Family Therapy in Uptown, Minneapolis, MN

Photo of Dr. Todd J. Lukens, PsyD, LP, MA, MS, Psychologist
Dr. Todd J. Lukens
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408
I have effectively utilized CBT, TF-CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Behavioral Activation, Family Systems, Parenting Skills, and other interventions.
Are you a teenager or young adult struggling to find your path in life? Are you still figuring out who you are and what you want out of life? You are not alone. Adolescence is a time of incredible transition and identity formation, and can be stressful and confusing. Despite how challenging this time is and that fact that our frontal lobe has not fully developed, we are asked to make some of the most important decisions of our lives (academic, occupational, relational, vocational). Adolescence and young adults often struggle with anxiety, depression, past trauma, substance use, and identity formation.
I have effectively utilized CBT, TF-CBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Behavioral Activation, Family Systems, Parenting Skills, and other interventions.
Are you a teenager or young adult struggling to find your path in life? Are you still figuring out who you are and what you want out of life? You are not alone. Adolescence is a time of incredible transition and identity formation, and can be stressful and confusing. Despite how challenging this time is and that fact that our frontal lobe has not fully developed, we are asked to make some of the most important decisions of our lives (academic, occupational, relational, vocational). Adolescence and young adults often struggle with anxiety, depression, past trauma, substance use, and identity formation.
(612) 887-3273 View (612) 887-3273
Photo of Daniel A. Christensen, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Daniel A. Christensen
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Unseen and Unknown. The pain of not being seen or known can be debilitating and confusing. The experience of being seen within the therapeutic relationship is a central part of change in therapy. I assist people in learning to see themselves in a more grounded way, to learn and practice skills for manifesting core values, and to work out of the traps created by the ruptures and traumas inhibiting the experience of being integrated. I work with developmental/family of origin issues including trauma (physical, sexual, and emotional), neglect, and chemical use issues. My case load consists of individuals, couples, and families.
Unseen and Unknown. The pain of not being seen or known can be debilitating and confusing. The experience of being seen within the therapeutic relationship is a central part of change in therapy. I assist people in learning to see themselves in a more grounded way, to learn and practice skills for manifesting core values, and to work out of the traps created by the ruptures and traumas inhibiting the experience of being integrated. I work with developmental/family of origin issues including trauma (physical, sexual, and emotional), neglect, and chemical use issues. My case load consists of individuals, couples, and families.
(612) 354-8008 View (612) 354-8008
Photo of Sandra Haukom Reardon, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sandra Haukom Reardon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408
I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT-E, Family Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Sensorimotor Therapy, Expressive arts, mindfulness and strengths-based focus into therapy.
As a therapist, it is an honor to be part of another person's process in understanding their personal worth. I respect and value my client's self-determination, therefore, my therapeutic approach is eclectic to correspond with the matter at hand. I am empathetic, patient and respectful, while building a relationship with my client. I believe that progress begins when my client has established trust in our relationship. I have faith that each client has the ability to discover their strengths and to use these strengths to achieve their individual goals.
I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CBT-E, Family Based Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Sensorimotor Therapy, Expressive arts, mindfulness and strengths-based focus into therapy.
As a therapist, it is an honor to be part of another person's process in understanding their personal worth. I respect and value my client's self-determination, therefore, my therapeutic approach is eclectic to correspond with the matter at hand. I am empathetic, patient and respectful, while building a relationship with my client. I believe that progress begins when my client has established trust in our relationship. I have faith that each client has the ability to discover their strengths and to use these strengths to achieve their individual goals.
(612) 255-4642 View (612) 255-4642
Photo of Travis Taylor, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Travis Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55401  (Online Only)
Let’s free you from the emotional pain, to help you deal with life on life’s terms, and find meaning and purpose in your work, family, friendships, and all other areas of life.
You just don’t know what to do. Feeling stuck and struggling to make a decision. No matter what you do it’s never enough. Overwhelmed and frustrated, the fear of doing the wrong thing is paralyzing. Everything is on the line and you need help figuring things out. Exhausted from the worrying, tired of the feelings of sadness, preventing you from thriving. You are ready for relief, you are ready for help.
Let’s free you from the emotional pain, to help you deal with life on life’s terms, and find meaning and purpose in your work, family, friendships, and all other areas of life.
