Photo of Dana Martinson, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dana Martinson
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10003
With warmth, acceptance, and compassion, I use an experiential trauma informed approach called Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Sometimes in life we feel disconnected from ourselves and the people we love most. We may feel a strong desire for change whether we know exactly what that change is yet or not. Maybe that change is a reconnection to who you once were or a new undiscovered version of self. Or maybe, it’s realizing that you and your partner have parts of yourselves yet to be known and understood by the other. As a therapist, I believe in the transformative power of change. I believe we all possess internal wisdom and the ability to change in ways that are needed and desired. I am also aware that change can be scary and feel impossible at times.
With warmth, acceptance, and compassion, I use an experiential trauma informed approach called Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Sometimes in life we feel disconnected from ourselves and the people we love most. We may feel a strong desire for change whether we know exactly what that change is yet or not. Maybe that change is a reconnection to who you once were or a new undiscovered version of self. Or maybe, it’s realizing that you and your partner have parts of yourselves yet to be known and understood by the other. As a therapist, I believe in the transformative power of change. I believe we all possess internal wisdom and the ability to change in ways that are needed and desired. I am also aware that change can be scary and feel impossible at times.
(646) 860-0637 View (646) 860-0637
Photo of Julie Hyman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Hyman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
My clients come to me when they are experiencing an increase in stress and anxiety or are feeling sad, lonely or overwhelmed. Something in their life is not working or is suddenly more difficult than before. I help my clients develop an appreciation for their own stories and to make sense of uncomfortable feelings that prevent them from pursuing goals, that cause problems in relationships or hold them back from creating more satisfying and fulfilling social, family and work lives.
My clients come to me when they are experiencing an increase in stress and anxiety or are feeling sad, lonely or overwhelmed. Something in their life is not working or is suddenly more difficult than before. I help my clients develop an appreciation for their own stories and to make sense of uncomfortable feelings that prevent them from pursuing goals, that cause problems in relationships or hold them back from creating more satisfying and fulfilling social, family and work lives.
(646) 392-8406 View (646) 392-8406
Photo of Jennifer DiGiovanni, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer DiGiovanni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New Windsor, NY 12553  (Online Only)
Additionally, if you are a family member of someone diagnosed with a severe mental illness I can help you learn to cope and navigate through the challenges of your loved one's illness.
Finding a therapist that you connect with, who understands you, is the one of the first important steps in your journey of healing and change. I would love the opportunity to help you in that journey. In my twenty years experience, practicing in the mental health field, I have used a cognitive-behavioral approach, coupled with a strengths-based philosophy, to partner with my clients, creating a trusting, non-judgmental environment. Together we can work towards having you let go of destructive thoughts, feelings and experiences that have prevented you from living the life you want.
Additionally, if you are a family member of someone diagnosed with a severe mental illness I can help you learn to cope and navigate through the challenges of your loved one's illness.
Finding a therapist that you connect with, who understands you, is the one of the first important steps in your journey of healing and change. I would love the opportunity to help you in that journey. In my twenty years experience, practicing in the mental health field, I have used a cognitive-behavioral approach, coupled with a strengths-based philosophy, to partner with my clients, creating a trusting, non-judgmental environment. Together we can work towards having you let go of destructive thoughts, feelings and experiences that have prevented you from living the life you want.
(631) 714-2877 View (631) 714-2877
Photo of Jessica A. Rose, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jessica A. Rose
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
I work with people experiencing discomfort and dysregulation across a wide spectrum of issues ranging from anxiety to attachment ruptures, from relationship issues to sexual boundary violations, and from imposter syndrome to perfectionism. Our work will harness discernment and curiosity as we uncover the root causes of imbalance, finding our way to deep understanding and compassion & thus healing. I utilize a holistic and integrative approach that traverses contemporary psychodynamic therapy, attachment therapy, Somatic Experiencing, harm reduction, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and internal family systems work.
