Photo of Janaye Guess, MSW , LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janaye Guess
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LISW
Verified Verified
Marysville, OH 43040
I enjoy working with people who struggle with depression and/or anxiety. Ideally, their goals would be to improve their overall functioning and quality of life. My ideal client would be able to put in the necessary work to accomplish their goals. My therapy style is authentic, empathetic, and validating. I believe in incorporating various treatment modalities that are based on the individual needs of my clients.
I enjoy working with people who struggle with depression and/or anxiety. Ideally, their goals would be to improve their overall functioning and quality of life. My ideal client would be able to put in the necessary work to accomplish their goals. My therapy style is authentic, empathetic, and validating. I believe in incorporating various treatment modalities that are based on the individual needs of my clients.
(740) 276-3212 View (740) 276-3212

Online Therapists

Photo of Maria Bertrand - Maria Bertrand, MA, IMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Bertrand
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45220  (Online Only)
I have training in Relational Life Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, Inner Child work, Gottman, the Developmental Model for Couples, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), CBT, CPT, Motivational Interviewing, family systems therapies, working with narcissistic traits, etc.
Hi, I work with couples as well as adults one-on-one who are struggling in their relationships, marriages and personal lives. We often uncover how early life led to current stresses, learn coping strategies, get clarity on big decisions, or simply sit together through difficult emotions as they pass through the alchemy of compassionate presence. I know it can be hard to find the right therapist. Feel free to check out my website or send me an email to see if we might be a good fit.
I have training in Relational Life Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, Inner Child work, Gottman, the Developmental Model for Couples, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), CBT, CPT, Motivational Interviewing, family systems therapies, working with narcissistic traits, etc.
Hi, I work with couples as well as adults one-on-one who are struggling in their relationships, marriages and personal lives. We often uncover how early life led to current stresses, learn coping strategies, get clarity on big decisions, or simply sit together through difficult emotions as they pass through the alchemy of compassionate presence. I know it can be hard to find the right therapist. Feel free to check out my website or send me an email to see if we might be a good fit.
(513) 657-4408 View (513) 657-4408
Photo of Nichole Lee Bates Lcsw, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nichole Lee Bates Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsboro, OH 45133
I also work with individuals needing parenting or anger management, couples and family therapy.
The ideal client for my practice is anyone who has a willingness to get better and do the work required to get better.
I also work with individuals needing parenting or anger management, couples and family therapy.
The ideal client for my practice is anyone who has a willingness to get better and do the work required to get better.
(606) 206-8585 View (606) 206-8585
Photo of Lorrie A Workman, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorrie A Workman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gahanna, OH 43230
For me the magic of talk therapy, as opposed to the support we can get from friends and family, is the freedom to say what you mean and mean what you say, without worry of negative judgement or damaging relationships.
I enjoy all aspects of family therapy with a specialized interest upon the roles and demands of women (individual, children, family, disability, geriatric, addiction, marriage and care taking). To help build upon progress and create additional movement toward goals, I use a systems perspective to better understand the basis for behaviors and potential levers for change using an assortment of empirically and evidence-based approaches. I have served on the Ohio NASW Ethics Committee and firmly believes in the importance of ethical practice, meeting patients where they are, while creating a safe and empathetic environment for change.
For me the magic of talk therapy, as opposed to the support we can get from friends and family, is the freedom to say what you mean and mean what you say, without worry of negative judgement or damaging relationships.
I enjoy all aspects of family therapy with a specialized interest upon the roles and demands of women (individual, children, family, disability, geriatric, addiction, marriage and care taking). To help build upon progress and create additional movement toward goals, I use a systems perspective to better understand the basis for behaviors and potential levers for change using an assortment of empirically and evidence-based approaches. I have served on the Ohio NASW Ethics Committee and firmly believes in the importance of ethical practice, meeting patients where they are, while creating a safe and empathetic environment for change.
(614) 412-4239 View (614) 412-4239
Photo of Jack Hambrick, MFT-T, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Jack Hambrick
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-T
Verified Verified
Westerville, OH 43081
Jack Hambrick has been approved by the State of Ohio as a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee (M.
