Photo of Lisa Boyette, MS, LCMHCA
Lisa Boyette
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bayboro, NC 28515
Life can seem overwhelming at times. Are you going through a major life transition? Do you wrestle with anxiety, fear or depression? Have you been through a recent loss, illness or family conflict? Feelings of sadness, anxiety and fear can be both physically and emotionally exhausting and can leave us feeling like we cannot move forward. I can provide you with strategies, tools and healthy coping skills to help you process your loss and manage your anxiety and fears.
Life can seem overwhelming at times. Are you going through a major life transition? Do you wrestle with anxiety, fear or depression? Have you been through a recent loss, illness or family conflict? Feelings of sadness, anxiety and fear can be both physically and emotionally exhausting and can leave us feeling like we cannot move forward. I can provide you with strategies, tools and healthy coping skills to help you process your loss and manage your anxiety and fears.
(252) 650-5634 View (252) 650-5634
Photo of Caroline Connor, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Connor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bayboro, NC 28515  (Online Only)
I am trained to work with patients dealing with several different issues that we all face at times including; chronic illness, codependency, family conflict, grief, life transitions, substance use.
“Success as a therapist is not found in doing something for the patient but rather in being someone for the patient.” Ili Rivera Walter. This quote is a great way to describe who I am as a person and my style of therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, and a EMDR Trained Clinician. I have worked in several different settings and levels of care within the mental health field. I enjoy being myself to be able to connect with my patients on a real level. I am the same person in session as I am in real life. I am very down to earth, calm, positive, and empathetic.
I am trained to work with patients dealing with several different issues that we all face at times including; chronic illness, codependency, family conflict, grief, life transitions, substance use.
“Success as a therapist is not found in doing something for the patient but rather in being someone for the patient.” Ili Rivera Walter. This quote is a great way to describe who I am as a person and my style of therapy. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist, and a EMDR Trained Clinician. I have worked in several different settings and levels of care within the mental health field. I enjoy being myself to be able to connect with my patients on a real level. I am the same person in session as I am in real life. I am very down to earth, calm, positive, and empathetic.
(252) 542-2745 View (252) 542-2745

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lori Brinkley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori Brinkley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oriental, NC 28571
Hi, I'm so happy you're here! My name is Lori Brinkley and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 years of clinical experience. I treat a wide range of areas including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, postpartum, adult children of alcoholics, co-dependency, parenting/co-parenting, boundaries, divorce, caretaking, work-life balance, adoptees, and couples feeling disconnected and isolated. I also provide "couple's counseling for one" which is when one partner is not ready for therapy, where I meet with the willing participant to learn new tools, coping skills, & boundaries to implement in their relationship.
Hi, I'm so happy you're here! My name is Lori Brinkley and I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 23 years of clinical experience. I treat a wide range of areas including trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, postpartum, adult children of alcoholics, co-dependency, parenting/co-parenting, boundaries, divorce, caretaking, work-life balance, adoptees, and couples feeling disconnected and isolated. I also provide "couple's counseling for one" which is when one partner is not ready for therapy, where I meet with the willing participant to learn new tools, coping skills, & boundaries to implement in their relationship.
(980) 372-7110 View (980) 372-7110
Photo of Patricia A Toth, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia A Toth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oriental, NC 28571  (Online Only)
I bring a unique perspective to my counseling practice. It is a gift to be able to point my clients towards their innate inner health via three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, and Thought) that, when understood, taps into our natural wisdom and common sense. This is an inside out process that heightens awareness to bring forth new insightful thinking. This inside-out understanding, fresh in the moment, bubbles up creativity to solve problems, enhance relationships, & brings good feelings for a meaningful, satisfying life. This is an experiential, not an intellectual process that is rich, fresh, and rewarding because it is the genuine self.
I bring a unique perspective to my counseling practice. It is a gift to be able to point my clients towards their innate inner health via three Principles (Mind, Consciousness, and Thought) that, when understood, taps into our natural wisdom and common sense. This is an inside out process that heightens awareness to bring forth new insightful thinking. This inside-out understanding, fresh in the moment, bubbles up creativity to solve problems, enhance relationships, & brings good feelings for a meaningful, satisfying life. This is an experiential, not an intellectual process that is rich, fresh, and rewarding because it is the genuine self.
