Photo of Mechelle Frazier, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Mechelle Frazier
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
Waitlist for new clients
***EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE! Work in Progress is a counseling service devoted to helping you create the life and relationships you want by establishing healthy boundaries and healthy connections. We are all social beings that interact with others. Our fulfillment and identity are directly related to relationships with family, friends, loved ones, and most importantly, self. Therefore the goal of therapy is to help you create positive and long-term change by addressing your specific needs and helping you to find new ways to improve all of your relationships. Treatment plans are customized to fit your unique goals.
***EVENING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE! Work in Progress is a counseling service devoted to helping you create the life and relationships you want by establishing healthy boundaries and healthy connections. We are all social beings that interact with others. Our fulfillment and identity are directly related to relationships with family, friends, loved ones, and most importantly, self. Therefore the goal of therapy is to help you create positive and long-term change by addressing your specific needs and helping you to find new ways to improve all of your relationships. Treatment plans are customized to fit your unique goals.
(205) 346-0869 View (205) 346-0869
Photo of Heather Thomas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Heather Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northport, AL 35473
I have training in Attachment Family Therapy and EMDR.
Sometimes life can get the better of us. You may no longer recognize yourself or how you got here. Most overwhelming can be that you don’t know how to make it stop. You may feel trapped in thought, behavior, and relationship patterns that seem beyond your control. You can't make sense of your feelings, or perhaps you feel so disconnected, you are numb to your emotions. If you have found yourself here, I imagine that you are seeking relief and hope.
I have training in Attachment Family Therapy and EMDR.
Sometimes life can get the better of us. You may no longer recognize yourself or how you got here. Most overwhelming can be that you don’t know how to make it stop. You may feel trapped in thought, behavior, and relationship patterns that seem beyond your control. You can't make sense of your feelings, or perhaps you feel so disconnected, you are numb to your emotions. If you have found yourself here, I imagine that you are seeking relief and hope.
(205) 875-4669 View (205) 875-4669
Photo of Laura Gold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Laura Gold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35406  (Online Only)
Has the loss of a loved one, relationship, or life transition left you feeling lost, anxious, depressed, angry, or unsure of where to turn? Grief is an umbrella term for all the emotions you might feel after loss, and it has no fixed timeline. Whether your loss was recent or decades ago, I can help. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years experience and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I specialize in grief and trauma work.
Has the loss of a loved one, relationship, or life transition left you feeling lost, anxious, depressed, angry, or unsure of where to turn? Grief is an umbrella term for all the emotions you might feel after loss, and it has no fixed timeline. Whether your loss was recent or decades ago, I can help. I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years experience and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. I specialize in grief and trauma work.
(205) 708-6440 View (205) 708-6440
Photo of Caela Rhea, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Caela Rhea
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northport, AL 35476
Waitlist for new clients
My goal as a counselor is to provide safe and non-judgmental therapy space in two different therapy settings: Turning Point and Caela Rhea Counseling. At Turning Point Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault services, counseling is free for survivors of sexual assault or sexual abuse. Processing trauma is not easy, but I can provide you with the support and tools you need to heal. You must meet Turning Point eligibility requirements for services. Call 205-758-0808 or check out turningpointservices.org for more information. Caela Rhea Counseling is self-pay and open nights and weekends for tele-health sessions.
My goal as a counselor is to provide safe and non-judgmental therapy space in two different therapy settings: Turning Point and Caela Rhea Counseling. At Turning Point Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault services, counseling is free for survivors of sexual assault or sexual abuse. Processing trauma is not easy, but I can provide you with the support and tools you need to heal. You must meet Turning Point eligibility requirements for services. Call 205-758-0808 or check out turningpointservices.org for more information. Caela Rhea Counseling is self-pay and open nights and weekends for tele-health sessions.
(205) 656-1069 View (205) 656-1069
Photo of Jane Watkins, Counselor in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Jane Watkins
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35406
Listening in a warm, caring, non-judgmental atmosphere. Over 25 years experience. Gestalt therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and other methods as needed to meet your individual needs.
