Family Therapy in Plainfield, IL

Photo of Thomas S Ryan, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Thomas S Ryan
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60544
Thank you for visiting my listing. I am a Certified Gottman Therapist. Marriages worn thin by habit, or suffering from the stresses of work and children, or even those torn by an affair can be revived and made to flourish thanks to 30 years of research on the "Masters" and "Disasters" of relationship. I specialize in relationships in the belief that being deeply known by your partner is more healing than any therapy, and the foundation of a nurturing family.
Thank you for visiting my listing. I am a Certified Gottman Therapist. Marriages worn thin by habit, or suffering from the stresses of work and children, or even those torn by an affair can be revived and made to flourish thanks to 30 years of research on the "Masters" and "Disasters" of relationship. I specialize in relationships in the belief that being deeply known by your partner is more healing than any therapy, and the foundation of a nurturing family.
(630) 233-9672 View (630) 233-9672
Photo of Alex E Mckibbin - Alex E McKibbin MS LCPC, MS, LCPC, LSOTP, SEP, Counselor
Alex E McKibbin MS LCPC
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LSOTP, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60544
Relationship Issues, Couples Counseling and Family therapy are available at my office.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults who are comfortable with a one on one approach to counseling. Working with children in therapy always involves working with the parents. As with adolescents, providing them with a sense of privacy and trust is something I try to develop from the very beginning. For adults, privacy, confidentiality, and respect occur in a atmosphere of warmth and patience. If you are dealing with Attention Deficit Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Panic attacks, Bipolar Disorder, or Post Traumatic Stress, I am sure you will find the relief you are looking for at my office.
Relationship Issues, Couples Counseling and Family therapy are available at my office.
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults who are comfortable with a one on one approach to counseling. Working with children in therapy always involves working with the parents. As with adolescents, providing them with a sense of privacy and trust is something I try to develop from the very beginning. For adults, privacy, confidentiality, and respect occur in a atmosphere of warmth and patience. If you are dealing with Attention Deficit Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Panic attacks, Bipolar Disorder, or Post Traumatic Stress, I am sure you will find the relief you are looking for at my office.
(331) 244-5638 View (331) 244-5638
Photo of Miranda Brennan, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miranda Brennan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60585
My specialties include individual and family support counseling in order to help clients work through various issues such as anxiety, social anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment disorder, and social skills.
I earned her Master’s degree in Social Work at Aurora University in Aurora, IL, and am a Licensed Social Worker. I have provided counseling to clients since 2021 in a variety of settings, including residential, outpatient, and community mental health. My professional experience includes working with adults, adolescents, and children. I specializes in engaging with adolescents who may be experiencing a multitude of behavioral and mental struggles including anxiety and depression.
My specialties include individual and family support counseling in order to help clients work through various issues such as anxiety, social anxiety, depression, trauma, adjustment disorder, and social skills.
I earned her Master’s degree in Social Work at Aurora University in Aurora, IL, and am a Licensed Social Worker. I have provided counseling to clients since 2021 in a variety of settings, including residential, outpatient, and community mental health. My professional experience includes working with adults, adolescents, and children. I specializes in engaging with adolescents who may be experiencing a multitude of behavioral and mental struggles including anxiety and depression.
(815) 660-0945 x101 View (815) 660-0945 x101
Photo of Angela Olson, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Angela Olson
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60544
Angela takes an integrative and holistic approach to treatment with her clients - in a warm, inviting, friendly, direct, and at times humorous approach to treatment of the individual's overall wellbeing - with unconditional positive regard. Angela believes therapy is about personal wellness and that everyone can benefit from the process. She places a strong focus on assisting clients to achieve their full potential on their terms with a flexible, eclectic approach to identifying and meeting the individual needs of each person and family.
Angela takes an integrative and holistic approach to treatment with her clients - in a warm, inviting, friendly, direct, and at times humorous approach to treatment of the individual's overall wellbeing - with unconditional positive regard. Angela believes therapy is about personal wellness and that everyone can benefit from the process. She places a strong focus on assisting clients to achieve their full potential on their terms with a flexible, eclectic approach to identifying and meeting the individual needs of each person and family.
