Family Therapy in Austin, TX

Photo of Dana Doerksen, PhD, MAC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana Doerksen
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78735
Overview: PhD: Counselor Education; MA: Marriage & Family Therapy; BA: Psychology; LPC: Licensed Professional Counselor, Texas; Certified Yoga Instructor (Trauma Conscious Yoga Method); MAC: Master Addiction Counselor; Approaches: meditation & breathing, mind-body-spirit, CBT, boundaries, DBT, mindfulness, IFS, self-compassion, +more.
Counseling... a safe space to share, feel, think, ponder problems, grieve, hope, brainstorm solutions, practice healthy habits, heal in mind-body-spirit, and flourish forward. Please EMAIL me (DrDanaDoerksen gmail.com) for an initial appointment. For over 20 years, I've had the honor of walking WITH people in healing through the counseling relationship. I am empathetic and engaged in supporting clients as they process ups & downs and pursue their goals. I am confident about having expertise but definitely don't know all the answers. I enjoy learning from clients and deeply value each client's wisdom: your perspective for growth.
Overview: PhD: Counselor Education; MA: Marriage & Family Therapy; BA: Psychology; LPC: Licensed Professional Counselor, Texas; Certified Yoga Instructor (Trauma Conscious Yoga Method); MAC: Master Addiction Counselor; Approaches: meditation & breathing, mind-body-spirit, CBT, boundaries, DBT, mindfulness, IFS, self-compassion, +more.
Counseling... a safe space to share, feel, think, ponder problems, grieve, hope, brainstorm solutions, practice healthy habits, heal in mind-body-spirit, and flourish forward. Please EMAIL me (DrDanaDoerksen gmail.com) for an initial appointment. For over 20 years, I've had the honor of walking WITH people in healing through the counseling relationship. I am empathetic and engaged in supporting clients as they process ups & downs and pursue their goals. I am confident about having expertise but definitely don't know all the answers. I enjoy learning from clients and deeply value each client's wisdom: your perspective for growth.
(512) 686-2590 View (512) 686-2590
Photo of Linda W. Melnick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda W. Melnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78749  (Online Only)
My training has been varied and includes specialized training in work with: anxious individuals; family therapy; infant mental health; play therapy (including filial therapy-(training parents to play with their children as a therapist would); grief, trauma; helping families make healthy adjustment to separation/divorce.
Life changes quickly, and we all hit speed bumps that stop or slow us down. Social and academic crises, trauma, grief, and life transitions are some of the challenges my clients face. I see children 11 years and up, adolescents, families and adults, and offer a safe, supportive environment for clients to find options. I work to help clients build and deepen healthy connections within families, fine tune or learn new skills, and increase confidence. My approach is direct, respectful, collaborative. I listen closely to help build an individual plan.
My training has been varied and includes specialized training in work with: anxious individuals; family therapy; infant mental health; play therapy (including filial therapy-(training parents to play with their children as a therapist would); grief, trauma; helping families make healthy adjustment to separation/divorce.
Life changes quickly, and we all hit speed bumps that stop or slow us down. Social and academic crises, trauma, grief, and life transitions are some of the challenges my clients face. I see children 11 years and up, adolescents, families and adults, and offer a safe, supportive environment for clients to find options. I work to help clients build and deepen healthy connections within families, fine tune or learn new skills, and increase confidence. My approach is direct, respectful, collaborative. I listen closely to help build an individual plan.
(512) 861-8467 View (512) 861-8467
Photo of Monti Pal - Monti Pal, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monti Pal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78759  (Online Only)
Please note that I am private pay only and my sliding scale spots are full. I focus on helping clients identify and attain their own personal goals in therapy. I believe in empowering clients while compassionately guiding them through the therapy process with a mind-body approach to healing. I have worked with a broad and diverse groups of people with issues related to academics, career development, trauma, family relationships, lgbtqia specific issues, domestic violence, romantic relationships, anxiety, depression, and grief. I look forward to hearing from you! Please note that I am not paneled with any insurance companies.
Please note that I am private pay only and my sliding scale spots are full. I focus on helping clients identify and attain their own personal goals in therapy. I believe in empowering clients while compassionately guiding them through the therapy process with a mind-body approach to healing. I have worked with a broad and diverse groups of people with issues related to academics, career development, trauma, family relationships, lgbtqia specific issues, domestic violence, romantic relationships, anxiety, depression, and grief. I look forward to hearing from you! Please note that I am not paneled with any insurance companies.