Listening in a warm, caring, non-judgmental atmosphere. Over 25 years experience. Gestalt therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, and other methods as needed to meet your individual needs.
(205) 352-1953 View (205) 352-1953
Photo of Mona Ochoa-Horshok, M.S., LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Mona Ochoa-Horshok, M.S., LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
With 30 years of experience in the mental health field, I am equipped to work with people from all walks of life with a large variety of issues. Whether you are dealing with relationship problems, panic and/or anxiety, depression or other mood disorders, low self-esteem, eating disorders, sexual identity issues, chronic pain or spiritual or existential questions, or just want to feel more fulfilled and self-aware, I would love to work with you to help you achieve a better quality of life and a happier state of being.
With 30 years of experience in the mental health field, I am equipped to work with people from all walks of life with a large variety of issues. Whether you are dealing with relationship problems, panic and/or anxiety, depression or other mood disorders, low self-esteem, eating disorders, sexual identity issues, chronic pain or spiritual or existential questions, or just want to feel more fulfilled and self-aware, I would love to work with you to help you achieve a better quality of life and a happier state of being.
(205) 588-6178 View (205) 588-6178
Photo of Compass Rose Behavioral Health, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Compass Rose Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, MSW, LICSW-S, PIP
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405  (Online Only)
Compass Rose Behavioral Health was established to guide and support your unique life journey by helping you discover yourself, and your purpose as your life changes directions. I believe orthodox approaches to traditional mental health are cookie cutter and go for a more individualized approach. I am committed to customizing your experience, educating you, being honest and practical. All we ask is that you trust the process. In return you will learn how to: build your resilience and develop strategies to effectively manage and/or overcome obstacles.
Compass Rose Behavioral Health was established to guide and support your unique life journey by helping you discover yourself, and your purpose as your life changes directions. I believe orthodox approaches to traditional mental health are cookie cutter and go for a more individualized approach. I am committed to customizing your experience, educating you, being honest and practical. All we ask is that you trust the process. In return you will learn how to: build your resilience and develop strategies to effectively manage and/or overcome obstacles.
(205) 751-2970 View (205) 751-2970
Photo of Alena Porter, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Alena Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35402  (Online Only)
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence. Ideally, sex makes us feel happy, loved, and connected. Yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you avoided talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Have you ever had a sexual encounter that was other than consentual but you didn't know who to talk to or even what to say about it? If so, I can help you work through your thoughts and feelings about sex and sexual experiences
Sex is a normal, necessary part of human existence. Ideally, sex makes us feel happy, loved, and connected. Yet many people experience problems with sex including pain, lack of desire, or an inability to reach orgasm. Have you avoided talking to a sex therapist because you are afraid they’ll judge you? I will never judge you. Nothing you say is going to shock me, scare me, or make me stop working with you. Have you ever had a sexual encounter that was other than consentual but you didn't know who to talk to or even what to say about it? If so, I can help you work through your thoughts and feelings about sex and sexual experiences
(256) 300-6088 View (256) 300-6088
Photo of Kathryn Strickland Abs Sex Therapist, Counselor in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Kathryn Strickland Abs Sex Therapist
Counselor, MEd, LPC, ABS
Verified Verified
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
Are you and your relationship struggling due to sexual issues. These sensitive subjects can be difficult to talk about and even harder to find the right therapist for. I specialize in helping individuals through sexual issues of all kinds, including but not limited to: ED, Desire discrepancy, pelvic pain, sexual aversion, sexual trauma, low libido, out of control sexual behavior, negative impacts of pornography and technology, medical sexual dysfunction, and more. Don't let sexual problems stop you from having the life and relationships you desire.
