Therapists in Spring Lake, MI
![Photo of Jack W. Grenan, PhD, MS, MA, BA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f3add9c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
I help change how you think to change how you act! Pain, depression, family, teen issues, DID, Self Esteem.
Let Me Help, You Help Yourself ! Dr. Grenan, ,Christian, was raised in inner City Detroit by a dad who abused me mentally & physically. . My grandparents, mom & God saved my life. I am the first person in my family to attend college MSU ,as a father of 5 children, I had 4th stage colon cancer, a 4 month coma & DIED! God may have planned for my struggles to help me be a good therapist who understands & helps people in pain. I also have a PhD in Hypnotherapy, a sliding pay scale and give a free 15 minute consult. Email me at: jackgrenan@netscape.net or call 616-414-7246. God Bless You! I help all who want HELP! If in pain call NOW!
I help change how you think to change how you act! Pain, depression, family, teen issues, DID, Self Esteem.
Let Me Help, You Help Yourself ! Dr. Grenan, ,Christian, was raised in inner City Detroit by a dad who abused me mentally & physically. . My grandparents, mom & God saved my life. I am the first person in my family to attend college MSU ,as a father of 5 children, I had 4th stage colon cancer, a 4 month coma & DIED! God may have planned for my struggles to help me be a good therapist who understands & helps people in pain. I also have a PhD in Hypnotherapy, a sliding pay scale and give a free 15 minute consult. Email me at: jackgrenan@netscape.net or call 616-414-7246. God Bless You! I help all who want HELP! If in pain call NOW!
![Photo of Sara Tysman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c267b23-0a44-4f2e-9d39-7ab31cdcd69d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Tysman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spring Lake, MI 49456
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be challenging, and you don't have to go through it alone. If you're seeking a closer, more meaningful relationship with your partner, desiring a better connection with your kids, or longing for a deeper sense of fulfillment and meaning in life, therapy can provide the support and guidance you need. My practice is dedicated to providing support to women and couples as they navigate through various challenges such as marital conflict, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD/trauma, and the pursuit of a more meaningful life. Go to www.lifetreecounseling.net to find out more and contact me today!
Life can be challenging, and you don't have to go through it alone. If you're seeking a closer, more meaningful relationship with your partner, desiring a better connection with your kids, or longing for a deeper sense of fulfillment and meaning in life, therapy can provide the support and guidance you need. My practice is dedicated to providing support to women and couples as they navigate through various challenges such as marital conflict, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD/trauma, and the pursuit of a more meaningful life. Go to www.lifetreecounseling.net to find out more and contact me today!
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Kevin Maybury, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ca7d52c-6be4-4a9c-821e-428f54143ae6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working with clients who have struggled with a variety of personal concerns, such as working through relationship problems or family stress, feelings of purposelessness, healing from traumatic experiences, sexual addictions, grappling with negative experiences from a religious community, or struggling with other mental health concerns.
My hope for each client I see is that they gain a better understanding of themselves and in turn a better understanding of the world around them. As a therapist, my role is to provide a confidential and safe environment in which you experience empathy, authenticity, and respect. I provide therapy services for teens and adults, meeting with clients in a one-on-one setting. I also provide therapy services for couples who are looking to build on their relational foundation and focus on communication.
I have experience working with clients who have struggled with a variety of personal concerns, such as working through relationship problems or family stress, feelings of purposelessness, healing from traumatic experiences, sexual addictions, grappling with negative experiences from a religious community, or struggling with other mental health concerns.
My hope for each client I see is that they gain a better understanding of themselves and in turn a better understanding of the world around them. As a therapist, my role is to provide a confidential and safe environment in which you experience empathy, authenticity, and respect. I provide therapy services for teens and adults, meeting with clients in a one-on-one setting. I also provide therapy services for couples who are looking to build on their relational foundation and focus on communication.
![Photo of Judith Ramsey, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56b89f0c-b91f-4e27-b824-f8678ca567a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Feeling down and out of sorts? Maybe something doesn't feel quite right? Seeing a therapist is a big step in one's life, one that many are worried about, due to the many stigmas surrounding sharing your feelings and speaking to someone about your problems. You are not alone, and I am here to help you take the first step to feeling better and getting your life back on track.