Immediate openings available for in-person and telehealth. Jack provides couples counseling for spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with ADHD, addiction, infidelity, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Jack also works with individuals (ages 15+) who are coping with the impact of ADHD, anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, and/or relationship challenges.
Jack Hambrick has been approved by the State of Ohio as a Marriage and Family Therapist Trainee (M.
Immediate openings available for in-person and telehealth. Jack provides couples counseling for spouses/partners/co-parents who are struggling to communicate; adjusting to marriage, cohabitation, or the demands of parenting; dealing with ADHD, addiction, infidelity, or trauma; and/or considering marriage, cohabitation, separation, or divorce. Jack also works with individuals (ages 15+) who are coping with the impact of ADHD, anxiety, depressive symptoms, trauma, and/or relationship challenges.
(740) 791-0357 View (740) 791-0357
Photo of Christine H Conlan, LISWS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine H Conlan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISWS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45208
Specialities: Depression/ Anxiety, EMDR, Couples, Marriage & Family, Pre, Post & Collaborative Divorce, Enneagram, Pairs Therapist for Couples & Teens, Body Balance & Body Image.
Difficulties in our lives can interfere with our happiness, perhaps leaving us feeling stuck, anxious, depressed or angry. We want our lives to be better. Fortunately, the human spirit is resilient. This often is when we can heal, reconnect, and move forward in our life. My practice is built on the belief in our power to move from pain, change, to growth and joy. I have seen this in my life and my clients. I find success and purpose in this work. If you want to reach a better place, I have a gift for helping people achieve this, and would like to help you.
Specialities: Depression/ Anxiety, EMDR, Couples, Marriage & Family, Pre, Post & Collaborative Divorce, Enneagram, Pairs Therapist for Couples & Teens, Body Balance & Body Image.
Difficulties in our lives can interfere with our happiness, perhaps leaving us feeling stuck, anxious, depressed or angry. We want our lives to be better. Fortunately, the human spirit is resilient. This often is when we can heal, reconnect, and move forward in our life. My practice is built on the belief in our power to move from pain, change, to growth and joy. I have seen this in my life and my clients. I find success and purpose in this work. If you want to reach a better place, I have a gift for helping people achieve this, and would like to help you.
(513) 813-5698 View (513) 813-5698
Photo of Anna Lehew, MSW, LICSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Lehew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
I am trained in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Adolescent-Community Reinforcement Approach, Functional Family Therapy and EMDR.
Graduated with a MSW and certification in clinical mental health from the University of Pittsburgh in 2014. I specialize in working with youth and adults who are experiencing mental health symptoms, PTSD, addiction, and/ or behavioral issues. I also work with couples and families to help them make changes that allow them to effectively communicate, work through conflicts in a skilled way and be able to be genuinely affectionate with each other.
I am trained in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Adolescent-Community Reinforcement Approach, Functional Family Therapy and EMDR.
Graduated with a MSW and certification in clinical mental health from the University of Pittsburgh in 2014. I specialize in working with youth and adults who are experiencing mental health symptoms, PTSD, addiction, and/ or behavioral issues. I also work with couples and families to help them make changes that allow them to effectively communicate, work through conflicts in a skilled way and be able to be genuinely affectionate with each other.
(304) 896-0435 View (304) 896-0435
Photo of Sherry Harris Barbour - The Couples Couch LLC, MA, IMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Couples Couch LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canal Winchester, OH 43110  (Online Only)
Welcome to the Couples Couch, where Derrick and Sherry, a married duo of over 25 years, offer not just couples therapy but a solid foundation for experiencing a fulfilling partnership and self-image. Imagine understanding the negative patterns in your marriage and addressing them with guidance from a certified life coach in Derrick and an Imago-trained marriage and family therapist in Sherry. We firmly believe in the sanctity of marriage and in the belief that you’ve chosen the right person to journey through life with.
Welcome to the Couples Couch, where Derrick and Sherry, a married duo of over 25 years, offer not just couples therapy but a solid foundation for experiencing a fulfilling partnership and self-image. Imagine understanding the negative patterns in your marriage and addressing them with guidance from a certified life coach in Derrick and an Imago-trained marriage and family therapist in Sherry. We firmly believe in the sanctity of marriage and in the belief that you’ve chosen the right person to journey through life with.
