Family Therapy in San Antonio, TX

Photo of Bettsie Elyn Specia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bettsie Elyn Specia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78209
My professional background and training is rooted in family systems theory and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
I am a genuine listener who engages others by getting to know them, while exploring needs and goals. I believe that problem-solving begins with discovery of our inner strengths which can be used to foster healing and growth. As one begins to identify these resources and learns to use them, she/he is empowered to make changes and gain understanding about self and others previously thought impossible. While work in therapy can be difficult at times, it does not always have to be "serious business". Many people do not know how to have fun and learning this skill is always healing.
My professional background and training is rooted in family systems theory and psychodynamic psychotherapy.
I am a genuine listener who engages others by getting to know them, while exploring needs and goals. I believe that problem-solving begins with discovery of our inner strengths which can be used to foster healing and growth. As one begins to identify these resources and learns to use them, she/he is empowered to make changes and gain understanding about self and others previously thought impossible. While work in therapy can be difficult at times, it does not always have to be "serious business". Many people do not know how to have fun and learning this skill is always healing.
(210) 255-2069 View (210) 255-2069
Photo of Shawn Mckown - San Antonio Gifted and Talented, RN, PsyD, Psychologist
San Antonio Gifted and Talented
Psychologist, RN, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78255
SAGT provides intellectual and educational assessment, individual and family therapy, and education and support.
Do you believe your child is gifted but he or she did not perform well enough on school administered group tests to qualify for gifted services? Is your gifted child performing poorly in school or having difficulties with finding and making friends? Are "typical" parenting techniques ineffective with your gifted child? Do you want to be a more effective advocate for your child at school? San Antonio Gifted and Talented is here to answer your questions and to help guide you in addressing your gifted child's needs.
SAGT provides intellectual and educational assessment, individual and family therapy, and education and support.
Do you believe your child is gifted but he or she did not perform well enough on school administered group tests to qualify for gifted services? Is your gifted child performing poorly in school or having difficulties with finding and making friends? Are "typical" parenting techniques ineffective with your gifted child? Do you want to be a more effective advocate for your child at school? San Antonio Gifted and Talented is here to answer your questions and to help guide you in addressing your gifted child's needs.
(210) 899-7374 View (210) 899-7374
Photo of Jagger L. Hernandez, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jagger L. Hernandez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78216
I am grateful to have had the experience in working with individuals that are struggling with life stressors, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, relationship issues, family support, and self-injurious behavior. I also have had the opportunity to work with couples, children/adolescence, young adults, and older adults. I am full licensed LPC and I want to acknowledge the courage that you are taking towards healing and self-care. I am available to listen to your goals and what you would like to get out of counseling services. Change does not have to be stressful and with the right support, you might even surprise yourself.
I am grateful to have had the experience in working with individuals that are struggling with life stressors, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, relationship issues, family support, and self-injurious behavior. I also have had the opportunity to work with couples, children/adolescence, young adults, and older adults. I am full licensed LPC and I want to acknowledge the courage that you are taking towards healing and self-care. I am available to listen to your goals and what you would like to get out of counseling services. Change does not have to be stressful and with the right support, you might even surprise yourself.
(833) 909-1366 View (833) 909-1366
Photo of Priscilla Sheridan-Roberson - PSR Counseling, MS, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
PSR Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78261  (Online Only)
As an marriage and family therapist, I view client challenges from a systemic perspective.
Are you struggling to communicate in your relationships? Is it difficult to express what you are feeling effectively during periods of emotional stress within your relationship? Does your anxiety or depression keep you from being social or completing everyday tasks? Are negative and/or anxious thoughts causing you to feel stuck and unmotivated?
As an marriage and family therapist, I view client challenges from a systemic perspective.
Are you struggling to communicate in your relationships? Is it difficult to express what you are feeling effectively during periods of emotional stress within your relationship? Does your anxiety or depression keep you from being social or completing everyday tasks? Are negative and/or anxious thoughts causing you to feel stuck and unmotivated?
(210) 987-8352 View (210) 987-8352
Photo of Joslyn Drzymalla, MA, NCC, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joslyn Drzymalla
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78217
Welcome to my practice! For over ten years I have worked as a licensed counselor, with experience in addictions, family violence, at-risk adolescents, and working with the HIV/AIDS population. I have specific training in Cognitive-Behavioral, Rational Emotive Behavioral, and Solution-Focused Brief therapies. These therapies have been shown through research to be effective in treating depression, anxiety, addictions, and other mental health diagnoses. I also like to incorporate relaxation, mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques, and art therapy techniques in my work with clients.