(512) 337-4472 View (512) 337-4472
Photo of Julia Fazio, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Julia Fazio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78751  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with adult individuals who are seeking counseling to address issues such as anxiety, panic, self-doubt, depression, grief, life transitions, divorce, fertility issues, OCD, parenting challenges, stress management, health issues, relationship problems, and family conflict.
I enjoy working with adult individuals who are seeking counseling to address issues such as anxiety, panic, self-doubt, depression, grief, life transitions, divorce, fertility issues, OCD, parenting challenges, stress management, health issues, relationship problems, and family conflict.
(512) 900-7265 View (512) 900-7265
Photo of Constance Nash, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Constance Nash
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78731  (Online Only)
We can sometimes find ourselves in a position of dissatisfaction with how things are playing out for us. We feel that our life should be going differently, or that things just don't make sense anymore. When our life is in disarray we may deal with sabotaging coping skills, arguments with friends and family, and have a negative view of ourselves that controls how we view the world. Going on a healing journey is important in changing ourselves and the environment we are currently living in. Change can be difficult but it is such a rewarding experience. Therapy is a tool to assist you in becoming the best version of yourself.
We can sometimes find ourselves in a position of dissatisfaction with how things are playing out for us. We feel that our life should be going differently, or that things just don't make sense anymore. When our life is in disarray we may deal with sabotaging coping skills, arguments with friends and family, and have a negative view of ourselves that controls how we view the world. Going on a healing journey is important in changing ourselves and the environment we are currently living in. Change can be difficult but it is such a rewarding experience. Therapy is a tool to assist you in becoming the best version of yourself.
(737) 348-0356 View (737) 348-0356
Photo of Karen M Boeke, PhD, Psychologist
Karen M Boeke
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I have enjoyed working in private practice for 30 years with adolescents and adults. Their issues generally include such things as depression, trauma, anxiety, and relationship conflict or disconnection from loved ones. Sometimes people have been struggling with these things for a very long time. Experience has shown me that using an Internal Family Systems/Attachment-based psychodynamic approach works best for most people, and can lead to deep and lasting transformation in people's lives. At other times I work with people on a more short-term basis, using a more eclectic, skill building approach to our work together.
I have enjoyed working in private practice for 30 years with adolescents and adults. Their issues generally include such things as depression, trauma, anxiety, and relationship conflict or disconnection from loved ones. Sometimes people have been struggling with these things for a very long time. Experience has shown me that using an Internal Family Systems/Attachment-based psychodynamic approach works best for most people, and can lead to deep and lasting transformation in people's lives. At other times I work with people on a more short-term basis, using a more eclectic, skill building approach to our work together.
(512) 468-3649 View (512) 468-3649
Photo of Janis Claflin, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janis Claflin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Janis Claflin is a psychotherapist in a private practice. Her practice includes individual, family and group therapy, grief and loss, business consulting, mediation, executive coaching and wealth counseling. She has over 30 years experience. Janis is licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist. She is also the founder of several non-profit organizations.
Janis Claflin is a psychotherapist in a private practice. Her practice includes individual, family and group therapy, grief and loss, business consulting, mediation, executive coaching and wealth counseling. She has over 30 years experience. Janis is licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist. She is also the founder of several non-profit organizations.
(512) 920-5484 View (512) 920-5484
Photo of Heather Teel, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Teel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78734
I have worked with both couples and individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma recovery, addiction issues, relationship issues, family of origin concerns and sexuality and gender issues.
I believe in therapy. It helps us become unstuck, freeing us to move closer towards our goals and who we want to be. It allows us to begin healing from our past and transforms how we feel and act in our current relationships. It gives us support in times of crisis and stress, allowing us to become even more resilient in the future. And it frees us from habitual patterns that cause suffering in our lives.
I have worked with both couples and individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma recovery, addiction issues, relationship issues, family of origin concerns and sexuality and gender issues.
I believe in therapy. It helps us become unstuck, freeing us to move closer towards our goals and who we want to be. It allows us to begin healing from our past and transforms how we feel and act in our current relationships. It gives us support in times of crisis and stress, allowing us to become even more resilient in the future. And it frees us from habitual patterns that cause suffering in our lives.
