Family Therapy in Bloomington, MN

Photo of Melanie Edmonds, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melanie Edmonds
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55425
Hello. I work with individuals and couples. I am also working on my play therapy certificate and work with children and tweens/teens. I work collaboratively with my clients and let them lead the way in their work. I enjoy working with parents and the challenges and joys that come with that role. I also work with clients with anxiety and family and boundaries work.
Hello. I work with individuals and couples. I am also working on my play therapy certificate and work with children and tweens/teens. I work collaboratively with my clients and let them lead the way in their work. I enjoy working with parents and the challenges and joys that come with that role. I also work with clients with anxiety and family and boundaries work.
(612) 662-5188 View (612) 662-5188
Photo of Camille Carlson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Camille Carlson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55437  (Online Only)
Or we can work together to address tough experiences, life transitions, family of origin concerns, identity issues, work or academic stressors.
Currently accepting new clients! I specialize in working with college students and young adults (18-30). I view this age as an optimal window to be working on ourselves, growing, and addressing patterns that may no longer serve us. In addition, I enjoy working with folks of other ages, and couples of any presentation (LGBTQ+, married, dating, engaged, separating). If you're struggling with life transitions, trauma, stress, overwhelm, exploring family of origin concerns, relationship concerns, or gender/sexuality presentation, I may be the right therapist for you!
Or we can work together to address tough experiences, life transitions, family of origin concerns, identity issues, work or academic stressors.
Currently accepting new clients! I specialize in working with college students and young adults (18-30). I view this age as an optimal window to be working on ourselves, growing, and addressing patterns that may no longer serve us. In addition, I enjoy working with folks of other ages, and couples of any presentation (LGBTQ+, married, dating, engaged, separating). If you're struggling with life transitions, trauma, stress, overwhelm, exploring family of origin concerns, relationship concerns, or gender/sexuality presentation, I may be the right therapist for you!
(952) 592-9699 View (952) 592-9699
Photo of Laura Rademacher, MA, LMFT, CST, CSTS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Rademacher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CST, CSTS
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55425
As a LMFT I have specialized training in working with all kinds of relationships and family groups.
Relationships can be the most important things in our lives and they can also be our greatest struggles. Sex is another important topic-our own sexual selves as well as our sexual relationships with others. But we don't always have a lot of places to talk about these important issues. This is why I specialize in relationship and sex therapy. I am a Certified Sex Therapist through AASECT and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I also offer online classes for couples and individuals at classes.laurarademacher.com.
As a LMFT I have specialized training in working with all kinds of relationships and family groups.
Relationships can be the most important things in our lives and they can also be our greatest struggles. Sex is another important topic-our own sexual selves as well as our sexual relationships with others. But we don't always have a lot of places to talk about these important issues. This is why I specialize in relationship and sex therapy. I am a Certified Sex Therapist through AASECT and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I also offer online classes for couples and individuals at classes.laurarademacher.com.
(612) 879-0476 View (612) 879-0476
Photo of Stacy Stanley, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stacy Stanley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55435
Her overarching goal is to empower you to increase your self-awareness, building an improved connection with yourself, your family, the community and nature.
Stacy guides individuals, couples, and families to heal from relationship stressors and build resilience for the future. She believes that helping you reconnect with your emotional center and individual strengths is the key to positive change and growth. Using integrative therapy approaches, Stacy assists you in rediscovering your authentic self. Stacy helps identify and address the cycle that keeps you from being your best. She creates a clear and effective plan to address these problem areas.
Her overarching goal is to empower you to increase your self-awareness, building an improved connection with yourself, your family, the community and nature.
Stacy guides individuals, couples, and families to heal from relationship stressors and build resilience for the future. She believes that helping you reconnect with your emotional center and individual strengths is the key to positive change and growth. Using integrative therapy approaches, Stacy assists you in rediscovering your authentic self. Stacy helps identify and address the cycle that keeps you from being your best. She creates a clear and effective plan to address these problem areas.
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Photo of Erin E Shobe (Leach) - Minnesota Counseling and Therapy Center, MA, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Minnesota Counseling and Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55420
Along with the day-to-day struggles that arise out of our relationships, Erin is experienced in working with blended family issues, divorce and remarriage, and children who are dealing with developmental, emotional, and behavioral problems.