(815) 200-1099 View (815) 200-1099
Photo of Elizabeth Fannin, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Fannin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plainfield, IL 60544
In her practice, Beth offers individual and family therapy, addressing a variety of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Beth Fannin, LCSW, practices at LifeStance Health in Illinois, where she helps clients identify and break maladaptive coping patterns to achieve their desired lives. Beth employs exposure response prevention (ERP) and provides education to the client’s support system to ensure progress continues outside of therapy. Serving adults, Beth is committed to creating a supportive environment that fosters growth and understanding. Beth is particularly passionate about treating trauma, OCD, and PTSD.
In her practice, Beth offers individual and family therapy, addressing a variety of mental health concerns such as anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Beth Fannin, LCSW, practices at LifeStance Health in Illinois, where she helps clients identify and break maladaptive coping patterns to achieve their desired lives. Beth employs exposure response prevention (ERP) and provides education to the client’s support system to ensure progress continues outside of therapy. Serving adults, Beth is committed to creating a supportive environment that fosters growth and understanding. Beth is particularly passionate about treating trauma, OCD, and PTSD.
(815) 706-6356 View (815) 706-6356
Photo of Joan Lopina, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Joan Lopina
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Plainfield, IL 60544
I can offer families effective techniques for creating a loving family, building healthy relationships and raising responsible and capable children.
With over 30 years of experience, I offer my clients support, insight and healing based on my success with many clients. Healing starts with your courage, commitment, and a desire for change. Making the decision to trust another in a counseling setting, begins the healing. As a therapist, I will listen, support and counsel you to achieve your goals and to stop the hurting. With understanding, insight and patience, you can live a more fulfilling life. It will be my privilege to serve you.
I can offer families effective techniques for creating a loving family, building healthy relationships and raising responsible and capable children.
With over 30 years of experience, I offer my clients support, insight and healing based on my success with many clients. Healing starts with your courage, commitment, and a desire for change. Making the decision to trust another in a counseling setting, begins the healing. As a therapist, I will listen, support and counsel you to achieve your goals and to stop the hurting. With understanding, insight and patience, you can live a more fulfilling life. It will be my privilege to serve you.
(815) 401-9155 View (815) 401-9155
Photo of Justin Wolfe, LCPC, CADC, CRC, Counselor
Justin Wolfe
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60544
Justin engages clients with a warm, empathic, non-judgmental yet direct style and uses a down-to-earth approach. Justin utilizes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy(ACT)Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) ,Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) , a Client-Centered Approach and Motivational Interviewing techniques to help his clients move forward in their lives. Justin specializes in working with individuals who find themselves struggling with: depression, anxiety, addiction, family conflict, and acting out/impulsive behaviors. Justin works with clients of all ages but has a great deal of experience working with adolescents and families .
Justin engages clients with a warm, empathic, non-judgmental yet direct style and uses a down-to-earth approach. Justin utilizes Acceptance and Commitment Therapy(ACT)Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) ,Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) , a Client-Centered Approach and Motivational Interviewing techniques to help his clients move forward in their lives. Justin specializes in working with individuals who find themselves struggling with: depression, anxiety, addiction, family conflict, and acting out/impulsive behaviors. Justin works with clients of all ages but has a great deal of experience working with adolescents and families .
(630) 473-3177 View (630) 473-3177
Photo of Daffaney Burnside, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daffaney Burnside
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plainfield, IL 60544  (Online Only)
I am a individual and family therapist licensed in Illinois with over 5 years of experience working as a psychotherapist in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I have specialized experience working in residential based treatment providing long term care-treatment as well as short term crisis outpatient-field work. I have worked with clients with a range of concerns and diagnoses including depression, anxiety, parenting problems, abandonment issues, grief and loss, trauma, mood disorders, etc. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I meet my clients where they are using therapeutic approaches that will better meet their needs.
I am a individual and family therapist licensed in Illinois with over 5 years of experience working as a psychotherapist in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I have specialized experience working in residential based treatment providing long term care-treatment as well as short term crisis outpatient-field work. I have worked with clients with a range of concerns and diagnoses including depression, anxiety, parenting problems, abandonment issues, grief and loss, trauma, mood disorders, etc. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I meet my clients where they are using therapeutic approaches that will better meet their needs.
(815) 569-5676 View (815) 569-5676
Photo of Abby Miller, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abby Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Plainfield, IL 60544
I have experience in supporting clients with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, infidelity, grief, trauma, family/relationship conflict, development of coping skills, and anger management.
