, parents, caregivers, and people healing from childhood and intergenerational trauma.
I have deep professional, academic, and personal experience in trauma, neurodiversity (Autism, ADHD), family/parenting issues, and mood struggles including depression, anxiety, and grief.
Taking charge of your healing journey is a heroic step. Much like training for an athletic challenge, it requires dedication, courage, determination, and self-love - as well as a good coach. We will do incredible work together if you are motivated to commit to your own growth process, are curious and open-minded, and are willing to do the sometimes difficult mental, emotional, and spiritual work to change habits and patterns that no longer serve you or those you care about. I'm especially passionate about working with healers, helpers, teachers, parents, caregivers, and people healing from childhood and intergenerational trauma.
(727) 496-7204 View (727) 496-7204
Photo of Nyamekye Laird, PhD, RYT, Psychologist
Nyamekye Laird
Psychologist, PhD, RYT
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33713  (Online Only)
In addition to individual, family and group therapy, I provide training and consultation regarding diversity issues, stress-management, vision boards, and community development.
Everyone deserves to feel good about themselves, and everyone can. Psychotherapy helps you develop the insight, skills and courage to create more joy, harmony, power, and success in your life. These positive changes may manifest as an improved sense of well-being, better stress management, reduction of painful/unwanted symptoms, improved relationships, enhanced sense of self, career success, etc. It is an honor to use my expertise, skills and experience to assist you with your commitment to personal growth and maximizing your potential. Call now for your free consultation! Thank you for choosing the Laird Khepera Institute to facilitate your journey to well-being!
In addition to individual, family and group therapy, I provide training and consultation regarding diversity issues, stress-management, vision boards, and community development.
Everyone deserves to feel good about themselves, and everyone can. Psychotherapy helps you develop the insight, skills and courage to create more joy, harmony, power, and success in your life. These positive changes may manifest as an improved sense of well-being, better stress management, reduction of painful/unwanted symptoms, improved relationships, enhanced sense of self, career success, etc. It is an honor to use my expertise, skills and experience to assist you with your commitment to personal growth and maximizing your potential. Call now for your free consultation! Thank you for choosing the Laird Khepera Institute to facilitate your journey to well-being!
(727) 240-3495 View (727) 240-3495
Photo of Robine Padberg Hill, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robine Padberg Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
My approach is Attachment- and Mindfulness-Based and I am trained with the IFS Institute to apply the Internal Family Systems model.
You are struggling to connected to yourself and your loved ones, have difficulty managing the different aspects of your life and are experiencing a hard time coping with past events. You seem to have trouble recognizing who you are today, feel like your emotions are overwhelming and are missing a sense of peace. One thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to find the clarity and confidence in your decision making and move through life with more ease and comfort. Most of all, you’re ready to find joy and acceptance in the day-to-day again. You’re ready for a new “normal”, and I can help you get there.
My approach is Attachment- and Mindfulness-Based and I am trained with the IFS Institute to apply the Internal Family Systems model.
You are struggling to connected to yourself and your loved ones, have difficulty managing the different aspects of your life and are experiencing a hard time coping with past events. You seem to have trouble recognizing who you are today, feel like your emotions are overwhelming and are missing a sense of peace. One thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to find the clarity and confidence in your decision making and move through life with more ease and comfort. Most of all, you’re ready to find joy and acceptance in the day-to-day again. You’re ready for a new “normal”, and I can help you get there.
(727) 261-2329 View (727) 261-2329
Photo of Travis McNulty, MA, LMHC, GAL, Counselor
Travis McNulty
Counselor, MA, LMHC, GAL
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
If you're reading this, you know you're ready for change and I'm excited to help. Let's stop the repetitious maladaptive behavioral and thought patterns so you can live life to the fullest. We'll dive deep into all aspects of your life - family, social, work, romantic, health, sleep, relationship with self, and spirituality (if applicable). We'll uncover any deficits in these areas and gain insight into the triggers causing distress so we can get you the relief you deserve. When working with me, my goal is not to get you dependent on me but to make you the expert in your thoughts and behaviors.
If you're reading this, you know you're ready for change and I'm excited to help. Let's stop the repetitious maladaptive behavioral and thought patterns so you can live life to the fullest. We'll dive deep into all aspects of your life - family, social, work, romantic, health, sleep, relationship with self, and spirituality (if applicable). We'll uncover any deficits in these areas and gain insight into the triggers causing distress so we can get you the relief you deserve. When working with me, my goal is not to get you dependent on me but to make you the expert in your thoughts and behaviors.