Erin is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Minnesota. She completed her undergraduate work at the University of North Dakota. While working as a Crisis Counselor, Erin earned a Masters Degree in Professional Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. Erin is also a Registered Play Therapist and a Certified PREPARE/ENRICH Counselor (Relationship Counseling). She is a member of the American Association for Play Therapy and American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Erin works with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups dealing with various life changes.
Along with the day-to-day struggles that arise out of our relationships, Erin is experienced in working with blended family issues, divorce and remarriage, and children who are dealing with developmental, emotional, and behavioral problems.
Erin is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Minnesota. She completed her undergraduate work at the University of North Dakota. While working as a Crisis Counselor, Erin earned a Masters Degree in Professional Counseling and Marriage and Family Therapy from the Minnesota School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University. Erin is also a Registered Play Therapist and a Certified PREPARE/ENRICH Counselor (Relationship Counseling). She is a member of the American Association for Play Therapy and American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. Erin works with children, adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups dealing with various life changes.
(651) 447-5898 View (651) 447-5898
Photo of Robin Getsug, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robin Getsug
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55431
I believe in compassionate client/ patient care using my unique combination of skills: Therapy +Art +Mindfulness for Group, Individual, Couple and Family Therapy settings. I will be primarily focusing my practice on adolescents and adults. I believe in a holistic, integrated trauma informed approach to my Art Therapy and Psychotherapy practices. I have a deep compassion and empathy for diverse people from all walks of life. I have a passion for sharing the healing power of creativity, specifically the visual arts.
I believe in compassionate client/ patient care using my unique combination of skills: Therapy +Art +Mindfulness for Group, Individual, Couple and Family Therapy settings. I will be primarily focusing my practice on adolescents and adults. I believe in a holistic, integrated trauma informed approach to my Art Therapy and Psychotherapy practices. I have a deep compassion and empathy for diverse people from all walks of life. I have a passion for sharing the healing power of creativity, specifically the visual arts.
(952) 260-4482 View (952) 260-4482
Photo of Amelia (Mia) Paquin, PhD, LP, E-Psprt, Psychologist
Amelia (Mia) Paquin
Psychologist, PhD, LP, E-Psprt
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55431
I believe life's challenges are opportunities for us to grow as human beings. Whether you or a family member are struggling with an old problem that keeps coming back or facing an entirely new problem, there is hope. I use research based assessments and treatments to help you or your family member overcome these concerns and thrive in your life.
I believe life's challenges are opportunities for us to grow as human beings. Whether you or a family member are struggling with an old problem that keeps coming back or facing an entirely new problem, there is hope. I use research based assessments and treatments to help you or your family member overcome these concerns and thrive in your life.
(651) 358-2699 View (651) 358-2699
Photo of Elizabeth Padilla, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Padilla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55431
Waitlist for new clients
I focus on learning who a person is uniquely, and I take an active role in treatment, offering genuine warmth and support as well as practical feedback. I draw from various theoretical approaches but commonly use cognitive behavioral therapy, mindful self-compassion, exposure response prevention, and internal family systems. As a licensed clinical social worker I have had the pleasure of working in cities across the United States with a wide range of individuals from a variety of backgrounds.
I focus on learning who a person is uniquely, and I take an active role in treatment, offering genuine warmth and support as well as practical feedback. I draw from various theoretical approaches but commonly use cognitive behavioral therapy, mindful self-compassion, exposure response prevention, and internal family systems. As a licensed clinical social worker I have had the pleasure of working in cities across the United States with a wide range of individuals from a variety of backgrounds.
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Photo of Madisyn Eckl, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Madisyn Eckl
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55435
I work from a systemic perspective, valuing all clients within the family or couple system.
I enjoy working with couples and family systems to strengthen relationships and create healthy interactions. I am passionate about working with couples and families struggling to manage conflict, children who need some extra support or individuals looking for a safe space to grow and challenge themselves.
I work from a systemic perspective, valuing all clients within the family or couple system.
I enjoy working with couples and family systems to strengthen relationships and create healthy interactions. I am passionate about working with couples and families struggling to manage conflict, children who need some extra support or individuals looking for a safe space to grow and challenge themselves.
