Family Therapy in Downingtown, PA

Photo of Colin Smith, LPC, Counselor
Colin Smith
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335  (Online Only)
He has provided individual, group, and family therapy in school, home, and office settings.
Are you a teen or young adult struggling to navigate social pressures and responsibilities? A parent of a struggling teen? I help create self-esteem and establish proper perspectives when young adults feel overwhelmed. A full-time school counselor, Colin Smith has been working with adolescents both in schools and in outpatient therapy for nearly twenty years. Working in both public and approved private schools as well as community mental health has provided Colin with various learning opportunities. Areas of experience include individuals with anxiety, depression, self-esteem deficits, autism, and conduct disorders.
He has provided individual, group, and family therapy in school, home, and office settings.
Are you a teen or young adult struggling to navigate social pressures and responsibilities? A parent of a struggling teen? I help create self-esteem and establish proper perspectives when young adults feel overwhelmed. A full-time school counselor, Colin Smith has been working with adolescents both in schools and in outpatient therapy for nearly twenty years. Working in both public and approved private schools as well as community mental health has provided Colin with various learning opportunities. Areas of experience include individuals with anxiety, depression, self-esteem deficits, autism, and conduct disorders.
(610) 753-4643 View (610) 753-4643
Photo of Rebecca Toddes-Miller, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Toddes-Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
Not accepting new clients
My background in psychodynamic psychotherapy, family systems, cognitive therapy, and substance abuse treatment helps me create a nuanced understanding of clients' unique problems.
I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and couples who are going through transitions, experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and/or who are troubled by substance abuse. I also see many people who have chronic syndromes such as autoimmune disorders. I have a collaborative approach and a conversational style, and provide a safe and confidential place where people can share their story. I see psychotherapy as an opportunity to develop greater self awareness and skills to improve relationships, and to enhance coping and decision making skills so that they are in keeping with the client's values and goals.
My background in psychodynamic psychotherapy, family systems, cognitive therapy, and substance abuse treatment helps me create a nuanced understanding of clients' unique problems.
I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and couples who are going through transitions, experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and/or who are troubled by substance abuse. I also see many people who have chronic syndromes such as autoimmune disorders. I have a collaborative approach and a conversational style, and provide a safe and confidential place where people can share their story. I see psychotherapy as an opportunity to develop greater self awareness and skills to improve relationships, and to enhance coping and decision making skills so that they are in keeping with the client's values and goals.
(610) 594-1494 View (610) 594-1494
Photo of Lauren Cunkelman, MA, BC-DMT, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Cunkelman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
Does your child often have meltdowns or emotional explosions? Are you constantly fighting and feel like your home is a battlefield? Is it hard to connect with your child and understand why they’re behaving the way that they are? My family-oriented and collaborative approach to therapy may be a fit. I want to help you and your child decrease the amount of fighting that occurs and uncover why your child behaves the way they do. I believe that if families are more connected, our society becomes more connected, which means a more positive future. And a positive future is what you want for your child.
Does your child often have meltdowns or emotional explosions? Are you constantly fighting and feel like your home is a battlefield? Is it hard to connect with your child and understand why they’re behaving the way that they are? My family-oriented and collaborative approach to therapy may be a fit. I want to help you and your child decrease the amount of fighting that occurs and uncover why your child behaves the way they do. I believe that if families are more connected, our society becomes more connected, which means a more positive future. And a positive future is what you want for your child.
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Photo of Dr. Dorothy Gail Monteith, LPC, EdD, MHS, Counselor
Dr. Dorothy Gail Monteith
Counselor, LPC, EdD, MHS
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
I am EMDR trained and Mindfulness Play Therapy Based Family Therapy trained.
I work well with clients that want to add to their own improvement and are motivated to change. I want to help with this need, or their want to improve. I want to help how you feel, and make you feel more positive. I am a positive, caring, compassionate person and i I listen carefully, and want to help.
I am EMDR trained and Mindfulness Play Therapy Based Family Therapy trained.
I work well with clients that want to add to their own improvement and are motivated to change. I want to help with this need, or their want to improve. I want to help how you feel, and make you feel more positive. I am a positive, caring, compassionate person and i I listen carefully, and want to help.