You just don’t know what to do. Feeling stuck and struggling to make a decision. No matter what you do it’s never enough. Overwhelmed and frustrated, the fear of doing the wrong thing is paralyzing. Everything is on the line and you need help figuring things out. Exhausted from the worrying, tired of the feelings of sadness, preventing you from thriving. You are ready for relief, you are ready for help.
(612) 429-4730 View (612) 429-4730
Photo of Nancy Lawroski, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Nancy Lawroski
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408
People come to therapy for many reasons. In the first few sessions, I want to get to know you--what you are struggling with, your hopes and fears for the future, what seems to be getting in the way, what strengths and assets you bring. Together, we arrive at a plan, identifying your goals, sources of distress, and how best to work toward symptom relief and greater satisfaction with life and relationships. My approach integrates several treatment modalities, including psychoanalytic/psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based therapies, life-span developmental approaches, attachment theory, family and couples therapy.
People come to therapy for many reasons. In the first few sessions, I want to get to know you--what you are struggling with, your hopes and fears for the future, what seems to be getting in the way, what strengths and assets you bring. Together, we arrive at a plan, identifying your goals, sources of distress, and how best to work toward symptom relief and greater satisfaction with life and relationships. My approach integrates several treatment modalities, including psychoanalytic/psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness-based therapies, life-span developmental approaches, attachment theory, family and couples therapy.
(651) 964-0957 View (651) 964-0957
Photo of Stacy Rankin Greco, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacy Rankin Greco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408
My approach is a blend of treatment modalities stemming from psychodynamic, developmental/attachment, family systems and cognitive behavioral frameworks.
Through the process of psychotherapy, I work together with my clients to help them: develop a better understanding of their histories, triggers and patterns in order to get unstuck and create new endings to old stories; build coping skills and capacity for resiliency in order to face stressors and fears that are blocking growth; learn to live authentically in order to create a life congruent with what matters to them. I feel passionate about my work. I always hope to help people realize their worth and competency so they can feel empowered to take charge of their lives and live with more purpose and fulfillment.
My approach is a blend of treatment modalities stemming from psychodynamic, developmental/attachment, family systems and cognitive behavioral frameworks.
Through the process of psychotherapy, I work together with my clients to help them: develop a better understanding of their histories, triggers and patterns in order to get unstuck and create new endings to old stories; build coping skills and capacity for resiliency in order to face stressors and fears that are blocking growth; learn to live authentically in order to create a life congruent with what matters to them. I feel passionate about my work. I always hope to help people realize their worth and competency so they can feel empowered to take charge of their lives and live with more purpose and fulfillment.
(612) 294-8651 View (612) 294-8651
Photo of Hope Z White, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hope Z White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408
However, areas of special focus include parent development, adolescent development and mental health, couple's and family relationships, trauma, shame, regret and remorse, self esteem, addictions, parenting, life transitions, depression and anxiety.
Life is difficult. Feeling better is possible. We all have the right and the ability to feel some peace and acceptance about our lives; the things we can control and the things we can not. We may often believe the negative thoughts we have (that we often make up) and act accordingly. You can change your life, your outlook and the way you think and feel about yourself and your relationships. I believe changes and growth occur when an individual is able to challenge their thoughts, examine their perspectives and learn how to be true to themselves.
However, areas of special focus include parent development, adolescent development and mental health, couple's and family relationships, trauma, shame, regret and remorse, self esteem, addictions, parenting, life transitions, depression and anxiety.
Life is difficult. Feeling better is possible. We all have the right and the ability to feel some peace and acceptance about our lives; the things we can control and the things we can not. We may often believe the negative thoughts we have (that we often make up) and act accordingly. You can change your life, your outlook and the way you think and feel about yourself and your relationships. I believe changes and growth occur when an individual is able to challenge their thoughts, examine their perspectives and learn how to be true to themselves.
(651) 560-3646 View (651) 560-3646
Photo of Brockman Schumacher Jr, MS, LP, Psychologist
Brockman Schumacher Jr
Psychologist, MS, LP
Verified Verified
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408
For more than 30 years I have counseled men, women, and teens addressing a crisis, a tragedy, something troubling they are struggling with now or from the past. My work with you will focus on developing your own skills to address current and past issues. Your work with me will be empowering and deliberate and will enable you to have a more fulfilling future. Our work together will include, but not necessarily be limited to consideration and assessments of how particular issues are affecting you and/or those you care about. You may bring a partner, friend, or family member to our sessions.