Feeling down and out of sorts? Maybe something doesn't feel quite right? Seeing a therapist is a big step in one's life, one that many are worried about, due to the many stigmas surrounding sharing your feelings and speaking to someone about your problems. You are not alone, and I am here to help you take the first step to feeling better and getting your life back on track.
![Photo of Margaret Spoelman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bda57a72-0013-47b4-a4ff-8e52ca753a19/1/320x400.jpeg)
Margaret Spoelman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Haven, MI 49417
Not accepting new clients
Every child can benefit from extra support while coping with all the demands on their time and energies. Families by any definition are increasingly challenged to respond effectively when children and adolescents act out. Beginning with what is working, I help families build on their strengths and find ways to improve connections, communicate with purpose and regain a sense of belonging. Within their family system, each child has a unique set of needs and families sometimes need guidance on how to create a successful environment to help with a behavior concern.
Every child can benefit from extra support while coping with all the demands on their time and energies. Families by any definition are increasingly challenged to respond effectively when children and adolescents act out. Beginning with what is working, I help families build on their strengths and find ways to improve connections, communicate with purpose and regain a sense of belonging. Within their family system, each child has a unique set of needs and families sometimes need guidance on how to create a successful environment to help with a behavior concern.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Bree Jenene Austin-Roberts, LMSW, CFSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf47073b-fd2c-4485-b542-99ec5f44b3e2/1/320x400.png)
Bree Jenene Austin-Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CFSW
Verified Verified
Holland, MI 49423
I enjoy coaching clients and professionals through life-stressors, trauma recovery (PTSD), mediating relational issues in couples and family therapy, and helping clients develop healthy coping skills for anxiety, depression, mood and impulse disorders. I help clients set and reach achievable long and short term goals to give them a sense of productivity and accomplishment through solution-focused therapy. If you are in need of specific resources or community services, I walk alongside my clients to identify needs and coordinate services. I welcome clients at all stages of mental health wellness.
I enjoy coaching clients and professionals through life-stressors, trauma recovery (PTSD), mediating relational issues in couples and family therapy, and helping clients develop healthy coping skills for anxiety, depression, mood and impulse disorders. I help clients set and reach achievable long and short term goals to give them a sense of productivity and accomplishment through solution-focused therapy. If you are in need of specific resources or community services, I walk alongside my clients to identify needs and coordinate services. I welcome clients at all stages of mental health wellness.
![Photo of Karol Chubb, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74437c73-c707-4354-bb88-de11eef16df6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Karol Chubb
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (Online Only)
With the ease and flexibility of teletherapy, join me from the comfort of your own home on our therapy journey together! I work with adolescents, individuals, couples, and families across Michigan. With my masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, EMDR training, Gottman Level 1 Certificate, and Prepare and Enrich Certificate, my goal is to collaborate with you to find individual and relational growth.
With the ease and flexibility of teletherapy, join me from the comfort of your own home on our therapy journey together! I work with adolescents, individuals, couples, and families across Michigan. With my masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, EMDR training, Gottman Level 1 Certificate, and Prepare and Enrich Certificate, my goal is to collaborate with you to find individual and relational growth.
![Photo of Ann Date - Partners in Change Psychological & Comm Svcs PLC, PhD, LP, LMSW, LPC, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c6f15ad-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Partners in Change Psychological & Comm Svcs PLC
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LMSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, MI 48858
Welcoming new clients! Partners in Change provides individual, couples, family, and group therapies to all ages. This team of therapists provide state-of-the-art treatment for a variety of concerns including anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, anger management issues, substance abuse, trauma/PTSD, eating disorders, pain services, perinatal/postnatal concerns, as well as marital and familial difficulties, and challenges experienced by emergency responders and public safety officers. Psychological assessments and psychiatric care for a variety of purposes are also available.
Welcoming new clients! Partners in Change provides individual, couples, family, and group therapies to all ages. This team of therapists provide state-of-the-art treatment for a variety of concerns including anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, anger management issues, substance abuse, trauma/PTSD, eating disorders, pain services, perinatal/postnatal concerns, as well as marital and familial difficulties, and challenges experienced by emergency responders and public safety officers. Psychological assessments and psychiatric care for a variety of purposes are also available.