(727) 317-6548 View (727) 317-6548
Photo of Irina Fredericks - Russian-Speaking Psychotherapist/Fully Online, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Russian-Speaking Psychotherapist/Fully Online
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
My name is Dr. Irina Fredericks. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with more than 15 years of clinical, research, and teaching experience. With my background in developmental and clinical psychology research, I provide science-based Individual, Family, and Couples Therapy to individuals of all ages. I specialize in relationship difficulties, issues with self-worth and confidence, stress management, and emotional regulation. My services are provided in both English and Russian languages ONLINE only at whenever and wherever it suits you. NOTE: I do NOT prescribe medication, and I do NOT accept Medicaid/Medicare.
My name is Dr. Irina Fredericks. I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with more than 15 years of clinical, research, and teaching experience. With my background in developmental and clinical psychology research, I provide science-based Individual, Family, and Couples Therapy to individuals of all ages. I specialize in relationship difficulties, issues with self-worth and confidence, stress management, and emotional regulation. My services are provided in both English and Russian languages ONLINE only at whenever and wherever it suits you. NOTE: I do NOT prescribe medication, and I do NOT accept Medicaid/Medicare.
(786) 565-4109 View (786) 565-4109
Photo of Kelly Boyle - Kelly Boyle, LMFT (Star Family Therapy), LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Boyle, LMFT (Star Family Therapy)
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Offering individual therapy, family therapy (including child/teen) and couples therapy. Trained and experienced in treating symptoms associated with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and other life stressors.
Offering individual therapy, family therapy (including child/teen) and couples therapy. Trained and experienced in treating symptoms associated with trauma, anxiety, depression, grief and other life stressors.
(727) 268-8449 View (727) 268-8449
Photo of Lauren Cummins - Sunshine Children's Counseling Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sunshine Children's Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33707
Is your child struggling with anxious or depressive thoughts at home, school or with peers? Or do they have the motivation to do well but still face behavior challenges and you both need support? Does your teen need a supportive space to process their thoughts and emotions? My name is Lauren and as a child and family therapist dedicated to the Pinellas County communtity, my goal is to guide children and their families through their journey using CBT to support the social-emotional development of my clients and their knowledge about their cognitive and emotional coping processes.
Is your child struggling with anxious or depressive thoughts at home, school or with peers? Or do they have the motivation to do well but still face behavior challenges and you both need support? Does your teen need a supportive space to process their thoughts and emotions? My name is Lauren and as a child and family therapist dedicated to the Pinellas County communtity, my goal is to guide children and their families through their journey using CBT to support the social-emotional development of my clients and their knowledge about their cognitive and emotional coping processes.
(727) 594-4716 View (727) 594-4716
Photo of Suzanne Stokes, LMHC, Counselor
Suzanne Stokes
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33713
With so many years of experience and training, I have a broad skill set and utilize multiple interventions to create a unique treatment plan for each person, couple, or family.
I have worked as a Mental Health Therapist for 30 years and I love my work as much today as the day I started. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Addictions Professional. I am honored to join people where they are at on their journey. I focus on positive goals for getting back on track or even transformation. As I realize the courage it takes to come to therapy, I focus on the patient/therapist relationship. There must first be an experience of safety and trust. Then, of course, the therapeutic work will follow. I utilize a warm, relaxed style with fierce reflection or gentle support as needed.
With so many years of experience and training, I have a broad skill set and utilize multiple interventions to create a unique treatment plan for each person, couple, or family.
I have worked as a Mental Health Therapist for 30 years and I love my work as much today as the day I started. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Certified Addictions Professional. I am honored to join people where they are at on their journey. I focus on positive goals for getting back on track or even transformation. As I realize the courage it takes to come to therapy, I focus on the patient/therapist relationship. There must first be an experience of safety and trust. Then, of course, the therapeutic work will follow. I utilize a warm, relaxed style with fierce reflection or gentle support as needed.
(727) 955-3269 View (727) 955-3269
Photo of Donna Wilson-Brown - Dr. Donna Wilson-Brown, Psychotherapy, Inc., PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Donna Wilson-Brown, Psychotherapy, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
New and current clients for your animal family members we also assist with Emotional Support Animal letters.
We specialize in individual & couples therapy. The answers are within and will unfold in the warm, empathy filled environment where a client centered focus is key. Developing coping skills to manage symptoms of Depression, Anxiety and PTSD are key components to therapy, too. We also offer Rapid Trauma Resolution Therapy/IQ & personality testing so parents/individuals may gain a deeper understanding of child-teens and/or self to guide in better life decision making for goals and problem solving. Emotional Support Animal letters are available. Career-Identity-Spirituality concerns are also areas we may assist with.