(252) 392-4371 View (252) 392-4371

Online Therapists

Photo of Marie Francis, MA, LCMHC, NCC, DCC
Marie Francis
MA, LCMHC, NCC, DCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, NC 28541
I use my life experience as well as professional experience and knowledge to assist my clients in navigating the life transitions that can interrupt the flow of their relationships, whether partner/spouse, family or work-related.
"Once upon a time..." is the beginning of many stories If you are seeking therapy, you have a story to tell. Perhaps your story is filtered through the lens of depression, anxiety, trauma or substance dependence. I will listen, and remain attentive to, and curious about the intricacies of your story. I will provide an atmosphere of safety without judgment so that enlightenment, healing and growth can take place. I use Solution-Focused approach to therapy and Motivational Interviewing techniques in my work with couples, families and individuals to help enhance and maintain rewarding relationships and manage life transitions.
I use my life experience as well as professional experience and knowledge to assist my clients in navigating the life transitions that can interrupt the flow of their relationships, whether partner/spouse, family or work-related.
"Once upon a time..." is the beginning of many stories If you are seeking therapy, you have a story to tell. Perhaps your story is filtered through the lens of depression, anxiety, trauma or substance dependence. I will listen, and remain attentive to, and curious about the intricacies of your story. I will provide an atmosphere of safety without judgment so that enlightenment, healing and growth can take place. I use Solution-Focused approach to therapy and Motivational Interviewing techniques in my work with couples, families and individuals to help enhance and maintain rewarding relationships and manage life transitions.
(910) 202-6110 View (910) 202-6110
Photo of Maria Dimova, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Dimova
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
I use a variety of approaches and resources including Narrative Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) while fostering your strengths to help you thrive and create change.
I understand the weight trials can have on one’s shoulders, and you do not have to carry them alone. I have experience working with those who have endured trauma, illness, stress, and the uncertainty life transition can bring. I am devoted to empowering those experiencing anxiety, depression, women’s issues, identity issues, new parenting, communication, and relationship issues. I have a passion to serve others through the many pivotal moments life brings. During these seasons, the therapy room is a safe environment for such change and exploration. I would be honored to support you in your therapeutic journey.
I use a variety of approaches and resources including Narrative Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) while fostering your strengths to help you thrive and create change.
I understand the weight trials can have on one’s shoulders, and you do not have to carry them alone. I have experience working with those who have endured trauma, illness, stress, and the uncertainty life transition can bring. I am devoted to empowering those experiencing anxiety, depression, women’s issues, identity issues, new parenting, communication, and relationship issues. I have a passion to serve others through the many pivotal moments life brings. During these seasons, the therapy room is a safe environment for such change and exploration. I would be honored to support you in your therapeutic journey.
(980) 243-7625 View (980) 243-7625
Photo of Christina Jones, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Christina Jones
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Princeton, NC 27569
Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, hopeless, or worried, and maybe you are struggling to cope with life's difficulties? If so, it would be my privilege to work with you! We will collaborate and form a treatment plan that works best for you, and work toward forming your best self. My areas of focus are anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, interpersonal difficulties, marital, and family issues. My background and training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, hopeless, or worried, and maybe you are struggling to cope with life's difficulties? If so, it would be my privilege to work with you! We will collaborate and form a treatment plan that works best for you, and work toward forming your best self. My areas of focus are anxiety, depression, emotional regulation, interpersonal difficulties, marital, and family issues. My background and training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy.
(919) 372-4483 View (919) 372-4483
Photo of Anna King, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27834
“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn how to surf.” I would love to come alongside you to help you ride the wave through all life brings - whether depression, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, or family/relationship conflict. You cannot always control the landscape of your life, but you can control how you respond to it.
“You can’t stop the waves, but you can learn how to surf.” I would love to come alongside you to help you ride the wave through all life brings - whether depression, anxiety, adjustment to life changes, or family/relationship conflict. You cannot always control the landscape of your life, but you can control how you respond to it.