Are you and your relationship struggling due to sexual issues. These sensitive subjects can be difficult to talk about and even harder to find the right therapist for. I specialize in helping individuals through sexual issues of all kinds, including but not limited to: ED, Desire discrepancy, pelvic pain, sexual aversion, sexual trauma, low libido, out of control sexual behavior, negative impacts of pornography and technology, medical sexual dysfunction, and more. Don't let sexual problems stop you from having the life and relationships you desire.
(205) 619-1526 View (205) 619-1526
Photo of Laura Westbrook, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Laura Westbrook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35487  (Online Only)
My favorite part about being a counselor is getting to know someone and hear their story. It takes a lot of vulnerability to be able to open up to someone else and I am always grateful that my clients trust me with the most intimate parts of their self. I work with a wide array of clients; from LGBTQ+ community members, survivors of trauma, those struggling with addiction and many other issues that affect an individuals quality of life. The ideal client for me is any individual willing to explore the therapeutic process in order to work towards building the life they desire.
My favorite part about being a counselor is getting to know someone and hear their story. It takes a lot of vulnerability to be able to open up to someone else and I am always grateful that my clients trust me with the most intimate parts of their self. I work with a wide array of clients; from LGBTQ+ community members, survivors of trauma, those struggling with addiction and many other issues that affect an individuals quality of life. The ideal client for me is any individual willing to explore the therapeutic process in order to work towards building the life they desire.
(205) 318-2587 View (205) 318-2587

Online Therapists

Photo of Ellery C. Berryhill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Ellery C. Berryhill
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242
I hold licenses in both professional counseling and marriage and family therapy.
Are you facing overwhelming challenges in your marriage or relationships? With your children? Are you struggling with depression or anxiety/fear? Whether you are facing a job transition, conflict in your relationship, a death of a friend or relative, or another pressing concern, therapy provides you someone to listen, to walk beside you through these experiences, and to offer guidance and support as you face new discoveries and insights to your life and well-being. I have experience working with adults, adolescents, couples, and families and view therapy as your opportunity to grow healthier -- mentally, emotionally, behaviorally, relationally, and spiritually.
I hold licenses in both professional counseling and marriage and family therapy.
Are you facing overwhelming challenges in your marriage or relationships? With your children? Are you struggling with depression or anxiety/fear? Whether you are facing a job transition, conflict in your relationship, a death of a friend or relative, or another pressing concern, therapy provides you someone to listen, to walk beside you through these experiences, and to offer guidance and support as you face new discoveries and insights to your life and well-being. I have experience working with adults, adolescents, couples, and families and view therapy as your opportunity to grow healthier -- mentally, emotionally, behaviorally, relationally, and spiritually.
(205) 623-5917 View (205) 623-5917
Photo of Shannon S Crenshaw, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Shannon S Crenshaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
I work with such issues as depression, chronic pain, anxiety, trauma, grief counseling, family disruptions and transitions.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
I work with such issues as depression, chronic pain, anxiety, trauma, grief counseling, family disruptions and transitions.
As a therapist I like to meet my clients where they are. I work with each client to develop a plan based on proven therapeutic methods. I provide mental health treatment to teens, indiviuals and families who are experiencing difficulties in their lives. Welcome to the no judgment zone.
(205) 583-0367 View (205) 583-0367
Photo of Judith Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Judith Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, SC
Verified Verified
McCalla, AL 35111
Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: anxiety and/or depression, pre-marital/marital issues, chronic pain/illness, chemical dependency, family issues, dealing with trauma/abuse from the past, and grief and loss.
NOW ACCEPTING BLUE CROSS/BLUE SHIELD AND UNITED HEALTHCARE I have over 25 years experience in the Mental Health field, having worked in a variety of settings. I have certification in Trauma Counseling. I work with all ages, regardless of sex, race, lifestyle choice, or economic status. If you are having challenges because of anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, or family issues, I can provide you with assistance. I am also a Certified Transformation Life Coach - helping people transform their lives and realize their dreams.
Areas of specialty include but are not limited to: anxiety and/or depression, pre-marital/marital issues, chronic pain/illness, chemical dependency, family issues, dealing with trauma/abuse from the past, and grief and loss.