I believe that therapy is a collaborative space for individuals to gain insight and coping skills that best suit their journey of self-growth. My goal is to provide a non-judgemental, safe, and supportive environment for individuals to become empowered and overcome personal obstacles. I believe that counseling can be compared to the metaphor of how a flower grows. You are the seed, and counseling is the soil and water. The seed already knows exactly how to grow and blossom into a beautiful flower – but it's also important for the seed to have the right type of environment to grow and prosper in.
I have experience in supporting clients with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, life transitions, infidelity, grief, trauma, family/relationship conflict, development of coping skills, and anger management.
I believe that therapy is a collaborative space for individuals to gain insight and coping skills that best suit their journey of self-growth. My goal is to provide a non-judgemental, safe, and supportive environment for individuals to become empowered and overcome personal obstacles. I believe that counseling can be compared to the metaphor of how a flower grows. You are the seed, and counseling is the soil and water. The seed already knows exactly how to grow and blossom into a beautiful flower – but it's also important for the seed to have the right type of environment to grow and prosper in.
(708) 249-3607 View (708) 249-3607
Photo of Ruth Reiter, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruth Reiter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Plainfield, IL 60544
My work experience includes a wide variety of clinical issues including anxiety, depression, behavior and anger management, codependency, coping skills, marital and premarital transitions, life transitions, issues of faith and spirituality, parenting and family conflict, substance abuse, and loving someone or being raised by someone with substance abuse.
Even if we cannot direct the wind, we can adjust our sails...storms happen. And there are times we need others to help us navigate. In an atmosphere of warmth and friendliness, I will listen and help you discover new approaches to manage your well-being.
My work experience includes a wide variety of clinical issues including anxiety, depression, behavior and anger management, codependency, coping skills, marital and premarital transitions, life transitions, issues of faith and spirituality, parenting and family conflict, substance abuse, and loving someone or being raised by someone with substance abuse.
Even if we cannot direct the wind, we can adjust our sails...storms happen. And there are times we need others to help us navigate. In an atmosphere of warmth and friendliness, I will listen and help you discover new approaches to manage your well-being.
(331) 264-6002 View (331) 264-6002
Photo of Robert Nick Giannasi, MS, LCPC
Robert Nick Giannasi
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60544
Unbroken Family Counseling will work with anyone.
I work primarily with adolescents (ages 10-25), marriages, and men's issues. I currently supervise a team of therapists through Unbroken Family Counseling. I work within this team and, when necessary, work with schools, psychiatrists, and other community resources to help my clients. My ideal client is a teen who doesn't think he/she needs counseling, a marriage that is on the rocks, or a guy dealing with guy stuff (guys know what I'm talking about). If I cant help you I can help find someone who can.
Unbroken Family Counseling will work with anyone.
I work primarily with adolescents (ages 10-25), marriages, and men's issues. I currently supervise a team of therapists through Unbroken Family Counseling. I work within this team and, when necessary, work with schools, psychiatrists, and other community resources to help my clients. My ideal client is a teen who doesn't think he/she needs counseling, a marriage that is on the rocks, or a guy dealing with guy stuff (guys know what I'm talking about). If I cant help you I can help find someone who can.
(847) 457-0076 View (847) 457-0076
Photo of Simone Lamothe-Ayala, MS, LCPC
Simone Lamothe-Ayala
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Plainfield, IL 60586  (Online Only)
I have helped clients from ages 5 to 75, applying therapeutic modalities such as ACT, CBT,DBT, Family Systems, Mindfulness , grief therapy and a variety of others that meets clients where they are.
I believe a strong therapeutic partnership with clients is essential, as it’s easier to open up about their life and struggles. I am supportive and challenging when necessary as the over all goal is for clients to heal and thrive throughout changes in life, to become the best version of themselves.
I have helped clients from ages 5 to 75, applying therapeutic modalities such as ACT, CBT,DBT, Family Systems, Mindfulness , grief therapy and a variety of others that meets clients where they are.
I believe a strong therapeutic partnership with clients is essential, as it’s easier to open up about their life and struggles. I am supportive and challenging when necessary as the over all goal is for clients to heal and thrive throughout changes in life, to become the best version of themselves.
(815) 657-9496 View (815) 657-9496
Photo of Larry Dean Navey - Jean Miller Counseling Center, LCPC, MA
Jean Miller Counseling Center
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
Plainfield, IL 60585
Mental illness has a profound effect on human behavior and it is vital that family members understand how specific mental illnesses impact the whole family.