(380) 234-2156 View (380) 234-2156
Photo of Megan R Robertson - Columbus Women's Wellness, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Columbus Women's Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43221
I specialize in loss and traumatic memories of all kinds, along with depression, anxiety, relationships, family transitions and more.
How many times in the last three months have you said, " I really need to go talk to someone?" Are you managing the lives of all of your family members and just can't get a grasp on your own shit? Have you recently gone through a major life transition and can't make heads or tails of what life looks like now? Perhaps you are just wanting to feel better and know there are things from your past that are holding you back. Thank you for reading my profile as finding "the right" the therapist can be overwhelming.
I specialize in loss and traumatic memories of all kinds, along with depression, anxiety, relationships, family transitions and more.
How many times in the last three months have you said, " I really need to go talk to someone?" Are you managing the lives of all of your family members and just can't get a grasp on your own shit? Have you recently gone through a major life transition and can't make heads or tails of what life looks like now? Perhaps you are just wanting to feel better and know there are things from your past that are holding you back. Thank you for reading my profile as finding "the right" the therapist can be overwhelming.
(614) 666-6204 View (614) 666-6204
Photo of Christian Counseling Associates Of Eastern Ohio, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates Of Eastern Ohio
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Shreve, OH 44676
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(330) 597-9434 View (330) 597-9434
Photo of Charles Hankton, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charles Hankton
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Fairborn, OH 45324  (Online Only)
I have 23 years of professional work experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & depression. I am an innovative experienced professional that has been trained in Trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy and can assess the needs of others. Can develop & communicate plans for the client’s personal growth & development. Has the open mindedness & creativity to efficiently assist clients & their families to reach their treatment goals in a timely manner.
I have 23 years of professional work experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, trauma and abuse, & depression. I am an innovative experienced professional that has been trained in Trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy and can assess the needs of others. Can develop & communicate plans for the client’s personal growth & development. Has the open mindedness & creativity to efficiently assist clients & their families to reach their treatment goals in a timely manner.
(330) 919-7228 View (330) 919-7228
Photo of De'Asia L. Thompson - Rise Counseling Group, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rise Counseling Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45459
"My mission in life is not to merely survive, but to thrive and do so with some passion, compassion, some humor, and some style." -Maya Angelou As black women we are usually the last on our list- the order is usually kids, partners, parents, family, jobs, friends... then you. All of this and we're barely making it. Why continue to struggle and merely survive, when you can thrive. Depression doesn't always look like tears and pity parties. It can look like overwhelm, anger, unstable emotions, isolation, and anxiety too! Sound like anyone you know? Is it you girl?
"My mission in life is not to merely survive, but to thrive and do so with some passion, compassion, some humor, and some style." -Maya Angelou As black women we are usually the last on our list- the order is usually kids, partners, parents, family, jobs, friends... then you. All of this and we're barely making it. Why continue to struggle and merely survive, when you can thrive. Depression doesn't always look like tears and pity parties. It can look like overwhelm, anger, unstable emotions, isolation, and anxiety too! Sound like anyone you know? Is it you girl?
(216) 465-0603 x2 View (216) 465-0603 x2
Photo of Calvin Samples, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Calvin Samples
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43220
I earned my master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Akron and a B.
Immediate openings available! As a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT), I have experience working with a wide variety of couples and individuals (18+). I draw on a range of approaches, including EFT, CBT, and The Gottman Method. I welcome couples interested in pre-marital counseling; those struggling with communication issues; and those coping with infidelity, addiction, co-parenting, and family-blending. I also serve individual clients (18+) dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief, and other life changes.
I earned my master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Akron and a B.
Immediate openings available! As a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT), I have experience working with a wide variety of couples and individuals (18+). I draw on a range of approaches, including EFT, CBT, and The Gottman Method. I welcome couples interested in pre-marital counseling; those struggling with communication issues; and those coping with infidelity, addiction, co-parenting, and family-blending. I also serve individual clients (18+) dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, grief, and other life changes.