(252) 397-3217 View (252) 397-3217
Photo of Megan Pierson, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Pierson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858  (Online Only)
My style is heavily influenced by attachment theory, psychodynamic theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
My hope is that we can work together to establish goals and clarify the values that are important to you. As we look at what's going on in your life, we will consider what you have tried before and what barriers are hindering you from living the life you want. Together we will develop creative and flexible strategies that you can try in the future. I do not "fix" people, nor do I have all the answers in life. Instead, I deeply care for hurting people. I will help you consider other perspectives and build skills that will empower you to live a more authentic life. My hope is that you will feel seen, understood, and accepted.
My style is heavily influenced by attachment theory, psychodynamic theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Compassion Focused Therapy.
My hope is that we can work together to establish goals and clarify the values that are important to you. As we look at what's going on in your life, we will consider what you have tried before and what barriers are hindering you from living the life you want. Together we will develop creative and flexible strategies that you can try in the future. I do not "fix" people, nor do I have all the answers in life. Instead, I deeply care for hurting people. I will help you consider other perspectives and build skills that will empower you to live a more authentic life. My hope is that you will feel seen, understood, and accepted.
(608) 200-2364 View (608) 200-2364
Photo of Deborah B. Burnette, MAEd, LCMHC, LCAS, NCAC II, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah B. Burnette
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEd, LCMHC, LCAS, NCAC II, MAC
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
My expertise is in treating preteens, adolescents and adults through individual, family and couples therapy.
Frequently we hear how many people in today’s society find themselves feeling anxious, depressed, stressed and overwhelmed by life circumstances and/or addiction disorders. My counseling practice provides you a confidential, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to talk about your concerns, problems, and emotional pain. I listen with compassion and together we develop a plan to help you gain insight into your issues and to learn effective coping skills. I believe in and am focused on the hope for change and improved quality of life.
My expertise is in treating preteens, adolescents and adults through individual, family and couples therapy.
Frequently we hear how many people in today’s society find themselves feeling anxious, depressed, stressed and overwhelmed by life circumstances and/or addiction disorders. My counseling practice provides you a confidential, supportive, and non-judgmental environment to talk about your concerns, problems, and emotional pain. I listen with compassion and together we develop a plan to help you gain insight into your issues and to learn effective coping skills. I believe in and am focused on the hope for change and improved quality of life.
(252) 368-4577 View (252) 368-4577
Photo of Jennifer Witkowski, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Witkowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Burgaw, NC 28425  (Online Only)
I've had the pleasure of working with a wide variety of individuals as a family therapist and crisis counselor.
Real change means real work. You must put forth effort and action to have a deeper understanding of the old patterns that exist. I hope to develop a safe, open relationship in which you feel safe to look at your patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that are holding you back from where you want to be, and develop a pattern of self awareness, and explore the possibilities before you. Telling our stories aloud allows us to have the conscious choice to move forward in the direction we want to take it
I've had the pleasure of working with a wide variety of individuals as a family therapist and crisis counselor.
Real change means real work. You must put forth effort and action to have a deeper understanding of the old patterns that exist. I hope to develop a safe, open relationship in which you feel safe to look at your patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that are holding you back from where you want to be, and develop a pattern of self awareness, and explore the possibilities before you. Telling our stories aloud allows us to have the conscious choice to move forward in the direction we want to take it
(910) 390-8127 View (910) 390-8127
Photo of Tammy Patrick, LCMHC, Counselor
Tammy Patrick
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
I work with children, adolescents, and adults through individual and family sessions.
My name is Tammy Patrick. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in schools, residential and community services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, and families. I use CBT along with an eclectic variety of techniques to meet the individual needs of each client. Counseling is designed to help you gain greater insight into your life and help you build awareness, compassion, understanding, respect, empathy, and acceptance toward yourself and others.
I work with children, adolescents, and adults through individual and family sessions.
My name is Tammy Patrick. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with over 8 years of experience in the mental health field. I have worked in schools, residential and community services for children, adolescents, adults, older adults, and families. I use CBT along with an eclectic variety of techniques to meet the individual needs of each client. Counseling is designed to help you gain greater insight into your life and help you build awareness, compassion, understanding, respect, empathy, and acceptance toward yourself and others.
(704) 870-4262 View (704) 870-4262
Photo of Megan Best, LCAS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Best
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCAS, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28411  (Online Only)
I have specialized training working with those who are sober-curious, struggling with substances, in active addiction, family members of someone struggling in addiction, newly sober living, and long-term recovery.