I work with people experiencing discomfort and dysregulation across a wide spectrum of issues ranging from anxiety to attachment ruptures, from relationship issues to sexual boundary violations, and from imposter syndrome to perfectionism. Our work will harness discernment and curiosity as we uncover the root causes of imbalance, finding our way to deep understanding and compassion & thus healing. I utilize a holistic and integrative approach that traverses contemporary psychodynamic therapy, attachment therapy, Somatic Experiencing, harm reduction, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and internal family systems work.
(332) 378-5569 View (332) 378-5569
Photo of Alison Kalfus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Kalfus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10009
A wide variety of influences (analytic studies, marital and family training, gender studies) and interests (attachment, unresolved grief, change of life issues, addictions, post-partum and parenting issues) inform my work.
I believe in treating emotional pain as a signal that old attitudes, beliefs and behaviors are no longer working. In psychotherapy we can explore these beliefs together and decide whether they still serve you. And, we can then work to make changes reflecting emotional shifts. To do this I believe in creating an atmosphere where emotional exploration is encouraged, and the isolation, depression, and anxiety that false beliefs engender, is reduced.
A wide variety of influences (analytic studies, marital and family training, gender studies) and interests (attachment, unresolved grief, change of life issues, addictions, post-partum and parenting issues) inform my work.
I believe in treating emotional pain as a signal that old attitudes, beliefs and behaviors are no longer working. In psychotherapy we can explore these beliefs together and decide whether they still serve you. And, we can then work to make changes reflecting emotional shifts. To do this I believe in creating an atmosphere where emotional exploration is encouraged, and the isolation, depression, and anxiety that false beliefs engender, is reduced.
(646) 386-2139 View (646) 386-2139
Photo of Lalita Salins, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lalita Salins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
Many of us struggle with the wish to be close to a lover/partner/spouse while simultaneously feeling fearful of risking vulnerability. Past hurts, traumas in childhood or adolescence, negative family messages about sexuality, body image issues, present-day stresses, betrayals of trust, and experiences of loss, may all contribute to this hesitancy. As an AASECT Certified couples and sex therapist, I will work with you individually and/or in couples' sessions to develop a better understanding of what holds you back from experiencing the deeper physical and emotional intimacy you desire.
Many of us struggle with the wish to be close to a lover/partner/spouse while simultaneously feeling fearful of risking vulnerability. Past hurts, traumas in childhood or adolescence, negative family messages about sexuality, body image issues, present-day stresses, betrayals of trust, and experiences of loss, may all contribute to this hesitancy. As an AASECT Certified couples and sex therapist, I will work with you individually and/or in couples' sessions to develop a better understanding of what holds you back from experiencing the deeper physical and emotional intimacy you desire.
(201) 580-3994 View (201) 580-3994
Photo of Allison Spinner - Mind Body and Soul Counseling , LMHC, Counselor
Mind Body and Soul Counseling
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Huntington, NY 11743
Our areas of expertise are: Anxiety/depression, addiction, eating disorders, couples therapy, and family therapy.
Our therapy style is rooted in personal connection, trust, and open dialogue. We specialize in an individualized model of therapy, customizing therapeutic sessions and strategies to each client. Through out sessions, clients are set-up to achieve their goals, both personally and professionally. We provide clients with a safe and trusting environment designed to improve coping skills, insight, and self-awareness.
Our areas of expertise are: Anxiety/depression, addiction, eating disorders, couples therapy, and family therapy.
Our therapy style is rooted in personal connection, trust, and open dialogue. We specialize in an individualized model of therapy, customizing therapeutic sessions and strategies to each client. Through out sessions, clients are set-up to achieve their goals, both personally and professionally. We provide clients with a safe and trusting environment designed to improve coping skills, insight, and self-awareness.
(631) 818-2738 View (631) 818-2738
Photo of Sari Eckler Cooper - Sari Cooper, Center for Love and Sex, CST, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sari Cooper, Center for Love and Sex
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CST, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
I am a graduate of the Human Sexuality Program/UMDNJ Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and the family therapy program at the Ackerman Institute for the Family where I teach Systemic Sex Therapy.
