Relational Therapists in Saint Paul, MN

Photo of Sarah Berlin, MA, LGSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Berlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LGSW, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55105
Utilizing relational and play-based approaches, I support young children with emotional-behavioral dysregulation, early trauma, and adjustment to life transitions.
I work with adults and young children using a warm, collaborative approach. My adult specialties include anxiety, depression, perinatal mental health, parenting/bonding difficulties, childhood trauma, and abortion/reproductive justice. I also value working with single and LGBTQ+ parents. Together we explore past experiences, relationships, and patterns within a secure therapeutic relationship to foster growth. I honor clients’ diverse identities and recognize that many internal struggles are reflective of systemic, sociopolitical issues.
Utilizing relational and play-based approaches, I support young children with emotional-behavioral dysregulation, early trauma, and adjustment to life transitions.
I work with adults and young children using a warm, collaborative approach. My adult specialties include anxiety, depression, perinatal mental health, parenting/bonding difficulties, childhood trauma, and abortion/reproductive justice. I also value working with single and LGBTQ+ parents. Together we explore past experiences, relationships, and patterns within a secure therapeutic relationship to foster growth. I honor clients’ diverse identities and recognize that many internal struggles are reflective of systemic, sociopolitical issues.
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Photo of Laura Holway, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Laura Holway
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
My approach blends psychodynamic psychotherapy with NARM (the NeuroAffective Relational Model) to help my clients become more conscious of the patterns driving their symptoms and difficulties.
Whether you have been pulled to therapy by significant life events, challenges with self-acceptance, relationship struggles, parenting challenges, or difficulty coping with symptoms of anxiety or depression, I believe that therapy offers us an invitation into deeper connection with ourselves and our loved ones. By taking the time to gently untangle the deep patterns fueling our symptoms and behavior, often related to our early environment and attachments, we can begin to make more conscious choices about how we want to show up in our lives.
My approach blends psychodynamic psychotherapy with NARM (the NeuroAffective Relational Model) to help my clients become more conscious of the patterns driving their symptoms and difficulties.
Whether you have been pulled to therapy by significant life events, challenges with self-acceptance, relationship struggles, parenting challenges, or difficulty coping with symptoms of anxiety or depression, I believe that therapy offers us an invitation into deeper connection with ourselves and our loved ones. By taking the time to gently untangle the deep patterns fueling our symptoms and behavior, often related to our early environment and attachments, we can begin to make more conscious choices about how we want to show up in our lives.
(651) 386-3263 View (651) 386-3263
Photo of Rebecca A Stewart, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca A Stewart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55116
I utilize a mix of relationship-based therapy strategies including psychodynamic, strengths-based, humanistic & relational perspectives, attachment theory, somatic experiencing, a Jungian orientation & focus on mindfulness.
Welcome. The desire to feel seen, heard, and understood is a universal and essential part of human wellness. In my work as a psychotherapist I try to help people understand, both emotionally & intellectually, the deeper roots of their difficulties & reignite their own natural gifts for growth, and resilience. I understand that coming to therapy can be difficult, & I strive to provide a warm, compassionate, & empathetic space for our work together. I am relational in my approach; this means I believe that how well I listen and connect with you matters.
I utilize a mix of relationship-based therapy strategies including psychodynamic, strengths-based, humanistic & relational perspectives, attachment theory, somatic experiencing, a Jungian orientation & focus on mindfulness.
Welcome. The desire to feel seen, heard, and understood is a universal and essential part of human wellness. In my work as a psychotherapist I try to help people understand, both emotionally & intellectually, the deeper roots of their difficulties & reignite their own natural gifts for growth, and resilience. I understand that coming to therapy can be difficult, & I strive to provide a warm, compassionate, & empathetic space for our work together. I am relational in my approach; this means I believe that how well I listen and connect with you matters.
(612) 260-9980 View (612) 260-9980
Photo of Irene Churchill, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Irene Churchill
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55105  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Together we will co-create a safe(r) container through relational, somatic, and land-based practices to explore and get to know our inner experiences, how we relate to ourselves, our communities and the land.
Hello! I'm an Indigenous, queer, nonbinary, currently non-disabled, justice-oriented provider. My practice prioritizes working with fellow Native & Indigenous community members as well as QTBIPOC. I work with complex trauma, grief, loss, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Together we will co-create a safe(r) container through relational, somatic, and land-based practices to explore and get to know our inner experiences, how we relate to ourselves, our communities and the land.
Hello! I'm an Indigenous, queer, nonbinary, currently non-disabled, justice-oriented provider. My practice prioritizes working with fellow Native & Indigenous community members as well as QTBIPOC. I work with complex trauma, grief, loss, trauma, depression, and anxiety.
(651) 412-4790 View (651) 412-4790
Photo of Kelsie Ballentine, MS, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kelsie Ballentine