Have you ever avoided emotions because they’re uncomfortable? Have you ever had to face consequences for choices you made to survive? Do you feel like you’re repeatedly making poor decisions and you’re not sure why? Humans don’t like discomfort, and without training ourselves to deal with discomfort - we will do anything to get out of it. We will work on building self-confidence and trust in yourself. Having confidence to say no, feel emotions, connect your mind and body, find your purpose and be able to heal and break free from trauma. We will spend time learning, regulating, and connecting our emotions to FEEL. DEAL. and HEAL.
I have specialized training working with those who are sober-curious, struggling with substances, in active addiction, family members of someone struggling in addiction, newly sober living, and long-term recovery.
Have you ever avoided emotions because they’re uncomfortable? Have you ever had to face consequences for choices you made to survive? Do you feel like you’re repeatedly making poor decisions and you’re not sure why? Humans don’t like discomfort, and without training ourselves to deal with discomfort - we will do anything to get out of it. We will work on building self-confidence and trust in yourself. Having confidence to say no, feel emotions, connect your mind and body, find your purpose and be able to heal and break free from trauma. We will spend time learning, regulating, and connecting our emotions to FEEL. DEAL. and HEAL.
(910) 338-3779 View (910) 338-3779
Photo of Charles Barden, MA, EL, LCMHC, Counselor
Charles Barden
Counselor, MA, EL, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
Waitlist for new clients
Therapies can include: CBT, REBT, DBT, Choice Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt, and Biblical Therapies to assist with any number of personal and individual or family needs.
I enjoy working with a diverse population of people. I have had a lot of success working with individuals and couples with substance use issues and addictions as well as those with process addictions such as sex/pornography, gambling, etc. Many times, these addictions are rooted in trauma of some kind. Many times, they will manifest in mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and other pervasive disorders. I want the opportunity to help you navigate through those and beat them. We all know that life is difficult but it doesn't have to be this way everyday. Let's get started on finding who we are together and living life again.
Therapies can include: CBT, REBT, DBT, Choice Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Gestalt, and Biblical Therapies to assist with any number of personal and individual or family needs.
I enjoy working with a diverse population of people. I have had a lot of success working with individuals and couples with substance use issues and addictions as well as those with process addictions such as sex/pornography, gambling, etc. Many times, these addictions are rooted in trauma of some kind. Many times, they will manifest in mood disorders, anxiety, depression, and other pervasive disorders. I want the opportunity to help you navigate through those and beat them. We all know that life is difficult but it doesn't have to be this way everyday. Let's get started on finding who we are together and living life again.
(910) 386-0074 View (910) 386-0074
Photo of Jacqueline Puz - Compassion Counseling Center ENC, PC, DMin, MAEd, LCMHCS, NBCC
Compassion Counseling Center ENC, PC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, DMin, MAEd, LCMHCS, NBCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
I have worked as a therapist for 25 years in various settings and have been licensed since 2006. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor/Supervisor, I have provided family, couple and individual counseling for adults. I am EMDR trained. I address parenting skills, marital issues, trauma, mood disorders, behavior disorders, thought disorders, career concerns, and spiritual concerns. As a professional Christian counselor, I believe that the Lord has the power to heal marriages, families, and individuals using Jesus as our example of how to live life and find perfect peace.
I have worked as a therapist for 25 years in various settings and have been licensed since 2006. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor/Supervisor, I have provided family, couple and individual counseling for adults. I am EMDR trained. I address parenting skills, marital issues, trauma, mood disorders, behavior disorders, thought disorders, career concerns, and spiritual concerns. As a professional Christian counselor, I believe that the Lord has the power to heal marriages, families, and individuals using Jesus as our example of how to live life and find perfect peace.
(252) 648-7175 View (252) 648-7175
Photo of Megan Jernigan, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Megan Jernigan
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Washington, NC 27889
There is hope, no matter what you are experiencing. Having someone listen without judgement, genuinely care and assist you in exploring your problems can help. I want to support you in exploring the issues that you are facing and encourage you to discover positive ways to manage your stressors and difficult life situations. Together we can develop a plan for treatment that's best for you. Your therapy will be unique to what you or your family needs. With children, parents will be involved in treatment.