![Photo of Megan Renee Bentley, RN, BSN, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06631325-a097-43b9-b30b-2e6f66001506/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Renee Bentley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RN, BSN, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Lansing, MI 48823 (Online Only)
Greetings. Facing life's complexities? I'm here for you. As a Registered Nurse with a decade's experience, I specialize in nuanced support for trauma, relationship intricacies, family issues, anxiety, and depression. In relationship dynamics, I help navigate challenges—communication breakdowns, trust issues, and past experiences' impact. Whether it's romantic relationships, family dynamics, or friendships, my goal is healthier connections. For family issues, we untangle complexities—communication barriers, generational patterns, impacting overall well-being.
Greetings. Facing life's complexities? I'm here for you. As a Registered Nurse with a decade's experience, I specialize in nuanced support for trauma, relationship intricacies, family issues, anxiety, and depression. In relationship dynamics, I help navigate challenges—communication breakdowns, trust issues, and past experiences' impact. Whether it's romantic relationships, family dynamics, or friendships, my goal is healthier connections. For family issues, we untangle complexities—communication barriers, generational patterns, impacting overall well-being.
![Photo of Cherie LaLone, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac4a882e-ef33-4961-af33-3cdb629f6ccb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Extensive experience with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, childhood behaviors, suicidality, self-harm behaviors, family systems, adolescents, divorce, transitions, to name a few.
Clinically, I have worked in the Community Mental Health system and in a private practice prior to opening my own private practice. I am trained in 10+ evidenced-based practices like Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy, used in treating PTSD, the Nurturing Parent Program (NPP), and Brief Strategic Family Therapy (BSFT). My passion is to help others to live life as the best version of themselves, regardless of their age or presenting issues. I believe that each of us is just one person away from reaching that goal of a happy life, and if I can be that for you then it is a win for us both.
Extensive experience with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, childhood behaviors, suicidality, self-harm behaviors, family systems, adolescents, divorce, transitions, to name a few.
Clinically, I have worked in the Community Mental Health system and in a private practice prior to opening my own private practice. I am trained in 10+ evidenced-based practices like Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy, used in treating PTSD, the Nurturing Parent Program (NPP), and Brief Strategic Family Therapy (BSFT). My passion is to help others to live life as the best version of themselves, regardless of their age or presenting issues. I believe that each of us is just one person away from reaching that goal of a happy life, and if I can be that for you then it is a win for us both.
![Photo of Daniel K Ehnis, EdD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49179543-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have 42 years of teaching experience as a Professor of Psycholgy and Family Studies at Cornerstone University.
I have 44 years experience in helping couples recover from affairs, manage conflict, improve communication and intimacy.
I have 42 years of teaching experience as a Professor of Psycholgy and Family Studies at Cornerstone University.
I have 44 years experience in helping couples recover from affairs, manage conflict, improve communication and intimacy.
![Photo of Adrian Koenig, LLMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a0edcdc1-54a4-46ff-8c2a-677a58a2bfdf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes when we face challenging situations in life we need more than what friends and family have to offer.
My ideal client could be anyone who is interested in setting goals and boundaries to improve their life, not only for now, but the future.
Sometimes when we face challenging situations in life we need more than what friends and family have to offer.
My ideal client could be anyone who is interested in setting goals and boundaries to improve their life, not only for now, but the future.
![Photo of Steven Bristol, MDiv, LMSW, TF-CBT, EMDR, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43a82bb8-28b7-4c2e-a4b7-ad0471ea368a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Steven Bristol
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LMSW, TF-CBT, EMDR, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
I'm passionate about providing support and compassionate counseling to individuals, couples, & families facing life-challenging crises, addictions, or illness with a heart of sincere concern. I assist clients in developing healthy life skills, resolving conflict, and accessing needed resources as they seek to fulfill their personal, family, and vocational goals. I'm experienced in a breadth of crises and family needs through years of church-based pastoral care and clinical counseling. I provide Individual, Couples, and Family Counseling, and Group Therapy. I can help address Men's Issues, Grief Support, and Conflict Mediation needs.
I'm passionate about providing support and compassionate counseling to individuals, couples, & families facing life-challenging crises, addictions, or illness with a heart of sincere concern. I assist clients in developing healthy life skills, resolving conflict, and accessing needed resources as they seek to fulfill their personal, family, and vocational goals. I'm experienced in a breadth of crises and family needs through years of church-based pastoral care and clinical counseling. I provide Individual, Couples, and Family Counseling, and Group Therapy. I can help address Men's Issues, Grief Support, and Conflict Mediation needs.