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LAMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55104
My training in attachment theories and Emotionally Focused Therapy help me work with individuals and couples to gain insight in their individual and relational contexts.
In my work with clients, I seek to meet them where they are. From there, we can begin our work together. The experiences and relationships in your life have a great impact on who you are today. And you are the best expert in your life. I want to honor those things while also helping you to grow and move towards who you want to be. I view the therapy as a collaborative space where we can work together to find growth, healing, and change.
My training in attachment theories and Emotionally Focused Therapy help me work with individuals and couples to gain insight in their individual and relational contexts.
In my work with clients, I seek to meet them where they are. From there, we can begin our work together. The experiences and relationships in your life have a great impact on who you are today. And you are the best expert in your life. I want to honor those things while also helping you to grow and move towards who you want to be. I view the therapy as a collaborative space where we can work together to find growth, healing, and change.
(651) 401-4796 View (651) 401-4796
Photo of Jessica Luehring, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Luehring
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55114
I also have training in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, severe and persistent mental illness, stress management, communication issues, relational and attachment issues, and addressing family issues, establishing wants/needs/boundaries, and healthy emotional processing.
I believe that improving your relationship with yourself improves everything. Self-work can be some of the most difficult work to engage in, but together we can make it some of the most rewarding work that you’ve ever done. Interpersonal relationships, mental health concerns, work life, all of these and more can make us feel confused about who we are, where we fit in and how to move forward. My focus is in helping individuals and couples navigate difficult feelings, identify and change dysfunctional thoughts and patterns, and overcome challenging situations in order to enjoy a life that they deserve.
I also have training in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, severe and persistent mental illness, stress management, communication issues, relational and attachment issues, and addressing family issues, establishing wants/needs/boundaries, and healthy emotional processing.
I believe that improving your relationship with yourself improves everything. Self-work can be some of the most difficult work to engage in, but together we can make it some of the most rewarding work that you’ve ever done. Interpersonal relationships, mental health concerns, work life, all of these and more can make us feel confused about who we are, where we fit in and how to move forward. My focus is in helping individuals and couples navigate difficult feelings, identify and change dysfunctional thoughts and patterns, and overcome challenging situations in order to enjoy a life that they deserve.
(651) 412-4281 View (651) 412-4281
Photo of Nikita Tavares, MPS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nikita Tavares
Pre-Licensed Professional, MPS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
My therapy practice is relational and integrative, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Existential Therapy, EMDR Therapy, and mindfulness practices.
You may feel like you are stuck or moving through life without purpose or meaning, like your brain is on autopilot, reacting to the world instead of responding mindfully or with meaning. My role as a therapist is to foster a calm, genuine, and compassionate environment that will allow you to tap into your inner healing system. The goal being to turn down the volume of incessant thoughts, soften the rough edges of the past, and overall feel empowered in approaching life with greater clarity, ease, flexibility, and confidence.
My therapy practice is relational and integrative, drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Existential Therapy, EMDR Therapy, and mindfulness practices.
You may feel like you are stuck or moving through life without purpose or meaning, like your brain is on autopilot, reacting to the world instead of responding mindfully or with meaning. My role as a therapist is to foster a calm, genuine, and compassionate environment that will allow you to tap into your inner healing system. The goal being to turn down the volume of incessant thoughts, soften the rough edges of the past, and overall feel empowered in approaching life with greater clarity, ease, flexibility, and confidence.
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Photo of Ayn Rassier, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ayn Rassier
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104  (Online Only)
Seeking out therapy can be an overwhelming step to take and I am so glad you are here! I strive to meet individual adults and couples with compassionate curiosity in an effort to address concerns such as those that come with anxiety, stress, life transitions, relational challenges, communication issues, career exploration/transition, chronic illness, aging, and grief.
Seeking out therapy can be an overwhelming step to take and I am so glad you are here! I strive to meet individual adults and couples with compassionate curiosity in an effort to address concerns such as those that come with anxiety, stress, life transitions, relational challenges, communication issues, career exploration/transition, chronic illness, aging, and grief.
(651) 927-3692 View (651) 927-3692
Photo of Chiara Mesia Doig, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chiara Mesia Doig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55114
My approach to therapy is eclectic with a focus on psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems (IFS), attachment based, trauma-informed, relational, multicultural and feminist approaches.
