Photo of Rachel Boyer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Rachel Boyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034  (Online Only)
As a marriage and family therapist my primary goal in therapy is to help individuals, couples and families achieve their goals in therapy. Whether it is restoring trust and harmony in relationships, successfully moving past addictive cycles, finding a deeper sense of purpose and satisfaction in life, working through trauma, or recovering from depression, there is support and hope for you. I use methodologies rooted in science and validated by research. I believe that it is through authentic connection to others that we grow in self awareness and emotional health.
As a marriage and family therapist my primary goal in therapy is to help individuals, couples and families achieve their goals in therapy. Whether it is restoring trust and harmony in relationships, successfully moving past addictive cycles, finding a deeper sense of purpose and satisfaction in life, working through trauma, or recovering from depression, there is support and hope for you. I use methodologies rooted in science and validated by research. I believe that it is through authentic connection to others that we grow in self awareness and emotional health.
(424) 799-2199 View (424) 799-2199
Photo of Melissa Clare Shaw, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Melissa Clare Shaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90027  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is ultimately based on what my client wants to work on: whether that be a short term solutions-focused approach to address system changes in a family/relationship or to manage the aftermath of a crisis situation, a cognitive behavioral approach to brainstorm symptom management that has brought about chaos in their life, or a psychodynamic approach to explore the depths of one's dreams and soul purpose. I specialize in looking at imagination as a problem-solving tool to bring about a change that my client is looking for.
My approach is ultimately based on what my client wants to work on: whether that be a short term solutions-focused approach to address system changes in a family/relationship or to manage the aftermath of a crisis situation, a cognitive behavioral approach to brainstorm symptom management that has brought about chaos in their life, or a psychodynamic approach to explore the depths of one's dreams and soul purpose. I specialize in looking at imagination as a problem-solving tool to bring about a change that my client is looking for.
(213) 674-3757 View (213) 674-3757
Photo of Corliss Porter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Corliss Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90032
I work with people experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family issues, and diagnosed mental illness to people desiring to reach new goals in life or searching for a deeper meaning.
Corliss E. Porter, MFT California License 11926. I assist you in identifying your goals and challenges and then use individualized and focused exercises, tools, and resources that help create a healthy, balanced life. My approach includes family-systems theory, somatic (mind-body intervention), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectic behavioral therapy (DBT), trauma resolution, spiritual and positive strength-based, client-centered therapy, and more. I have a varied practice and work with people from 14 years old to folks in their 80s.
I work with people experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, family issues, and diagnosed mental illness to people desiring to reach new goals in life or searching for a deeper meaning.
Corliss E. Porter, MFT California License 11926. I assist you in identifying your goals and challenges and then use individualized and focused exercises, tools, and resources that help create a healthy, balanced life. My approach includes family-systems theory, somatic (mind-body intervention), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectic behavioral therapy (DBT), trauma resolution, spiritual and positive strength-based, client-centered therapy, and more. I have a varied practice and work with people from 14 years old to folks in their 80s.
(626) 317-8642 View (626) 317-8642
Photo of Julia Gallucci, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Julia Gallucci
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90039
My approach is grounded in attachment and family systems theories, and informed by a variety of therapy models, including cognitive behavioral therapy, gestalt therapy, and existential therapy.
I offer psychotherapy to neurotypical and neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults struggling with low self-esteem, anxiety, OCD, depression, life transitions, and relationship issues.
My approach is grounded in attachment and family systems theories, and informed by a variety of therapy models, including cognitive behavioral therapy, gestalt therapy, and existential therapy.
I offer psychotherapy to neurotypical and neurodivergent children, adolescents, and adults struggling with low self-esteem, anxiety, OCD, depression, life transitions, and relationship issues.
(213) 654-6081 View (213) 654-6081
Photo of Kevin Graves, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Kevin Graves
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
in Marriage and Family Therapy, Topping and AHEC fellowships).
“Bridging is the work of opening the gate to the stranger, within and without.” – Gloria E. Anzaldúa. You’re at an inflection point. The ground has shifted; you find yourself on rocky terrain. The trail’s end is hazy, but you catch a glimpse: the outline of a hopeful future, somehow. Let us nurture those neglected pieces of yourself too oft ignored. With sincerity, compassion, and levity, I offer steady company on your voyage. You’ll discover bridges to yourself, your loved ones, and the goals that matter to you. The discourse shall be rich; the reflection, deep; the change, meaningful. You needn’t travel alone.
in Marriage and Family Therapy, Topping and AHEC fellowships).
