Photo of Andrea Levy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Centreville, VA
Andrea Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20120
Waitlist for new clients
I currently practice with adults facing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, separation and divorce, fertility, pregnancy & infant loss, self esteem, grief, trauma, emotional aspects of illness and disease, medical and surgical weight loss, career & family balance, life transitions and LGBTQIA+.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I view therapy as a collaborative process that enables clients to gain perspective on their emotions, beliefs, relationships and behaviors. My approach is empathic, authentic and warm. I work from a strengths based perspective and assist clients in facing life challenges in realistic ways through a combination of cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a confidential, safe environment for exploration and change.
I currently practice with adults facing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, separation and divorce, fertility, pregnancy & infant loss, self esteem, grief, trauma, emotional aspects of illness and disease, medical and surgical weight loss, career & family balance, life transitions and LGBTQIA+.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I view therapy as a collaborative process that enables clients to gain perspective on their emotions, beliefs, relationships and behaviors. My approach is empathic, authentic and warm. I work from a strengths based perspective and assist clients in facing life challenges in realistic ways through a combination of cognitive behavioral and psychodynamic therapies. I provide a confidential, safe environment for exploration and change.
(703) 634-4782 View (703) 634-4782
Photo of The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, GV, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Centreville, VA
The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, GV
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20121
We value holistic connection and healing (emotional, relational, physical, mental, spiritual) and intentionally treat the whole person, couple, or family.
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
We value holistic connection and healing (emotional, relational, physical, mental, spiritual) and intentionally treat the whole person, couple, or family.
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
(703) 879-3275 View (703) 879-3275
Photo of Alexandria Harz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Centreville, VA
Alexandria Harz, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20120
If you are feeling disconnected, helpless, or stuck, I can assist you in identifying patterns or ways of relating which might be holding you back. By prioritizing your sense of safety, welcoming heavy emotions, and guiding you to meet/heal unknown parts of yourself or your partner, you can gain freedom from the patterns in which you feel trapped. I work with individuals and couples, supporting them to understand the ways they manage stress through retreating inward and shutting down, or turning outwards for connection and validation. From there, I help clients to better understand who they are and what they need.
If you are feeling disconnected, helpless, or stuck, I can assist you in identifying patterns or ways of relating which might be holding you back. By prioritizing your sense of safety, welcoming heavy emotions, and guiding you to meet/heal unknown parts of yourself or your partner, you can gain freedom from the patterns in which you feel trapped. I work with individuals and couples, supporting them to understand the ways they manage stress through retreating inward and shutting down, or turning outwards for connection and validation. From there, I help clients to better understand who they are and what they need.
(540) 264-3846 View (540) 264-3846

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melissa Callahan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Centreville, VA
Melissa Callahan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Accepting NEW clients! I am expert in relationships, with self & others. In our sessions, you will experience curiosity, empathy, warmth & a touch of humor from me. I use frameworks proven through research to be effective in growth and healing. I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist (EFT). I am dedicated to creating deeper emotional bonds & lasting change in relationships. I also use self-compassion techniques & Internal Family Systems as my foundational framework.
Accepting NEW clients! I am expert in relationships, with self & others. In our sessions, you will experience curiosity, empathy, warmth & a touch of humor from me. I use frameworks proven through research to be effective in growth and healing. I am a Certified Emotionally Focused Therapist (EFT). I am dedicated to creating deeper emotional bonds & lasting change in relationships. I also use self-compassion techniques & Internal Family Systems as my foundational framework.
(703) 293-5023 View (703) 293-5023
Jan Iris Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
I am Jan Iris Smith, LCSW, BCD, a licensed and Board Certified Diplomate in clinical social work.I work with individuals, couples, families. I have certifications in Marital/Family Therapy, Psychodrama and group psychotherapy and in mind/body connection and spiritual/energy healing . I look for strengths clients bring to the therapy that can be enhanced, and ways to remove blockages so people can live a richer more meaningful life.Therapy is an ongoing process of healing from the mental/emotional/physical trauma that sometimes occurs in life. I work from an eclectic viewpoint and use what makes sense for the client I am treating.