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Photo of Anna Elisabeth Middleton, PhD, Psychologist
Anna Elisabeth Middleton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I am a licensed psychologist in the Central Austin area. I have vast experience counseling adolescent and adult clients in individual, couples and family therapy. This experience has shown me that individuals can learn to cope with life's problems more efficiently and effectively. Therapy is a life-enriching process that often helps people become more attuned to themselves, others and the environment such that life feels more meaningful and coherent.
I am a licensed psychologist in the Central Austin area. I have vast experience counseling adolescent and adult clients in individual, couples and family therapy. This experience has shown me that individuals can learn to cope with life's problems more efficiently and effectively. Therapy is a life-enriching process that often helps people become more attuned to themselves, others and the environment such that life feels more meaningful and coherent.
(512) 337-3607 View (512) 337-3607
Photo of Jane Chioma Obi, MA, NCC
Jane Chioma Obi
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78705
Are you a woman juggling multiple roles—whether as a family member, a professional, or a creative who marches to the beat of their own drum? I see you. You might be struggling with imposter phenomenon, burnt-out from perfectionism, or unsure how to show up authentically in social settings without masking. You're overwhelmed by your emotions, caught in cycles of rumination, and find it difficult to achieve balance, leading to anxiety, isolation, and doubting your worth. If thoughts like "I’m not good enough," "I don't belong", or "I’m afraid of failing" are weighing you down, you’re not alone.
Are you a woman juggling multiple roles—whether as a family member, a professional, or a creative who marches to the beat of their own drum? I see you. You might be struggling with imposter phenomenon, burnt-out from perfectionism, or unsure how to show up authentically in social settings without masking. You're overwhelmed by your emotions, caught in cycles of rumination, and find it difficult to achieve balance, leading to anxiety, isolation, and doubting your worth. If thoughts like "I’m not good enough," "I don't belong", or "I’m afraid of failing" are weighing you down, you’re not alone.
(512) 270-1887 View (512) 270-1887
Photo of Anita Lane - Anita Lane, Core Breakthrough Coaching, CPC, BS
Anita Lane, Core Breakthrough Coaching
CPC, BS
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
STUCK or STRUGGLING with: *disempowering relationships *unsupportive family *unfulfilling work *poor boundaries *low self worth *poor self care *lacking motivation *stress *anxiety *procrastination *or communication challenges? Are you frustrated with making slow, minimal progress in resolving your challenge? If so, then consider Coaching! Coaching is success and results-oriented. My practice is based on working with the part of your mind that creates immediate, lasting change and fulfillment. So, we uncover and change your core limiting beliefs, which changes your thoughts and feelings, which can change your life!
STUCK or STRUGGLING with: *disempowering relationships *unsupportive family *unfulfilling work *poor boundaries *low self worth *poor self care *lacking motivation *stress *anxiety *procrastination *or communication challenges? Are you frustrated with making slow, minimal progress in resolving your challenge? If so, then consider Coaching! Coaching is success and results-oriented. My practice is based on working with the part of your mind that creates immediate, lasting change and fulfillment. So, we uncover and change your core limiting beliefs, which changes your thoughts and feelings, which can change your life!
(512) 843-8242 View (512) 843-8242
Photo of Drake Scallon, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Drake Scallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
Waitlist for new clients
My specializations include clinical neurobiology, cognitive neuroscience, EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), play/art therapy, internal family systems (IFS), and mindfulness techniques.
Everyone deserves a life they can enjoy. Together, we can address the past and present to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. When circumstances become challenging, and as purpose and meaning lose their luster, having a reliable support system can make all the difference. With a background in assisting youth (ages 6-18), families, couples, and adults, I promise to provide quality care that is intentional and transformational.
My specializations include clinical neurobiology, cognitive neuroscience, EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), play/art therapy, internal family systems (IFS), and mindfulness techniques.
Everyone deserves a life they can enjoy. Together, we can address the past and present to create a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. When circumstances become challenging, and as purpose and meaning lose their luster, having a reliable support system can make all the difference. With a background in assisting youth (ages 6-18), families, couples, and adults, I promise to provide quality care that is intentional and transformational.
(512) 764-3439 View (512) 764-3439
Photo of Dena Hutton, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dena Hutton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78746
I collaborate with you to treat issues related trauma, relationship conflict, anxiety, depression, loss/life transitions and family of origin issues.
Do you find yourself repeating patterns in your life and/or relationships? Do you feel stuck or powerless to change? Are you in the midst of a huge life transition or is your relationship in crisis? I can help. I believe deeply that change is possible for anyone, and it begins with a safe and accepting environment to explore the barriers to happiness. My approach to therapy is warm, direct, non-threatening and empowering, with a focus on identifying patterns, negative beliefs and/or obstacles that prevent you from reaching your goals. You can heal wounds, release resentment, find your voice, and live life more fully.
