Natalie M Heidtmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, CADCI
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703
I work with couples who are experiencing interpersonal distress associated with negative cycles of communication and disconnection. I utilize Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy to help build insight into the attachment issues underlying each other's reactivity within the cycle. In addition, I address attachment trauma utilizing EMDR, Brainspotting and Internal Family Systems, helping to build understanding and compassion within the relationship.
I work with couples who are experiencing interpersonal distress associated with negative cycles of communication and disconnection. I utilize Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy to help build insight into the attachment issues underlying each other's reactivity within the cycle. In addition, I address attachment trauma utilizing EMDR, Brainspotting and Internal Family Systems, helping to build understanding and compassion within the relationship.
(458) 207-5534 View (458) 207-5534
Photo of Lewis Bank, PhD, Psychologist
Lewis Bank
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97703
I have also worked for many years with older clients, and often work with older individuals and couples to assist them with family challenges and couples issues.
My work has strongly focused on at-risk children, adolescents, and families and the use of tested and effective treatments. I have had many years of experience with children and youth at risk due to problem behaviors and ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, delinquency, and other risks out of children's control, such as poverty, parental corrections involvement, and foster care. I most typically work directly with parents (and other adults) who are experiencing difficulties with parenting strategies, stress and anxiety, depression, and/or alcohol and substance use.
I have also worked for many years with older clients, and often work with older individuals and couples to assist them with family challenges and couples issues.
My work has strongly focused on at-risk children, adolescents, and families and the use of tested and effective treatments. I have had many years of experience with children and youth at risk due to problem behaviors and ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, delinquency, and other risks out of children's control, such as poverty, parental corrections involvement, and foster care. I most typically work directly with parents (and other adults) who are experiencing difficulties with parenting strategies, stress and anxiety, depression, and/or alcohol and substance use.
(503) 902-4964 View (503) 902-4964
Photo of McKenzie Maddigan, MCOUN , LPCA
McKenzie Maddigan
Professional Counselor Associate , MCOUN , LPCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97702
Play therapy and family integration are vital elements of my practice when working with children and families.
I view therapy as an avenue to transform our pain into our teacher. My role is to provide a safe, trusting relationship for individuals to express themselves, explore their emotions, and probe their patterns and the systems in which they live.
Play therapy and family integration are vital elements of my practice when working with children and families.
I view therapy as an avenue to transform our pain into our teacher. My role is to provide a safe, trusting relationship for individuals to express themselves, explore their emotions, and probe their patterns and the systems in which they live.
(458) 217-1767 View (458) 217-1767
Photo of Dr. Richard Formica, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Richard Formica
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97702  (Online Only)
I am a psychologist and family/parenting expert. I have over 40 years of teaching patients how to use practical psychological skills to further marriage and family life. As a parenting expert, my goals are to help you flourish psychologically and help your child develop into a psychologically healthy adult. I also work with patients who may be having problems with anxiety, depression, ADHD, marriage and parenting relationships. As a psychotherapist, I have integrated multiple modalities into effective problem-solving approaches to personal, marital, family and relationship problems to help create better marriages and families.
I am a psychologist and family/parenting expert. I have over 40 years of teaching patients how to use practical psychological skills to further marriage and family life. As a parenting expert, my goals are to help you flourish psychologically and help your child develop into a psychologically healthy adult. I also work with patients who may be having problems with anxiety, depression, ADHD, marriage and parenting relationships. As a psychotherapist, I have integrated multiple modalities into effective problem-solving approaches to personal, marital, family and relationship problems to help create better marriages and families.
(541) 236-9189 View (541) 236-9189
Photo of Jamie Lockwood, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jamie Lockwood
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97703
While my treatment approach draws most heavily from CBT, Solutions Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, EFT, IFS, Gottman and Structural Family Therapy, I remain fluid in my approach, and tailor my work to each individual, family or couple I work with.
My goal is to help individuals, couples and families experience healthier and happier lives and relationships by providing them with a safe and accepting space to navigate and overcome the challenges they’re facing. I strive to create a collaborative therapeutic process that is encouraging and empowering and work with clients to discover their strengths while helping them to understand the “why” of negative patterns and how to make their hoped-for changes. I primarily work with clients who have experienced/are experiencing life transitions, stressors, anxiety, depression, marriage/relationship distress and family conflicts.