(952) 248-8183 View (952) 248-8183
Photo of Judy Cavazos-Beal, LMFT, LADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Judy Cavazos-Beal
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55431
Sometimes you may find yourself experiencing conflicting emotions or in complex relationships. Therapy helps you find clarity and return to emotional wellness. I include family members in session when helpful and I explore with you ways to achieve enriching emotional and interpersonal experiences. I'm originally from Mexico and moved to MN in 1997, which allows me to provide therapy fluently in Spanish and/or English along with a personal understanding of Latino culture, American culture and multicultural relationships.
Sometimes you may find yourself experiencing conflicting emotions or in complex relationships. Therapy helps you find clarity and return to emotional wellness. I include family members in session when helpful and I explore with you ways to achieve enriching emotional and interpersonal experiences. I'm originally from Mexico and moved to MN in 1997, which allows me to provide therapy fluently in Spanish and/or English along with a personal understanding of Latino culture, American culture and multicultural relationships.
(866) 622-8458 x706 View (866) 622-8458 x706
Photo of Suzanne M Johnson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Suzanne M Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55431
Through our work together, individuals can experience increased self-esteem; more appropriate identification/expression of feelings; healthier relationships with family, parents and peers; clearer boundaries; fewer outbursts; ability to solve problems; decreased anxiety and depression.
I serve adults, families, and children (ages 4-18) with a variety of challenges. I help men and women handle breakups or relationship difficulties, cope with being single, navigate dating, create healthy relationships, manage anger/ frustration, deal with depression, explore adoptee issues, and adapt to change or loss. I serve families with children who are pushing boundaries, fighting with or blaming others, worrying excessively, yelling/talking back, lacking appropriate social skills or have poor self-esteem. I also work with adoptive families who are concerned about their adopted child's "problem" behaviors, difficulties adjusting, or challenges in connecting with others.
Through our work together, individuals can experience increased self-esteem; more appropriate identification/expression of feelings; healthier relationships with family, parents and peers; clearer boundaries; fewer outbursts; ability to solve problems; decreased anxiety and depression.
I serve adults, families, and children (ages 4-18) with a variety of challenges. I help men and women handle breakups or relationship difficulties, cope with being single, navigate dating, create healthy relationships, manage anger/ frustration, deal with depression, explore adoptee issues, and adapt to change or loss. I serve families with children who are pushing boundaries, fighting with or blaming others, worrying excessively, yelling/talking back, lacking appropriate social skills or have poor self-esteem. I also work with adoptive families who are concerned about their adopted child's "problem" behaviors, difficulties adjusting, or challenges in connecting with others.
(612) 217-1916 View (612) 217-1916
Photo of Lauren Adsem, MS, LADC, MHP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Lauren Adsem
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LADC, MHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55420
I offer individual, couples, family and group therapy to help people move toward a new way of living.
My clients are doers that have done all they can to try to gain control over substance overuse. Whether you are a spouse or parent that is desperate to get your loved one to stop using or you are struggling with substance overuse yourself- I am here for it all. Substance overuse effects the entire family system and it is best treated as a whole. I specialize in helping family systems heal from the impact of substance overuse and find a sense of grounding in their lives. I will provide a safe space to explore your story and we will work together to build a plan that will bring relief all around.
I offer individual, couples, family and group therapy to help people move toward a new way of living.
My clients are doers that have done all they can to try to gain control over substance overuse. Whether you are a spouse or parent that is desperate to get your loved one to stop using or you are struggling with substance overuse yourself- I am here for it all. Substance overuse effects the entire family system and it is best treated as a whole. I specialize in helping family systems heal from the impact of substance overuse and find a sense of grounding in their lives. I will provide a safe space to explore your story and we will work together to build a plan that will bring relief all around.
(952) 592-5890 View (952) 592-5890
Photo of Dr. Jessica Bleninger, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Jessica Bleninger
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, MN 55437  (Online Only)
EMDR is effective in a virtual format and can address symptoms of anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and childhood (" family of origin") issues.
- Limited daytime availability - Feeling anxious, overwhelmed or burned out by life's demands - work, parenting, relationships, obligations - while trying to stay connected to yourself? If you're looking for ways to be more present, mindful, and connected, I'm here to help you sort it out. I will partner with you to explore experiences connected to anxiety, trauma (PTSD), ADHD, and current life circumstances that keep you feeling stuck. I am trained in EMDR, utilize neurobiological approaches, trauma-informed techniques and somatic modalities.
