Photo of David Knappenberger, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Knappenberger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Swansboro, NC 28584  (Online Only)
Seeing clients through the Psychology Today Telehealth portal allows me to assist clients throughout NC. I work with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, anger issues, PTSD and Asperger's disorder. I work with couples to improve their communications & the overall quality of their relationships. I assist couples whose relationships have suffered from infidelity. I also help families deal with the challenges of divorce, step family formation, and parent/teenager conflicts. I have experienced divorce, remarriage, and step family issues, thus I understand the emotional impact of these life changes.
Seeing clients through the Psychology Today Telehealth portal allows me to assist clients throughout NC. I work with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, anger issues, PTSD and Asperger's disorder. I work with couples to improve their communications & the overall quality of their relationships. I assist couples whose relationships have suffered from infidelity. I also help families deal with the challenges of divorce, step family formation, and parent/teenager conflicts. I have experienced divorce, remarriage, and step family issues, thus I understand the emotional impact of these life changes.
(910) 817-4395 View (910) 817-4395

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Derek Prescott, PsyD, LCMHC, CAS, CATP
Derek Prescott
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PsyD, LCMHC, CAS, CATP
Verified Verified
Hubert, NC 28539
For appointments call or text 910-545-2142. We offer a compassionate and positive environment to help you make empowering decisions about life and overcome any struggles or obstacles. Using emphatic, compassionate, empowering skills, our goal is to assist you in applying the skills needed to make healthy changes. We view the therapeutic relationship as an honor and appreciate the courage that it takes to enter a healing relationship. We look forward to sharing your journey and believe that we will learn from one another throughout this healing journey.
For appointments call or text 910-545-2142. We offer a compassionate and positive environment to help you make empowering decisions about life and overcome any struggles or obstacles. Using emphatic, compassionate, empowering skills, our goal is to assist you in applying the skills needed to make healthy changes. We view the therapeutic relationship as an honor and appreciate the courage that it takes to enter a healing relationship. We look forward to sharing your journey and believe that we will learn from one another throughout this healing journey.
(910) 469-0264 View (910) 469-0264

Online Therapists

Photo of Nathan Cassidy, LCMHCS, LCAS, CSS
Nathan Cassidy
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CSS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
As a dedicated mental health therapist, I am passionate about promoting healing and growth through individual, group, and family therapy. My personal and cultural experiences bring a unique perspective and understanding to my practice, recognizing the importance of culturally sensitive and inclusive approaches to therapy. My goal is to create a supportive environment to empower exploration of thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Through collaboration and compassionate guidance, I strive to help individuals navigate challenges, develop coping skills, and cultivate a deeper understanding of their experiences.
As a dedicated mental health therapist, I am passionate about promoting healing and growth through individual, group, and family therapy. My personal and cultural experiences bring a unique perspective and understanding to my practice, recognizing the importance of culturally sensitive and inclusive approaches to therapy. My goal is to create a supportive environment to empower exploration of thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. Through collaboration and compassionate guidance, I strive to help individuals navigate challenges, develop coping skills, and cultivate a deeper understanding of their experiences.
(336) 916-7820 View (336) 916-7820
Photo of Roger David Heeren, LMFTS, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
Roger David Heeren
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFTS, MDiv
Verified Verified
Middlesex, NC 27557
My clinical interests are in marriage and family, anxiety & mood disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, and ADHD.
Are you hurting or frustrated with where you are right now in your life? Are you ready for change? I am located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Currently I am offering in office sessions and Video therapy on the Zoom platform. I offer a safe, trusting, and supportive environment that enables individuals to develop the understanding and skills needed to make positive changes. Psychotherapy facilitates personal growth and learning in order to help individuals lead more fulfilling and enjoyable lives I work with all age groups from children to adults, marriage counseling and families.
My clinical interests are in marriage and family, anxiety & mood disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder, and ADHD.