I am Jan Iris Smith, LCSW, BCD, a licensed and Board Certified Diplomate in clinical social work.I work with individuals, couples, families. I have certifications in Marital/Family Therapy, Psychodrama and group psychotherapy and in mind/body connection and spiritual/energy healing . I look for strengths clients bring to the therapy that can be enhanced, and ways to remove blockages so people can live a richer more meaningful life.Therapy is an ongoing process of healing from the mental/emotional/physical trauma that sometimes occurs in life. I work from an eclectic viewpoint and use what makes sense for the client I am treating.
(301) 852-7533 View (301) 852-7533
Photo of Spiritual Direction at CCHC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Centreville, VA
Spiritual Direction at CCHC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Services are offered by a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, skilled in relationships, connection, attachment, and trauma - offering a truly holistic/whole-person approach.
Has our current health climate inspired you to make a change? Spiritual direction is the process of exploring a deeper relationship with the spiritual aspect of being human, and any aspect of your unique, personal, and sacred spirituality. For some, this includes exploring your relationship with the divine, deepening your spiritual identity, or building spiritual practices. For others, it includes exploring spiritual beliefs or values and the degree to which these fit with your personhood. It can involve asking questions, sharing joy, fears, or struggles, getting ‘unstuck’, or creating change in an informed and intentional way.
Services are offered by a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, skilled in relationships, connection, attachment, and trauma - offering a truly holistic/whole-person approach.
Has our current health climate inspired you to make a change? Spiritual direction is the process of exploring a deeper relationship with the spiritual aspect of being human, and any aspect of your unique, personal, and sacred spirituality. For some, this includes exploring your relationship with the divine, deepening your spiritual identity, or building spiritual practices. For others, it includes exploring spiritual beliefs or values and the degree to which these fit with your personhood. It can involve asking questions, sharing joy, fears, or struggles, getting ‘unstuck’, or creating change in an informed and intentional way.
(571) 556-9093 View (571) 556-9093
Photo of Isabel B Kirk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Centreville, VA
Isabel B Kirk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR, IFS, AEDP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 20151
The techniques I use include cognitive-behavioral therapy, relational attachment based therapy, psychodynamic insight oriented interpretation and experiential emotionally focus approaches: EMDR, the cutting edge treatment for trauma and Internal Family Systems, the psychotherapy approach to resolve deep-seated emotional issues.
If you are facing a crisis or difficult time, are tired of being in pain, not find what you want or need, don't know what to do with your partner, child, boss...situation, or simply want to improve your life, contact me. I will help you change your life! I work with depression & anxiety, trauma, relationships therapy (dating, marriage & couples counseling, intimacy problems), eating disorders & body image and healthy eating, maternity and postpartum, parenting and attachment, and grief due to break-ups, perinatal loss, and divorce. I am also devoted to the field of positive psychology and support people during common life transitions.
The techniques I use include cognitive-behavioral therapy, relational attachment based therapy, psychodynamic insight oriented interpretation and experiential emotionally focus approaches: EMDR, the cutting edge treatment for trauma and Internal Family Systems, the psychotherapy approach to resolve deep-seated emotional issues.
If you are facing a crisis or difficult time, are tired of being in pain, not find what you want or need, don't know what to do with your partner, child, boss...situation, or simply want to improve your life, contact me. I will help you change your life! I work with depression & anxiety, trauma, relationships therapy (dating, marriage & couples counseling, intimacy problems), eating disorders & body image and healthy eating, maternity and postpartum, parenting and attachment, and grief due to break-ups, perinatal loss, and divorce. I am also devoted to the field of positive psychology and support people during common life transitions.
(703) 468-8650 View (703) 468-8650
Photo of The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Centreville, VA
The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
We value holistic connection and healing (emotional, relational, physical, mental, spiritual) and intentionally treat the whole person, couple, or family.