New and current clients for your animal family members we also assist with Emotional Support Animal letters.
We specialize in individual & couples therapy. The answers are within and will unfold in the warm, empathy filled environment where a client centered focus is key. Developing coping skills to manage symptoms of Depression, Anxiety and PTSD are key components to therapy, too. We also offer Rapid Trauma Resolution Therapy/IQ & personality testing so parents/individuals may gain a deeper understanding of child-teens and/or self to guide in better life decision making for goals and problem solving. Emotional Support Animal letters are available. Career-Identity-Spirituality concerns are also areas we may assist with.
(727) 269-5816 View (727) 269-5816
Photo of Heather Lawson, PsyD, Psychologist
Heather Lawson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33701
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I have extensive experience helping people heal from the emotional and behavioral difficulties related to depression and anxiety, including relationship issues, family conflicts, and problems in the work place.
I'm a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapies, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I have extensive experience helping people heal from the emotional and behavioral difficulties related to depression and anxiety, including relationship issues, family conflicts, and problems in the work place.
(727) 261-0307 View (727) 261-0307
Photo of Jaclyn Matthews, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Jaclyn Matthews
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702  (Online Only)
Millennials AND Gen Z are our SPECIALTY. In 2023 we are dealing with more than EVER! Between social pressures, family conflict, career, and the expectations of others. Not to mention the pandemic and isolation! It’s challenging to balance the demands of modern day life and keep it all together. The exciting news is there are HUNDREDS of strategies and skills that can prepare you for all life throws your way. Let us be proactive in teaching you how to manage stress, anxiety, overwhelm, sadness, and more. Modern Mental Health offers a variety of programs that focus on getting you out of your head and back into enjoying your life.
Millennials AND Gen Z are our SPECIALTY. In 2023 we are dealing with more than EVER! Between social pressures, family conflict, career, and the expectations of others. Not to mention the pandemic and isolation! It’s challenging to balance the demands of modern day life and keep it all together. The exciting news is there are HUNDREDS of strategies and skills that can prepare you for all life throws your way. Let us be proactive in teaching you how to manage stress, anxiety, overwhelm, sadness, and more. Modern Mental Health offers a variety of programs that focus on getting you out of your head and back into enjoying your life.
(727) 279-0101 View (727) 279-0101
Photo of Teletherapy Solutions - Teletherapy Solutions, Psychologist
Teletherapy Solutions
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
Teletherapy may be the right choice for you if: You have a busy schedule due to work or family obligations.
WE SERVE ALL OF FLORIDA! Teletherapy Solutions is an online platform connecting licensed therapists to people via privacy enabled video-chat. We are on a mission to make high quality mental health care affordable and accessible! Our therapist-match questionnaire makes finding your ideal therapist easy. Step 1. Complete the questionnaire. Step 2. Immediately review your matches. Step 3. Make your first appointment.
Teletherapy may be the right choice for you if: You have a busy schedule due to work or family obligations.
WE SERVE ALL OF FLORIDA! Teletherapy Solutions is an online platform connecting licensed therapists to people via privacy enabled video-chat. We are on a mission to make high quality mental health care affordable and accessible! Our therapist-match questionnaire makes finding your ideal therapist easy. Step 1. Complete the questionnaire. Step 2. Immediately review your matches. Step 3. Make your first appointment.
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Photo of Dr. Grace Waite, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Grace Waite
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Petersburg, FL 33713
I specialize in working with adults who are grappling with mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, identity and sexuality concerns, and eating disorders. I have experience working with patients who are pursuing highly demanding careers and academic paths as well as individuals navigating complex or traumatic family dynamics. Therapeutic work focuses on depth and exploration- mental health symptoms are not just problems to be solved, they are also signs to be understood, so you can create lasting change and gain freedom in how you engage with the world.
I specialize in working with adults who are grappling with mental health concerns, such as depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, identity and sexuality concerns, and eating disorders. I have experience working with patients who are pursuing highly demanding careers and academic paths as well as individuals navigating complex or traumatic family dynamics. Therapeutic work focuses on depth and exploration- mental health symptoms are not just problems to be solved, they are also signs to be understood, so you can create lasting change and gain freedom in how you engage with the world.
(727) 261-1357 View (727) 261-1357
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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.