![Photo of Audra Jungnitsch - Musings Therapy LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d1e9e89-4e07-47ab-84b4-3ba2b44f99bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Musings Therapy LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Merrill, MI 48637 (Online Only)
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship and communication issues, parenting concerns, family dynamics, negative thought stopping and self-esteem concerns.
Hello and congratulations on reaching step one on your journey of achieving! What we wish to achieve in our lives both mentally and emotionally is unique to each of us, however needing support at some point in one's life I believe is universal. I am a counselor licensed in Michigan with over 10 years of experience working as a therapist in individual, family and group settings. My counseling style is open and non-judgmental. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approaches can combine cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, strength based, and solution focused therapy.
I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship and communication issues, parenting concerns, family dynamics, negative thought stopping and self-esteem concerns.
Hello and congratulations on reaching step one on your journey of achieving! What we wish to achieve in our lives both mentally and emotionally is unique to each of us, however needing support at some point in one's life I believe is universal. I am a counselor licensed in Michigan with over 10 years of experience working as a therapist in individual, family and group settings. My counseling style is open and non-judgmental. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approaches can combine cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, strength based, and solution focused therapy.
![Photo of Amy Perschbacher - Ronan Psychological Associates, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fffca495-5c4c-43c4-ae5b-b6e19425770a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ronan Psychological Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mount Pleasant, MI 48858
We offer individual, couples, and family counseling services.
Our staff and mental health therapists are attentive to the needs of the Central Michigan area and offer evidence-based treatment for depression, anxiety, attention-based issues, behavior issues, and sexual dysfunction as well as more. You can find us at www.resiliencepsychcm.com for a complete list of what we offer. You can be assured that your treatment will be catered to fit your individual needs.
We offer individual, couples, and family counseling services.
Our staff and mental health therapists are attentive to the needs of the Central Michigan area and offer evidence-based treatment for depression, anxiety, attention-based issues, behavior issues, and sexual dysfunction as well as more. You can find us at www.resiliencepsychcm.com for a complete list of what we offer. You can be assured that your treatment will be catered to fit your individual needs.
![Photo of Karen Gallagher - The Wellness Institute of Michigan, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5c4a21db-7f90-4605-ae8a-76eb223f4d38/1/320x400.png)
The Wellness Institute of Michigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Okemos, MI 48864
If you would like help with issues regarding daily life, work, family, blended families, academics, life decisions, gender identity we can help. If you have feelings of fatigue, worry, and being overwhelmed we can assist you. We operate a group practice with several therapists in three locations. In your initial call to us we listen carefully to understand what your needs are and then match you with the best method of treatment and therapist to help you. We understand that calling for counseling is an important choice and offer excellent customer service to facilitate the process. We provide highly professional services in a peaceful setting.
If you would like help with issues regarding daily life, work, family, blended families, academics, life decisions, gender identity we can help. If you have feelings of fatigue, worry, and being overwhelmed we can assist you. We operate a group practice with several therapists in three locations. In your initial call to us we listen carefully to understand what your needs are and then match you with the best method of treatment and therapist to help you. We understand that calling for counseling is an important choice and offer excellent customer service to facilitate the process. We provide highly professional services in a peaceful setting.
![Photo of Lindsay James, LLMSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/24c0d4e7-8a40-4fc2-84e7-ba062cd15327/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsay James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Life is full of peaks and valleys, and sometimes we all need a little support or guidance. I am passionate about supporting kids, teens, young adults, women, and parents in periods of struggle or transition. I have training and lived experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, pain, child and family issues, and perinatal mood disorders. I have worked with survivors of sexual abuse, clients struggling with suicidal ideation and self-harm, and parents/caregivers trying their best to raise strong and healthy children. I can relate to people from all different walks of life, cultures, religious backgrounds, and sexual orientations.