Are you hurting or frustrated with where you are right now in your life? Are you ready for change? I am located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Currently I am offering in office sessions and Video therapy on the Zoom platform. I offer a safe, trusting, and supportive environment that enables individuals to develop the understanding and skills needed to make positive changes. Psychotherapy facilitates personal growth and learning in order to help individuals lead more fulfilling and enjoyable lives I work with all age groups from children to adults, marriage counseling and families.
(252) 424-7923 View (252) 424-7923
Photo of Patricia Ann Geel, LMFT, CCTHP, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia Ann Geel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTHP, CCTP
Verified Verified
Hampstead, NC 28443  (Online Only)
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) providing telemental health therapy services in North Carolina. I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families presenting with concerns including but not limited to relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, depression, anxiety, PTSD and adjustment problems. I have extensive experience working with military couples and families as well as in assisting clients who have experienced domestic violence or childhood abuse or neglect. I hold certifications as a trauma professional and also as a clinical telemental health professional.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT) providing telemental health therapy services in North Carolina. I have over 25 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families presenting with concerns including but not limited to relationship difficulties, parenting challenges, depression, anxiety, PTSD and adjustment problems. I have extensive experience working with military couples and families as well as in assisting clients who have experienced domestic violence or childhood abuse or neglect. I hold certifications as a trauma professional and also as a clinical telemental health professional.
(910) 773-4102 View (910) 773-4102
Photo of Rose Stevenson, LCMHC, Counselor
Rose Stevenson
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27530
I am family oriented and I have a passion to help family relationships.
I have a love for people and as long as I can remember, I walked in the role as a counselor before I realized it was a profession. My greatest passion is helping others in any capacity. I was a School teacher for over 20 years teaching grades 6-9. As a teacher, I wore many hats which included being a counselor for my students as well as the entire school. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I attended Liberty University where I received my Masters’ Degree in Professional Counseling.
I am family oriented and I have a passion to help family relationships.
I have a love for people and as long as I can remember, I walked in the role as a counselor before I realized it was a profession. My greatest passion is helping others in any capacity. I was a School teacher for over 20 years teaching grades 6-9. As a teacher, I wore many hats which included being a counselor for my students as well as the entire school. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina. I attended Liberty University where I received my Masters’ Degree in Professional Counseling.
(919) 739-2985 View (919) 739-2985
Photo of Fakira Wahid, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Fakira Wahid
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Clayton, NC 27527
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with thousands of hours of counseling and related experience. I hold a Masters Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. I have experience working with men, women, and children of all ages. My professional experience includes individual counseling, couples counseling, family counseling, and group counseling. I practice from an eclectic style with an emphasis on the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) modality. I am an action-oriented clinician who believes outcomes speak for themselves. Visit www.ashaycounselingagency.com for more information.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with thousands of hours of counseling and related experience. I hold a Masters Degree in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. I have experience working with men, women, and children of all ages. My professional experience includes individual counseling, couples counseling, family counseling, and group counseling. I practice from an eclectic style with an emphasis on the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) modality. I am an action-oriented clinician who believes outcomes speak for themselves. Visit www.ashaycounselingagency.com for more information.
(919) 343-9961 View (919) 343-9961
Photo of Gloria Rendon - A Palm State of Mind, MS, LCAS, CCS, LAC, LAC-S, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
A Palm State of Mind
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCAS, CCS, LAC, LAC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
I can help individuals, small groups, family members, and professionals seeking clinical supervision in a safe, empathetic environment.
I solely work with clients experiencing addiction disorders, their families, and co-occurring mental health. I offer virtual sessions for NC residents and am in-network with Aetna (NC Only). I offer virtual and in-person sessions for SC residents and can discuss insurance benefits on a case-by-case basis. I do not accept BCBS of SC. I also enjoy assisting other professionals by providing clinical supervision in North Carolina (CADC, LCAS-A, LCAS) and South Carolina (AADC, LAC). Sport and Performance Coaching and Mentoring are available.
I can help individuals, small groups, family members, and professionals seeking clinical supervision in a safe, empathetic environment.
