Therapists in Woodbridge, VA

Photo of Stephanie A Hardenburg, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodbridge, VA
Stephanie A Hardenburg
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CSOTP, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
My specialties are marriage and family therapy and forensic services.
If you are looking over these therapist sites, you are in the market to find some help. It can be daunting to call a therapist you have never met and try to find someone to understand you. You should take your time, interview therapists and find a good fit. It is okay to shop and to decide not to make an appointment. Or, if you choose to call and come in, please get to know me in the first session. Ask questions. I will outline the way I work, explain my philosophy and help you voice your goals for treatment. I will listen but will also tell you what I think. If directness is for you, I am your therapist.
My specialties are marriage and family therapy and forensic services.
If you are looking over these therapist sites, you are in the market to find some help. It can be daunting to call a therapist you have never met and try to find someone to understand you. You should take your time, interview therapists and find a good fit. It is okay to shop and to decide not to make an appointment. Or, if you choose to call and come in, please get to know me in the first session. Ask questions. I will outline the way I work, explain my philosophy and help you voice your goals for treatment. I will listen but will also tell you what I think. If directness is for you, I am your therapist.
(571) 380-7440 x801 View (571) 380-7440 x801
Photo of Sit Awhile & Heal LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Woodbridge, VA
Sit Awhile & Heal LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192  (Online Only)
Being a human can be hard. We are given tools early in life to navigate this world and sometimes we get it right and other times we struggle for one reason or another. Sometimes milestones such as marriage, children, graduation and other life changes unearth unresolved trauma or repressed emotions. We do our best to recover from anxiety, depression, trauma and other stressors but sometimes we need outside support that goes beyond what friends, family and loved ones can provide.
Being a human can be hard. We are given tools early in life to navigate this world and sometimes we get it right and other times we struggle for one reason or another. Sometimes milestones such as marriage, children, graduation and other life changes unearth unresolved trauma or repressed emotions. We do our best to recover from anxiety, depression, trauma and other stressors but sometimes we need outside support that goes beyond what friends, family and loved ones can provide.
(571) 556-9380 View (571) 556-9380
Counseling and Forensic Services Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC, CSOTP, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
The philosophy of the practice is to empower individuals to cope with, and solve, their problems, accentuating their strengths and unique capabilities. Systems, cognitive-behavioral, relapse prevention and solution focused techniques are used to help people move on with their lives as quickly as possible. CFS treats all types of problems including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, major mental health disorders, issues related to development, including divorce, empty nest syndrome, family reunification, aging, and young families with children and adolescents.
The philosophy of the practice is to empower individuals to cope with, and solve, their problems, accentuating their strengths and unique capabilities. Systems, cognitive-behavioral, relapse prevention and solution focused techniques are used to help people move on with their lives as quickly as possible. CFS treats all types of problems including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, major mental health disorders, issues related to development, including divorce, empty nest syndrome, family reunification, aging, and young families with children and adolescents.
(703) 492-2994 View (703) 492-2994
Photo of Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Woodbridge, VA
Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge is offering individual, couples, family, and group therapy via in-person and teletherapy PLENTY of openings for virtual sessions.
Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge isn’t your average therapy clinic. We will help you wherever you are located. We have Immediate Availability for Tele-Health Therapy and evening hours for those in school or who work. Whether telehealth or in person, we want you to feel safe, relaxed and real. Anyone, from 5 to 99, children, teens and adults can be authentic where you’re at in your mental health. Has it been a tough week with family and friends? Are you struggling at work? Are your kids overwhelmed at school? Do you feel STUCK? Call us, Let us know, we can help! We are filling the gap between surviving and thriving.
Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge is offering individual, couples, family, and group therapy via in-person and teletherapy PLENTY of openings for virtual sessions.
Ellie Mental Health of Woodbridge isn’t your average therapy clinic. We will help you wherever you are located. We have Immediate Availability for Tele-Health Therapy and evening hours for those in school or who work. Whether telehealth or in person, we want you to feel safe, relaxed and real. Anyone, from 5 to 99, children, teens and adults can be authentic where you’re at in your mental health. Has it been a tough week with family and friends? Are you struggling at work? Are your kids overwhelmed at school? Do you feel STUCK? Call us, Let us know, we can help! We are filling the gap between surviving and thriving.
