Therapists in Portland, OR
I have a passion for human growth processes. Throughout my thirty years of practice I have appreciated the opportunity to be a resource for those seeking a shift in their lives towards greater health, resolution of trauma and better functioning in the adventure of close relationships. I work with individuals, couples and families collaboratively to find their path towards fuller experiences of self hood and relatedness. I approach human challenges from an integrated framework of family/attachment theory, interpersonal neurobiology and optimal brain functioning. Through research based approaches to greater self regulation clients expand their capacity for health
I have a passion for human growth processes. Throughout my thirty years of practice I have appreciated the opportunity to be a resource for those seeking a shift in their lives towards greater health, resolution of trauma and better functioning in the adventure of close relationships. I work with individuals, couples and families collaboratively to find their path towards fuller experiences of self hood and relatedness. I approach human challenges from an integrated framework of family/attachment theory, interpersonal neurobiology and optimal brain functioning. Through research based approaches to greater self regulation clients expand their capacity for health
![Photo of Shari Davison - The Hope Connection, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d97e733-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
The Hope Connection
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
If you are looking for confidential, professional and respectful counseling, you have come to the right place. If you have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship or family struggles... our group of qualified therapists will work with you on improving areas of your life so you gain control. Our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. We will work with you to better understand and resolve challenges in your life and help you discover what may be holding you back from experiencing a fulfilling and meaningful life.
If you are looking for confidential, professional and respectful counseling, you have come to the right place. If you have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship or family struggles... our group of qualified therapists will work with you on improving areas of your life so you gain control. Our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. We will work with you to better understand and resolve challenges in your life and help you discover what may be holding you back from experiencing a fulfilling and meaningful life.
![Photo of Barbara Eggenberger, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ccee5fa-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Barbara Eggenberger
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205 (Online Only)
If you struggle with chronic issues and have tried other therapists and are still struggling, I may be the therapist for you. I am a specialist in accessing early trauma and clearing it through the use of brain-based therapies such as EMDR and Brainspotting. I am certified in Brainspotting and Systemic Family Constellations and trained in EMDR I/II. I combine these three methods plus my natural empathic abilities to access blockages and clear them. You will feel immediately better!
If you struggle with chronic issues and have tried other therapists and are still struggling, I may be the therapist for you. I am a specialist in accessing early trauma and clearing it through the use of brain-based therapies such as EMDR and Brainspotting. I am certified in Brainspotting and Systemic Family Constellations and trained in EMDR I/II. I combine these three methods plus my natural empathic abilities to access blockages and clear them. You will feel immediately better!
![Photo of Chad P Ernest - Sunny Sky Counseling, LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d28b104-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sunny Sky Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97216
Hello! I am Chad Ernest, Owner and Counselor of Sunny Sky Counseling, LLC. Every one could use some sunny sky in Portland now and again. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Oregon, who believes in the best in all of us and tries to help you find that in yourself. Whether that means I am working with you as an individual, your family, or as a couple, I am working to help you find the best outcomes. I believe in a client/family centered approach with collaboration in treatment between you and myself.
Hello! I am Chad Ernest, Owner and Counselor of Sunny Sky Counseling, LLC. Every one could use some sunny sky in Portland now and again. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Oregon, who believes in the best in all of us and tries to help you find that in yourself. Whether that means I am working with you as an individual, your family, or as a couple, I am working to help you find the best outcomes. I believe in a client/family centered approach with collaboration in treatment between you and myself.
![Photo of Alexandra Saperstein, LPC, LMFT, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cc5681a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alexandra Saperstein
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, LLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
I work with couples in crisis and individuals facing depression, life transitions, and/or other life challenges. I understand that finding a therapist can feel daunting so I offer an initial, free twenty minute phone consultation. This can help you decide if I may be a good fit for you at this time. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Relational Life Method Therapist, and an Advanced Trained Gottman Counselor, we'll work side by side to move from gridlock or pain towards more genuine connection and joy. I have helped hundreds of clients in the past decade. I look forward to connecting!