I solely work with clients experiencing addiction disorders, their families, and co-occurring mental health. I offer virtual sessions for NC residents and am in-network with Aetna (NC Only). I offer virtual and in-person sessions for SC residents and can discuss insurance benefits on a case-by-case basis. I do not accept BCBS of SC. I also enjoy assisting other professionals by providing clinical supervision in North Carolina (CADC, LCAS-A, LCAS) and South Carolina (AADC, LAC). Sport and Performance Coaching and Mentoring are available.
(843) 326-0237 View (843) 326-0237
Photo of Elizabeth W Watson
Elizabeth W Watson
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28401
I use a tailored combination of traditional psychotherapy, family therapy, play therapy, parent behavior management, and educational planning.
Hi! I'm Elizabeth. If you're reading this, you or someone you care about might be interested in seeking counseling services. Working through relationship and family of origin issues, challenging negative belief systems and improving unhelpful habits/thoughts are a few areas worked on often in therapy. I have worked with those who are adjusting to change, grieving, experiencing depression/anxiety (postpartum or otherwise) as well as teenagers coping with change, and children and families coping with divorce. My desire is to walk alongside clients to help navigate whatever issue is before them.
I use a tailored combination of traditional psychotherapy, family therapy, play therapy, parent behavior management, and educational planning.
Hi! I'm Elizabeth. If you're reading this, you or someone you care about might be interested in seeking counseling services. Working through relationship and family of origin issues, challenging negative belief systems and improving unhelpful habits/thoughts are a few areas worked on often in therapy. I have worked with those who are adjusting to change, grieving, experiencing depression/anxiety (postpartum or otherwise) as well as teenagers coping with change, and children and families coping with divorce. My desire is to walk alongside clients to help navigate whatever issue is before them.
(910) 335-2648 View (910) 335-2648
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 Joseph Henry Latterner, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph Henry Latterner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
Joseph views therapy as a collaborative journey and acknowledges and honors the strengths, skills and talents embedded in each individual and family he works with.
Joseph views therapy as a collaborative journey and acknowledges and honors the strengths, skills and talents embedded in each individual and family he works with.
(910) 556-9344 x2 View (910) 556-9344 x2
Photo of Rob Moser, MEd, LCMHCA, LCASA, Counselor
Rob Moser
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA, LCASA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Rob practices a mix of gospel-centered, Christian-integrated approaches such as family systems, cognitive-behavioral, and logotherapy, and is certified as a Gottman marriage specialist.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage issues, relationship struggles, parenting/child/teen problems, pain, addiction, pornography, or a faith crisis? Or maybe just seeking peace amidst life’s general uncertainty? Rob’s 20-year career in counseling, six years as a lead pastor, and four years as an overseas missionary, as well as his experience as a foster/adoptive parent, give him the confidence to wade into a myriad of life’s challenges with you.
Rob practices a mix of gospel-centered, Christian-integrated approaches such as family systems, cognitive-behavioral, and logotherapy, and is certified as a Gottman marriage specialist.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, marriage issues, relationship struggles, parenting/child/teen problems, pain, addiction, pornography, or a faith crisis? Or maybe just seeking peace amidst life’s general uncertainty? Rob’s 20-year career in counseling, six years as a lead pastor, and four years as an overseas missionary, as well as his experience as a foster/adoptive parent, give him the confidence to wade into a myriad of life’s challenges with you.
(910) 812-8310 View (910) 812-8310
Photo of David Bell, PhD, LMFT, LCAS, ADHDCSP, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, LCAS, ADHDCSP
Verified Verified
Greenville, NC 27858
My active licenses are (1) NC Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and (2) NC Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist.
As a potential client, know that your courage to face personal vulnerabilities and uncertainties is acknowledged from the start. To realize and understand the efforts you've made already affords us early opportunities to consider possibilities in therapy. Your desired outcome is the goal. The process of sharing, reflecting, and adjusting any internal and relational patterns is our therapy means to this end. The clinical approaches perhaps most reflective in therapy are cognitive-behavioral, inter-personal and family systems, and acceptance/commitment. Interventions are based on your child/family, couple, and individual needs.
My active licenses are (1) NC Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and (2) NC Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist.