I am originally from Peru but I have lived in MN since 2004. Spanish is my native language. I also speak English fluently. I identify as a cis, straight, immigrant, Latina or Latinx woman & social worker. My work focuses on offering empathy, support, promoting insight, and working collaboratively to achieve goals. I strive to understand people's experiences within their own unique context and take into account larger community and social issues, and how they impact our experience.
My approach to therapy is eclectic with a focus on psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems (IFS), attachment based, trauma-informed, relational, multicultural and feminist approaches.
I am originally from Peru but I have lived in MN since 2004. Spanish is my native language. I also speak English fluently. I identify as a cis, straight, immigrant, Latina or Latinx woman & social worker. My work focuses on offering empathy, support, promoting insight, and working collaboratively to achieve goals. I strive to understand people's experiences within their own unique context and take into account larger community and social issues, and how they impact our experience.
(651) 504-8933 View (651) 504-8933
Photo of Lee Cunningham, MPS, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
Lee Cunningham
Counselor, MPS, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55102
I work in a relational-dynamic orientation.
It is common to experience stress in daily life. The impact on our life may range from mild to significant. We may know what exactly what the problem is or it may be something unfamiliar. Therapy can help us understand and respond to our stress in healthy, authentic ways. If you are an athlete, finding support can feel more challenging in many ways. I offer a safe, non-judgmental and confidential space to discuss your stress openly.
I work in a relational-dynamic orientation.
It is common to experience stress in daily life. The impact on our life may range from mild to significant. We may know what exactly what the problem is or it may be something unfamiliar. Therapy can help us understand and respond to our stress in healthy, authentic ways. If you are an athlete, finding support can feel more challenging in many ways. I offer a safe, non-judgmental and confidential space to discuss your stress openly.
(612) 260-6982 View (612) 260-6982
Photo of Rachel Reifenberger, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Reifenberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55104
I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and pull from CBT, relational, ACT, person-centered, feminist and humanistic approaches.
Current openings for Mondays and Fridays! I believe each person is doing the best they can with what they have, and have a passion for working with those who wish to learn how to best use their strengths effectively to reach their goals. I enjoy working with adults seeking to learn more about themselves, including the patterns that may have stopped working for them. Few things feel more honorable than sitting with those who are open to challenge themselves, while honoring their needs, wants and goals. I love working with those with the desire to continue growing through every chapter of life.
I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and pull from CBT, relational, ACT, person-centered, feminist and humanistic approaches.
Current openings for Mondays and Fridays! I believe each person is doing the best they can with what they have, and have a passion for working with those who wish to learn how to best use their strengths effectively to reach their goals. I enjoy working with adults seeking to learn more about themselves, including the patterns that may have stopped working for them. Few things feel more honorable than sitting with those who are open to challenge themselves, while honoring their needs, wants and goals. I love working with those with the desire to continue growing through every chapter of life.
(651) 478-2577 View (651) 478-2577
Photo of Melanie Huska, PhD, LGSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Huska
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LGSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55114  (Online Only)
I draw on a variety of modalities such as Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational-Cultural Therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
My passion is working with college and university undergrad and graduate students and faculty. I come to therapeutic work after training and working as a professor of Latin American history, and I am excited to support students and faculty in a different way. I view therapy as a critical component of wellness, which is essential for true accessibility at all levels of higher education. I work with people struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship concerns, identity formation (gender, sexuality, race, general), imposter syndrome, stress, lack of coping skills, grief, self-esteem, and body image.
I draw on a variety of modalities such as Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Relational-Cultural Therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
My passion is working with college and university undergrad and graduate students and faculty. I come to therapeutic work after training and working as a professor of Latin American history, and I am excited to support students and faculty in a different way. I view therapy as a critical component of wellness, which is essential for true accessibility at all levels of higher education. I work with people struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship concerns, identity formation (gender, sexuality, race, general), imposter syndrome, stress, lack of coping skills, grief, self-esteem, and body image.
(651) 412-4984 View (651) 412-4984
Photo of Justin Julson, MA, LADC, Counselor
Justin Julson
Counselor, MA, LADC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55114
Within the therapeutic relationship, we will work together to explore your life experiences and uncover relational patterns that may be holding you back so you can live more fully.
I work with adolescents and adults needing support in addressing existential concerns, life transitions, relational issues, anxiety, depression, substance use issues, self-esteem, and trauma. I am person-centered and utilize psychodynamic therapy, emotional processing, mindfulness and attachment-based therapy to support you in your healing journey.
Within the therapeutic relationship, we will work together to explore your life experiences and uncover relational patterns that may be holding you back so you can live more fully.