I work with couples in crisis and individuals facing depression, life transitions, and/or other life challenges. I understand that finding a therapist can feel daunting so I offer an initial, free twenty minute phone consultation. This can help you decide if I may be a good fit for you at this time. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Relational Life Method Therapist, and an Advanced Trained Gottman Counselor, we'll work side by side to move from gridlock or pain towards more genuine connection and joy. I have helped hundreds of clients in the past decade. I look forward to connecting!
![Photo of Jerry Woodards, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11f1705f-523e-4513-97fe-2a04332c12cf/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jerry Woodards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232 (Online Only)
I’m currently seeing clients by video and phone, offering individual, couple, and family sessions.
Are you ready to live a better you? You are taking the first step in attaining peace-of-mind, I respect and applaud you for doing so. I have a Masters degree in Social Work from Portland State University and over 40 years of experience working as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I began my private practice, Pathways to Peace Therapy, over 20 years ago, while also working in community mental health and E.R. crisis intervention for over 15 years. In 2014, I also began working with OCD patients. Working in various mental health settings has been invaluable in providing tools to bring to my clients individual needs and goals.
I’m currently seeing clients by video and phone, offering individual, couple, and family sessions.
Are you ready to live a better you? You are taking the first step in attaining peace-of-mind, I respect and applaud you for doing so. I have a Masters degree in Social Work from Portland State University and over 40 years of experience working as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I began my private practice, Pathways to Peace Therapy, over 20 years ago, while also working in community mental health and E.R. crisis intervention for over 15 years. In 2014, I also began working with OCD patients. Working in various mental health settings has been invaluable in providing tools to bring to my clients individual needs and goals.
![Photo of Anne Sikora, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/451bdcd8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patients have complimented my low key approach, sense of humor and intuitive grasp of their family histories and current dynamics.
I am a seasoned psychotherapist with an office in charming Cobble Hill, Brooklyn. I have been in practice for over 20 years. I have a PsyD in psychoanalysis and am a licensed clinical social worker with the necessary credentials for reimbursement by insurance. My therapeutic style is warm and interactive. I have many patients working in artistic fields who need a creative therapist. Additionally, I do couples work using emotionally focused therapy. I have experience working with a wide range of issues including: depression, anxiety and panic attacks, infertility, divorce, parenting teens and LGBTQ issues.
Patients have complimented my low key approach, sense of humor and intuitive grasp of their family histories and current dynamics.
I am a seasoned psychotherapist with an office in charming Cobble Hill, Brooklyn. I have been in practice for over 20 years. I have a PsyD in psychoanalysis and am a licensed clinical social worker with the necessary credentials for reimbursement by insurance. My therapeutic style is warm and interactive. I have many patients working in artistic fields who need a creative therapist. Additionally, I do couples work using emotionally focused therapy. I have experience working with a wide range of issues including: depression, anxiety and panic attacks, infertility, divorce, parenting teens and LGBTQ issues.
![Photo of Christie Hawkes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b0014f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christie Hawkes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209 (Online Only)
I provide psychotherapy that includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family systems/family-of-origin work, mindfulness and trauma approaches.
I offer respectful, sincere, compassionate therapy in a safe environment. Therapy gives you time and space for one on one support in a private setting which can be so helpful when things get overwhelming. I will actively listen and collaborate with you on increasing insight while fostering empowerment and identifying tools for change.
I provide psychotherapy that includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family systems/family-of-origin work, mindfulness and trauma approaches.
I offer respectful, sincere, compassionate therapy in a safe environment. Therapy gives you time and space for one on one support in a private setting which can be so helpful when things get overwhelming. I will actively listen and collaborate with you on increasing insight while fostering empowerment and identifying tools for change.
![Photo of Alison C Gullion - Pacific Northwest Behavioral Health, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/438e26da-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Pacific Northwest Behavioral Health, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
Pacific Northwest Behavioral Health, LLC has a team of providers with a wide variety of specialties that include medication management, marital, individual, family and group counseling. Our goal is to bring a sense of vitality and wellness to your life through compassion, wisdom and humor!