I have worked extensively with individuals and families impacted by severe mental illness, providing understanding, insight, and practical knowledge. I have a passion for integrating psychological knowledge and Biblical truth. I believe that competent Christian counseling must incorporate strong psychological knowledge filtered through the lens of Biblical truth and the Christian worldview. Further, I am specifically gifted in leading others to a deeper, more intimate knowledge of God. I received a BS from Columbia International University in Columbia, S.C. where I double majored in Biblical studies and psychology. I also received a MA Clinical Psychology degree from Wheaton College.
Mental illness has a profound effect on human behavior and it is vital that family members understand how specific mental illnesses impact the whole family.
I have worked extensively with individuals and families impacted by severe mental illness, providing understanding, insight, and practical knowledge. I have a passion for integrating psychological knowledge and Biblical truth. I believe that competent Christian counseling must incorporate strong psychological knowledge filtered through the lens of Biblical truth and the Christian worldview. Further, I am specifically gifted in leading others to a deeper, more intimate knowledge of God. I received a BS from Columbia International University in Columbia, S.C. where I double majored in Biblical studies and psychology. I also received a MA Clinical Psychology degree from Wheaton College.
(630) 426-3187 View (630) 426-3187
Photo of Joyce Gonzalez, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joyce Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plainfield, IL 60544
I am a bi-lingual (spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Co-Founder of Healing Connections Counseling, PC. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, parents, families, couples, and adults. I utilize various approaches to counseling such as, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, family systems, play therapy, and coping skills training to help clients improve their quality of life. I am passionate about helping others and my goal is to provide a friendly and supportive environment. I also believe that building rapport is an important step toward success and works in collaboration with clients to identify treatment goals to promote changes.
I am a bi-lingual (spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Co-Founder of Healing Connections Counseling, PC. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, parents, families, couples, and adults. I utilize various approaches to counseling such as, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, family systems, play therapy, and coping skills training to help clients improve their quality of life. I am passionate about helping others and my goal is to provide a friendly and supportive environment. I also believe that building rapport is an important step toward success and works in collaboration with clients to identify treatment goals to promote changes.
(815) 975-6458 x2 View (815) 975-6458 x2
Photo of Shamim A Sufi, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shamim A Sufi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60585
I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Internal Family Systems in my treatment approach.
roots in multiple cultures. Raised in India, educated in Britain (Warwick University) and the United States (Northwestern University's Family Institute), I specialize in treatment of families across cultures. As a licensed clinical social worker, I work in collaboration with my clients to maximize individual and family functioning. I create a safe, caring and non-judgmental environment for immigrant families facing intergenerational problems, marital discord, emotional and psychological problems, arising from adaptation to a foreign culture. I have considerable experience in community mental health and child welfare, helping people with complex multiple issues.
I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Internal Family Systems in my treatment approach.
roots in multiple cultures. Raised in India, educated in Britain (Warwick University) and the United States (Northwestern University's Family Institute), I specialize in treatment of families across cultures. As a licensed clinical social worker, I work in collaboration with my clients to maximize individual and family functioning. I create a safe, caring and non-judgmental environment for immigrant families facing intergenerational problems, marital discord, emotional and psychological problems, arising from adaptation to a foreign culture. I have considerable experience in community mental health and child welfare, helping people with complex multiple issues.
(630) 948-8205 View (630) 948-8205
Photo of Kelly Voorhees, LCPC, Counselor
Kelly Voorhees
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60544
I have been working in the mental health and social service field for over 20 years. In that time, I have had the pleasure of working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I am passionate about helping others in finding peace and happiness within themselves and their relationships. I take a client centered approach and come from a place of compassion in building a strong trusting client-therapist relationship. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, challenges with life stressors, work and school issues, codependency, and family/relationship issues.
I have been working in the mental health and social service field for over 20 years. In that time, I have had the pleasure of working with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I am passionate about helping others in finding peace and happiness within themselves and their relationships. I take a client centered approach and come from a place of compassion in building a strong trusting client-therapist relationship. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, challenges with life stressors, work and school issues, codependency, and family/relationship issues.
(815) 559-5098 View (815) 559-5098
Photo of Shelby Smith, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shelby Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
Plainfield, IL 60585  (Online Only)
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, religious concerns, family conflict, and trauma.