As a potential client, know that your courage to face personal vulnerabilities and uncertainties is acknowledged from the start. To realize and understand the efforts you've made already affords us early opportunities to consider possibilities in therapy. Your desired outcome is the goal. The process of sharing, reflecting, and adjusting any internal and relational patterns is our therapy means to this end. The clinical approaches perhaps most reflective in therapy are cognitive-behavioral, inter-personal and family systems, and acceptance/commitment. Interventions are based on your child/family, couple, and individual needs.
(252) 207-0604 View (252) 207-0604
Photo of Kirsten Cole, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS-I, Counselor
Kirsten Cole
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS-I
Verified Verified
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
Do you feel unfulfilled in your life, like something is missing? Are you hiding certain behaviors from friends and family? Are you struggling with self-esteem, anxiety or depression? Are you using unhelpful coping mechanisms such as substance use, shopping, gaming/internet, or gambling to cope with those struggles? It is difficult to understand the "why" of our thought processes and behaviors on our own. Therapy is a powerful tool that can help you work through understanding your "why" and assist in handling life transitions, achieving goals, or finding relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, or substance use issues.
Do you feel unfulfilled in your life, like something is missing? Are you hiding certain behaviors from friends and family? Are you struggling with self-esteem, anxiety or depression? Are you using unhelpful coping mechanisms such as substance use, shopping, gaming/internet, or gambling to cope with those struggles? It is difficult to understand the "why" of our thought processes and behaviors on our own. Therapy is a powerful tool that can help you work through understanding your "why" and assist in handling life transitions, achieving goals, or finding relief from symptoms of depression, anxiety, or substance use issues.
(704) 272-2389 View (704) 272-2389
Photo of Jennifer Van Allen, LMHC
Jennifer Van Allen
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Richlands, NC 28574  (Online Only)
Jennifer Van Allen completed a Bachelors degree in Sociology from East Carolina University and a Masters degree in Counseling from Webster University. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for the State of Florida. She also is a Qualified Supervisor for Licensed Mental Counselors and also Marriage and Family Therapists. Jennifer's been working as a therapist since 2001. She has experience with addictions, mental disorders, teenagers, foster care, adoptions and spiritual issues. Jennifer attempts to give personal care to each person or family she sees.
Jennifer Van Allen completed a Bachelors degree in Sociology from East Carolina University and a Masters degree in Counseling from Webster University. She is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for the State of Florida. She also is a Qualified Supervisor for Licensed Mental Counselors and also Marriage and Family Therapists. Jennifer's been working as a therapist since 2001. She has experience with addictions, mental disorders, teenagers, foster care, adoptions and spiritual issues. Jennifer attempts to give personal care to each person or family she sees.
(727) 378-9661 View (727) 378-9661
Photo of Monique Ivanov, LCSW, DCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monique Ivanov
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, NC 28546
I have 20 years experience as a clinician and work with all age groups providing individual, marital, family, and group counseling services. Additionally I taught full time for UNC-Wilmington and was the UNCW Extension Campus Social Work Program Coordinator. I have presented statewide for the National Association for Social Workers on topics such as "Working with Military and their Families", "Working with Children Diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Disorders", and "Positive Discipline Techniques." Additionally, I facilitate the only state approved Batterer Intervention Program in Onslow County for Domestic Violence Incidences.
I have 20 years experience as a clinician and work with all age groups providing individual, marital, family, and group counseling services. Additionally I taught full time for UNC-Wilmington and was the UNCW Extension Campus Social Work Program Coordinator. I have presented statewide for the National Association for Social Workers on topics such as "Working with Military and their Families", "Working with Children Diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Disorders", and "Positive Discipline Techniques." Additionally, I facilitate the only state approved Batterer Intervention Program in Onslow County for Domestic Violence Incidences.
(910) 817-2277 View (910) 817-2277
Photo of Crystal Ridlon, LPC, LMHC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal Ridlon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28409
I am trained and equipped to treat mental health and spiritual conditions! I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, couples and family therapy, and adolescent, women’s, and men’s issues! I utilize an integrative approach consisting of psychology, the Holy Spirit, and God’s word! .