(703) 215-1831 View (703) 215-1831
Photo of Woodbridge Therapy Group, Psychologist in Woodbridge, VA
Woodbridge Therapy Group
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
Individual Counseling, Couples Counseling, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Social Skills Groups, Psychological Testing and Evaluation, Mindfulness Psychoeducation, Stress Management, Bilingual Therapy offered in Individual, Family, Couples, and Group format, Depression Groups, Adolescent Groups.
Established over 10 years ago, we originally opened as Prince William Family Counseling and provided the community with trustworthy therapy services in a safe, welcoming environment. In 2015 the agency was purchased and took on new ownership and we became Woodbridge Therapy Group. With the recent change in ownership, we have expanded our number of providers, added more services, and renewed our investment in the community.
Individual Counseling, Couples Counseling, Family Therapy, Group Therapy, Social Skills Groups, Psychological Testing and Evaluation, Mindfulness Psychoeducation, Stress Management, Bilingual Therapy offered in Individual, Family, Couples, and Group format, Depression Groups, Adolescent Groups.
Established over 10 years ago, we originally opened as Prince William Family Counseling and provided the community with trustworthy therapy services in a safe, welcoming environment. In 2015 the agency was purchased and took on new ownership and we became Woodbridge Therapy Group. With the recent change in ownership, we have expanded our number of providers, added more services, and renewed our investment in the community.
(571) 946-4129 View (571) 946-4129
Photo of Esther Romero, Pre-Licensed Professional in Woodbridge, VA
Esther Romero
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
I have experience in the culturally informed treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use/abuse, criminal activity, relationship/family issues, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and anger management.
Seeking out treatment is a crucial step towards achieving your desired state of well-being. Therapy is a tool that enables growth by allowing and/or enhancing self-awareness and making positive/desired changes. Therapists are not one-size-fits-all, so it is crucial to find the right therapist for you. I am currently a Resident in Counseling and working towards licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is eclectic, using evidence-based techniques that have been proven effective and adapting my approach to each client's unique needs and treatment goals.
I have experience in the culturally informed treatment of anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use/abuse, criminal activity, relationship/family issues, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and anger management.
Seeking out treatment is a crucial step towards achieving your desired state of well-being. Therapy is a tool that enables growth by allowing and/or enhancing self-awareness and making positive/desired changes. Therapists are not one-size-fits-all, so it is crucial to find the right therapist for you. I am currently a Resident in Counseling and working towards licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia. My approach to therapy is eclectic, using evidence-based techniques that have been proven effective and adapting my approach to each client's unique needs and treatment goals.
(571) 450-9245 View (571) 450-9245
Photo of Jason Epstein, Psychologist in Woodbridge, VA
Jason Epstein
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22193
Navigating your way through life is often overwhelming. Balancing work obligations, family needs, and obstacles that seem to "come out of the blue", all while somehow trying to find time for yourself, can lead to a host of emotional challenges. If you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, a lack of clarity about your life circumstances, we are here to help. If you feel a sense of isolation and disconnection, therapy might be of great benefit to you. I greatly welcome the opportunity to partner with you as you work toward creating a life of your own design.
Navigating your way through life is often overwhelming. Balancing work obligations, family needs, and obstacles that seem to "come out of the blue", all while somehow trying to find time for yourself, can lead to a host of emotional challenges. If you find yourself struggling with depression, anxiety, grief/loss, a lack of clarity about your life circumstances, we are here to help. If you feel a sense of isolation and disconnection, therapy might be of great benefit to you. I greatly welcome the opportunity to partner with you as you work toward creating a life of your own design.
(571) 253-7672 View (571) 253-7672
Photo of Cardinal Family Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodbridge, VA
Cardinal Family Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCHMC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
Cardinal Family Counseling is a team of experienced Licensed Counselors and Residents in Counseling providing therapy to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We help clients address anxiety, depression, relationship/marital difficulties, grief & loss difficulties, parental separation/divorce, trauma/PTSD, social phobias, peer relationship and social skills difficulties, and behavioral Issues. We use a variety of techniques to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy techniques to guide clients through their difficulties.