(610) 347-5704 View (610) 347-5704
Photo of Erin Matthews, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Matthews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
I'm glad you're here! My name is Erin Matthews. I enjoy working with clients from teen to older adult, and helping them deal with a variety of issues. I believe that devolping a healthy therapeutic relationship is the most important aspect for fostering growth and change. I have an open-minded and accepting approach, and love helping clients gain a better understanding of their emotions and how to deal with them more effectively. I also enjoy helping people learn to better advocate for themselves, create healthy boundaries, and improve communication with family and friends.
I'm glad you're here! My name is Erin Matthews. I enjoy working with clients from teen to older adult, and helping them deal with a variety of issues. I believe that devolping a healthy therapeutic relationship is the most important aspect for fostering growth and change. I have an open-minded and accepting approach, and love helping clients gain a better understanding of their emotions and how to deal with them more effectively. I also enjoy helping people learn to better advocate for themselves, create healthy boundaries, and improve communication with family and friends.
(610) 379-1260 View (610) 379-1260
Photo of Todd Shirley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Todd Shirley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
My therapy utilizes elements of Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, and Attachment Based Family Therapy (ABFT).
Waiting lists are long, things become urgent, and good help can be hard to find. Successful, compassionate therapeautic care for you or your struggling teen is available through the counseling services I offer. If you or someone you know is struggling with issues like depression, anxiety, academic struggles, obsessive compulsive disorder, ADHD, self injury, sexual orientation, gender identity, or suicidal ideation reach out to set up an appointment or brief introductory virtual meeting. Weekend and evening appointment times are available. I know first hand how scary it can be to watch an adolescent you love struggle and suffer.
My therapy utilizes elements of Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, and Attachment Based Family Therapy (ABFT).
Waiting lists are long, things become urgent, and good help can be hard to find. Successful, compassionate therapeautic care for you or your struggling teen is available through the counseling services I offer. If you or someone you know is struggling with issues like depression, anxiety, academic struggles, obsessive compulsive disorder, ADHD, self injury, sexual orientation, gender identity, or suicidal ideation reach out to set up an appointment or brief introductory virtual meeting. Weekend and evening appointment times are available. I know first hand how scary it can be to watch an adolescent you love struggle and suffer.
(610) 557-8332 View (610) 557-8332
Photo of Kaitlyn Gawrylewski, MA, BC-DMT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaitlyn Gawrylewski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, BC-DMT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
Later childhood and adolescence are one of the most challenging times in our lives. Whether you are a caregiver looking for someone to help your child manage the stressors that arise during these stages, or a teen looking for someone to help you navigate the emerging changes and challenges, my humanistic approach may be a good fit for you! I incorporate a whole person view when working with clients. Whether you are living with anxiety, depression, experiencing difficulty in family or peer relationships, or finding it a challenge acclimating to early adulthood, my collaborative approach may be the bridge toward optimal health.
Later childhood and adolescence are one of the most challenging times in our lives. Whether you are a caregiver looking for someone to help your child manage the stressors that arise during these stages, or a teen looking for someone to help you navigate the emerging changes and challenges, my humanistic approach may be a good fit for you! I incorporate a whole person view when working with clients. Whether you are living with anxiety, depression, experiencing difficulty in family or peer relationships, or finding it a challenge acclimating to early adulthood, my collaborative approach may be the bridge toward optimal health.
(484) 310-9062 View (484) 310-9062
Photo of Lynn Charles - Women's Counseling Associates of Chester County, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Women's Counseling Associates of Chester County
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335  (Online Only)
We offer individual, couples and family therapy.
Please note: We only offer video sessions. Our mission at Women's Counseling Associates of Chester County is to provide a space where women can work on themselves to become happier, successful and fulfilled in their lives. We guide our clients through the process of self-exploration, self-awareness, learning and growth. We work to remove any obstacles such as self-sabotage along with negative behavioral and thought patterns that may be inhibiting you from being the best you.
We offer individual, couples and family therapy.
Please note: We only offer video sessions. Our mission at Women's Counseling Associates of Chester County is to provide a space where women can work on themselves to become happier, successful and fulfilled in their lives. We guide our clients through the process of self-exploration, self-awareness, learning and growth. We work to remove any obstacles such as self-sabotage along with negative behavioral and thought patterns that may be inhibiting you from being the best you.