I work with adolescents and adults needing support in addressing existential concerns, life transitions, relational issues, anxiety, depression, substance use issues, self-esteem, and trauma. I am person-centered and utilize psychodynamic therapy, emotional processing, mindfulness and attachment-based therapy to support you in your healing journey.
(651) 615-5462 View (651) 615-5462
Photo of Melanie Aleman, MA , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melanie Aleman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55104  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I provide supportive, challenging and direct therapy through a variety of strengths-based, trauma-informed, therapy modalities. I meet the client(s) where they are at when they come in to therapy however, I also look to you to take charge within the space to get what you need and move towards your goals. I use therapeutic modalities to assist in identifying patterns that will help us explore the impact on your functioning, relational interactions, and overall wellbeing. My clients include individuals and couples who experience challenges with trauma, family violence, mental illness, emotional and behavioral disorders.
I provide supportive, challenging and direct therapy through a variety of strengths-based, trauma-informed, therapy modalities. I meet the client(s) where they are at when they come in to therapy however, I also look to you to take charge within the space to get what you need and move towards your goals. I use therapeutic modalities to assist in identifying patterns that will help us explore the impact on your functioning, relational interactions, and overall wellbeing. My clients include individuals and couples who experience challenges with trauma, family violence, mental illness, emotional and behavioral disorders.
(763) 251-9951 View (763) 251-9951
Photo of Amy M. Joyce, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy M. Joyce
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55104
I treat issues including relational, life transitions, wellness, grief/loss, mood, and I am trauma informed.
Welcome to a place of support for those relationships most important to you. I offer therapy in a relational context which explores the interconnectedness between self and others. I believe this is vital to well living. When relationships are out of balance, disconnectedness can occur. By creating awareness, empowerment can be found and utilized for change. I invite you to better navigate yourself and your relations!
I treat issues including relational, life transitions, wellness, grief/loss, mood, and I am trauma informed.
Welcome to a place of support for those relationships most important to you. I offer therapy in a relational context which explores the interconnectedness between self and others. I believe this is vital to well living. When relationships are out of balance, disconnectedness can occur. By creating awareness, empowerment can be found and utilized for change. I invite you to better navigate yourself and your relations!
(612) 564-4332 View (612) 564-4332
Photo of Manuela González, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Manuela González
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104
Waitlist for new clients
I take a relational, person-centered approach and a systems approach to allow each person to be seen within the context of their family, community, and cultural systems.
I am a bilingual, bicultural, second-generation Chicana with over ten years of experience working with diverse individuals, families, and communities. I provide individual therapy to adults 18+ and family therapy to adult children and their parents/relatives. I focus my practice on Black, Indigenous & People of Color (BIPOC). I am particularly interested in working with children of immigrants, immigrants, and members of the fat and LGBTQ+ communities. As a cis woman, I am committed to creating a safe therapeutic space for this community, especially Queer & Trans Black, Indigenous & People of Color (QTBIPOC).
I take a relational, person-centered approach and a systems approach to allow each person to be seen within the context of their family, community, and cultural systems.
I am a bilingual, bicultural, second-generation Chicana with over ten years of experience working with diverse individuals, families, and communities. I provide individual therapy to adults 18+ and family therapy to adult children and their parents/relatives. I focus my practice on Black, Indigenous & People of Color (BIPOC). I am particularly interested in working with children of immigrants, immigrants, and members of the fat and LGBTQ+ communities. As a cis woman, I am committed to creating a safe therapeutic space for this community, especially Queer & Trans Black, Indigenous & People of Color (QTBIPOC).
(651) 412-1427 View (651) 412-1427
Photo of Matt Champ, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Matt Champ
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55113
My style of therapy is relational and patient-focused, catered to meet the individual needs of each person I work with.
The therapeutic process can be an intimidating journey full of challenging questions, uncomfortable insights, and confronting self-reflection. My goal is to join you on this journey and to create a partnership of safety, trust, and connection. We will craft a supportive environment that will help enable you to gain a better understanding of your motivations, your challenges, and how you show up to others in your life. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, self-doubt, relational problems, or finding your way in this world, self-exploration is the first step in enacting meaningful change.
My style of therapy is relational and patient-focused, catered to meet the individual needs of each person I work with.
The therapeutic process can be an intimidating journey full of challenging questions, uncomfortable insights, and confronting self-reflection. My goal is to join you on this journey and to create a partnership of safety, trust, and connection. We will craft a supportive environment that will help enable you to gain a better understanding of your motivations, your challenges, and how you show up to others in your life. Whether you are struggling with anxiety or depression, self-doubt, relational problems, or finding your way in this world, self-exploration is the first step in enacting meaningful change.