EMDR is effective in a virtual format and can address symptoms of anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and childhood (" family of origin") issues.
- Limited daytime availability - Feeling anxious, overwhelmed or burned out by life's demands - work, parenting, relationships, obligations - while trying to stay connected to yourself? If you're looking for ways to be more present, mindful, and connected, I'm here to help you sort it out. I will partner with you to explore experiences connected to anxiety, trauma (PTSD), ADHD, and current life circumstances that keep you feeling stuck. I am trained in EMDR, utilize neurobiological approaches, trauma-informed techniques and somatic modalities.
(651) 615-6532 View (651) 615-6532
Photo of Judy Ann Meerkins - Judy Meerkins M.A. P.A., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Judy Meerkins M.A. P.A.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55431
I have MN license in Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT), a master's degree in psychology from St.
Curious, Kind and Direct - that is how people describe me. I have a genuine love for this work and I do what I do with sincerity and honesty. I am approachable and change and growth are nurtured here. I use a collaborative and eclectic approach to therapy. If desired, I am comfortable integrating a person's spirituality into therapy as well.
I have MN license in Marriage and Family Therapy (LMFT), a master's degree in psychology from St.
Curious, Kind and Direct - that is how people describe me. I have a genuine love for this work and I do what I do with sincerity and honesty. I am approachable and change and growth are nurtured here. I use a collaborative and eclectic approach to therapy. If desired, I am comfortable integrating a person's spirituality into therapy as well.
(952) 260-1681 View (952) 260-1681
Photo of Lisa S. Squire - Lisa S. Squire, PhD, LP Clinical Psychologist, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Lisa S. Squire, PhD, LP Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55425
I take an eclectic approach to working with my patients, and prefer to be a collaborative psychotherapist, coach and consultant, someone who can help you learn something new to manage and deal with the concerns that motivated you to see a psychologist for individual, family or marital/marriage therapy/counseling.
I imagine you're seeking a psychotherapist for counseling because you hope to make some important changes. Success working with a psychologist depends on you feeling comfortable engaging in a collaborative manner with her. Some therapy sessions may be difficult as you ask important questions about yourself, how you function in the world. As you proceed, you may experience frustration, confusion, anxiety, self-doubt and/or conflicted feelings, but at the end of your psychotherapy you'll most likely have learned something new to help you with the concerns that brought you in to seek psychological treatment.
I take an eclectic approach to working with my patients, and prefer to be a collaborative psychotherapist, coach and consultant, someone who can help you learn something new to manage and deal with the concerns that motivated you to see a psychologist for individual, family or marital/marriage therapy/counseling.
I imagine you're seeking a psychotherapist for counseling because you hope to make some important changes. Success working with a psychologist depends on you feeling comfortable engaging in a collaborative manner with her. Some therapy sessions may be difficult as you ask important questions about yourself, how you function in the world. As you proceed, you may experience frustration, confusion, anxiety, self-doubt and/or conflicted feelings, but at the end of your psychotherapy you'll most likely have learned something new to help you with the concerns that brought you in to seek psychological treatment.
(952) 373-0446 View (952) 373-0446
Photo of Sherri K Conran, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sherri K Conran
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55425
I have extensive experience working with families, couples, military service members (and their family) as well as individuals.
Life can bring some unexpected twists and turns, and it can be helpful to talk with someone to process, and heal from these events. I consider it an honor to hold space for clients, and provide a safe place for you to be heard, find healing, and to gain skills and tools to bring you more freedom, and peace . I work from a mind, body, spirit perspective and upon your request, I enjoy integrating Christian faith, and spiritual interventions into your care. I value bringing laughter, authenticity, and safety into our sessions. Please feel free to call me to schedule a free 30 minute consultation to answer any questions you may have.
I have extensive experience working with families, couples, military service members (and their family) as well as individuals.
Life can bring some unexpected twists and turns, and it can be helpful to talk with someone to process, and heal from these events. I consider it an honor to hold space for clients, and provide a safe place for you to be heard, find healing, and to gain skills and tools to bring you more freedom, and peace . I work from a mind, body, spirit perspective and upon your request, I enjoy integrating Christian faith, and spiritual interventions into your care. I value bringing laughter, authenticity, and safety into our sessions. Please feel free to call me to schedule a free 30 minute consultation to answer any questions you may have.