“Bridging is the work of opening the gate to the stranger, within and without.” – Gloria E. Anzaldúa. You’re at an inflection point. The ground has shifted; you find yourself on rocky terrain. The trail’s end is hazy, but you catch a glimpse: the outline of a hopeful future, somehow. Let us nurture those neglected pieces of yourself too oft ignored. With sincerity, compassion, and levity, I offer steady company on your voyage. You’ll discover bridges to yourself, your loved ones, and the goals that matter to you. The discourse shall be rich; the reflection, deep; the change, meaningful. You needn’t travel alone.
(310) 742-0939 View (310) 742-0939
Photo of Sara Semal, Counselor in Los Angeles, CA
Sara Semal
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90042
I like to be real with people. I find the best way to work with individuals and couples is to be present, ask the right questions, and give honest feedback. Whether you are coming to therapy for personal growth, a relationship or family issue, healing from loss, past trauma, or anything else, I want to explore who you are, how your life experiences have affected you and your relationships, ways in which those experiences keep replaying themselves, and how to get you out of the cycle. My approach is to provide a comfortable and real space to talk, explore and work on feeling better.
I like to be real with people. I find the best way to work with individuals and couples is to be present, ask the right questions, and give honest feedback. Whether you are coming to therapy for personal growth, a relationship or family issue, healing from loss, past trauma, or anything else, I want to explore who you are, how your life experiences have affected you and your relationships, ways in which those experiences keep replaying themselves, and how to get you out of the cycle. My approach is to provide a comfortable and real space to talk, explore and work on feeling better.
(773) 757-5042 View (773) 757-5042
Photo of Debra Jill Green, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Debra Jill Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Is it ever difficult to understand your child's behavior or your teen's angst? Do they speak a language or behave in a way you find challenging? Children from infancy through adolescence can seem unmanageable at times causing parents to feel overwhelmed and powerless. Why continue struggling? If your child is having a difficult time at home, in school, or with friends, I can offer insights and recommendations as well as provide a safe space for everyone to learn respectful, meaningful communication directed toward positive change. Let me help you and your family get there together.
Is it ever difficult to understand your child's behavior or your teen's angst? Do they speak a language or behave in a way you find challenging? Children from infancy through adolescence can seem unmanageable at times causing parents to feel overwhelmed and powerless. Why continue struggling? If your child is having a difficult time at home, in school, or with friends, I can offer insights and recommendations as well as provide a safe space for everyone to learn respectful, meaningful communication directed toward positive change. Let me help you and your family get there together.
(424) 294-8849 View (424) 294-8849
Photo of Jesse Berkin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Jesse Berkin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90025
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD/C-PTSD, relationship/intimacy issues, family issues, grief/loss, life transitions, mood/personality disorders, co-occurring disorders, and I have experience working with clients of culturally diverse backgrounds. I bring forward a compassionate and inquisitive presence to create a safe space for the more intimate and vulnerable parts of yourself to be explored.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specializes in anxiety, depression, addiction, PTSD/C-PTSD, relationship/intimacy issues, family issues, grief/loss, life transitions, mood/personality disorders, co-occurring disorders, and I have experience working with clients of culturally diverse backgrounds. I bring forward a compassionate and inquisitive presence to create a safe space for the more intimate and vulnerable parts of yourself to be explored.
(424) 352-8521 View (424) 352-8521
Photo of Alicia Gomez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Alicia Gomez
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90034  (Online Only)
Congratulate yourself for beginning or continuing your search for support. If you are visiting my profile, there might something different that you would like to see in your life. Perhaps, you’re seeking to reclaim your happiness, be more in control of your life, get through a break up, or find solutions to what feel like gridlocked problems. Maybe you’re interested in improving the connection with your partner and re-ignite that spark that was once shared. Or, you’re hoping to work through challenges within your family and find ways to feel connected and communicate effectively.
Congratulate yourself for beginning or continuing your search for support. If you are visiting my profile, there might something different that you would like to see in your life. Perhaps, you’re seeking to reclaim your happiness, be more in control of your life, get through a break up, or find solutions to what feel like gridlocked problems. Maybe you’re interested in improving the connection with your partner and re-ignite that spark that was once shared. Or, you’re hoping to work through challenges within your family and find ways to feel connected and communicate effectively.