(484) 498-6713 View (484) 498-6713
Photo of Lori Nelsen Luneburg, PhD, Psychologist
Lori Nelsen Luneburg
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
Are you tired of the toxicity? Have you lost your identity? Do you feel crazy in your current relationship and/or family ? Emotional/Psychological/Narcissistic and other types of abuse can take a huge toll on an individual's self esteem and ability to cope. I am a caring Licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience with Narcissistic/Abusive/Toxic Relationships and Trauma. I also specialize in Women Issues, Mood Disorders/Anxiety as well as Eating Disorders. My goal in therapy is to help you understand what "healthy" looks like and empower you to set boundaries and create the life that you desire.
Are you tired of the toxicity? Have you lost your identity? Do you feel crazy in your current relationship and/or family ? Emotional/Psychological/Narcissistic and other types of abuse can take a huge toll on an individual's self esteem and ability to cope. I am a caring Licensed Clinical Psychologist with extensive experience with Narcissistic/Abusive/Toxic Relationships and Trauma. I also specialize in Women Issues, Mood Disorders/Anxiety as well as Eating Disorders. My goal in therapy is to help you understand what "healthy" looks like and empower you to set boundaries and create the life that you desire.
(610) 490-8635 View (610) 490-8635
Photo of Andrea Phillips, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I have intensive training in viewing problems using a systemic lens.
I believe that relationships deeply shape our experiences and how we cope with difficult times. Even when working with individuals, therapy sessions are often focused around gaining a better understanding of how one's relationships are working positively to support them or to define areas where changes are needed. As a therapist, I am honored to collaborate with clients in creating their own goals and to witness the healing process. I specialize in working with teens, young adults and families to address issues such as depression, anxiety, family stress, self-esteem, parent-child conflict and coping with major life transitions.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I have intensive training in viewing problems using a systemic lens.
I believe that relationships deeply shape our experiences and how we cope with difficult times. Even when working with individuals, therapy sessions are often focused around gaining a better understanding of how one's relationships are working positively to support them or to define areas where changes are needed. As a therapist, I am honored to collaborate with clients in creating their own goals and to witness the healing process. I specialize in working with teens, young adults and families to address issues such as depression, anxiety, family stress, self-esteem, parent-child conflict and coping with major life transitions.
(484) 559-7501 View (484) 559-7501
Photo of Katie Gillespie - Buttonwood A Place To Heal -Now offering IOP!, ATR-BC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Buttonwood A Place To Heal -Now offering IOP!
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
My passion in life is to help others break free from eating disorders and disordered eating so that they can live fuller lives. I am an Art Therapist and Licensed Practicing Counselor with many years in the field. I believe each person's needs are different and unique. Part of recovery is becoming more connected to the self and ultimately more aware of your needs so that symptoms become less desirable. I work with clients with eating disorders as well as family members who may need guidance and direction in how to help their loved ones.
My passion in life is to help others break free from eating disorders and disordered eating so that they can live fuller lives. I am an Art Therapist and Licensed Practicing Counselor with many years in the field. I believe each person's needs are different and unique. Part of recovery is becoming more connected to the self and ultimately more aware of your needs so that symptoms become less desirable. I work with clients with eating disorders as well as family members who may need guidance and direction in how to help their loved ones.
(484) 430-3676 View (484) 430-3676
Photo of Patricia LaMana, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia LaMana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
Not accepting new clients
My clinical experience includes helping individuals, adults, and couples with issues relating to anxiety, depression, life changes, stress management, anger management, grief and loss, trauma, and communication skills. In addition to these areas I has extensive knowledge and practice in assessment and diagnostics having had an intensive experience practicing in a highly regarded assessment and evaluation program in New York and developing an assessment and evaluation program at a RTC in Oregon. During my free time I enjoy kayaking with my family, hiking with my dogs, and getting coffee with friends.
My clinical experience includes helping individuals, adults, and couples with issues relating to anxiety, depression, life changes, stress management, anger management, grief and loss, trauma, and communication skills. In addition to these areas I has extensive knowledge and practice in assessment and diagnostics having had an intensive experience practicing in a highly regarded assessment and evaluation program in New York and developing an assessment and evaluation program at a RTC in Oregon. During my free time I enjoy kayaking with my family, hiking with my dogs, and getting coffee with friends.