Cardinal Family Counseling is a team of experienced Licensed Counselors and Residents in Counseling providing therapy to children, teens, adults, couples, and families. We help clients address anxiety, depression, relationship/marital difficulties, grief & loss difficulties, parental separation/divorce, trauma/PTSD, social phobias, peer relationship and social skills difficulties, and behavioral Issues. We use a variety of techniques to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy techniques to guide clients through their difficulties.
(804) 294-4310 View (804) 294-4310
Photo of Rita M Romano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Woodbridge, VA
Rita M Romano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
My training involves the study of not only the individual, but also the systems within which the individual functions, such as the family and society.
I have a healthy respect for the difficulties and complexities of life and will provide a non-judgemental environment for individuals or couples to explore solutions to the problems they face. The most common issues I work with are depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship problems. I like to look at what is working in a person's life and to promote wellness, as opposed to focusing on pathology or sickness. I find that once an individual focuses on specific goals, it does not take a long time to make significant movement in a positive direction.
My training involves the study of not only the individual, but also the systems within which the individual functions, such as the family and society.
I have a healthy respect for the difficulties and complexities of life and will provide a non-judgemental environment for individuals or couples to explore solutions to the problems they face. The most common issues I work with are depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship problems. I like to look at what is working in a person's life and to promote wellness, as opposed to focusing on pathology or sickness. I find that once an individual focuses on specific goals, it does not take a long time to make significant movement in a positive direction.
(703) 594-8052 x120 View (703) 594-8052 x120
Photo of Harrison Grant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Woodbridge, VA
Harrison Grant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
I specialize in the treatment of adolescents, adults, couples, families because these are the building blocks of who we are and what we become. and group therapy. As a retired military member, I specialize in working with military members (active and veterans) and their families for over 10 years. I work with those seeking to conquer mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem and self-worth issues, life transition issues, and adjustment disorders. I also assist those looking to develop or improve skills regarding couple's communication, marital and family relationships, and parenting.
I specialize in the treatment of adolescents, adults, couples, families because these are the building blocks of who we are and what we become. and group therapy. As a retired military member, I specialize in working with military members (active and veterans) and their families for over 10 years. I work with those seeking to conquer mood disorders, anxiety, self-esteem and self-worth issues, life transition issues, and adjustment disorders. I also assist those looking to develop or improve skills regarding couple's communication, marital and family relationships, and parenting.
(571) 778-3538 View (571) 778-3538
Photo of Sahair Monfared, Psychologist in Woodbridge, VA
Sahair Monfared
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
My orientation to psychotherapy is integrative; I recognize the value of psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and family approaches. I have come to believe that no one approach is necessarily the best. Each individual is unique, so the therapeutic approach that is used should reflect the needs of the client. By tailoring therapy to fit the needs of each individual, an atmosphere is created in which the client feels secure to explore his or her feelings. I have worked in many different treatment settings, and with diverse population of adults and adolescents. I have experience treating individuals, couples, and families.
My orientation to psychotherapy is integrative; I recognize the value of psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral and family approaches. I have come to believe that no one approach is necessarily the best. Each individual is unique, so the therapeutic approach that is used should reflect the needs of the client. By tailoring therapy to fit the needs of each individual, an atmosphere is created in which the client feels secure to explore his or her feelings. I have worked in many different treatment settings, and with diverse population of adults and adolescents. I have experience treating individuals, couples, and families.
(540) 254-0909 x103 View (540) 254-0909 x103
Photo of Brian Levine, Psychologist in Woodbridge, VA
Brian Levine
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
By the time most people are seeking a therapist, they have been struggling with significant challenges that have not gotten better with time, effort, or the help of family and friends. As a clinical psychologist, I am passionate about connecting with people in that stuck place for which there are no easy answers and working together to find solutions. The key ingredient in my work is my capacity to establish a trusting, cooperative, confidential, safe, and non-judgmental partnership with you in which you can better understand what is going on and learn more effective ways of meeting your life's challenges.
By the time most people are seeking a therapist, they have been struggling with significant challenges that have not gotten better with time, effort, or the help of family and friends. As a clinical psychologist, I am passionate about connecting with people in that stuck place for which there are no easy answers and working together to find solutions. The key ingredient in my work is my capacity to establish a trusting, cooperative, confidential, safe, and non-judgmental partnership with you in which you can better understand what is going on and learn more effective ways of meeting your life's challenges.