(562) 561-2417 View (562) 561-2417
Photo of Sheila Khaleghian, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Sheila Khaleghian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90048
Khaleghian treats people struggling with: Anxiety/Stress, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction/Substance Abuse, Relationship Problems, Family Conflict/Parenting, Sexual Dysfunctions, & Life Transitions.
Dr. Khaleghian is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has been practicing in the Los Angeles area for the past 10 years. She is dedicated to the well-being of her patients and is committed to helping them achieve their goals. She delivers a holistic approach to therapy and integrates evidence-based treatment approaches in a warm, supportive, and safe environment.
Khaleghian treats people struggling with: Anxiety/Stress, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Addiction/Substance Abuse, Relationship Problems, Family Conflict/Parenting, Sexual Dysfunctions, & Life Transitions.
Dr. Khaleghian is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist who has been practicing in the Los Angeles area for the past 10 years. She is dedicated to the well-being of her patients and is committed to helping them achieve their goals. She delivers a holistic approach to therapy and integrates evidence-based treatment approaches in a warm, supportive, and safe environment.
(310) 955-0435 View (310) 955-0435
Photo of Melissa Dellens, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Melissa Dellens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90068  (Online Only)
The teenage years are filled with anxieties of self discovery and identity. As a young adult you may have parts of yourself you feel like you must hide. You may feel like there are conflicts with who you are, and how you currently present in the world. You may be coming to a deeper understanding of your gender or sexual identity. It can be hard to know how to talk to your parents. This can be a scary time filled with a lot of fear, curiosity, uncertainty, and grief; all of which can complicate your relationship with your family and friends. Together we can explore ways to find a little more ease in the journey.
The teenage years are filled with anxieties of self discovery and identity. As a young adult you may have parts of yourself you feel like you must hide. You may feel like there are conflicts with who you are, and how you currently present in the world. You may be coming to a deeper understanding of your gender or sexual identity. It can be hard to know how to talk to your parents. This can be a scary time filled with a lot of fear, curiosity, uncertainty, and grief; all of which can complicate your relationship with your family and friends. Together we can explore ways to find a little more ease in the journey.
(323) 522-2207 View (323) 522-2207
Photo of Yvette Rae Hinojosa, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Yvette Rae Hinojosa
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
A California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Art Therapist (ATR), Clinical Eco-Therapist, Certified Yoga Teacher, and Holy Fire Reiki Master.
I come from diverse backgrounds including Native American Mexica, Spanish, and European descent. In California, I provided therapy services in community clinics, schools, after-school programs and homes. I first moved to Hawai’i over a decade ago and am so grateful for online platforms now allowing me to utilizing my CA LMFT license in private practice. My journey has taken me to Europe, Asia, Mexico and the Hawaiian Islands, where I delved into fine art, various healing arts, spirituality, meditation, and indigenous ceremonies to help align you to wisdom’s higher truths.
A California Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), Art Therapist (ATR), Clinical Eco-Therapist, Certified Yoga Teacher, and Holy Fire Reiki Master.
I come from diverse backgrounds including Native American Mexica, Spanish, and European descent. In California, I provided therapy services in community clinics, schools, after-school programs and homes. I first moved to Hawai’i over a decade ago and am so grateful for online platforms now allowing me to utilizing my CA LMFT license in private practice. My journey has taken me to Europe, Asia, Mexico and the Hawaiian Islands, where I delved into fine art, various healing arts, spirituality, meditation, and indigenous ceremonies to help align you to wisdom’s higher truths.
(562) 501-4532 View (562) 501-4532
Photo of Gene Lichtenstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Gene Lichtenstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036
In California I completed additional training and was licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist.
I trained in Boston. Boston College was my graduate school, Beth Israel Hospital the site of my clinical education, and MIT, where I was a Senior Research Associate, the start of my professional career. In 1976, I emerged a licensed clinical psychologist in Massachusetts and began a practice treating young people, couples and families. I also worked as a community therapist with teachers, parents and students, to help integrate three Boston's public schools.
In California I completed additional training and was licensed as a Marriage and Family Therapist.
I trained in Boston. Boston College was my graduate school, Beth Israel Hospital the site of my clinical education, and MIT, where I was a Senior Research Associate, the start of my professional career. In 1976, I emerged a licensed clinical psychologist in Massachusetts and began a practice treating young people, couples and families. I also worked as a community therapist with teachers, parents and students, to help integrate three Boston's public schools.