I'm the Director of Center for Love and Sex, a practice specializing in sex therapy for individuals and couples. We are highly experienced to work sensitively with clients around issues including: low sexual desire, ED, PE, pelvic pain, and sexless marriages. We are kink, non-monogamy & poly aware. We get that sexuality can be challenging for people to discuss, even with doctors. Our CLS therapists have specialized post-graduate sex therapy training in addition to years of general practice experience, We are highly attuned to clients' embarrassment and at times shame. Clients are also treated for Depression, Anxiety Compulsive Sex.
I am a graduate of the Human Sexuality Program/UMDNJ Robert Wood Johnson Medical School and the family therapy program at the Ackerman Institute for the Family where I teach Systemic Sex Therapy.
I'm the Director of Center for Love and Sex, a practice specializing in sex therapy for individuals and couples. We are highly experienced to work sensitively with clients around issues including: low sexual desire, ED, PE, pelvic pain, and sexless marriages. We are kink, non-monogamy & poly aware. We get that sexuality can be challenging for people to discuss, even with doctors. Our CLS therapists have specialized post-graduate sex therapy training in addition to years of general practice experience, We are highly attuned to clients' embarrassment and at times shame. Clients are also treated for Depression, Anxiety Compulsive Sex.
(646) 600-8036 View (646) 600-8036
Photo of Kristie Redfield, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristie Redfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11231
All are welcome with specialties in trauma, anxiety, depression, family and relationship concerns, oncology, cancer survivorship, bereavement, chronic illness, and infertility.
If you are seeking a therapist with an integrative approach, I offer relationship-based psychotherapy that is rooted in mindfulness. My style is compassionate, caring and collaborative. Together we can work towards your therapeutic goals and strengthen your connection to your vitality.
All are welcome with specialties in trauma, anxiety, depression, family and relationship concerns, oncology, cancer survivorship, bereavement, chronic illness, and infertility.
If you are seeking a therapist with an integrative approach, I offer relationship-based psychotherapy that is rooted in mindfulness. My style is compassionate, caring and collaborative. Together we can work towards your therapeutic goals and strengthen your connection to your vitality.
(646) 679-7545 View (646) 679-7545
Photo of Angela Martinez Raftery, PhD, Psychologist
Angela Martinez Raftery
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10024
I provide individual therapy to children, adolescents, and adults, who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, family conflict, relationship difficulties, separation/individuation issues, and identity crises. I particularly enjoy working with teens and young adults who are developing their sense of self and their place in the world. I also work with couples who want to improve their communication and understand each other better.
I provide individual therapy to children, adolescents, and adults, who are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, family conflict, relationship difficulties, separation/individuation issues, and identity crises. I particularly enjoy working with teens and young adults who are developing their sense of self and their place in the world. I also work with couples who want to improve their communication and understand each other better.
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Photo of Kathleen Lynch, LMHC, Counselor
Kathleen Lynch
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
We all need a little help from time to time. Maybe you’re struggling with managing your stress and it’s led to anxiety. Maybe you’ve been feeling depressed for longer than just a couple of days. Maybe you’re ending a relationship or trying to fine-tune your current one. Whatever it is, it’s brought you here and just looking to improve the way you’ve been feeling is a brave first step. Whether you need some coaching on a life transition like divorce, retirement, getting ready for college or starting a family, or if you need support through depression, anxiety, substance use, PTSD or any other challenges, Therapy is here for you.
We all need a little help from time to time. Maybe you’re struggling with managing your stress and it’s led to anxiety. Maybe you’ve been feeling depressed for longer than just a couple of days. Maybe you’re ending a relationship or trying to fine-tune your current one. Whatever it is, it’s brought you here and just looking to improve the way you’ve been feeling is a brave first step. Whether you need some coaching on a life transition like divorce, retirement, getting ready for college or starting a family, or if you need support through depression, anxiety, substance use, PTSD or any other challenges, Therapy is here for you.