(612) 429-4014 View (612) 429-4014
Photo of Meri Ellen Parady, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meri Ellen Parady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55437  (Online Only)
I am trained and training to use Internal Family Systems style therapy.
I am a relational therapist with a special interest in healing from trauma and childhood wounds. A relational approach combines cognitive behavior and psychodynamic theories. My goal is to help clients build self-compassion, process painful emotions, and gain tools to navigate life's challenges. I offer a judgment-free space where clients feel heard and empowered to make positive changes.
I am trained and training to use Internal Family Systems style therapy.
I am a relational therapist with a special interest in healing from trauma and childhood wounds. A relational approach combines cognitive behavior and psychodynamic theories. My goal is to help clients build self-compassion, process painful emotions, and gain tools to navigate life's challenges. I offer a judgment-free space where clients feel heard and empowered to make positive changes.
(952) 260-8509 View (952) 260-8509
Photo of Jan Weber - Therapy Place Services LLC, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Therapy Place Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55420
I work with people who are interested in holistic health and traditional methods. I see motivated folx who invest in getting better by working outside sessions. I see people from difficult families, with mood, career, family, couple, chronic medical/cancer, obsessive/compulsive, attention, spiritual issues, and people who want to be more successful in relationships and with themselves. I see adults and elders, people from various cultures, countries and religions. I offer Saturday and evening appointments. I research concerns and network with holistic health professionals for your needs.
I work with people who are interested in holistic health and traditional methods. I see motivated folx who invest in getting better by working outside sessions. I see people from difficult families, with mood, career, family, couple, chronic medical/cancer, obsessive/compulsive, attention, spiritual issues, and people who want to be more successful in relationships and with themselves. I see adults and elders, people from various cultures, countries and religions. I offer Saturday and evening appointments. I research concerns and network with holistic health professionals for your needs.
(952) 679-6924 View (952) 679-6924
Photo of Jeressa O'Leary, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jeressa O'Leary
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55431
My areas of specialty include early childhood mental health and development, parenting support, and family therapy.
I have worked in mental health and human services in the Twin Cities since 2003 in a variety of settings, including inpatient, residential, school and community based settings. I am passionate about working with children and their caregivers using a strength and relationship-based approach. I am experienced in treating mental health symptoms related to neurodivergence (such as autism and ADHD), mood disorders (such as depression and anxiety), trauma, attachment problems and relationship conflicts. I enjoy working with children and adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families.
My areas of specialty include early childhood mental health and development, parenting support, and family therapy.
I have worked in mental health and human services in the Twin Cities since 2003 in a variety of settings, including inpatient, residential, school and community based settings. I am passionate about working with children and their caregivers using a strength and relationship-based approach. I am experienced in treating mental health symptoms related to neurodivergence (such as autism and ADHD), mood disorders (such as depression and anxiety), trauma, attachment problems and relationship conflicts. I enjoy working with children and adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families.
(952) 900-3643 x707 View (952) 900-3643 x707
Photo of Sue Kottschade Pearce, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Sue Kottschade Pearce
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, MN 55431
I offer individual therapy, family therapy, and parent consultation.
As a Licensed Psychologist, I have specialized in children (age 11 and up), teens, and young adults for over 20 years. I am passionate about my work and am blessed to be in a field that I love so much! I understand the stress and pressure that young people feel these days and have witnessed the growing trends that negatively impact mental health. Anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, perfectionism, relationship and friend issues, grief and loss. . . you’re not alone. Therapy can help you to develop healthy coping strategies, challenge negative and distorted beliefs, and develop positive resources within yourself.
I offer individual therapy, family therapy, and parent consultation.
As a Licensed Psychologist, I have specialized in children (age 11 and up), teens, and young adults for over 20 years. I am passionate about my work and am blessed to be in a field that I love so much! I understand the stress and pressure that young people feel these days and have witnessed the growing trends that negatively impact mental health. Anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, perfectionism, relationship and friend issues, grief and loss. . . you’re not alone. Therapy can help you to develop healthy coping strategies, challenge negative and distorted beliefs, and develop positive resources within yourself.
(952) 592-6060 View (952) 592-6060
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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.