While my treatment approach draws most heavily from CBT, Solutions Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, EFT, IFS, Gottman and Structural Family Therapy, I remain fluid in my approach, and tailor my work to each individual, family or couple I work with.
My goal is to help individuals, couples and families experience healthier and happier lives and relationships by providing them with a safe and accepting space to navigate and overcome the challenges they’re facing. I strive to create a collaborative therapeutic process that is encouraging and empowering and work with clients to discover their strengths while helping them to understand the “why” of negative patterns and how to make their hoped-for changes. I primarily work with clients who have experienced/are experiencing life transitions, stressors, anxiety, depression, marriage/relationship distress and family conflicts.
(458) 217-5769 View (458) 217-5769
Photo of Jay C Bluestine, LCSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jay C Bluestine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701
With couples, the focus is on improving communication, while family therapy focuses on the interrelationships within the family structure.
"YOU CAN'T UNDERSTAND ANOTHER PERSON'S EXPERIENCE UNTIL YOU WALK A MILE IN THEIR SHOES." That's especially true regarding the thoughts and feelings that often surround deeply personal issues. My practice is informed by my own life experiences as well as a nuanced understanding of the complexity of human nature. Together we will build the degree of trust and rapport necessary for you to: identify maladaptive patterns, challenge negative beliefs, gain insight into past and present events and most importantly, use this information to create permanent positive change in your relationships and the way you think and feel about yourself.
With couples, the focus is on improving communication, while family therapy focuses on the interrelationships within the family structure.
"YOU CAN'T UNDERSTAND ANOTHER PERSON'S EXPERIENCE UNTIL YOU WALK A MILE IN THEIR SHOES." That's especially true regarding the thoughts and feelings that often surround deeply personal issues. My practice is informed by my own life experiences as well as a nuanced understanding of the complexity of human nature. Together we will build the degree of trust and rapport necessary for you to: identify maladaptive patterns, challenge negative beliefs, gain insight into past and present events and most importantly, use this information to create permanent positive change in your relationships and the way you think and feel about yourself.
(541) 705-2388 View (541) 705-2388
Photo of Jodi Harvey, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jodi Harvey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97701
I've learned that a family systems approach can be critical in assisting families to become more functional so everyone can get their needs met and thrive.
I've been helping people with the "hard stuff" for a long time. I decided to work in the field of domestic violence in 1998 by way of intervention programs for both men and women who were convicted of an assault or who self identified as wanting to end their use of abuse with their loved ones. I opened my own business in 2000 specializing in anger management, domestic violence, parent education for children and teens, co-parenting education, and a program for parents who were convicted of abuse or neglect. I became a mediator in 2014 and I have conducted thousands of child custody, parenting plan, and family conflict mediations.
I've learned that a family systems approach can be critical in assisting families to become more functional so everyone can get their needs met and thrive.
I've been helping people with the "hard stuff" for a long time. I decided to work in the field of domestic violence in 1998 by way of intervention programs for both men and women who were convicted of an assault or who self identified as wanting to end their use of abuse with their loved ones. I opened my own business in 2000 specializing in anger management, domestic violence, parent education for children and teens, co-parenting education, and a program for parents who were convicted of abuse or neglect. I became a mediator in 2014 and I have conducted thousands of child custody, parenting plan, and family conflict mediations.
(458) 214-8543 View (458) 214-8543
Photo of Tad Falk, MS, LMFT, CADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tad Falk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CADC
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist committed to helping individuals and families navigate difficult life experiences and to lead happier, healthier lives. My work focuses on assisting adolescents, college students, young adults, adults, and families. Who experience mental health concerns, difficulty with substance abuse, and issues stemming from personal or intergenerational trauma.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist committed to helping individuals and families navigate difficult life experiences and to lead happier, healthier lives. My work focuses on assisting adolescents, college students, young adults, adults, and families. Who experience mental health concerns, difficulty with substance abuse, and issues stemming from personal or intergenerational trauma.
(458) 203-3989 View (458) 203-3989
Photo of Heather Laurie, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Laurie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97703
Many of my clients have experienced issues with attachment, trauma, or family violence/abuse.