(805) 323-9703 View (805) 323-9703
Photo of Charles V Rosasco, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Charles V Rosasco
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CIRT, SILC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90048  (Online Only)
I am a Marriage Family Therapist, a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, and a Certified Life Coach.
Taking the step into therapy is an act of courage to face what is holding you back. Are you suffering from depression or anxiety? Having trouble forming intimate relationships? Having a challenge in your relationship? Can't find a meaningful career? Faced with an addiction problem? Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IMAGO Couples Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Self Compassion, Psychodynamic Therapy, and, if needed, group therapy, we will dismantle the unconscious problems resulting in these problems so that you you can finally ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS and experience the joy you deserve in life.
I am a Marriage Family Therapist, a certified Imago Relationship Therapist, and a Certified Life Coach.
Taking the step into therapy is an act of courage to face what is holding you back. Are you suffering from depression or anxiety? Having trouble forming intimate relationships? Having a challenge in your relationship? Can't find a meaningful career? Faced with an addiction problem? Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IMAGO Couples Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Self Compassion, Psychodynamic Therapy, and, if needed, group therapy, we will dismantle the unconscious problems resulting in these problems so that you you can finally ACHIEVE YOUR GOALS and experience the joy you deserve in life.
(424) 352-8153 View (424) 352-8153
Photo of Timothy Connely, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Timothy Connely
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90019
I utilize a lot of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Narrative therapy, Family Systems, and Attachment work.
Hi there, I'm Tim Connely, LMFT. I work hard to create a safe and secure environment in order to support my clients in doing the work of understanding their thoughts and the effects they have on our life. I work with people across the lifespan encouraging them in any way I can. I have worked with clients across the lifespan. I have worked with people as young as 4 all the way to people in their 70's and 80's. I am most comfortable treating people that have experienced trauma, dealing with life events, depression, anxiety, and many more.
I utilize a lot of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, Narrative therapy, Family Systems, and Attachment work.
Hi there, I'm Tim Connely, LMFT. I work hard to create a safe and secure environment in order to support my clients in doing the work of understanding their thoughts and the effects they have on our life. I work with people across the lifespan encouraging them in any way I can. I have worked with clients across the lifespan. I have worked with people as young as 4 all the way to people in their 70's and 80's. I am most comfortable treating people that have experienced trauma, dealing with life events, depression, anxiety, and many more.
(323) 395-5253 View (323) 395-5253
Photo of Elinor Bawnik, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Elinor Bawnik, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90016  (Online Only)
​I work towards supporting my clients in developing insights, overcome obstacles, and uncovering the version of themselves they seek to find. I understand that in the face of challenges, this becomes an incredibly daunting task. I offer a non-judgmental and compassionate space for clients to feel heard and understood. I work with individuals, couples, and families dealing with anxiety, OCD, personality disorders, relationship issues, and life transitions. I utilize DBT, CBT and ACT along with Narrative Therapy, and Family Systems approaches, incorporating behavioral techniques as needed.
​I work towards supporting my clients in developing insights, overcome obstacles, and uncovering the version of themselves they seek to find. I understand that in the face of challenges, this becomes an incredibly daunting task. I offer a non-judgmental and compassionate space for clients to feel heard and understood. I work with individuals, couples, and families dealing with anxiety, OCD, personality disorders, relationship issues, and life transitions. I utilize DBT, CBT and ACT along with Narrative Therapy, and Family Systems approaches, incorporating behavioral techniques as needed.
(323) 765-3872 View (323) 765-3872
Photo of Herlin Soto, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Los Angeles, CA
Herlin Soto
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90010
My clinical practice is guided by a combination of treatment modalities to best support your needs such as Psychodynamic and trauma-focused approaches, Narrative Family Therapy, Attachment Theory, and anti-oppressive lens.
I help my clients find meaning behind their preferred narrative. Whether youre experiencing a life transition, find it challenging in setting boundaries, attachment wounds, or navigating your cultural/racial identity you may be thinking, "Do I even belong here? Am I not good enough?”. These experiences may bring up anxiety, depressive thoughts, or even traumatic stress. Digging deep into the origins of these experiences may uncover wounds from intergenerational trauma, childhood trauma, intersectional identities or environmental triggers. I hope to provide you a safe and trusting space to be able to feel heard, seen, and validated.