I collaborate with you to treat issues related trauma, relationship conflict, anxiety, depression, loss/life transitions and family of origin issues.
Do you find yourself repeating patterns in your life and/or relationships? Do you feel stuck or powerless to change? Are you in the midst of a huge life transition or is your relationship in crisis? I can help. I believe deeply that change is possible for anyone, and it begins with a safe and accepting environment to explore the barriers to happiness. My approach to therapy is warm, direct, non-threatening and empowering, with a focus on identifying patterns, negative beliefs and/or obstacles that prevent you from reaching your goals. You can heal wounds, release resentment, find your voice, and live life more fully.
(361) 255-4530 View (361) 255-4530
Photo of Maighdlin (Molly) Talo, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maighdlin (Molly) Talo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78703
Not sure how to navigate a major life transition? Feeling burnt out from work either due to workaholism/overachieving, or misalignment and lack of purpose? Or maybe you’re ready to transcend chronic anxiety & depression, family-related trauma/wounds & toxic relationship patterns. I’m here to create a safe space to explore subconscious narratives that we often struggle to look at that are keeping us trapped in patterns we no longer want for our lives. We'll find a way through together so that you can heal your past, find a sense of joy and purpose with your present, and optimism for you future.
Not sure how to navigate a major life transition? Feeling burnt out from work either due to workaholism/overachieving, or misalignment and lack of purpose? Or maybe you’re ready to transcend chronic anxiety & depression, family-related trauma/wounds & toxic relationship patterns. I’m here to create a safe space to explore subconscious narratives that we often struggle to look at that are keeping us trapped in patterns we no longer want for our lives. We'll find a way through together so that you can heal your past, find a sense of joy and purpose with your present, and optimism for you future.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Stephanie M. Perez - Stephanie M. Perez, LPC Psychotherapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie M. Perez, LPC Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
I like to help you identify behaviors and discern choices that will lead towards your desired lifestyle or go inward with you and explore the deeper levels of your consciousness using an Internal Family Systems modality and mindfulness work to facilitate self-acceptance and self-love.
Treading water long enough can lead to exhaustion and the waves of life can often feel unsurmountable on your own. The loudness in our cultures and in our minds bring heavy burdens that can trap you and make you forget who you really are. It takes a great deal of courage to reach for something different. You have taken a huge step considering therapy. Choosing someone you can trust and feel the freedom to be authentic with, in order to explore some of the deepest parts of life, is important. I am passionate about helping you find this freedom and live authentically while embodying your truest nature, despite the waves that come.
I like to help you identify behaviors and discern choices that will lead towards your desired lifestyle or go inward with you and explore the deeper levels of your consciousness using an Internal Family Systems modality and mindfulness work to facilitate self-acceptance and self-love.
Treading water long enough can lead to exhaustion and the waves of life can often feel unsurmountable on your own. The loudness in our cultures and in our minds bring heavy burdens that can trap you and make you forget who you really are. It takes a great deal of courage to reach for something different. You have taken a huge step considering therapy. Choosing someone you can trust and feel the freedom to be authentic with, in order to explore some of the deepest parts of life, is important. I am passionate about helping you find this freedom and live authentically while embodying your truest nature, despite the waves that come.
(737) 339-8516 View (737) 339-8516
Photo of Amy C Person, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy C Person
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
License; Individual & Group; Family Psychotherapy ; ( family Dynamics, healthy Roles) Couples/relationship Counseling; PACT Level 1 Trained (Lesbian and Heterosexual) Inclusive of Married, Cohabitating, and Divorced Couples) assisting couples in conflict resolution, communication, intimacy, and prioritizing the relationship EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing).
I specialize in empowering individual people to take charge of their lives and create the life they want to have both internally and in their relationships with the significant people in their lives.
License; Individual & Group; Family Psychotherapy ; ( family Dynamics, healthy Roles) Couples/relationship Counseling; PACT Level 1 Trained (Lesbian and Heterosexual) Inclusive of Married, Cohabitating, and Divorced Couples) assisting couples in conflict resolution, communication, intimacy, and prioritizing the relationship EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing).
I specialize in empowering individual people to take charge of their lives and create the life they want to have both internally and in their relationships with the significant people in their lives.