Welcome to my practice! For over ten years I have worked as a licensed counselor, with experience in addictions, family violence, at-risk adolescents, and working with the HIV/AIDS population. I have specific training in Cognitive-Behavioral, Rational Emotive Behavioral, and Solution-Focused Brief therapies. These therapies have been shown through research to be effective in treating depression, anxiety, addictions, and other mental health diagnoses. I also like to incorporate relaxation, mindfulness, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) techniques, and art therapy techniques in my work with clients.
(210) 625-8178 View (210) 625-8178
Photo of Viola A Smith, M Ed, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Viola A Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78240  (Online Only)
I enjoy working with and supporting adolescents and adults experiencing family conflict, grief, anxiety, depression, and other challenges.
In my personal experiences, and challenging trials, such as surviving cancer, can in fact triumphantly shape us into stronger, successful individuals. I have a tremendous passion for life and assisting others to reach their greatest potential. I employ various therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Narrative Therapy, in order to focus on patterns of behavior and ways in which we define ourselves. We will look within the context of relationships with Self and others. I would love to support you with your personal growth goals. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
I enjoy working with and supporting adolescents and adults experiencing family conflict, grief, anxiety, depression, and other challenges.
In my personal experiences, and challenging trials, such as surviving cancer, can in fact triumphantly shape us into stronger, successful individuals. I have a tremendous passion for life and assisting others to reach their greatest potential. I employ various therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Narrative Therapy, in order to focus on patterns of behavior and ways in which we define ourselves. We will look within the context of relationships with Self and others. I would love to support you with your personal growth goals. Book with me now by clicking on my website.
(726) 227-4560 View (726) 227-4560
Photo of Cathy Lazo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy Lazo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78253  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have a sincere appreciation, respect, and concern for others. You should be provided every opportunity to succeed and thrive in life empowered with skills to manage daily challenges. Life's dynamics and the interpretation of life's events are unique to each individual, couple, or family. Make your healing, desired changes, and goals a priority. We can travel this journey together.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have a sincere appreciation, respect, and concern for others. You should be provided every opportunity to succeed and thrive in life empowered with skills to manage daily challenges. Life's dynamics and the interpretation of life's events are unique to each individual, couple, or family. Make your healing, desired changes, and goals a priority. We can travel this journey together.
(210) 338-8861 View (210) 338-8861
Photo of Sofia Torres, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sofia Torres
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78240
Assisting preteens, adolescents, & adults facing issues related, but not limited, to: emotional/behavioral problems, stress/anxiety, relationship/family matters, grief/loss, co-parenting conflicts, & career or life path guidance.
Are you having problems at work, home, or in your relationship? Is the behavior of a loved one problematic? Feeling anxious, stressed, or just unhappy? I believe every client's needs are unique & deserves compassionate care when processing concerns & accomplishing goals. I will assist you, or your loved one, on the journey for change, self-improvement, & healing. I can also incorporate energy work upon request. "Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change."
Assisting preteens, adolescents, & adults facing issues related, but not limited, to: emotional/behavioral problems, stress/anxiety, relationship/family matters, grief/loss, co-parenting conflicts, & career or life path guidance.
Are you having problems at work, home, or in your relationship? Is the behavior of a loved one problematic? Feeling anxious, stressed, or just unhappy? I believe every client's needs are unique & deserves compassionate care when processing concerns & accomplishing goals. I will assist you, or your loved one, on the journey for change, self-improvement, & healing. I can also incorporate energy work upon request. "Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change."
(210) 807-8599 View (210) 807-8599
Photo of Latasha Denise Teamer - HOPE Therapeutic Alliance, MS, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
HOPE Therapeutic Alliance
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78247
We are a group practice that assists with acute stress, depression, anxiety, life and family transitions, communication skills, behavioral and educational concerns, relationship difficulties, and trauma related stressors.
Our providers at HOPE Therapeutic Alliance understand that deciding to start therapy is a big step toward investing in yourself and those you love. We provide a safe, caring, and judgement-free environment suitable for self-exploration, growth, connection, and empowerment. Our core belief is that every person can attain greater life satisfaction, reach their full potential, and live with purpose.