(631) 212-9583 View (631) 212-9583
Photo of Monique A. Belton, PhD, Psychologist
Monique A. Belton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntington, NY 11743
Are you looking for the kind of therapist that physicians and therapists choose for their own treatment? They come to me. Nothing really prepared us for all the decisions that we have had to make as therapists these past few months, So if you are tired, confused, overwhelmed, frustrated - I am with you. I simply want to support you as you decide what is right for you, your clients, your practice, and your family. I've heard therapists and clients described the bathroom as the new couch as clients & therapists search for privacy & a quiet place for therapy to take place. Let’s set up a virtual consultation, on the phone or on video.
Are you looking for the kind of therapist that physicians and therapists choose for their own treatment? They come to me. Nothing really prepared us for all the decisions that we have had to make as therapists these past few months, So if you are tired, confused, overwhelmed, frustrated - I am with you. I simply want to support you as you decide what is right for you, your clients, your practice, and your family. I've heard therapists and clients described the bathroom as the new couch as clients & therapists search for privacy & a quiet place for therapy to take place. Let’s set up a virtual consultation, on the phone or on video.
(631) 259-6028 View (631) 259-6028
Photo of Jonathan L. Wilson Treible, PhD, BCD, ABPP, Psychologist
Jonathan L. Wilson Treible
Psychologist, PhD, BCD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14223  (Online Only)
Specialties include: couples and family therapy, premarital evaluation and counseling, anxiety disorders, depression, parenting, pain management, and behavioral medicine.
With a PhD and Masters from SUNY at Buffalo and six years of post doctoral training in psychotherapy, Dr. Treible is a Board Certified (ABPP), Licensed Psychologist and has been practicing for 35 years. A student of Gestalt therapy and yoga for over 30 years, Dr. Treible is interested in holistic approaches to therapy. A member of the American Psychological Association, the state and local psychological associations (NYSPA & PAWNY) and the Behavioral Healthcare Network (www.behavioralhealthcarenetwork.com), Dr. Treible has taught psychology at DYouville, Daemen, Canisius and Medaille Colleges, Buffalo State College and State University of New York at Buffalo.
Specialties include: couples and family therapy, premarital evaluation and counseling, anxiety disorders, depression, parenting, pain management, and behavioral medicine.
With a PhD and Masters from SUNY at Buffalo and six years of post doctoral training in psychotherapy, Dr. Treible is a Board Certified (ABPP), Licensed Psychologist and has been practicing for 35 years. A student of Gestalt therapy and yoga for over 30 years, Dr. Treible is interested in holistic approaches to therapy. A member of the American Psychological Association, the state and local psychological associations (NYSPA & PAWNY) and the Behavioral Healthcare Network (www.behavioralhealthcarenetwork.com), Dr. Treible has taught psychology at DYouville, Daemen, Canisius and Medaille Colleges, Buffalo State College and State University of New York at Buffalo.
(716) 575-7434 View (716) 575-7434
Photo of Melissa Maria Flores, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Maria Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10009  (Online Only)
Melissa Flores is a bilingual licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a client-centered and trauma-informed approach, graduated magna cum laude from one of Touro's MFT masters programs, and has provided psychotherapy for 8 years to a wide range of people. Melissa has experience working with individuals of all ages, couples, and families. She creates a creative, collaborative, and safe environment for clients to feel encouraged to step outside of their comfort zone and thrive. Melissa provides individual, couples, and family therapy as well as groups for organizations, anger management, parenting classes, and couples groups.
Melissa Flores is a bilingual licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a client-centered and trauma-informed approach, graduated magna cum laude from one of Touro's MFT masters programs, and has provided psychotherapy for 8 years to a wide range of people. Melissa has experience working with individuals of all ages, couples, and families. She creates a creative, collaborative, and safe environment for clients to feel encouraged to step outside of their comfort zone and thrive. Melissa provides individual, couples, and family therapy as well as groups for organizations, anger management, parenting classes, and couples groups.
(646) 437-8138 View (646) 437-8138
Photo of Dr. Leyla Gulcur, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Leyla Gulcur
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
If you’re a multicultural person, an expat or in an intercultural relationship, family expectations, different views on gender roles, or clashing values around intimacy, sex or money might create tension.