Life is full of peaks and valleys, and sometimes we all need a little support or guidance. I am passionate about supporting kids, teens, young adults, women, and parents in periods of struggle or transition. I have training and lived experience with anxiety, depression, trauma, pain, child and family issues, and perinatal mood disorders. I have worked with survivors of sexual abuse, clients struggling with suicidal ideation and self-harm, and parents/caregivers trying their best to raise strong and healthy children. I can relate to people from all different walks of life, cultures, religious backgrounds, and sexual orientations.
![Photo of Vivian Rodriguez - Alternative Perspectives Counseling, LLC, MA, LLP, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22ef4b2b-7d6b-46d0-af87-891423f6e5cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alternative Perspectives Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLP, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48864
At APC we offer outpatient counseling for children, adolescents, and adults. Our clinicians provide individual, couple and family counseling. Our core belief at APC is that mental health counseling is part of recognizing the whole person, taking into account family, social, physical and medical factors. We acknowledge that all of these systems are interwoven and contribute to the overall functioning of the individual. APC ofrece servicios terapéuticos en inglés y español.
At APC we offer outpatient counseling for children, adolescents, and adults. Our clinicians provide individual, couple and family counseling. Our core belief at APC is that mental health counseling is part of recognizing the whole person, taking into account family, social, physical and medical factors. We acknowledge that all of these systems are interwoven and contribute to the overall functioning of the individual. APC ofrece servicios terapéuticos en inglés y español.
![Photo of Jan Talen - Us And Kids Communication Program, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3be6bab1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Us And Kids Communication Program
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49546 (Online Only)
Couples with young kiddo are particularly at risk for marriage and family strife because they are so busy, and because there is so much that is new to their brains, emotions and relationship. Figuring out how to be both mom and dad as well as husband and wife is often overwhelming and troubling. Tension builds when the relationship energy gets split between kiddos needs (and there are a lot of them!) and marriage needs (and those are valid as well). The energy to figure out how to integrate all those needs, wants, wishes becomes divided and divisive. Disconnected and discontent brew and relationship trouble stews. What to do?
Couples with young kiddo are particularly at risk for marriage and family strife because they are so busy, and because there is so much that is new to their brains, emotions and relationship. Figuring out how to be both mom and dad as well as husband and wife is often overwhelming and troubling. Tension builds when the relationship energy gets split between kiddos needs (and there are a lot of them!) and marriage needs (and those are valid as well). The energy to figure out how to integrate all those needs, wants, wishes becomes divided and divisive. Disconnected and discontent brew and relationship trouble stews. What to do?
![Photo of Rena Kassel, MA, LPC, NCC, AAPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9979031d-707b-4731-af4f-f18a2508f16a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rena Kassel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, AAPT
Verified Verified
Three Rivers, MI 49093 (Online Only)
I have trained in empirically validated treatments with experience iCrisis Counseling, PTSD and Trauma Counseling, Survivors of Trauma, Abuse and Victimization, Sexual Exploitation, Behavioral Issues, Family and Adolescent Counseling, and training in ACT, Brief, Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, SFT and Animal Assisted Psychotherapy (among other modalities).
As an MA, LPC, I help individuals explore their thoughts, feelings and behavior to reach a more clear self-understanding and change long-standing patterns of behavior that may be disrupting relationships, work and study. The nonjudgemental and accepting nature of clinical mental health counseling makes it possible to face painful experiences. My client utilizes their capacity to change, seeking mental clarity, presence and balance. As a professional counselor I will work within clearly contracted, ethical boundaries, with respect for my clients, their values, their beliefs, their culture, to explore and resolve life difficulties.
I have trained in empirically validated treatments with experience iCrisis Counseling, PTSD and Trauma Counseling, Survivors of Trauma, Abuse and Victimization, Sexual Exploitation, Behavioral Issues, Family and Adolescent Counseling, and training in ACT, Brief, Cognitive-Behavioral therapy, SFT and Animal Assisted Psychotherapy (among other modalities).
As an MA, LPC, I help individuals explore their thoughts, feelings and behavior to reach a more clear self-understanding and change long-standing patterns of behavior that may be disrupting relationships, work and study. The nonjudgemental and accepting nature of clinical mental health counseling makes it possible to face painful experiences. My client utilizes their capacity to change, seeking mental clarity, presence and balance. As a professional counselor I will work within clearly contracted, ethical boundaries, with respect for my clients, their values, their beliefs, their culture, to explore and resolve life difficulties.
See more therapy options for Spring Lake
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.