We are a group practice that assists with acute stress, depression, anxiety, life and family transitions, communication skills, behavioral and educational concerns, relationship difficulties, and trauma related stressors.
Our providers at HOPE Therapeutic Alliance understand that deciding to start therapy is a big step toward investing in yourself and those you love. We provide a safe, caring, and judgement-free environment suitable for self-exploration, growth, connection, and empowerment. Our core belief is that every person can attain greater life satisfaction, reach their full potential, and live with purpose.
(210) 405-8269 View (210) 405-8269
Photo of Mike McMahan, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mike McMahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78250  (Online Only)
Have you found yourself facing seemingly impossible challenges each way you turn? I'd like to help. I will embrace your unique qualities and enjoy tailoring my therapeutic approach for each individual, couple or family. I am also very practical, striving to make therapy a collaboration between therapist and client, including helping the client set goals, and bridging whatever barriers exist to making changes. I chose this field because I find that through compassionate listening and exploring each person's story, clients often find great insights and can change even the most troubling problems.
Have you found yourself facing seemingly impossible challenges each way you turn? I'd like to help. I will embrace your unique qualities and enjoy tailoring my therapeutic approach for each individual, couple or family. I am also very practical, striving to make therapy a collaboration between therapist and client, including helping the client set goals, and bridging whatever barriers exist to making changes. I chose this field because I find that through compassionate listening and exploring each person's story, clients often find great insights and can change even the most troubling problems.
(210) 761-4637 View (210) 761-4637
Photo of Karissa M Nauert, PsyD, Psychologist
Karissa M Nauert
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230
Waitlist for new clients
If you or your family find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, mood swings, communication with others, inattention, trouble in your relationships with others, impulsive behaviors, or trauma, I would be honored to be part of your journey to health and healing.
I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 14 years beginning as a licensed professional counselor and now as a licensed psychologist in the state of Texas. My previous work experiences have been in community mental health centers, crisis centers, family medicine, and hospitals as both an inpatient and outpatient provider in the San Antonio, Texas and Massachusetts communities.
If you or your family find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, mood swings, communication with others, inattention, trouble in your relationships with others, impulsive behaviors, or trauma, I would be honored to be part of your journey to health and healing.
I have been practicing in the mental health field for over 14 years beginning as a licensed professional counselor and now as a licensed psychologist in the state of Texas. My previous work experiences have been in community mental health centers, crisis centers, family medicine, and hospitals as both an inpatient and outpatient provider in the San Antonio, Texas and Massachusetts communities.
(210) 864-6616 View (210) 864-6616
Photo of Candiss Williams, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Candiss Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78260  (Online Only)
Children talk about the loss of a family member, past physical or sexual abuse, or abandonment through Art Therapy.
Virtual Only: I specialize in providing clients with a unique approach to helping them reach specific life goals. I will help you recognize problems and take action to decrease or eliminate potential impacts to your emotional well-being. My customized approach, tailored to individual needs, allows me to help you create achievable goals that are based on your needs and lifestyle. I use state-of-the-art tools to identify your issues easily and effectively. I am committed to helping you make fluid movement in your life. I am licensed to provide services in 3 states:Texas, Missouri and Minnesota.
Children talk about the loss of a family member, past physical or sexual abuse, or abandonment through Art Therapy.
Virtual Only: I specialize in providing clients with a unique approach to helping them reach specific life goals. I will help you recognize problems and take action to decrease or eliminate potential impacts to your emotional well-being. My customized approach, tailored to individual needs, allows me to help you create achievable goals that are based on your needs and lifestyle. I use state-of-the-art tools to identify your issues easily and effectively. I am committed to helping you make fluid movement in your life. I am licensed to provide services in 3 states:Texas, Missouri and Minnesota.
(210) 405-2891 View (210) 405-2891
Photo of Briana Franklin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Briana Franklin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78246  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, but you might also call me a self-love advocate.My style of therapy is systemic, collaborative and empathy-driven. I aim to create a safe space where you can explore your feelings, thoughts and aspirations towards any challenges you may be facing. I am passionate about mental health and helping individuals create lives that facilitate growth and wellness.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, but you might also call me a self-love advocate.My style of therapy is systemic, collaborative and empathy-driven. I aim to create a safe space where you can explore your feelings, thoughts and aspirations towards any challenges you may be facing. I am passionate about mental health and helping individuals create lives that facilitate growth and wellness.