Life is a mix of joy and sorrow! Walking through the difficult times is tough emotionally, physically, and spiritually! There is no need to suffer through these hard times alone! God offers comfort and unconditional love in the midst of hardship! Thankfully, He equips His followers with guidance, wisdom, and love to help endure our hardships victoriously. God called me into the counseling field to walk with you through the painful areas of your life! I am well-trained in psychological techniques and approaches! In addition, I have a special love and compassion for people, and utilize a Biblical and Christ-centered approach.
I am trained and equipped to treat mental health and spiritual conditions! I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, couples and family therapy, and adolescent, women’s, and men’s issues! I utilize an integrative approach consisting of psychology, the Holy Spirit, and God’s word! .
Life is a mix of joy and sorrow! Walking through the difficult times is tough emotionally, physically, and spiritually! There is no need to suffer through these hard times alone! God offers comfort and unconditional love in the midst of hardship! Thankfully, He equips His followers with guidance, wisdom, and love to help endure our hardships victoriously. God called me into the counseling field to walk with you through the painful areas of your life! I am well-trained in psychological techniques and approaches! In addition, I have a special love and compassion for people, and utilize a Biblical and Christ-centered approach.
(910) 996-0536 View (910) 996-0536
Photo of Corey Andolfi, MA, LMFT, NBCCH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Corey Andolfi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, NBCCH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Carolina Beach, NC 28428
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and National Board Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. I also have training in Brainspotting (An alternative to EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT or Tapping), Quantum Flow Breathwork Method, and the art of playing the singing bowls.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and National Board Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist. I also have training in Brainspotting (An alternative to EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT or Tapping), Quantum Flow Breathwork Method, and the art of playing the singing bowls.
(910) 684-5041 View (910) 684-5041
Photo of Taylor Marie Kracht, LCMHC, Counselor
Taylor Marie Kracht
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rocky Mount, NC 27804
I have used Structural Family Therapy, Emotional-Focused Therapy and Gottman Theory when working with couples and families.
Do you feel disconnected to yourself or your partner? Life can be hard and frustrating. In a world run by social media/screen time, we often feel "alone together". It is my belief that everyone can use a little motivation and guidance when it comes to taking charge of their own life. Whether you are battling stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, a life event, etc. it is important to have the support you need to foster change and growth in your life. Together we can build a strong foundation for you (or your relationship) to continue moving forward and tackle any roadblocks that may come in the future.
I have used Structural Family Therapy, Emotional-Focused Therapy and Gottman Theory when working with couples and families.
Do you feel disconnected to yourself or your partner? Life can be hard and frustrating. In a world run by social media/screen time, we often feel "alone together". It is my belief that everyone can use a little motivation and guidance when it comes to taking charge of their own life. Whether you are battling stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, a life event, etc. it is important to have the support you need to foster change and growth in your life. Together we can build a strong foundation for you (or your relationship) to continue moving forward and tackle any roadblocks that may come in the future.
(704) 271-2920 View (704) 271-2920
Photo of Tracy R Perez, MS, LCMHC
Tracy R Perez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, NC 28546
Friends and family don’t always understand.
Are you looking for a specialist in trauma, anxiety, relationships, and sex therapy? Maybe your partner is now just your roommate? Wonder why you have a racing heart and can't control the worry? What if you feel like your trauma is taking over your entire life? Rather isolate than continue to swipe right into empty relationships? Is your sexual "performance" preventing you from showing up in the bedroom? These are stories I hear often. Elevated worry, unprocessed trauma events, and sexual concerns can be overwhelming!
Friends and family don’t always understand.
Are you looking for a specialist in trauma, anxiety, relationships, and sex therapy? Maybe your partner is now just your roommate? Wonder why you have a racing heart and can't control the worry? What if you feel like your trauma is taking over your entire life? Rather isolate than continue to swipe right into empty relationships? Is your sexual "performance" preventing you from showing up in the bedroom? These are stories I hear often. Elevated worry, unprocessed trauma events, and sexual concerns can be overwhelming!
(910) 240-4157 View (910) 240-4157

See more therapy options for Swansboro

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.