For more than 30 years I have counseled men, women, and teens addressing a crisis, a tragedy, something troubling they are struggling with now or from the past. My work with you will focus on developing your own skills to address current and past issues. Your work with me will be empowering and deliberate and will enable you to have a more fulfilling future. Our work together will include, but not necessarily be limited to consideration and assessments of how particular issues are affecting you and/or those you care about. You may bring a partner, friend, or family member to our sessions.
(952) 592-2982 View (952) 592-2982
Photo of Marissa Cerone, MA, RYT-200, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Marissa Cerone
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Welcome! I specialize in working with clients between ages 14-40, non-monogamous/polyamorous clients, and people experiencing major life transitions. That includes life events like reconsidering your relationship structure, navigating estrangement or reconnection, welcoming a new family member or saying goodbye, career shifts, and everything in between. It is important to me that you feel anchored in my presence, and that you can also trust me to give it to you straight. We are going to take it sloooooow - pausing, reflecting, and being present with the big and small feelings that we unearth in the process.
Welcome! I specialize in working with clients between ages 14-40, non-monogamous/polyamorous clients, and people experiencing major life transitions. That includes life events like reconsidering your relationship structure, navigating estrangement or reconnection, welcoming a new family member or saying goodbye, career shifts, and everything in between. It is important to me that you feel anchored in my presence, and that you can also trust me to give it to you straight. We are going to take it sloooooow - pausing, reflecting, and being present with the big and small feelings that we unearth in the process.
(612) 806-0385 View (612) 806-0385
Photo of Connie Studer - Heteroflexible Therapy, Ltd, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heteroflexible Therapy, Ltd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
Are most days a struggle? Heteroflexible Therapy is there to help. Whether you struggle with relationships, addictions, dealing with the loss of a loved one, or past issues of abuse we will work together to meet your personal goals. The practice offers a warm and accepting environment for individuals and couples. Connie Studer, M.A., LMFT, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, is skilled at recognizing the most effective therapy approach to help you find more satisfaction and joy in life. An open and affirming practice for straight, lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, and transgender individuals.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
Are most days a struggle? Heteroflexible Therapy is there to help. Whether you struggle with relationships, addictions, dealing with the loss of a loved one, or past issues of abuse we will work together to meet your personal goals. The practice offers a warm and accepting environment for individuals and couples. Connie Studer, M.A., LMFT, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, is skilled at recognizing the most effective therapy approach to help you find more satisfaction and joy in life. An open and affirming practice for straight, lesbian, gay, bisexual, queer, and transgender individuals.
(651) 967-7981 View (651) 967-7981
Photo of Laura Burkhardt, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Burkhardt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408
I want to work with you or your family to support your goals.
Hello! We all experience times of difficulty and shifts in our lives. I focus on building compassion for self and others to help individuals and families work through stress, increase confidence and build support systems in their lives. I work with those who are experiencing trauma, posttraumatic stress, depression, ADHD, anxiety, identity development, life transitions, divorce and co-parenting stress. I enjoy working across the age spectrum including children 7 and under and adolescents (ages 12+) through adulthood.
I want to work with you or your family to support your goals.
Hello! We all experience times of difficulty and shifts in our lives. I focus on building compassion for self and others to help individuals and families work through stress, increase confidence and build support systems in their lives. I work with those who are experiencing trauma, posttraumatic stress, depression, ADHD, anxiety, identity development, life transitions, divorce and co-parenting stress. I enjoy working across the age spectrum including children 7 and under and adolescents (ages 12+) through adulthood.
(651) 888-8430 View (651) 888-8430
Photo of Kirsten Lind Seal, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kirsten Lind Seal
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
These can affect our lives both within and outside of our family relationships because our family history often has much to do with how our lives are going now.
Are you having trouble in your close relationships? Tired of fighting about everything? Do you feel like your family life is completely out of control? My clients - families, couples and individuals alike - tell me that they appreciate my kindness, sense of humor and calm non-judgmental outlook. Our relationships are the foundation of well being and that is where I put my focus as a therapist. It can be tough to untangle things but you CAN rebuild relationship - it IS doable. I believe whole-heartedly that we do best when we are connected to one another in a healthy way.
These can affect our lives both within and outside of our family relationships because our family history often has much to do with how our lives are going now.