Are you ready for a roadmap to create exceptional relationships and optimal sexuality? You’re driven and successful, but deep down, something feels off. Maybe you feel lonely, craving deeper connection, or stressed out and disconnected from your desires. If you're single, finding the right relationship might feel frustrating. Or maybe you argue with a partner over needing more emotional closeness. Perhaps your sex life has suffered, with performance anxiety or mismatched desire leaving you feeling discontent. If you're in or considering an open relationship, navigating boundaries and differing values can be a challenge.
If you’re a multicultural person, an expat or in an intercultural relationship, family expectations, different views on gender roles, or clashing values around intimacy, sex or money might create tension.
Are you ready for a roadmap to create exceptional relationships and optimal sexuality? You’re driven and successful, but deep down, something feels off. Maybe you feel lonely, craving deeper connection, or stressed out and disconnected from your desires. If you're single, finding the right relationship might feel frustrating. Or maybe you argue with a partner over needing more emotional closeness. Perhaps your sex life has suffered, with performance anxiety or mismatched desire leaving you feeling discontent. If you're in or considering an open relationship, navigating boundaries and differing values can be a challenge.
(347) 472-1949 View (347) 472-1949
Photo of Sabina Fila, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sabina Fila
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10017
We all deserve to live a full and joyful life and to have nurturing and enriching relationships. Sometimes things happen in our lives that interfere with that, sometimes we feel stuck or we can't quite deal with a life transition. I like to support people to identify and overcome the obstacles to a more connected, free, and integrated life. I am a certified Hakomi practitioner (http://hakomiinstitute.com) and a trained family therapist. I use a number of modalities and tools to work collaboratively towards the goals we set.
We all deserve to live a full and joyful life and to have nurturing and enriching relationships. Sometimes things happen in our lives that interfere with that, sometimes we feel stuck or we can't quite deal with a life transition. I like to support people to identify and overcome the obstacles to a more connected, free, and integrated life. I am a certified Hakomi practitioner (http://hakomiinstitute.com) and a trained family therapist. I use a number of modalities and tools to work collaboratively towards the goals we set.
(646) 362-3771 View (646) 362-3771
Photo of Janet Louise Ottmann, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Janet Louise Ottmann
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003  (Online Only)
Live the life you've always wanted. Life presents us with opportunities and challenges, but what often thwarts us from realizing those opportunities and overcoming those challenges is ourselves. I am an empathic, psychoanalytically- trained therapist with 25 years of experience who will work with you to overcome fears and unravel the knots of the past and present, so that you can fully realize the authentic life you so desire and deserve. Over the years, I have helped people from all walks of life deal with issues ranging from anxiety, depression, family stress, life transitions and more.
Live the life you've always wanted. Life presents us with opportunities and challenges, but what often thwarts us from realizing those opportunities and overcoming those challenges is ourselves. I am an empathic, psychoanalytically- trained therapist with 25 years of experience who will work with you to overcome fears and unravel the knots of the past and present, so that you can fully realize the authentic life you so desire and deserve. Over the years, I have helped people from all walks of life deal with issues ranging from anxiety, depression, family stress, life transitions and more.
(646) 679-5741 View (646) 679-5741
Photo of Starlee N Qualter, LCSW, CEAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Starlee N Qualter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP
Verified Verified
West Nyack, NY 10994
If you are experiencing emotional pain or confusion in your personal, family, or work relationships, I am here to help you better understand human behavior, your relationship patterns and ultimately yourself.
I am a therapist with over 25 years of clinical experience. My approach is collaborative as therapy is a unique relationship. We begin with identifying where you are now while focusing on where you want to be. I use many different techniques in discovering the most effective path for you. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy is very effective with issues such as anxiety and depression, while using an attachment-based lens can improve low self-esteem and relationship issues. If you are looking for an interactive therapist and are ready and willing to do the work, I will help you along your journey!