(703) 940-9553 x123 View (703) 940-9553 x123
Photo of Counseling and Forensic Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodbridge, VA
Counseling and Forensic Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
As a marriage and family therapist, I specialize in working with and understanding the problems of families and couples, but I also work with individuals and groups because relationship challenges are pervasive, and no one lives in a vacuum.
When relationships get stuck in an unproductive pattern it is usually because people are reacting to the hurt rather than responding in ways that can solve problems. As a marriage and family therapist I specialize in helping people find strength based solutions to address the challenges of managing relationships. The systemic approach focuses on the interactions of people (families, groups, communities) more than individual symptoms; however, this approach is beneficial when working with groups, families, couples, and individuals.
As a marriage and family therapist, I specialize in working with and understanding the problems of families and couples, but I also work with individuals and groups because relationship challenges are pervasive, and no one lives in a vacuum.
When relationships get stuck in an unproductive pattern it is usually because people are reacting to the hurt rather than responding in ways that can solve problems. As a marriage and family therapist I specialize in helping people find strength based solutions to address the challenges of managing relationships. The systemic approach focuses on the interactions of people (families, groups, communities) more than individual symptoms; however, this approach is beneficial when working with groups, families, couples, and individuals.
(571) 570-3369 View (571) 570-3369
Photo of Jessica Jemmott | The Lamp Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodbridge, VA
Jessica Jemmott | The Lamp Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC , NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22193  (Online Only)
I offer individual (adolescents/adult), group, family, and couples counseling.
At The Lamp Counseling Center, our goal is to provide an authentic, holistic, and individualized approach to the therapeutic relationship. Your experiences are your own and your treatment will reflect that, as we collaboratively engage in a variety of traditional and non-traditional approaches including culturally affirming Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Expressive Therapies, and Trauma-Informed Mindfulness. I strive to create a positive, caring environment where you feel safe, seen, and heard during your journey of healing and personal growth.
I offer individual (adolescents/adult), group, family, and couples counseling.
At The Lamp Counseling Center, our goal is to provide an authentic, holistic, and individualized approach to the therapeutic relationship. Your experiences are your own and your treatment will reflect that, as we collaboratively engage in a variety of traditional and non-traditional approaches including culturally affirming Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Expressive Therapies, and Trauma-Informed Mindfulness. I strive to create a positive, caring environment where you feel safe, seen, and heard during your journey of healing and personal growth.
(571) 517-1829 View (571) 517-1829
Photo of Kara M Fluker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodbridge, VA
Kara M Fluker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192  (Online Only)
I provide individual counseling to children, adolescents and adults as well as marriage, couples and family therapy.
It is my desire to offer hope and solutions to individuals, couples and families who are seeking help. My therapeutic style is caring, encouraging and individualized in order to help each person problem solve, overcome personal issues, and work toward positive life experiences. I create a close, supportive relationship in the counseling setting to assist each person in moving forward through open discussion, developing personal insight, and offering workable suggestions. My specialties include the treatment of mood disorders, life transitions, and those looking to improve their marriages, parenting, as well as coping skills.
I provide individual counseling to children, adolescents and adults as well as marriage, couples and family therapy.
It is my desire to offer hope and solutions to individuals, couples and families who are seeking help. My therapeutic style is caring, encouraging and individualized in order to help each person problem solve, overcome personal issues, and work toward positive life experiences. I create a close, supportive relationship in the counseling setting to assist each person in moving forward through open discussion, developing personal insight, and offering workable suggestions. My specialties include the treatment of mood disorders, life transitions, and those looking to improve their marriages, parenting, as well as coping skills.
(703) 215-2495 View (703) 215-2495
Photo of Lindsay Hill-Woodbridge Therapy Group, Pre-Licensed Professional in Woodbridge, VA
Lindsay Hill-Woodbridge Therapy Group
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
I specialize in working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and family dynamics.
I am a Liberty University student finishing my master’s degree in the Clinical Mental Health program. After my degree, I plan to pursue licensure as a licensed mental health clinician. I am a military spouse who has traveled the world and seen many families and soldiers face the struggles and aftermath of combat and the aftereffects of families being separated. I am a mother of four who has coached my children on how to navigate through the challenges that come with life development. I am a cancer survivor. I am relatable. I am dedicated to serving this community for those who are battling mental health concerns.