Talk, Inc. approaches counseling from a strengths-based & solution-focused perspectives to support you in identifying, developing, & achieving your goals. I believe that you know yourself best, you are the expert in your own life, and you have the ability to feel healthy, happy, & whole. Sometimes we all need a sounding board, a place to process, or a person to listen while we sort through life events, changes, or times when we're not feeling our best. This practice is a space free of judgment, ripe with creativity, and committed to supporting you on your journey.
Many of my clients have experienced issues with attachment, trauma, or family violence/abuse.
Talk, Inc. approaches counseling from a strengths-based & solution-focused perspectives to support you in identifying, developing, & achieving your goals. I believe that you know yourself best, you are the expert in your own life, and you have the ability to feel healthy, happy, & whole. Sometimes we all need a sounding board, a place to process, or a person to listen while we sort through life events, changes, or times when we're not feeling our best. This practice is a space free of judgment, ripe with creativity, and committed to supporting you on your journey.
(541) 275-5258 View (541) 275-5258
Photo of Liz Behrens, MA, MCOUN
Liz Behrens
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, MCOUN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97702
Waitlist for new clients
Curious about trying EMDR? You've come to the right place. I provide support for children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, sexual assault healing, infidelity, and grief and loss. I use a trauma-focused approach that is grounded in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Occasionally, I will supplement the work with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, art therapy, and concepts from Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Curious about trying EMDR? You've come to the right place. I provide support for children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, sexual assault healing, infidelity, and grief and loss. I use a trauma-focused approach that is grounded in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Occasionally, I will supplement the work with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Narrative Therapy, art therapy, and concepts from Internal Family Systems (IFS).
(458) 236-3379 View (458) 236-3379
Photo of Robert Burch, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Robert Burch
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
Psychotherapy varies depending on the personality of both the therapist and the client, and the particular problems you, the client, bring to the therapy relationship. I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 25 years of experience. I am trained and experienced in doing Individual, group, couples, and family therapy with adults and adolescents (14 years and over).The early focus of therapy will Involve an evaluation of your needs, establishing a therapeutic relationship, developing self awareness, understanding thoughts, emotions, history, and current life circumstances that concern you, the client.
Psychotherapy varies depending on the personality of both the therapist and the client, and the particular problems you, the client, bring to the therapy relationship. I am a Licensed Psychologist with over 25 years of experience. I am trained and experienced in doing Individual, group, couples, and family therapy with adults and adolescents (14 years and over).The early focus of therapy will Involve an evaluation of your needs, establishing a therapeutic relationship, developing self awareness, understanding thoughts, emotions, history, and current life circumstances that concern you, the client.
(541) 526-5228 View (541) 526-5228
Photo of Nicole Landis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Landis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97702  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My goal as your therapist is to help you reach your full potential. Life is not always easy, and I help to navigate my clients through a variety of stage of life issues and changes that may come their way. I come from a family systems perspective where my focus is always on the family unit as a whole. I work with families and individuals from a holistic approach to help them discover their strengths, behavior patterns, and healthy solutions. I use evidenced-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Family Systems theory to provide effective and professional treatment to my clients.
My goal as your therapist is to help you reach your full potential. Life is not always easy, and I help to navigate my clients through a variety of stage of life issues and changes that may come their way. I come from a family systems perspective where my focus is always on the family unit as a whole. I work with families and individuals from a holistic approach to help them discover their strengths, behavior patterns, and healthy solutions. I use evidenced-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Family Systems theory to provide effective and professional treatment to my clients.
(458) 217-5525 View (458) 217-5525
Photo of Alix Keel, MA
Alix Keel
Professional Counselor Associate , MA
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97702
Waitlist for new clients
I provide therapy for relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, trauma, work conflict, family conflict, attention difficulties, anger/rage, and addiction.
I am EMDR trained and I specialize in helping clients build self awareness. I work primarily with athletes, professionals, and couples who are curious about many change and want to perform under pressure. I am an athlete, a parent, an educator, and most importantly....a humble learner. I bring a mix of authenticity and structured problem solving to my practice. My training is based on current research in neuroscience and mindfulness. I welcome the opportunity to support clients looking to attain peak performance, change their mindset, and bring curiosity and insight to their internal emotional and cognitive world.
I provide therapy for relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, trauma, work conflict, family conflict, attention difficulties, anger/rage, and addiction.