If you are experiencing emotional pain or confusion in your personal, family, or work relationships, I am here to help you better understand human behavior, your relationship patterns and ultimately yourself.
I am a therapist with over 25 years of clinical experience. My approach is collaborative as therapy is a unique relationship. We begin with identifying where you are now while focusing on where you want to be. I use many different techniques in discovering the most effective path for you. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy is very effective with issues such as anxiety and depression, while using an attachment-based lens can improve low self-esteem and relationship issues. If you are looking for an interactive therapist and are ready and willing to do the work, I will help you along your journey!
(845) 684-4291 View (845) 684-4291
Photo of Leticia Ruiz, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leticia Ruiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618  (Online Only)
I also have a growing passion or family and marital work.
Life can be so stressful and difficult to manage, especially if you feel anxious, depressed, have suffered a loss or just feel unsatisfied in life. Having these emotions and feelings can impact work, relationships and have you feeling disconnected. Things can get better. I have worked for over 30 years helping people find a “life worth living”, supporting and helping people to learn different ways of thinking and coping. I know you want to feel better and more connected… you deserve it!
I also have a growing passion or family and marital work.
Life can be so stressful and difficult to manage, especially if you feel anxious, depressed, have suffered a loss or just feel unsatisfied in life. Having these emotions and feelings can impact work, relationships and have you feeling disconnected. Things can get better. I have worked for over 30 years helping people find a “life worth living”, supporting and helping people to learn different ways of thinking and coping. I know you want to feel better and more connected… you deserve it!
(585) 332-4103 View (585) 332-4103
Photo of Sue Erikson Bloland, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sue Erikson Bloland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10011
In addition to psychodynamic psychotherapy, I am trained in the IFS (Internal Family Systems) model of therapy, which is highly collaborative in nature and is particularly effective in empowering clients to trust themselves.
Do you need to move forward in your life? I can help you to understand how the negative beliefs you hold about yourself may be preventing you from taking the steps you need to take in your personal life or career. I work hard to help my clients feel heard, understood, and safe in my office, recognizing that it is only in the context of a warm and nonjudgmental relationship that it is possible to explore the most difficult issues in a person's life--issues both unique to each individual and, in some sense, common to all of us as human beings.
In addition to psychodynamic psychotherapy, I am trained in the IFS (Internal Family Systems) model of therapy, which is highly collaborative in nature and is particularly effective in empowering clients to trust themselves.
Do you need to move forward in your life? I can help you to understand how the negative beliefs you hold about yourself may be preventing you from taking the steps you need to take in your personal life or career. I work hard to help my clients feel heard, understood, and safe in my office, recognizing that it is only in the context of a warm and nonjudgmental relationship that it is possible to explore the most difficult issues in a person's life--issues both unique to each individual and, in some sense, common to all of us as human beings.
(646) 755-7238 View (646) 755-7238
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Family Therapy

What do family therapists do?

A family therapist facilitates the process of understanding and improving how a family functions. The therapist will help family members develop empathy for one another. They’ll seek to understand existing patterns, misunderstandings, and conflicts that arise, in order to help the family arrive at a realistic, unified understanding and develop the coping skills they need to build stronger relationships.

How long does therapy for families take to work?

Therapy manifests differently in every family; a common time frame is 12 weekly sessions, but some families may see improvement after just a few weeks. Families should discuss their goals with the therapist at the beginning of the process and periodically revisit those goals to assess their progress together.

How can you encourage a family member to attend family therapy?

You can encourage family members to attend therapy by expressing with both love and concern the challenges you see and explaining how a therapist could help the family navigate those challenges together. An outside perspective can help everyone feel heard, get on the same page, and develop new skills. If family members are still hesitant, it may be helpful to emphasize that family therapy is short-term—it won’t last forever.

Is therapy for families effective?

Family therapy can significantly improve family dynamics and relationships. Research suggests that family therapy can help individuals understand their role in the family, communicate and solve problems together, reduce conflict and draw boundaries when necessary, and develop coping skills for stressors, major life changes, and mental or physical illnesses within the family.