(361) 444-0344 View (361) 444-0344
Photo of Stephanie Trueblood - Firefly Therapy Austin, PLLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Firefly Therapy Austin, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78746
Are you feeling stuck in the same old patterns in your life and ready for a change? Maybe you're feeling the weight of anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma and could use a hand in healing the past to experience freedom from it in the future. Have you noticed you keep getting into the same types of relationship challenges? It is normal for people to feel conflicted and get in our own way - it's part of being human! And we often need someone outside ourselves, friends, and family to help sort through the nitty-gritty thoughts, feelings, and fears. You don't have to face these issues alone.
Are you feeling stuck in the same old patterns in your life and ready for a change? Maybe you're feeling the weight of anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma and could use a hand in healing the past to experience freedom from it in the future. Have you noticed you keep getting into the same types of relationship challenges? It is normal for people to feel conflicted and get in our own way - it's part of being human! And we often need someone outside ourselves, friends, and family to help sort through the nitty-gritty thoughts, feelings, and fears. You don't have to face these issues alone.
(737) 210-3441 View (737) 210-3441
Photo of Robyn Wendell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn Wendell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78749
My counseling practice is available to help adult clients address issues in the following areas: adjustment to changes in health and/or ability, coping with life's transitions, issues related to aging, family conflict over care decisions, work-life balance, caregiver burnout, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety.
When life presents challenges, a trusted guide can help you through the maze. For over a decade, I have partnered with my clients to help them find solutions when they are faced with difficult situations and decisions. My focus in every counseling session is to provide a safe and respectful space, free of judgement, for my clients. We explore underlying issues in order to gain a new perspective and restore balance to their lives. It is through us working together as a team that clients gain a deeper understanding of their circumstances, process their emotions, and improve positive coping strategies.
My counseling practice is available to help adult clients address issues in the following areas: adjustment to changes in health and/or ability, coping with life's transitions, issues related to aging, family conflict over care decisions, work-life balance, caregiver burnout, grief and loss, depression, and anxiety.
When life presents challenges, a trusted guide can help you through the maze. For over a decade, I have partnered with my clients to help them find solutions when they are faced with difficult situations and decisions. My focus in every counseling session is to provide a safe and respectful space, free of judgement, for my clients. We explore underlying issues in order to gain a new perspective and restore balance to their lives. It is through us working together as a team that clients gain a deeper understanding of their circumstances, process their emotions, and improve positive coping strategies.
(512) 861-8485 View (512) 861-8485
Photo of Sara Weber - Discovery Counseling Austin, LPC-S, CEDS-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Discovery Counseling Austin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Austin, TX 78705
The path forward. That's how we think of therapy at Discovery Counseling. We're here to help you navigate the highs and lows. The challenges and triumphs. That means the hard stuff and the big transitions. The persistent issues and the seemingly small stuff too. Experience tells us that you've got all the skills and smarts you need to thrive. So we'll help you find your path and we'll follow it alongside you. Whether you're searching for mental health, career aspirations, family healing or nutrition counseling, we're here to help tap into your inner wisdom and set out on the next phase of your journey.
The path forward. That's how we think of therapy at Discovery Counseling. We're here to help you navigate the highs and lows. The challenges and triumphs. That means the hard stuff and the big transitions. The persistent issues and the seemingly small stuff too. Experience tells us that you've got all the skills and smarts you need to thrive. So we'll help you find your path and we'll follow it alongside you. Whether you're searching for mental health, career aspirations, family healing or nutrition counseling, we're here to help tap into your inner wisdom and set out on the next phase of your journey.
(512) 942-0720 View (512) 942-0720
Photo of Ashley Ratcliffe, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Ratcliffe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Austin, TX 78759
Ashley utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and Family Systems theoretical lenses.
Ashley Ratcliffe is a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with individuals, families, and couples. She is passionate about helping others find the link between the way we process emotions and how we experience the world. Ashley specializes in anxiety, adjustment, relationship issues, and parent coaching. Ashley Ratcliffe is a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with individuals, families, and couples.
Ashley utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and Family Systems theoretical lenses.
Ashley Ratcliffe is a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with individuals, families, and couples. She is passionate about helping others find the link between the way we process emotions and how we experience the world. Ashley specializes in anxiety, adjustment, relationship issues, and parent coaching. Ashley Ratcliffe is a Licensed Professional Counselor with experience working with individuals, families, and couples.
(512) 598-9679 View (512) 598-9679
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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.