There is hope, no matter what you are experiencing. Having someone listen without judgement, genuinely care and assist you in exploring your problems can help. I want to support you in exploring the issues that you are facing and encourage you to discover positive ways to manage your stressors and difficult life situations. Together we can develop a plan for treatment that's best for you. Your therapy will be unique to what you or your family needs. With children, parents will be involved in treatment.
(252) 325-3049 View (252) 325-3049
Photo of Monica Hart, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica Hart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28409
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by work or school, experiencing family dynamic difficulties, or facing personal challenges, I offer a safe and non-judgmental space where we can explore your concerns and work towards sustainable solutions.
Hello! I'm Monica Hart, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based outside of Charlotte, NC. I work statewide via telehealth to support clients on their journey to wellness. I work with children, adolescents, and adults that may need assistance with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, grief, and other mental health concerns. I provide individual therapy for adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, grief, and personal development.
Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by work or school, experiencing family dynamic difficulties, or facing personal challenges, I offer a safe and non-judgmental space where we can explore your concerns and work towards sustainable solutions.
Hello! I'm Monica Hart, a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) based outside of Charlotte, NC. I work statewide via telehealth to support clients on their journey to wellness. I work with children, adolescents, and adults that may need assistance with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, grief, and other mental health concerns. I provide individual therapy for adults and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, grief, and personal development.
(980) 485-7577 View (980) 485-7577
Photo of Laura Graham, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Graham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I am passionate about working with people in transitional stages of life , graduating college, learning how to blend a family as well as learning to start anew after experiencing trauma, abuse, or struggles with self-love.
Taking the step to heal can be challenging, but you don't have to do it alone. I'm here to help create a safe space for you to address your unique challenges with courage and grace. If you're ready, reach out, and together, we can navigate the path to rediscovering your strength
I am passionate about working with people in transitional stages of life , graduating college, learning how to blend a family as well as learning to start anew after experiencing trauma, abuse, or struggles with self-love.
Taking the step to heal can be challenging, but you don't have to do it alone. I'm here to help create a safe space for you to address your unique challenges with courage and grace. If you're ready, reach out, and together, we can navigate the path to rediscovering your strength
(910) 537-5166 View (910) 537-5166
Photo of Margaret Mensch, MEd, LCMHC
Margaret Mensch
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Margaret Mensch, MEd, LCMHC has 10 years of experience working in individual and family therapy. She strives to provide quality and compassionate care by helping clients to gain insight, grow, and heal through the therapeutic process. Her passion is guiding, inspiring, and teaching skills to people, so that they feel empowered to overcome life's challenges. Ms. Mensch approaches the therapeutic process through a humanistic lens, using modalities and theories that help fit her clients needs including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness training, and solution focused work.
Margaret Mensch, MEd, LCMHC has 10 years of experience working in individual and family therapy. She strives to provide quality and compassionate care by helping clients to gain insight, grow, and heal through the therapeutic process. Her passion is guiding, inspiring, and teaching skills to people, so that they feel empowered to overcome life's challenges. Ms. Mensch approaches the therapeutic process through a humanistic lens, using modalities and theories that help fit her clients needs including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness training, and solution focused work.
(910) 376-8019 View (910) 376-8019
Photo of Toni Butland - Donati Counseling, Inc , Counselor
Donati Counseling, Inc
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hampstead, NC 28443
*Offering online therapy* We are passionate about helping you identify and build upon your strengths and use those strengths to find and remove obstacles to your happiness. When you see a Donati counselor, you will leave feeling empowered, with tools and strategies to help you tackle the challenges in your life. Your therapist will give you concrete strategies to improve communication with your partner and family. We are direct and solution focused and our goal for you is to have tools to carry with you at all times, so no matter where you go, you'll always have access to discreet, quick relief.
*Offering online therapy* We are passionate about helping you identify and build upon your strengths and use those strengths to find and remove obstacles to your happiness. When you see a Donati counselor, you will leave feeling empowered, with tools and strategies to help you tackle the challenges in your life. Your therapist will give you concrete strategies to improve communication with your partner and family. We are direct and solution focused and our goal for you is to have tools to carry with you at all times, so no matter where you go, you'll always have access to discreet, quick relief.
(508) 500-1471 View (508) 500-1471

See more therapy options for Bayboro

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.