Accepting new clients - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change focuses on the creation of secure, close, and satisfying relationships- within us and between us. We choose to specialize in relationships because we know the importance of satisfying connections for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Services explore the relationship we have with both ourselves and others; how well we can live with emotional ease, know who we are, ask for what we need, be responsive to loved ones, set boundaries, deal with loss, move through stressful experiences, find our purpose, and access resilience in moments of need.
We value holistic connection and healing (emotional, relational, physical, mental, spiritual) and intentionally treat the whole person, couple, or family.
Accepting new clients - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change focuses on the creation of secure, close, and satisfying relationships- within us and between us. We choose to specialize in relationships because we know the importance of satisfying connections for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Services explore the relationship we have with both ourselves and others; how well we can live with emotional ease, know who we are, ask for what we need, be responsive to loved ones, set boundaries, deal with loss, move through stressful experiences, find our purpose, and access resilience in moments of need.
(571) 200-3248 View (571) 200-3248
Photo of The Center for Connection, Healing and Change (LB), Pre-Licensed Professional in Centreville, VA
The Center for Connection, Healing and Change (LB)
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT-R, LPC-R, LMFT , LPC, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Reston, VA 20190
We value holistic connection and healing (emotional, relational, physical, mental, spiritual) and intentionally treat the whole person, couple, or family.
Accepting new clients - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change was conceived as a sanctuary to facilitate joyful connection to ourselves and our loved ones. Our work focuses on the creation of secure, close, and satisfying relationships – within us and between us. We choose to specialize in relationships because we know the importance of satisfying relationships for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Services explore the relationship we have with both ourselves and others; how well we can live with emotional ease, know who we are, ask for what we need, and access our resilience in moments of hurt or stress.
We value holistic connection and healing (emotional, relational, physical, mental, spiritual) and intentionally treat the whole person, couple, or family.
Accepting new clients - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change was conceived as a sanctuary to facilitate joyful connection to ourselves and our loved ones. Our work focuses on the creation of secure, close, and satisfying relationships – within us and between us. We choose to specialize in relationships because we know the importance of satisfying relationships for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Services explore the relationship we have with both ourselves and others; how well we can live with emotional ease, know who we are, ask for what we need, and access our resilience in moments of hurt or stress.
(703) 782-8809 View (703) 782-8809
Photo of Prince William Family Counseling in Centreville, VA
Prince William Family Counseling
PsyD, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20109
One consistent aspect of life is it's evolving nature as well as positive and negative stress for participating individuals. Internal and external stress relating to change can be a barrier to progress to success. Prince William Family Counseling is a diverse organization committed to the assistance, education, support, advocacy, outreach, and welfare of clients and the community. Prince William Family Counseling provides theoretical and evidence based client centered and trauma informed assessments and treatment plans for clients 6+ with various diagnosis and severity individually, couple, family, and group settings.
One consistent aspect of life is it's evolving nature as well as positive and negative stress for participating individuals. Internal and external stress relating to change can be a barrier to progress to success. Prince William Family Counseling is a diverse organization committed to the assistance, education, support, advocacy, outreach, and welfare of clients and the community. Prince William Family Counseling provides theoretical and evidence based client centered and trauma informed assessments and treatment plans for clients 6+ with various diagnosis and severity individually, couple, family, and group settings.
(571) 520-3187 View (571) 520-3187
Photo of Jennie Polizzi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Centreville, VA
Jennie Polizzi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC&NCC, Phd Can, MS, Cert, BS, AS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manassas, VA 20109  (Online Only)
I have thorough knowledge and interest in Trauma, Multicultural, developmental, family.
No matter who you are, life is always changing, filled with challenges, transitions, doubts, and sometimes successes. This is the human experience, and you do not have to go it alone. Counseling is an available resource to help hone your natural talents and skills to find vision, motivation, meaning, and resolve through your choices and experiences. With the support of a professional counselor there are no dead-end scenarios. I thoroughly believe in meeting clients where they are at, treating individuals with dignity and respect no matter who they are or where they come from, celebrating differences and individuality.
I have thorough knowledge and interest in Trauma, Multicultural, developmental, family.