(380) 666-3136 View (380) 666-3136
Photo of Nikki Artiaga, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nikki Artiaga
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45432  (Online Only)
Nikki is a neurobehavioral clinician who works with childhood and adult trauma, neuro-developmental and neuro-cognitive disorders, family issues, and children and adults with chronic illnesses. Nikki received her bachelor's degree in social work at Lourdes University and completed her master's degree in clinical social work at Campbellsville University. Nikki received specialized training at Johns Hopkins University in mental health issues for individuals with neurological illnesses.
Nikki is a neurobehavioral clinician who works with childhood and adult trauma, neuro-developmental and neuro-cognitive disorders, family issues, and children and adults with chronic illnesses. Nikki received her bachelor's degree in social work at Lourdes University and completed her master's degree in clinical social work at Campbellsville University. Nikki received specialized training at Johns Hopkins University in mental health issues for individuals with neurological illnesses.
(937) 729-2482 View (937) 729-2482
Photo of Gregory May - Talk. Listen. Grow. , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Talk. Listen. Grow.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43251  (Online Only)
I bring the skills I have developed working in Community Mental Health, Residential Treatment, Substance Use Treatment, Child Protective Services, Child & Family Treatment, Vocational Rehabilitation, and Employee Assistance Programs.
I am Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with active licenses in Ohio, Hawai'i, & Texas. I am a trauma informed practitioner with 10 years of experience in Zen and Integral Psychotherapy, and training in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy and Internal Family Systems. I am Safe Zone trained and affirming of all gender identities & expressions. I am experienced in supporting the LGBTQ+ community, and other communities of diverse relational norms. I am skilled in healing religious trauma and renewing spiritual connection.
I bring the skills I have developed working in Community Mental Health, Residential Treatment, Substance Use Treatment, Child Protective Services, Child & Family Treatment, Vocational Rehabilitation, and Employee Assistance Programs.
I am Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist with active licenses in Ohio, Hawai'i, & Texas. I am a trauma informed practitioner with 10 years of experience in Zen and Integral Psychotherapy, and training in Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy and Internal Family Systems. I am Safe Zone trained and affirming of all gender identities & expressions. I am experienced in supporting the LGBTQ+ community, and other communities of diverse relational norms. I am skilled in healing religious trauma and renewing spiritual connection.
(380) 204-9444 View (380) 204-9444
Photo of Alejandra Weiss, MFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alejandra Weiss
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45246
More recently I earned a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Accepting New Clients - Let me walk with you; you are not alone. I specialize in treating individuals, couples, and families helping them reclaim their lives by attaining inner freedom and improving the quality of their relationships. Are you experiencing a transition in life and not performing at your best? Do you wish to improve your ability to connect with people and relate to others? Have you been experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or imposter syndrome? Life is full of transitions such as moving to a new location, becoming a parent, divorce, starting a new job, changing careers, getting married, or losing a loved one.
More recently I earned a Master’s in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Accepting New Clients - Let me walk with you; you are not alone. I specialize in treating individuals, couples, and families helping them reclaim their lives by attaining inner freedom and improving the quality of their relationships. Are you experiencing a transition in life and not performing at your best? Do you wish to improve your ability to connect with people and relate to others? Have you been experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or imposter syndrome? Life is full of transitions such as moving to a new location, becoming a parent, divorce, starting a new job, changing careers, getting married, or losing a loved one.
(513) 848-3689 View (513) 848-3689
Photo of Julie H Richards, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Julie H Richards
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
Julie is a Developmental and Relational Trauma Therapist (DARTT) with extensive training in the work of Pia Mellody, with a psychodynamic counseling approach that includes family of origin work, attachment theory, mindfulness, and somatic experience.
The challenges of life offer us incredible opportunities for healing and growth. Julie creates a safe space of attuned therapeutic support to explore the depths of unresolved places. As an adoptive parent who is familiar with adoption trauma, grief, and loss, Julie is able to empathically come alongside adoptive families with steadfast support and compassionate care. Julie is a passionate learner and teacher, focusing on empowering clients with deeper understanding to live a vibrant and fulfilling life with meaningful interpersonal relationships. If you have felt unsettled or conflicted, come experience making sense together.