I am EMDR trained and I specialize in helping clients build self awareness. I work primarily with athletes, professionals, and couples who are curious about many change and want to perform under pressure. I am an athlete, a parent, an educator, and most importantly....a humble learner. I bring a mix of authenticity and structured problem solving to my practice. My training is based on current research in neuroscience and mindfulness. I welcome the opportunity to support clients looking to attain peak performance, change their mindset, and bring curiosity and insight to their internal emotional and cognitive world.
(458) 600-6322 View (458) 600-6322
Photo of Devora Lee Rubin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Devora Lee Rubin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97702
I offer Telehealth and in person counseling sessions. I have 25 years of mental health and addiction experience working with children, teenagers, couples, adults, and families. I use a Family Systems approach to treatment including a variety of modalities with special focus on teaching the art of mindfulness called dialectical behavioral therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I have successfully helped clients to resolve serious life problems, return to optimal functioning, meet personal and career goals, improve many intimate relationships, and to help persons to build new life skills necessary for self improvement.
I offer Telehealth and in person counseling sessions. I have 25 years of mental health and addiction experience working with children, teenagers, couples, adults, and families. I use a Family Systems approach to treatment including a variety of modalities with special focus on teaching the art of mindfulness called dialectical behavioral therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. I have successfully helped clients to resolve serious life problems, return to optimal functioning, meet personal and career goals, improve many intimate relationships, and to help persons to build new life skills necessary for self improvement.
(458) 216-2522 View (458) 216-2522
Photo of Wendy Reimann, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wendy Reimann
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97702
I have studied and embraced the family systems models.
Do you sense your life has become unmanageable? Do you feel there are roadblocks in your relationships? The journey of life can become bumpy. I offer a safe place to walk alongside you while facing distress, anxiety, heartbreak, or other disappointments life can bring. I will help to guide you toward healthier relationships. I address parental relationships with children, couples relationships (both premarital and couples counseling). I also work with individuals in gaining insight into interpersonal conflicts. I work with parents and children struggling with finding the joy in raising kids including families facing the challenge of disabilities.
I have studied and embraced the family systems models.
Do you sense your life has become unmanageable? Do you feel there are roadblocks in your relationships? The journey of life can become bumpy. I offer a safe place to walk alongside you while facing distress, anxiety, heartbreak, or other disappointments life can bring. I will help to guide you toward healthier relationships. I address parental relationships with children, couples relationships (both premarital and couples counseling). I also work with individuals in gaining insight into interpersonal conflicts. I work with parents and children struggling with finding the joy in raising kids including families facing the challenge of disabilities.
(503) 360-9388 View (503) 360-9388
Photo of Gayle L Dosher, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gayle L Dosher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97702
Waitlist for new clients
Whether YOU, your spouse, or your adolescent child is experiencing depression/anxiety, the entire family may suffer.
These are extremely stressful times but you do not have to face it all alone. Depression and anxiety can lead, if left untreated, to isolation and self-destructive behaviors. Relationships may suffer and facing each day can feel overwhelming! In therapy, we work on restoring relationships. We work together to understand why you do what you do - then, change will come! Destructive patterns can be conquered. Trauma, stress, conflict, and great loss CAN lose their power. I love working with individual adults, families, couples, and teens who are ready to overcome their challenges.
Whether YOU, your spouse, or your adolescent child is experiencing depression/anxiety, the entire family may suffer.
These are extremely stressful times but you do not have to face it all alone. Depression and anxiety can lead, if left untreated, to isolation and self-destructive behaviors. Relationships may suffer and facing each day can feel overwhelming! In therapy, we work on restoring relationships. We work together to understand why you do what you do - then, change will come! Destructive patterns can be conquered. Trauma, stress, conflict, and great loss CAN lose their power. I love working with individual adults, families, couples, and teens who are ready to overcome their challenges.
(541) 246-6232 View (541) 246-6232
Photo of Christina Toney - Journey to Renewal Counseling, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Journey to Renewal Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
You're a unique person with individual experiences and needs. At Journey to Renewal, I will assess, and then together we will create a plan to meet your goals. Types of therapy provided include individual, couples, and family counseling to people of all ages, backgrounds, and identities. I offer integrative, trauma-informed counseling, working with clients to determine their goals and approaches in a way that work best for them.