(210) 796-0116 View (210) 796-0116
Photo of Alejandro E Lopez - Healing Minds Behavioral Health, PLLC, MA, LPC, NCC, TF-CBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Healing Minds Behavioral Health, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, TF-CBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78238
I help with issues like behavioral concerns, self-harming, anxiety, depression, grief, and family difficulties.
"How can I help my child?... What should I expect?... Are we the only one's who are going through this?... Will my child get better?... Is there help for this?..." I hear these questions very frequently from concerned parents who want the very best for their child, and perhaps you resonate with some, or all of these, as well. I offer support and safety to walk through the tough stuff and direction for real, positive change. Perhaps your child is struggling with anxiety, having difficulty making friends, or you just want to talk with a professional to make sure your child is on track. Whatever the circumstance may be, we are here.
I help with issues like behavioral concerns, self-harming, anxiety, depression, grief, and family difficulties.
"How can I help my child?... What should I expect?... Are we the only one's who are going through this?... Will my child get better?... Is there help for this?..." I hear these questions very frequently from concerned parents who want the very best for their child, and perhaps you resonate with some, or all of these, as well. I offer support and safety to walk through the tough stuff and direction for real, positive change. Perhaps your child is struggling with anxiety, having difficulty making friends, or you just want to talk with a professional to make sure your child is on track. Whatever the circumstance may be, we are here.
(210) 899-5259 View (210) 899-5259
Anastasia Gonzales
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78253
Life can be filled with challenges and overwhelming stress. When these challenges or stressful events are not addressed in healthy ways, it can be detrimental for us. Learning to effectively cope with our struggles is paramount in overcoming life’s challenges. Fortunately, you have the ability to dive into your strengths and talents to help you achieve your goals. In addition to everyday stress and challenges, I can help treat family issues, relationship issues, stress management, behavioral problems, anger problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, emotion regulation, parenting, and substance abuse.
Life can be filled with challenges and overwhelming stress. When these challenges or stressful events are not addressed in healthy ways, it can be detrimental for us. Learning to effectively cope with our struggles is paramount in overcoming life’s challenges. Fortunately, you have the ability to dive into your strengths and talents to help you achieve your goals. In addition to everyday stress and challenges, I can help treat family issues, relationship issues, stress management, behavioral problems, anger problems, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, emotion regulation, parenting, and substance abuse.
(210) 941-4344 View (210) 941-4344
Photo of Phi-Long Le, MA, NCC, LPC-A
Phi-Long Le
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, LPC-A
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78229
Are you ready to dig deeper with us? We strive to build strong relationships and help dig deeper 'into the roots' of any challenges that you or your family may be experiencing. Our goal is to ensure that all parties feel connected throughout the treatment process as this contributes positively to the progress in and outside of therapy. We pride ourselves on how quick and efficient our setup process is. Whether or not we are the right service for you, we promise to give you a response and strive to make you feel less-alone in your searching process. Our therapists are ready to be a part of your journey.
Are you ready to dig deeper with us? We strive to build strong relationships and help dig deeper 'into the roots' of any challenges that you or your family may be experiencing. Our goal is to ensure that all parties feel connected throughout the treatment process as this contributes positively to the progress in and outside of therapy. We pride ourselves on how quick and efficient our setup process is. Whether or not we are the right service for you, we promise to give you a response and strive to make you feel less-alone in your searching process. Our therapists are ready to be a part of your journey.
(210) 405-9976 View (210) 405-9976
Photo of Michelle Mullin, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Mullin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78232  (Online Only)
I enjoy being active in my church community, and spending time with family and friends, running, reading, traveling, and pampering my furry children.
I have enthusiastically worked with individuals experiencing a variety of life struggles and mental health challenges such as domestic violence, grief and loss, addiction, depression, and anxiety throughout my career. I also have experience working with couples struggling with communication difficulties, infidelity, and emotional distance. Early on I chose to focus on trauma when I noticed both the prevalence of traumatic experiences in the lives of my clients, and the profound effects of untreated trauma. I am certified in EMDR to promote healing and and help clients build lives full of authenticity, purpose, and meaning.
I enjoy being active in my church community, and spending time with family and friends, running, reading, traveling, and pampering my furry children.