(651) 371-8737 View (651) 371-8737
Photo of Robert John Miller, MA, LAMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Robert John Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55108
Welcome. I believe we all have the power within us to get to the healing, healthy growth, and development we need. My particular clinical approach is based in humanistic, relational, and family systems theory, and is focused more on human potential than it is on human pathology. Prior to graduate school, I studied widely in philosophy, theology, art, literature, life sciences, and athletic performance, all of which inform my view of human nature, and human existence. What in your life would you like to be better? In our work together, I utilize the collective wisdom of the healing and growth of others to bear on the present moment.
Welcome. I believe we all have the power within us to get to the healing, healthy growth, and development we need. My particular clinical approach is based in humanistic, relational, and family systems theory, and is focused more on human potential than it is on human pathology. Prior to graduate school, I studied widely in philosophy, theology, art, literature, life sciences, and athletic performance, all of which inform my view of human nature, and human existence. What in your life would you like to be better? In our work together, I utilize the collective wisdom of the healing and growth of others to bear on the present moment.
(763) 247-4453 View (763) 247-4453
Photo of Bea Natalie Vue-Benson, MA, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bea Natalie Vue-Benson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55104
You are not alone. I am here for you wherever you are in your journey of life...struggling with depression, anxiety or past trauma...learning new skills...changing old behaviors...exploring your personal/cultural/racial/sexual identity...having relational problems...dealing with a serious physical illness...grieving losses...seeking the meaning/purpose of life...wondering if God exists at all. I invite you to experience a respectful, compassionate, and trusting therapeutic environment supporting your efforts to take responsibility for your life, face change, grow courage, and cultivate hope. You can do this. I am here for you.
You are not alone. I am here for you wherever you are in your journey of life...struggling with depression, anxiety or past trauma...learning new skills...changing old behaviors...exploring your personal/cultural/racial/sexual identity...having relational problems...dealing with a serious physical illness...grieving losses...seeking the meaning/purpose of life...wondering if God exists at all. I invite you to experience a respectful, compassionate, and trusting therapeutic environment supporting your efforts to take responsibility for your life, face change, grow courage, and cultivate hope. You can do this. I am here for you.
(651) 504-3381 View (651) 504-3381
Photo of Michaelene Colestock - ANEW Health and Wellness Clinic, MA, LPCC, LADC, Counselor
ANEW Health and Wellness Clinic
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LADC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55106
I'm trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy as well as utilize dialectical behavior therapy, relational-cultural therapy, and interpersonal effectiveness in my therapeutic approach.
“We believe that women can start their lives anew!” Our team of professionals have extensive knowledge in providing trauma-responsive and chemical health outpatient individual and group therapy. ANEW Chemical Health Services is proud to be serving women, children and their families! Although we specialize in serving women and children, we'd love to help any individual looking for help. Our brand new, inviting and calming, beautiful space is a great place to start ANEW!
I'm trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy as well as utilize dialectical behavior therapy, relational-cultural therapy, and interpersonal effectiveness in my therapeutic approach.
“We believe that women can start their lives anew!” Our team of professionals have extensive knowledge in providing trauma-responsive and chemical health outpatient individual and group therapy. ANEW Chemical Health Services is proud to be serving women, children and their families! Although we specialize in serving women and children, we'd love to help any individual looking for help. Our brand new, inviting and calming, beautiful space is a great place to start ANEW!
(651) 401-6185 View (651) 401-6185
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Relational Therapists

How does relational therapy work?

Relational therapy was developed by psychologist Jean Miller, whose ideas stressed that having strong connections with others encourages better health and well-being when compared with a lonely existence. Conversely, poor interpersonal relationships do not foster growth and learning. Relational therapy also encourages trust in others and patience with others, along with better communication and less conflict.

Is relational therapy evidence-based?

Relational therapy is not well-studied, and it may not be as effective in treating certain mental health conditions when compared with evidence-based treatments like cognitive behavioral or acceptance and commitment therapy. However, relational therapy uses techniques found in cognitive behavioral therapy as well as psychodynamic therapy, which are both well-studied with empirical research.

How long are people typically in relational therapy?

Clients may see improvement after a few weeks or months of therapy. Like cognitive behavioral therapy, relational therapy can reduce symptoms within 10 to 20 weeks, at 45 to 50 minutes once a week. But like any type of therapy, improvement depends on the person and the severity of the problem.

Does relational therapy work?

While no therapy type will work for everyone, some evidence suggests that this therapy can be effective. Relational therapy can help a person manage problematic relationships as well as the mental health conditions that accompany difficult relationships like depression or anxiety. This therapy type may offer benefits that are hard to measure but can be just as valuable—including feelings of higher self-worth or healthier connections with others.