You're a unique person with individual experiences and needs. At Journey to Renewal, I will assess, and then together we will create a plan to meet your goals. Types of therapy provided include individual, couples, and family counseling to people of all ages, backgrounds, and identities. I offer integrative, trauma-informed counseling, working with clients to determine their goals and approaches in a way that work best for them.
(458) 455-1153 View (458) 455-1153
Photo of Amy Manion - Amy Manion Family Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Amy Manion Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bend, OR 97703  (Online Only)
I have additional or certificate level training in sex therapy, perinatal mental health, pregnancy loss, infertility, ADHD, CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) and also completed Level 2 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
I seek to provide a welcoming, collaborative, comfortable space that supports my clients through the process of self-discovery, insight, emotional healing, and positive change. I work with individuals, couples, and families who are seeking solutions for connection and intimacy. I have a special interest in perinatal mental health, including pregnancy, postpartum, pregnancy loss, infertility, and supporting individuals and couples as they navigate the parenting process. I also enjoy supporting couples and adults who are looking for strategies to effectively navigate the ways in which ADHD symptoms may impact their relationships.
I have additional or certificate level training in sex therapy, perinatal mental health, pregnancy loss, infertility, ADHD, CBT, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) and also completed Level 2 training in Gottman Method Couples Therapy.
I seek to provide a welcoming, collaborative, comfortable space that supports my clients through the process of self-discovery, insight, emotional healing, and positive change. I work with individuals, couples, and families who are seeking solutions for connection and intimacy. I have a special interest in perinatal mental health, including pregnancy, postpartum, pregnancy loss, infertility, and supporting individuals and couples as they navigate the parenting process. I also enjoy supporting couples and adults who are looking for strategies to effectively navigate the ways in which ADHD symptoms may impact their relationships.
(458) 217-6483 View (458) 217-6483
Photo of Sabrina Hadeed, PhD, LMHC, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sabrina Hadeed
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LMHC, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
I specialize in working with individuals with trauma, anxiety, postpartum, grief/loss, anxiety, substance abuse, sexual identity, and challenging family relationships.
I don't accept insurance. Offering both traditional and Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. Sabrina is licensed as a clinical therapist in both Oregon and Washington. She has her PhD in Counseling with a Major in Counselor Education/Supervision from Oregon State University. 20 years of experience working with individuals, family system and couples/parents. In addition to her clinical counseling work, Dr. Hadeed has taught in numerous universities and currently teaches as an Adjunct Professor for Montana State University’s online graduate addiction counseling program - where she has been a contributing instructor for the past 6 years.
I specialize in working with individuals with trauma, anxiety, postpartum, grief/loss, anxiety, substance abuse, sexual identity, and challenging family relationships.
I don't accept insurance. Offering both traditional and Ketamine-assisted psychotherapy. Sabrina is licensed as a clinical therapist in both Oregon and Washington. She has her PhD in Counseling with a Major in Counselor Education/Supervision from Oregon State University. 20 years of experience working with individuals, family system and couples/parents. In addition to her clinical counseling work, Dr. Hadeed has taught in numerous universities and currently teaches as an Adjunct Professor for Montana State University’s online graduate addiction counseling program - where she has been a contributing instructor for the past 6 years.
(509) 587-1677 View (509) 587-1677
Photo of Casey Hineline, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Casey Hineline
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bend, OR 97701
I incorporate many modalities but my base is in psychodynamic/relational therapy. This is a therapeutic approach that focuses on the interpersonal relationships and dynamics of an individual (I also explore the family system). This type of therapy emphasizes the importance of relationships in shaping an individual's well-being and mental health. Relational therapy aims to help clients explore and understand how their past and current relationships impact their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By examining patterns of interaction, communication styles, and attachment styles, clients can gain insight into their relational struggles.
I incorporate many modalities but my base is in psychodynamic/relational therapy. This is a therapeutic approach that focuses on the interpersonal relationships and dynamics of an individual (I also explore the family system). This type of therapy emphasizes the importance of relationships in shaping an individual's well-being and mental health. Relational therapy aims to help clients explore and understand how their past and current relationships impact their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. By examining patterns of interaction, communication styles, and attachment styles, clients can gain insight into their relational struggles.
(415) 200-2913 View (415) 200-2913
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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.