Are you having trouble in your close relationships? Tired of fighting about everything? Do you feel like your family life is completely out of control? My clients - families, couples and individuals alike - tell me that they appreciate my kindness, sense of humor and calm non-judgmental outlook. Our relationships are the foundation of well being and that is where I put my focus as a therapist. It can be tough to untangle things but you CAN rebuild relationship - it IS doable. I believe whole-heartedly that we do best when we are connected to one another in a healthy way.
(612) 260-7615 View (612) 260-7615
Photo of Bruce E Fischer, PhD, LP, LMFT, Psychologist
Bruce E Fischer
Psychologist, PhD, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
I do couple & family counseling.
I've been working with adults and teens for over 47 years. My approach is empathic, direct, and thoughtful. Given I have a wide background in my training, I adapt my therapeutic approach to your needs. I find that effective therapy is a collaborative approach where we work together to understand your concerns, their origins and most importantly what can be done to bring about both the internal and behavioral changes that will be beneficial to you. My goal in therapy is to help integrate your shame and vulnerabilities into a healthy identity grounded in self-esteem and pride.
I do couple & family counseling.
I've been working with adults and teens for over 47 years. My approach is empathic, direct, and thoughtful. Given I have a wide background in my training, I adapt my therapeutic approach to your needs. I find that effective therapy is a collaborative approach where we work together to understand your concerns, their origins and most importantly what can be done to bring about both the internal and behavioral changes that will be beneficial to you. My goal in therapy is to help integrate your shame and vulnerabilities into a healthy identity grounded in self-esteem and pride.
(612) 223-7345 View (612) 223-7345
Photo of Rachel Levine, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Levine
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (Minnesota, Illinois & Massachusetts) and hold a certificate in Alcohol and Drug Counseling. I offer clinical services to individuals, couples and families as well as clinical supervision to therapists. My training and who I am is heavily influenced by the LGBTQ+ community and my practice is open and affirming to any identity or relationship however defined. At this time, all sessions are provided via telehealth.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (Minnesota, Illinois & Massachusetts) and hold a certificate in Alcohol and Drug Counseling. I offer clinical services to individuals, couples and families as well as clinical supervision to therapists. My training and who I am is heavily influenced by the LGBTQ+ community and my practice is open and affirming to any identity or relationship however defined. At this time, all sessions are provided via telehealth.
(651) 314-4248 View (651) 314-4248
Terri J Bernard
Psychologist, Psy, D, LP
Verified Verified
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408
My areas of specialty include GLBTQ individuals; recovery from trauma; and aftermath of suicide for family and significant others.
Every person's experience in therapy is unique. I know that my 20+ years of experience, the ongoing training I consistently pursue and the areas in which I have particular expertise are important factors to the people who come to see me. I create a safe and compassionate environment so individuals and couples can freely express their questions and needs. Beyond those critical pieces, I believe that the success of the therapy will rest on our ability to work together in an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust.
My areas of specialty include GLBTQ individuals; recovery from trauma; and aftermath of suicide for family and significant others.
Every person's experience in therapy is unique. I know that my 20+ years of experience, the ongoing training I consistently pursue and the areas in which I have particular expertise are important factors to the people who come to see me. I create a safe and compassionate environment so individuals and couples can freely express their questions and needs. Beyond those critical pieces, I believe that the success of the therapy will rest on our ability to work together in an atmosphere of mutual respect and trust.
(612) 223-6542 View (612) 223-6542
Photo of Heather Johnson - Heather Johnson, PsyD, LP, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Heather Johnson, PsyD, LP
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408
I enjoy working with clients around relational and family concerns, trauma, depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
***Not taking new clients at this time.*** Therapy can provide the resources, skills, and support to make positive transformations in your life. I'm sensitive to each individual's needs, goals, and comfort with the therapeutic process. My philosophy around change includes looking at past relational and emotional experiences, developing skills to manage difficult emotions in the present, and gaining insight into what might be creating barriers to a satisfying life. I offer this guidance in the context of a safe therapeutic relationship. I incorporate self-exploration and coping skill development to help reach your desired goals.
I enjoy working with clients around relational and family concerns, trauma, depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
***Not taking new clients at this time.*** Therapy can provide the resources, skills, and support to make positive transformations in your life. I'm sensitive to each individual's needs, goals, and comfort with the therapeutic process. My philosophy around change includes looking at past relational and emotional experiences, developing skills to manage difficult emotions in the present, and gaining insight into what might be creating barriers to a satisfying life. I offer this guidance in the context of a safe therapeutic relationship. I incorporate self-exploration and coping skill development to help reach your desired goals.