Pacific Northwest Behavioral Health, LLC has a team of providers with a wide variety of specialties that include medication management, marital, individual, family and group counseling. Our goal is to bring a sense of vitality and wellness to your life through compassion, wisdom and humor!
![Photo of Harini Sukumaran, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/408729f2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Harini Sukumaran
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
As a child and family counselor, i help parents and children/teens develop insights and identify the root cause of the problem.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Offering online therapy & in- office visits. Your child's anxiety and depression may have increased with isolation from friends, adjustment to online schooling, and disruption in schedule. Maybe you're a parent or caregiver who is frustrated with your child/teen's behavior at home? May be you are a parent who is overwhelmed and wants to parent mindfully. May be your child is struggling with anxiety &depression, and you are unsure how to help them and need a holistic approach. You may have noticed your child struggling with self regulation, high anxiety, sadness, anger issues, ADHD, and learning difficulties.
As a child and family counselor, i help parents and children/teens develop insights and identify the root cause of the problem.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Offering online therapy & in- office visits. Your child's anxiety and depression may have increased with isolation from friends, adjustment to online schooling, and disruption in schedule. Maybe you're a parent or caregiver who is frustrated with your child/teen's behavior at home? May be you are a parent who is overwhelmed and wants to parent mindfully. May be your child is struggling with anxiety &depression, and you are unsure how to help them and need a holistic approach. You may have noticed your child struggling with self regulation, high anxiety, sadness, anger issues, ADHD, and learning difficulties.
![Photo of Mindtree Holistic Counseling Wellness Center - MindTree Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center LLC, LMFT, LCSW, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ae5fa72-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
MindTree Holistic Counseling & Wellness Center LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
MindTree offers individual therapy for adults, child/teen therapy, family therapy, play therapy, trauma psychotherapy, marriage & couples counseling, gender affirming care, Grief & Loss.
At MindTree we treat the person as a whole, by integrating the healing of mind and Body. Our team of holistic practitioners provide a collaborative health care model and create a personalized Holistic Wellness plan for adults, younger children, teens, elderly adults, couples and families. We believe in the philosophy that mind and body do not operate separately, rather interdependently. All of the Holistic Counseling techniques that MindTree offers are evidence-based, peer reviewed, and represent current best practices in the field.
MindTree offers individual therapy for adults, child/teen therapy, family therapy, play therapy, trauma psychotherapy, marriage & couples counseling, gender affirming care, Grief & Loss.
At MindTree we treat the person as a whole, by integrating the healing of mind and Body. Our team of holistic practitioners provide a collaborative health care model and create a personalized Holistic Wellness plan for adults, younger children, teens, elderly adults, couples and families. We believe in the philosophy that mind and body do not operate separately, rather interdependently. All of the Holistic Counseling techniques that MindTree offers are evidence-based, peer reviewed, and represent current best practices in the field.
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![Photo of Andrea J. Wright Johnston, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dc2f6df-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea J. Wright Johnston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213 (Online Only)
We work to create new awareness, new knowledge and new possibilities. You can have an empowered family and a happy state of mind through therapy. I work with individuals and families to build harmony and health in their relationships. I specialize in sex therapy and am an effective life coach. I approach each person and family with attention to mental and physical health, with consideration to relational, social and spiritual influences.
We work to create new awareness, new knowledge and new possibilities. You can have an empowered family and a happy state of mind through therapy. I work with individuals and families to build harmony and health in their relationships. I specialize in sex therapy and am an effective life coach. I approach each person and family with attention to mental and physical health, with consideration to relational, social and spiritual influences.
![Photo of Arin Wallington - Willamette Wellness Center, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7841a158-17a0-42ab-a925-2602600120c5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Willamette Wellness Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229 (Online Only)
Some of our most sought after therapies include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Processing Therapy, CBT, Couples Counseling, Somatic Work, Health at Every Size, Hypnotherapy, and many others.
WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of OR and WA. We have a wide range of specialties including eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, pregnancy/post partum work, anxiety/depression, Neurodivergency, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
Some of our most sought after therapies include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Processing Therapy, CBT, Couples Counseling, Somatic Work, Health at Every Size, Hypnotherapy, and many others.