(484) 946-3993 View (484) 946-3993
Photo of Judith A Freed, MA, Psychologist
Judith A Freed
Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
We all experience challenges at one time or another in our lives that feel overwhelming and confusing, whether they be work, family, personal, relationship, etc. Consulting a professional during these stressful times can provide a sense of direction and reassurance. As a firm believer in each person's inherent strengths and resources, I will work with you to identify obstacles and develop new tools to help more effectively meet challenging circumstances. I
We all experience challenges at one time or another in our lives that feel overwhelming and confusing, whether they be work, family, personal, relationship, etc. Consulting a professional during these stressful times can provide a sense of direction and reassurance. As a firm believer in each person's inherent strengths and resources, I will work with you to identify obstacles and develop new tools to help more effectively meet challenging circumstances. I
(484) 401-9263 View (484) 401-9263
Photo of Dr. Laura Miller, PsyD, LPC, Psychologist
Dr. Laura Miller
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335  (Online Only)
As a Psychotherapist I have had an eclectic clinical background working with the geriatric, adult, adolescent and child populations in multiple modalities including, family, and individual therapy. My work clinical work focuses on mental flexibility and exploration of individualized patterns in self-regulation, attachment and executive functioning as a way to create familial and individual changes.
As a Psychotherapist I have had an eclectic clinical background working with the geriatric, adult, adolescent and child populations in multiple modalities including, family, and individual therapy. My work clinical work focuses on mental flexibility and exploration of individualized patterns in self-regulation, attachment and executive functioning as a way to create familial and individual changes.
(484) 535-7944 View (484) 535-7944
Photo of Brandon LeBoeuf, LCSW, CSW-G, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandon LeBoeuf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSW-G
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
Not accepting new clients
My focus is in using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) with elements of other approaches.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I aim to help adults, older adults, families, and couples stop struggling with difficult emotions and start living a life that aligns with their values. I have experience helping those struggling with eating disorders, body image issues, substance abuse, LGBTQI+ issues, illness, chronic pain, communication problems, burnout, and more.
My focus is in using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) with elements of other approaches.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker I aim to help adults, older adults, families, and couples stop struggling with difficult emotions and start living a life that aligns with their values. I have experience helping those struggling with eating disorders, body image issues, substance abuse, LGBTQI+ issues, illness, chronic pain, communication problems, burnout, and more.
(610) 467-3449 View (610) 467-3449
Photo of Jennifer Mullowney, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Mullowney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335  (Online Only)
My focus areas are depression, anxiety, grief/loss, relationship and family issues, as well as women's issues.
As a therapist, my favorite thing is seeing my clients feel better and improve! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience and finding the right fit with your therapist is an essential part of the therapy process. I work with adults aged 18 and up. I also believe in working with my clients when developing their treatment goals and plans.
My focus areas are depression, anxiety, grief/loss, relationship and family issues, as well as women's issues.
As a therapist, my favorite thing is seeing my clients feel better and improve! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience and finding the right fit with your therapist is an essential part of the therapy process. I work with adults aged 18 and up. I also believe in working with my clients when developing their treatment goals and plans.
(215) 278-4544 View (215) 278-4544
Photo of Dr. Nicole McKinney, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Nicole McKinney
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335  (Online Only)
I am on faculty and the Director of a Couple and Family Therapy graduate program at a university.
With over 20 years experience of empowering individuals, couples and families, I aim to inspire those I counsel. I am passionate about people and the restoration, maintenance and progression of their relationships. I help people adjust to life changes including: academic, family or work related stress; education, employment or military relocation; and loss. I specialize in “before the ring” counseling, financial matters, grief and loss, interracial coupling, pregnancy care, and racial identity of Biracials. For those seeking Christian counseling, I am a Jesus follower and I am willing to incorporate faith into therapy upon request.
I am on faculty and the Director of a Couple and Family Therapy graduate program at a university.
With over 20 years experience of empowering individuals, couples and families, I aim to inspire those I counsel. I am passionate about people and the restoration, maintenance and progression of their relationships. I help people adjust to life changes including: academic, family or work related stress; education, employment or military relocation; and loss. I specialize in “before the ring” counseling, financial matters, grief and loss, interracial coupling, pregnancy care, and racial identity of Biracials. For those seeking Christian counseling, I am a Jesus follower and I am willing to incorporate faith into therapy upon request.