I specialize in working with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and family dynamics.
I am a Liberty University student finishing my master’s degree in the Clinical Mental Health program. After my degree, I plan to pursue licensure as a licensed mental health clinician. I am a military spouse who has traveled the world and seen many families and soldiers face the struggles and aftermath of combat and the aftereffects of families being separated. I am a mother of four who has coached my children on how to navigate through the challenges that come with life development. I am a cancer survivor. I am relatable. I am dedicated to serving this community for those who are battling mental health concerns.
(571) 556-3799 View (571) 556-3799
Photo of The Center for Connection, Healing and Change (RM), Pre-Licensed Professional in Woodbridge, VA
The Center for Connection, Healing and Change (RM)
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT-R, LPC-R, LMFT, LPC, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
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, heal trauma, 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, heal trauma, move through stressful experiences, find our purpose, and access resilience in moments of need.
(804) 336-3063 View (804) 336-3063
Photo of Steven Milgrim, Licensed Professional Counselor in Woodbridge, VA
Steven Milgrim
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
In mental health since 1987, I have been in private practice since 2000. I offer competence and caring in a supportive, safe, inclusive and confidential environment. My varied experience offers me insight into a wide range of areas. I custom craft a growth and learning experience for each individual, family and intimate relationship. Special training in the areas of substance abuse and couples counseling allows me to work with challenging and difficult issues with skill and caring. I promise to provide each client with the maximum potential for growth and healing. Please call me at (703) 499-9889 to speak to me directly.
In mental health since 1987, I have been in private practice since 2000. I offer competence and caring in a supportive, safe, inclusive and confidential environment. My varied experience offers me insight into a wide range of areas. I custom craft a growth and learning experience for each individual, family and intimate relationship. Special training in the areas of substance abuse and couples counseling allows me to work with challenging and difficult issues with skill and caring. I promise to provide each client with the maximum potential for growth and healing. Please call me at (703) 499-9889 to speak to me directly.
(540) 315-3448 View (540) 315-3448
Photo of Autumn McCain, Marriage & Family Therapist in Woodbridge, VA
Autumn McCain
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
You are always enough regardless. Just show up as you are; it is okay and welcomed. This is a place of gentleness, empathy, compassion, and authenticity. We are here to both figuratively and literally walk alongside you in your therapy journey either as an individual, couple, or family. Here it is not about what is wrong with you; it is about what has happened to you OR about the negative cycle that you have been stuck in. We make sense of it together. Mutually, we make sense of the brokenness, the pain, the relational distress. All behavior has context and fractures in relationships can be healed.
You are always enough regardless. Just show up as you are; it is okay and welcomed. This is a place of gentleness, empathy, compassion, and authenticity. We are here to both figuratively and literally walk alongside you in your therapy journey either as an individual, couple, or family. Here it is not about what is wrong with you; it is about what has happened to you OR about the negative cycle that you have been stuck in. We make sense of it together. Mutually, we make sense of the brokenness, the pain, the relational distress. All behavior has context and fractures in relationships can be healed.
(571) 789-2263 View (571) 789-2263
Photo of Claudia L Bailey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Woodbridge, VA
Claudia L Bailey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22192
I work with a diverse age group including children, adolescents, and adults, providing treatment that includes individual, couples and family therapy.
I view therapy as a collaboration between myself and the client. I rely on my client's knowledge about themselves and their identified strengths, in combination with my knowledge and application of different treatment models, assisting the client in formulating goals and making healthy changes in their life. I understand the importance of connecting easily and genuinely with a client, helping them to feel comfortable in the therapeutic process and successful in treatment.
I work with a diverse age group including children, adolescents, and adults, providing treatment that includes individual, couples and family therapy.
I view therapy as a collaboration between myself and the client. I rely on my client's knowledge about themselves and their identified strengths, in combination with my knowledge and application of different treatment models, assisting the client in formulating goals and making healthy changes in their life. I understand the importance of connecting easily and genuinely with a client, helping them to feel comfortable in the therapeutic process and successful in treatment.
(703) 457-1748 x124 View (703) 457-1748 x124
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.