WWC is a group of mental health clinicians living in, and serving the states of OR and WA. We have a wide range of specialties including eating disorders, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ and trans support, pregnancy/post partum work, anxiety/depression, Neurodivergency, PTSD/C-PTSD therapy, veteran/BIPOC/marginalized community support, pornography/sex addiction, sex therapy and many others. View our therapists and book today at www.wwcpdx.com
![Photo of Kimber Gunter, MS, NCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90cc00a8-d9bb-480f-9c51-58a698748cf6/2/320x400.png)
Kimber Gunter
Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
I am also passionate about work in internal family systems (IFS).
It is my belief that every individual has the ability to reach and maintain their desired state of being through the counseling process. I am passionate about helping individuals achieve self-awareness, and acceptance while providing a safe space for exploration, processing, and implementation of change to occur. My focus is working with people of the LGBTQIA+ community, and the issues that present with being in a marginalized community. Are you living with depression, anxiety, lack or self-worth and or value? If you feel like I may be the right fit for you, let's take the next step and meet for our consultation.
I am also passionate about work in internal family systems (IFS).
It is my belief that every individual has the ability to reach and maintain their desired state of being through the counseling process. I am passionate about helping individuals achieve self-awareness, and acceptance while providing a safe space for exploration, processing, and implementation of change to occur. My focus is working with people of the LGBTQIA+ community, and the issues that present with being in a marginalized community. Are you living with depression, anxiety, lack or self-worth and or value? If you feel like I may be the right fit for you, let's take the next step and meet for our consultation.
![Photo of Gary Neil Reiss, PhD, , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52dd3429-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Gary Neil Reiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, , LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
My specialties include working with body symptoms; dreams; couples and family issues; sex therapy and intimacy work; trauma personal and collective; and working with money issues.
I work with a wide range of people. My clients like deep work, As a Process Oriented therapist and teacher I use dreamwork, symptoms work, bodywork, movement, relationship work, conflict work, inner work and meditation, art and creativity, and many other methods based on the individuals client's process. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I have helped develop Process Oriented family therapy; Process Oriented sex and intimacy work; Process Oriented personal and historical trauma work; Process oriented coma and brain injury work, I have written 11 books on these topics. My work integrates mind body and spirit.
My specialties include working with body symptoms; dreams; couples and family issues; sex therapy and intimacy work; trauma personal and collective; and working with money issues.
I work with a wide range of people. My clients like deep work, As a Process Oriented therapist and teacher I use dreamwork, symptoms work, bodywork, movement, relationship work, conflict work, inner work and meditation, art and creativity, and many other methods based on the individuals client's process. I work with individuals, couples, and families. I have helped develop Process Oriented family therapy; Process Oriented sex and intimacy work; Process Oriented personal and historical trauma work; Process oriented coma and brain injury work, I have written 11 books on these topics. My work integrates mind body and spirit.
![Photo of Valentia Heart Counseling - Valentia Heart Counseling, MA, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ad24336-939b-4f29-857b-190868f2ae31/2/320x400.jpeg)
Valentia Heart Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
For over 30 years, I've had the honor of assisting couples, families, and individuals of all ages, as they identify, clarify and find constructive coping strategies to deal with issues relating to anxiety, depression, grief, anger and relationships. As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I especially enjoy working on issues such as affair recovery, attachment disorders and phase-of-life challenges. Whether you are struggling with a relationship in your life, overwhelming anxiety, or some other problem, I would be honored to work with you. I prefer to work with those who have clear goal goals, and who are solution-focused.
For over 30 years, I've had the honor of assisting couples, families, and individuals of all ages, as they identify, clarify and find constructive coping strategies to deal with issues relating to anxiety, depression, grief, anger and relationships. As a Marriage & Family Therapist, I especially enjoy working on issues such as affair recovery, attachment disorders and phase-of-life challenges. Whether you are struggling with a relationship in your life, overwhelming anxiety, or some other problem, I would be honored to work with you. I prefer to work with those who have clear goal goals, and who are solution-focused.