No matter who you are, life is always changing, filled with challenges, transitions, doubts, and sometimes successes. This is the human experience, and you do not have to go it alone. Counseling is an available resource to help hone your natural talents and skills to find vision, motivation, meaning, and resolve through your choices and experiences. With the support of a professional counselor there are no dead-end scenarios. I thoroughly believe in meeting clients where they are at, treating individuals with dignity and respect no matter who they are or where they come from, celebrating differences and individuality.
(571) 322-8610 View (571) 322-8610
Photo of Sandhya Sharma, Counselor in Centreville, VA
Sandhya Sharma
Counselor, LPC, CAC II, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens, LGBTQ community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective. 
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens, LGBTQ community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective. 
(703) 828-0647 View (703) 828-0647
Photo of Bennett Crawford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Centreville, VA
Bennett Crawford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax Station, VA 22039
I specialize in working with teens and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment, and trauma. Many people I work with feel stuck in their lives and have lost their sense of direction, purpose, and meaning. Filled with negative self-judgement, fear, anxiety, disconnection and hopelessness, they are looking to find a deep sense of peace, inspiration, and empowerment to live the life they really long for.
I specialize in working with teens and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, adjustment, and trauma. Many people I work with feel stuck in their lives and have lost their sense of direction, purpose, and meaning. Filled with negative self-judgement, fear, anxiety, disconnection and hopelessness, they are looking to find a deep sense of peace, inspiration, and empowerment to live the life they really long for.
(571) 410-2878 View (571) 410-2878
Photo of Kelly Kramer, Pre-Licensed Professional in Centreville, VA
Kelly Kramer
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPCr
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
As a resident in counseling, I’m committed to helping people who have experienced something traumatizing in their life, people who are looking for someone to help them make sense of what has happened to them, or people who feel like they have no one to turn to for support. I have experience working with adults and adolescents who have experienced single instance and chronic trauma, interpersonal trauma, childhood/developmental trauma, domestic violence, sexual trauma, and relationship concerns.
As a resident in counseling, I’m committed to helping people who have experienced something traumatizing in their life, people who are looking for someone to help them make sense of what has happened to them, or people who feel like they have no one to turn to for support. I have experience working with adults and adolescents who have experienced single instance and chronic trauma, interpersonal trauma, childhood/developmental trauma, domestic violence, sexual trauma, and relationship concerns.
(571) 374-1841 View (571) 374-1841
Photo of Andrea Shipley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Centreville, VA
Andrea Shipley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Fairfax Station, VA 22039  (Online Only)
You're sick of feeling unfulfilled, stressed, and tired. You're losing sight of the deeper meaning in life ... ignoring the spiritual or creative calling inside you. You do your best to live well and take care of your loved ones, but right now you’re feeling like you need help to heal yourself. Now is the time to refocus on your own wellbeing and growth, and reclaim your life! When you're joyful and healthy, you can do better in every area. Self-care and emotional resilience are essential to reclaiming good health after burnout. Therapy can help you heal and grow into your best self. Reach out to schedule a free consultation today.
You're sick of feeling unfulfilled, stressed, and tired. You're losing sight of the deeper meaning in life ... ignoring the spiritual or creative calling inside you. You do your best to live well and take care of your loved ones, but right now you’re feeling like you need help to heal yourself. Now is the time to refocus on your own wellbeing and growth, and reclaim your life! When you're joyful and healthy, you can do better in every area. Self-care and emotional resilience are essential to reclaiming good health after burnout. Therapy can help you heal and grow into your best self. Reach out to schedule a free consultation today.
(804) 331-2930 View (804) 331-2930
Photo of Danielle Cauley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Centreville, VA
Danielle Cauley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 20151
Waitlist for new clients
"Man never made any material as resilient as the human spirit." -Bernard Williams. As a therapist I strive to support my clients in building their resiliency and guiding the healing process. Asking for help is the first step, and I would welcome the opportunity to travel with you on that path. I also believe that in order to feel better, you must start thinking better, so I offer a safe, laid back and non-judgmental atmosphere to do just that. When the fear of judgement is removed, amazing progress can happen.