(484) 282-7085 View (484) 282-7085
Photo of Dr. Bill Morgan, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Bill Morgan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Downingtown, PA 19335
I specialize in counseling/psychotherapy for emotional and relationship problems (anxiety, depression, marriage, and other); ADD/ADHD in children and adults; testing (diagnostic, psychoeducational, learning disabilities, career, ADHD, custody, forensic, and other); parenting and family issues; and career and workplace issues.
As a psychologist, counselor, and evaluator, I look at sessions as a collaborative process. Together we work towards making the changes my clients desire so that they experience more contentment, peace, satisfaction and success. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, an evidence-based approach that helps people learn skills that last a lifetime. I am a licensed psychologist with over twenty years experience as a counselor, therapist, and diagnostician, and am active in training therapists.
I specialize in counseling/psychotherapy for emotional and relationship problems (anxiety, depression, marriage, and other); ADD/ADHD in children and adults; testing (diagnostic, psychoeducational, learning disabilities, career, ADHD, custody, forensic, and other); parenting and family issues; and career and workplace issues.
As a psychologist, counselor, and evaluator, I look at sessions as a collaborative process. Together we work towards making the changes my clients desire so that they experience more contentment, peace, satisfaction and success. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, an evidence-based approach that helps people learn skills that last a lifetime. I am a licensed psychologist with over twenty years experience as a counselor, therapist, and diagnostician, and am active in training therapists.
(610) 644-8182 View (610) 644-8182
Photo of Erin Adamitis, PsyD, Psychologist
Erin Adamitis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
depression and anxiety), developmental disorders and related symptoms (feeding disorders, sleep problems, toilet training), cognitive and learning impairments, disruptive behavioral problems, social difficulties, parent coaching, and family relationship issues.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has been working within the field for 10+ years. My work focuses on both assessment and treatment of toddlers, children, and teens who are experiencing difficulties with behavior, mood, development, and cognition. Though I tailor my treatment to the individual needs of each client, I most often incorporate behavioral and solution-focused techniques and work collaboratively with others in the child's life. Now in private practice, I previously worked for various schools and clinics in Chicago, IL, Nationwide Children' s Hospital in OH, and the National Institutes of Health in MD.
depression and anxiety), developmental disorders and related symptoms (feeding disorders, sleep problems, toilet training), cognitive and learning impairments, disruptive behavioral problems, social difficulties, parent coaching, and family relationship issues.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist who has been working within the field for 10+ years. My work focuses on both assessment and treatment of toddlers, children, and teens who are experiencing difficulties with behavior, mood, development, and cognition. Though I tailor my treatment to the individual needs of each client, I most often incorporate behavioral and solution-focused techniques and work collaboratively with others in the child's life. Now in private practice, I previously worked for various schools and clinics in Chicago, IL, Nationwide Children' s Hospital in OH, and the National Institutes of Health in MD.
(610) 223-9356 View (610) 223-9356
Photo of Joy L Wawrzyniak, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joy L Wawrzyniak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Downingtown, PA 19335
The teenage years are the most vulnerable, exciting, and growing years of a young person’s life. Self discovery can often yield low self esteem, independence can easily shift to rebellion, and a slow maturation process often creates impulsive decision making. And when a parent’s warnings and worries don’t seem to have an impact on the teenager’s course, or when it feels too heavy to carry alone, it’s helpful to have another guiding force to help. Through counseling, an adolescent can feel understood, begin to understand themselves, and learn to understand and accept their role in the family and society.
The teenage years are the most vulnerable, exciting, and growing years of a young person’s life. Self discovery can often yield low self esteem, independence can easily shift to rebellion, and a slow maturation process often creates impulsive decision making. And when a parent’s warnings and worries don’t seem to have an impact on the teenager’s course, or when it feels too heavy to carry alone, it’s helpful to have another guiding force to help. Through counseling, an adolescent can feel understood, begin to understand themselves, and learn to understand and accept their role in the family and society.
(610) 851-4876 View (610) 851-4876

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.