Julie is a Developmental and Relational Trauma Therapist (DARTT) with extensive training in the work of Pia Mellody, with a psychodynamic counseling approach that includes family of origin work, attachment theory, mindfulness, and somatic experience.
The challenges of life offer us incredible opportunities for healing and growth. Julie creates a safe space of attuned therapeutic support to explore the depths of unresolved places. As an adoptive parent who is familiar with adoption trauma, grief, and loss, Julie is able to empathically come alongside adoptive families with steadfast support and compassionate care. Julie is a passionate learner and teacher, focusing on empowering clients with deeper understanding to live a vibrant and fulfilling life with meaningful interpersonal relationships. If you have felt unsettled or conflicted, come experience making sense together.
(614) 907-4277 View (614) 907-4277
Photo of Britni Karst, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Britni Karst
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43201
Hello, I'm Britni, a Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in working with individuals, couples and families. With a strong foundation in empathy and compassion, I work with my clients to navigate life's challenges to foster healthier and more authentic and fulfilling relationships. If you are seeking a safe and supportive environment to move toward healing, self-awareness and self-compassion, I invite you to schedule a session with me. I praise you for your courage and bravery in taking this first step. Together we can embark on a journey toward personal transformation and authenticity. Thanks for stopping by!
Hello, I'm Britni, a Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in working with individuals, couples and families. With a strong foundation in empathy and compassion, I work with my clients to navigate life's challenges to foster healthier and more authentic and fulfilling relationships. If you are seeking a safe and supportive environment to move toward healing, self-awareness and self-compassion, I invite you to schedule a session with me. I praise you for your courage and bravery in taking this first step. Together we can embark on a journey toward personal transformation and authenticity. Thanks for stopping by!
(380) 205-3035 View (380) 205-3035
Photo of Annie Webb, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annie Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Chester, OH 45069
I provide individual therapy for teens and adults, family therapy, school-based therapy, parent coaching, child and adolescent development support, and treatment for a full range of emotional and behavioral disorders.
The therapeutic relationship is a powerful tool, and I help my clients implement it effectively as they strive for change. I use a creative, eclectic, person-centered approach that is individually tailored to each client. Together, we build honest, open, and easy relationships to encourage exploration, reflection, and growth in a safe and non-judgmental environment. My goal is to provide insightful and empowering strategies that foster confidence and independence.
I provide individual therapy for teens and adults, family therapy, school-based therapy, parent coaching, child and adolescent development support, and treatment for a full range of emotional and behavioral disorders.
The therapeutic relationship is a powerful tool, and I help my clients implement it effectively as they strive for change. I use a creative, eclectic, person-centered approach that is individually tailored to each client. Together, we build honest, open, and easy relationships to encourage exploration, reflection, and growth in a safe and non-judgmental environment. My goal is to provide insightful and empowering strategies that foster confidence and independence.
(773) 570-1665 View (773) 570-1665
Photo of Dr. Amy Avery Weese, LPCC-S, DMin, MACM, MDiv, EMDR, Counselor
Dr. Amy Avery Weese
Counselor, LPCC-S, DMin, MACM, MDiv, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43240
Brene Brown wrote, "Every time we choose courage, we make everyone around us a little better & the world a little braver." I'm a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC-S) in Ohio. I obtained my M.Div in 2005 at Western Theological Seminary & spent 6 years as an Associate Pastor in Worthington, Ohio. I further obtained my MA in Counseling at Methodist Theological School in Ohio in 2011 & began work in counseling in June 2012 at the Center for Balanced Living. I obtained my Doctorate in May 2024. My therapeutic approach stems from work with talk therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, CBT and Internal Family Systems and EMDR.
Brene Brown wrote, "Every time we choose courage, we make everyone around us a little better & the world a little braver." I'm a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC-S) in Ohio. I obtained my M.Div in 2005 at Western Theological Seminary & spent 6 years as an Associate Pastor in Worthington, Ohio. I further obtained my MA in Counseling at Methodist Theological School in Ohio in 2011 & began work in counseling in June 2012 at the Center for Balanced Living. I obtained my Doctorate in May 2024. My therapeutic approach stems from work with talk therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, CBT and Internal Family Systems and EMDR.
(614) 768-6047 View (614) 768-6047
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.