"Man never made any material as resilient as the human spirit." -Bernard Williams. As a therapist I strive to support my clients in building their resiliency and guiding the healing process. Asking for help is the first step, and I would welcome the opportunity to travel with you on that path. I also believe that in order to feel better, you must start thinking better, so I offer a safe, laid back and non-judgmental atmosphere to do just that. When the fear of judgement is removed, amazing progress can happen.
(757) 347-8796 View (757) 347-8796
Photo of Matt Christian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Centreville, VA
Matt Christian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Reaching out for help takes so much courage! You or your child may be experiencing a crisis, difficult life transition, or just haven't been feeling like yourself lately. Whether it is depression, anxiety, addiction or behavioral problems, it can often feel exhausting and hopeless. However, I believe wholeheartedly that change is always possible, no matter how hard life gets. I create a warm, compassionate environment in which you feel heard and respected. You are the expert on your life, not me. Together we can develop insight and practical solutions that move you closer to the great life you deserve!
Reaching out for help takes so much courage! You or your child may be experiencing a crisis, difficult life transition, or just haven't been feeling like yourself lately. Whether it is depression, anxiety, addiction or behavioral problems, it can often feel exhausting and hopeless. However, I believe wholeheartedly that change is always possible, no matter how hard life gets. I create a warm, compassionate environment in which you feel heard and respected. You are the expert on your life, not me. Together we can develop insight and practical solutions that move you closer to the great life you deserve!
(703) 646-7664 x14 View (703) 646-7664 x14
Photo of Victoria McLaughlin , Licensed Professional Counselor in Centreville, VA
Victoria McLaughlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LSATP, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22031
My hope is that you find this office to be a safe space to explore all thoughts and feelings free of judgement. I accept Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, HealthKeepers, Optima, Optum, and UnitedHealthcare.
My hope is that you find this office to be a safe space to explore all thoughts and feelings free of judgement. I accept Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, HealthKeepers, Optima, Optum, and UnitedHealthcare.
(757) 506-0355 View (757) 506-0355
Photo of Chia-May C Dougherty, Counselor in Centreville, VA
Chia-May C Dougherty
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, LPC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22032  (Online Only)
We, as human beings, have our habitual way to think, feel, and behave which may not always help us cope well. We may feel stuck in the past, fearful for the unknown future, and not being able to be present in the moment. Yet, the present is the only time that we can do something to make a change and feel better. We can stop struggling and begin to practice acceptance and grow through our experiences. In the practice of mindfulness, we are able to observe and become aware of the attachment to our habitual pattern of unhelpful thoughts and be present in the now moment by cultivating a non-judgmental mind and a new beginner's mind.
We, as human beings, have our habitual way to think, feel, and behave which may not always help us cope well. We may feel stuck in the past, fearful for the unknown future, and not being able to be present in the moment. Yet, the present is the only time that we can do something to make a change and feel better. We can stop struggling and begin to practice acceptance and grow through our experiences. In the practice of mindfulness, we are able to observe and become aware of the attachment to our habitual pattern of unhelpful thoughts and be present in the now moment by cultivating a non-judgmental mind and a new beginner's mind.
(240) 453-4343 View (240) 453-4343
Photo of Leona Bates, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Centreville, VA
Leona Bates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
I believe life begins at the edge of our comfort zones with self exploration and insight to changing our maladaptive mindsets and behaviors. I am interested in motivating and aiding clients in mindfulness techniques, thought processing, and gaining insight to any negative thought and behavior patterns. I am passionate about seeing clients discover their true selves throughout their treatment.
I believe life begins at the edge of our comfort zones with self exploration and insight to changing our maladaptive mindsets and behaviors. I am interested in motivating and aiding clients in mindfulness techniques, thought processing, and gaining insight to any negative thought and behavior patterns. I am passionate about seeing clients discover their true selves throughout their treatment.
(571) 470-6555 View (571) 470-6555

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.