![Photo of Myong O, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4647e387-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a mental health provider who has been practicing in an integrated family medicine clinic, my approach to health is holistic. I believe the foundations of well being are built on sufficient sleep, good nutrition, physical activity and healthy relationship with oneself and others. So, whether we are struggling with anxiety, depression, concentration difficulties, relationship issues etc, when we improve how our brain functions, by strengthening our wise brain and quieting our survival brain (through mindfulness and other techniques), then we increase our ability to live the life that is meaningful to us.
As a mental health provider who has been practicing in an integrated family medicine clinic, my approach to health is holistic. I believe the foundations of well being are built on sufficient sleep, good nutrition, physical activity and healthy relationship with oneself and others. So, whether we are struggling with anxiety, depression, concentration difficulties, relationship issues etc, when we improve how our brain functions, by strengthening our wise brain and quieting our survival brain (through mindfulness and other techniques), then we increase our ability to live the life that is meaningful to us.
![Photo of Judy Schmidt, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfee5d13-ac9a-47f0-b98a-e34bfed220bf/1/320x400.jpeg)
in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Accepting New Clients! Life is complicated, and so are relationships, especially during times of change, stress or loss. When we're in a good place and our relationships are healthy, everything seems right with the world. But sometimes, we just get stuck... with ourselves, or with others. If that sounds like you, you’ve taken the first step to work on those issues by searching for a therapist. My first priority is to build a safe and trusting relationship with you. Once you feel comfortable, we'll work together to establish goals and give you the tools to reach them so you can live your best life.
in Marriage and Family Therapy.
Accepting New Clients! Life is complicated, and so are relationships, especially during times of change, stress or loss. When we're in a good place and our relationships are healthy, everything seems right with the world. But sometimes, we just get stuck... with ourselves, or with others. If that sounds like you, you’ve taken the first step to work on those issues by searching for a therapist. My first priority is to build a safe and trusting relationship with you. Once you feel comfortable, we'll work together to establish goals and give you the tools to reach them so you can live your best life.
![Photo of Jillian M Brown, MS, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7eda30c6-eb2c-4718-8adf-c1e5ee265f15/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hypnosis, Family Constellations, Somatic and Depth Psychology all reach the subconscious for deep lasting change.
Why does this keep happening? Why can't I let this go? Why do I find myself in the same relationship over and over? Most of our personal challenges in life come from events in our early childhood or are passed down from trauma in our families. Theses things are challenging to heal or transform when we either don’t remember what they are or never knew to begin with. Even with events we do remember it can be hard to get to a place of transformation. That is why I work with modalities that get deep into the the unconscious so that change can take place on that deep level that is very challenging to get to with thinking and talking.
Hypnosis, Family Constellations, Somatic and Depth Psychology all reach the subconscious for deep lasting change.
Why does this keep happening? Why can't I let this go? Why do I find myself in the same relationship over and over? Most of our personal challenges in life come from events in our early childhood or are passed down from trauma in our families. Theses things are challenging to heal or transform when we either don’t remember what they are or never knew to begin with. Even with events we do remember it can be hard to get to a place of transformation. That is why I work with modalities that get deep into the the unconscious so that change can take place on that deep level that is very challenging to get to with thinking and talking.
![Photo of Alison Austin, MA, LPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90dd7937-4cbe-4d1b-926f-80835254f973/1/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in working with people experiencing difficult life transitions. These may be adjusting to a disability, the death of a loved one, changes in family structure or employment among other things. I consider difficult life transitions to include times when we experience increased stress requiring changing coping skills. I create a safe and affirming environment for you to begin recognizing that you are not on this journey alone. By seeking counseling you have the opportunity to learn new information and patterns that no longer serve to move you in the direction you want to go.
I specialize in working with people experiencing difficult life transitions. These may be adjusting to a disability, the death of a loved one, changes in family structure or employment among other things. I consider difficult life transitions to include times when we experience increased stress requiring changing coping skills. I create a safe and affirming environment for you to begin recognizing that you are not on this journey alone. By seeking counseling you have the opportunity to learn new information and patterns that no longer serve to move you in the direction you want to go.
See more therapy options for Portland
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.