Life can be an overwhelming and a confusing puzzle at times. Therapy allows you to take the time to carefully pick up those pieces and create a life that you can be at peace with. My therapeutic style is one that balances real connection with honest conversations. I collaborate with clients to create a judgement free space that will also challenge you directly to reach the goals you want to achieve. Together, we can find the right tools to help you cope with stress and navigate relationship dynamics. By exploring patterns and learning new skills in therapy, you can gain a renewed sense of confidence and strength.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, religious concerns, family conflict, and trauma.
Life can be an overwhelming and a confusing puzzle at times. Therapy allows you to take the time to carefully pick up those pieces and create a life that you can be at peace with. My therapeutic style is one that balances real connection with honest conversations. I collaborate with clients to create a judgement free space that will also challenge you directly to reach the goals you want to achieve. Together, we can find the right tools to help you cope with stress and navigate relationship dynamics. By exploring patterns and learning new skills in therapy, you can gain a renewed sense of confidence and strength.
(815) 277-9779 View (815) 277-9779
Photo of Amy Henderson, MA, LCPC
Amy Henderson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60544
Waitlist for new clients
Specialty areas of focus are academic, adjustment difficulties, anxiety, career counseling, depression, family/peer conflict, grief and loss-especially loss to suicide, LGBTQ+, marital conflict, parenting, personality disorders, self-esteem/confidence, sexual or intimacy struggles, and stress management.
I believe healthy relationships and making good choices are the keys to a healthy, happy, and successful life. I utilize a positive focus in therapy to help improve relationships, self, and achieve goals. You can expect me to be present, warm, inviting, while incorporating humor, solutions, work, positivity, and challenges.
Specialty areas of focus are academic, adjustment difficulties, anxiety, career counseling, depression, family/peer conflict, grief and loss-especially loss to suicide, LGBTQ+, marital conflict, parenting, personality disorders, self-esteem/confidence, sexual or intimacy struggles, and stress management.
I believe healthy relationships and making good choices are the keys to a healthy, happy, and successful life. I utilize a positive focus in therapy to help improve relationships, self, and achieve goals. You can expect me to be present, warm, inviting, while incorporating humor, solutions, work, positivity, and challenges.
(779) 235-5917 View (779) 235-5917
Photo of Meghan Grzetich, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meghan Grzetich
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Plainfield, IL 60544
Contact me with any questions & to see if I could be good fit for working with you and your family.
When your child or teen needs support it's important to find the right fit for them. They need to be comfortable with a therapist and you as a caregiver should feel confident with that provider as well. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults on a variety of issues they may be struggling with. Depression, family or marital stress, behavioral issues, lack of motivation or school refusal, healthy relationships, excessive anxiety and self-esteem are common struggles people may tackle through therapy. Additionally, I work with the LGBTQ community including teens with gender identity issues.
Contact me with any questions & to see if I could be good fit for working with you and your family.
When your child or teen needs support it's important to find the right fit for them. They need to be comfortable with a therapist and you as a caregiver should feel confident with that provider as well. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults on a variety of issues they may be struggling with. Depression, family or marital stress, behavioral issues, lack of motivation or school refusal, healthy relationships, excessive anxiety and self-esteem are common struggles people may tackle through therapy. Additionally, I work with the LGBTQ community including teens with gender identity issues.
(779) 213-2050 View (779) 213-2050
Photo of Lacey Anderson, MA, LCPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lacey Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Plainfield, IL 60586
I have extensive training in chemical dependency and aware of how detrimental substance abuse is to the abuser and the family.
Sometimes life brings us unexpected challenges and difficulties which at the time can seem overwhelming. When these challenges arise you may behave and have thoughts that negatively affect your life and relationships. I would consider it a privilege working with you through these challenges and turning them into an event that you overcame and become a stronger person for it. By providing a comfortable, peaceful and supportive environment it is my goal and passion to bring a sense of peace, happiness and balance back into your life. We would achieve those goals and more by discussing what you want in counseling and in your life.
I have extensive training in chemical dependency and aware of how detrimental substance abuse is to the abuser and the family.
Sometimes life brings us unexpected challenges and difficulties which at the time can seem overwhelming. When these challenges arise you may behave and have thoughts that negatively affect your life and relationships. I would consider it a privilege working with you through these challenges and turning them into an event that you overcame and become a stronger person for it. By providing a comfortable, peaceful and supportive environment it is my goal and passion to bring a sense of peace, happiness and balance back into your life. We would achieve those goals and more by discussing what you want in counseling and in your life.
(815) 828-6878 View (815) 828-6878
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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.