(612) 712-4504 View (612) 712-4504
Photo of Laura Michelle Houlton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Michelle Houlton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408
As a marriage and family therapist I specialize in work with individuals and couples who find themselves wrestling with their own brokenness. I am passionate about building healthy connections with my clients and using that platform of trust to help facilitate self-compassion, shame resilience, and healing. I offer a non-judgmental, strength based perspective, in which I work together in a team approach with my clients to help them achieve their goals. I identify as a Christian and incorporate faith into my sessions as much or as little as clients want.
As a marriage and family therapist I specialize in work with individuals and couples who find themselves wrestling with their own brokenness. I am passionate about building healthy connections with my clients and using that platform of trust to help facilitate self-compassion, shame resilience, and healing. I offer a non-judgmental, strength based perspective, in which I work together in a team approach with my clients to help them achieve their goals. I identify as a Christian and incorporate faith into my sessions as much or as little as clients want.
(651) 400-7607 View (651) 400-7607
Photo of Ian P McLoone, LPCC, LADC
Ian P McLoone
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Are you or a loved one thinking about making a change to your drinking or substance use? I can help. Some of my clients have been in and out of rehab many times and were looking for an alternative-someone with deep expertise who can provide a new way of looking at their problem and identify a pathway out of their suffering. Still other clients came to me because they did not feel that they needed something as intensive as rehab and wanted to work on their substance use while still taking care of their career, family, home and other obligations. I would be honored to be of assistance.
Are you or a loved one thinking about making a change to your drinking or substance use? I can help. Some of my clients have been in and out of rehab many times and were looking for an alternative-someone with deep expertise who can provide a new way of looking at their problem and identify a pathway out of their suffering. Still other clients came to me because they did not feel that they needed something as intensive as rehab and wanted to work on their substance use while still taking care of their career, family, home and other obligations. I would be honored to be of assistance.
(651) 390-1238 View (651) 390-1238
Photo of Mischel Walgren, PhD, Psychologist
Mischel Walgren
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408
I use an integration of theories and approaches to best match your needs, including attachment, family systems and psychodynamic theories as well as mind/body and mindfulness approaches.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or relationship issues? Do you notice that past experiences seem to impact your life now in ways that create blocks or difficulty? Have you experienced recent loss or a stressful life change? Psychotherapy is a powerful resource to help restore direction and balance as well as facilitating self-understanding and emotional healing. Exploring and understanding who you are and how you became who you are is part of achieving desired change and growth. I bring 30+ years of experience, training, compassion and commitment to this collaborative and relational process.
I use an integration of theories and approaches to best match your needs, including attachment, family systems and psychodynamic theories as well as mind/body and mindfulness approaches.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or relationship issues? Do you notice that past experiences seem to impact your life now in ways that create blocks or difficulty? Have you experienced recent loss or a stressful life change? Psychotherapy is a powerful resource to help restore direction and balance as well as facilitating self-understanding and emotional healing. Exploring and understanding who you are and how you became who you are is part of achieving desired change and growth. I bring 30+ years of experience, training, compassion and commitment to this collaborative and relational process.
(612) 568-7909 View (612) 568-7909
Photo of Maggie R Meyers, DMFT, LPCC, Counselor
Maggie R Meyers
Counselor, DMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Uptown, Minneapolis, MN 55408
I am an LPCC with experience in areas including: eating disorders, depression, anxiety, abuse, and family concerns among others.
Life is not always easy. Add in a global pandemic, community uprise, and our ongoing political environment, and some days it feels impossible. I get it, and want to be a source of reprieve. My goal is to help you create a better relationship with yourself whereby creating better relationships in the rest of your life. I believe that all of us need a person to talk to that has no bias or judgement in regards to what we are facing. I want to 'dig deep' so to speak and get to the root of what is stopping you from living your best life.
I am an LPCC with experience in areas including: eating disorders, depression, anxiety, abuse, and family concerns among others.
Life is not always easy. Add in a global pandemic, community uprise, and our ongoing political environment, and some days it feels impossible. I get it, and want to be a source of reprieve. My goal is to help you create a better relationship with yourself whereby creating better relationships in the rest of your life. I believe that all of us need a person to talk to that has no bias or judgement in regards to what we are facing. I want to 'dig deep' so to speak and get to the root of what is stopping you from living your best life.
(612) 260-8783 View (612) 260-8783

See more therapy options for Uptown, Minneapolis

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.