My clinical practice is guided by a combination of treatment modalities to best support your needs such as Psychodynamic and trauma-focused approaches, Narrative Family Therapy, Attachment Theory, and anti-oppressive lens.
I help my clients find meaning behind their preferred narrative. Whether youre experiencing a life transition, find it challenging in setting boundaries, attachment wounds, or navigating your cultural/racial identity you may be thinking, "Do I even belong here? Am I not good enough?”. These experiences may bring up anxiety, depressive thoughts, or even traumatic stress. Digging deep into the origins of these experiences may uncover wounds from intergenerational trauma, childhood trauma, intersectional identities or environmental triggers. I hope to provide you a safe and trusting space to be able to feel heard, seen, and validated.
(310) 421-2256 View (310) 421-2256
Photo of Manuel Mercado, Marriage & Family Therapist in Los Angeles, CA
Manuel Mercado
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90031
This includes 10+ years as a individual/family therapist and over 4 years supervising MFTIs/ACSWs in a treatment center for kids.
Personal growth, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, issues surrounding sexual orientation or gender identification, life transitions or everyday life impediments are my primary focus for treatment. I draw upon your own personal strengths, talents, and desires to identify the options you have to move past the challenges you've identified and create alternative outcomes. Whatever the need, growth is a process that is worked on collaboratively in treatment. When the challenge exists between you and a loved one, treatment highlights the development of clear, honest, and respectful communication so that all parties may gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the person next to them.
This includes 10+ years as a individual/family therapist and over 4 years supervising MFTIs/ACSWs in a treatment center for kids.
Personal growth, depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship problems, issues surrounding sexual orientation or gender identification, life transitions or everyday life impediments are my primary focus for treatment. I draw upon your own personal strengths, talents, and desires to identify the options you have to move past the challenges you've identified and create alternative outcomes. Whatever the need, growth is a process that is worked on collaboratively in treatment. When the challenge exists between you and a loved one, treatment highlights the development of clear, honest, and respectful communication so that all parties may gain a greater appreciation and understanding of the person next to them.
(626) 325-0107 View (626) 325-0107
Photo of APLA Health - Gleicher/Chen Health Center, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
APLA Health - Gleicher/Chen Health Center
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90016
We are a licensed group of psychologists, clinical social workers, and marriage and family therapists.
We at APLA Health - Gleicher/Chen Health Center are dedicated to serving our community, and we make working with individuals of all backgrounds part of our mission. We are here to help, whether you're completely committed to change or you're struggling with the idea. We provide medical, dental, and behavioral health care all within the same clinic. In addition to primary care, we offer sexual health testing and treatment, HIV/AIDs care, and medical interventions for the trans community. We also have a team of substance abuse and prevention specialists at this location.
We are a licensed group of psychologists, clinical social workers, and marriage and family therapists.
We at APLA Health - Gleicher/Chen Health Center are dedicated to serving our community, and we make working with individuals of all backgrounds part of our mission. We are here to help, whether you're completely committed to change or you're struggling with the idea. We provide medical, dental, and behavioral health care all within the same clinic. In addition to primary care, we offer sexual health testing and treatment, HIV/AIDs care, and medical interventions for the trans community. We also have a team of substance abuse and prevention specialists at this location.
(323) 612-0729 View (323) 612-0729
Photo of Dr. Laura Waters, Psychologist in Los Angeles, CA
Dr. Laura Waters
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
I enjoy working within a family system framework while approaching each client with curiosity and attention to their unique life circumstance.
I am passionate about helping a child or teen struggling to manage emotional or behavioral disturbances. They may be struggling with depression or anxiety that comes as a result of trauma or significant loss, or that arises out of every day pressure to do well in school or extracurriculars. Growing up comes with growing pains, and therapy is no different. I want my clients (and their families) to be motivated to participate and engage in sessions, and practice learned skills in their home, school, and community.
I enjoy working within a family system framework while approaching each client with curiosity and attention to their unique life circumstance.
I am passionate about helping a child or teen struggling to manage emotional or behavioral disturbances. They may be struggling with depression or anxiety that comes as a result of trauma or significant loss, or that arises out of every day pressure to do well in school or extracurriculars. Growing up comes with growing pains, and therapy is no different. I want my clients (and their families) to be motivated to participate and engage in sessions, and practice learned skills in their home, school, and community.
(424) 499-4504 View (424) 499-4504

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.