I have enthusiastically worked with individuals experiencing a variety of life struggles and mental health challenges such as domestic violence, grief and loss, addiction, depression, and anxiety throughout my career. I also have experience working with couples struggling with communication difficulties, infidelity, and emotional distance. Early on I chose to focus on trauma when I noticed both the prevalence of traumatic experiences in the lives of my clients, and the profound effects of untreated trauma. I am certified in EMDR to promote healing and and help clients build lives full of authenticity, purpose, and meaning.
(210) 361-6336 View (210) 361-6336
Photo of Kadean Ortiz, MS, LPCA, NCC
Kadean Ortiz
LPC-Associates, MS, LPCA, NCC
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78230
As a mother of an Autistic child, I am very aware of family dynamics and stages of mental disabilities.
I strongly believe in the power of resiliency and the ability to heal. “No matter how bleak or menacing a situation may appear, it does not entirely own us. It can’t take away our freedom to respond, our power to take action.” ―Ryder Carroll. I found that many concerns brought to therapy can result from unresolved pain or unhealthy coping strategies from the past. With various therapeutic training, I can help clients find the best pathway for their needs. Fear can sometimes be debilitating, so facing fear and building habitation is essential. “A man who fears suffering is already suffering from what he fears.” ―Michel de Montaig.
As a mother of an Autistic child, I am very aware of family dynamics and stages of mental disabilities.
I strongly believe in the power of resiliency and the ability to heal. “No matter how bleak or menacing a situation may appear, it does not entirely own us. It can’t take away our freedom to respond, our power to take action.” ―Ryder Carroll. I found that many concerns brought to therapy can result from unresolved pain or unhealthy coping strategies from the past. With various therapeutic training, I can help clients find the best pathway for their needs. Fear can sometimes be debilitating, so facing fear and building habitation is essential. “A man who fears suffering is already suffering from what he fears.” ―Michel de Montaig.
(210) 899-5713 View (210) 899-5713
Photo of Sherri Lambiase - Northside Family Counseling Center, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Northside Family Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
San Antonio, TX 78258
Our students and associates provide both individual and couple/family sessions to children, adolescents, and adults at a rate that is affordable allowing more frequent visits to ensure that you have the therapy you need for as long as necessary.
No insurance? Limited income? No problem. Counselors at NFCC believe that Jesus Changes Everything. While therapists are trained to encourage and motivate change, we realize that this happens best with Christian counseling. When both the therapist and client work together under the guidance of the Holy Spirit through Biblical-based counseling, you can experience real and lasting transformation. God's love pouring through the counselor offers hope and empathy in a shame and guilt free environment making it safe to practice vulnerability and transparency, which is a giant step toward recovery. Come share your emotional burdens.
Our students and associates provide both individual and couple/family sessions to children, adolescents, and adults at a rate that is affordable allowing more frequent visits to ensure that you have the therapy you need for as long as necessary.
No insurance? Limited income? No problem. Counselors at NFCC believe that Jesus Changes Everything. While therapists are trained to encourage and motivate change, we realize that this happens best with Christian counseling. When both the therapist and client work together under the guidance of the Holy Spirit through Biblical-based counseling, you can experience real and lasting transformation. God's love pouring through the counselor offers hope and empathy in a shame and guilt free environment making it safe to practice vulnerability and transparency, which is a giant step toward recovery. Come share your emotional burdens.
(210) 361-7431 x1 View (210) 361-7431 x1
Photo of Abby Hasberry, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Abby Hasberry
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Antonio, TX 78249  (Online Only)
I am trauma-focused, mindfulness-informed & family systems-based.
After years in education as a college professor, teacher, and principal, my joy is working with older adolescents and young adults. My ideal client is reflective and purposeful. My clients are typically young adults transitioning to careers and learning to “adult”, adoptees discovering their identities and processing trauma, and birth/first mothers navigating grief and loss. I support my clients through reflection, trauma processing, self-discovery, and identity development so that they can embrace mental clarity live purposefully.
I am trauma-focused, mindfulness-informed & family systems-based.
After years in education as a college professor, teacher, and principal, my joy is working with older adolescents and young adults. My ideal client is reflective and purposeful. My clients are typically young adults transitioning to careers and learning to “adult”, adoptees discovering their identities and processing trauma, and birth/first mothers navigating grief and loss. I support my clients through reflection, trauma processing, self-discovery, and identity development so that they can embrace mental clarity live purposefully.
(210) 871-9834 View (210) 871-9834
1
...

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.