NOW ACCEPTING BLUE CROSS/BLUE SHIELD AND UNITED HEALTHCARE I have over 25 years experience in the Mental Health field, having worked in a variety of settings. I have certification in Trauma Counseling. I work with all ages, regardless of sex, race, lifestyle choice, or economic status. If you are having challenges because of anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences, or family issues, I can provide you with assistance. I am also a Certified Transformation Life Coach - helping people transform their lives and realize their dreams.
(844) 294-8195 View (844) 294-8195
Photo of Larkin Lowry, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Larkin Lowry
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35243
My hope is to walk with you, shining light to help you, your child, or your family, to find your own light and create meaning.
Hey, I'm Larkin and I'm genuinely glad you're here! The idea that we or our loved ones are struggling and need help can stir up a number of uncomfortable emotions that we often try to ignore. If there is one thing I believe holds true, it is that having feelings makes us human. Feelings help us understand the world, they guide our thoughts and behaviors, they impact our relationships, and when we learn to listen to what they are trying to tell us, they can help us grow. When our lives have been impacted by trauma or adverse experiences, tuning back in to our mind and body can feel daunting and that is where I come in!
My hope is to walk with you, shining light to help you, your child, or your family, to find your own light and create meaning.
Hey, I'm Larkin and I'm genuinely glad you're here! The idea that we or our loved ones are struggling and need help can stir up a number of uncomfortable emotions that we often try to ignore. If there is one thing I believe holds true, it is that having feelings makes us human. Feelings help us understand the world, they guide our thoughts and behaviors, they impact our relationships, and when we learn to listen to what they are trying to tell us, they can help us grow. When our lives have been impacted by trauma or adverse experiences, tuning back in to our mind and body can feel daunting and that is where I come in!
(205) 383-6650 View (205) 383-6650
Photo of Ashley Loeb, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Ashley Loeb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
My specialties are adjustment issues; life stress; anger; anxiety; depression; family conflict; self esteem and confidence; grief and loss.
I enjoy working with clients to help identify their strengths, overcome obstacles and build their self-esteem. I work with clients to normalize their feelings and increase their self-awareness. I am passionate about removing the stigma from therapy and mental health treatment. I try to promote mindfulness when dealing with strong emotions and work to offer clients a safe and nonjudgmental place to share their feelings.
My specialties are adjustment issues; life stress; anger; anxiety; depression; family conflict; self esteem and confidence; grief and loss.
I enjoy working with clients to help identify their strengths, overcome obstacles and build their self-esteem. I work with clients to normalize their feelings and increase their self-awareness. I am passionate about removing the stigma from therapy and mental health treatment. I try to promote mindfulness when dealing with strong emotions and work to offer clients a safe and nonjudgmental place to share their feelings.
(205) 538-3099 View (205) 538-3099
Photo of Mary Elaine Gamel-Rasco, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Mary Elaine Gamel-Rasco
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MEd, LPC, S-LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vestavia, AL 35243
Self-Esteem, Boundaries, Codependency, Family of Origin, Adult Children of Addicts, Spiritual Issues, Grief/Bereavement, Identity/Purpose, Existential Issues, Veterans' Issues, Women's Issues, Men's Issues, Abuse Issues.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, extensive experience in mental health, substance abuse & spiritual issues as a Chaplain/Pastoral Counselor. I hold two Masters Degrees: Master of Divinity in Pastoral Care/Counseling & Master of Education in Counseling/Guidance. Worked over 10 years with adults & now am expanding into work with children/adolescents. Enjoy working with people in building their self-esteem, exploring impact of families of origin on their current functioning, & helping persons connect with their identity/purpose, using various modalities. I enjoy using Sandplay Therapy & other creative methods. I invite you to contact me to help you discover your strengths & build coping tools.
Self-Esteem, Boundaries, Codependency, Family of Origin, Adult Children of Addicts, Spiritual Issues, Grief/Bereavement, Identity/Purpose, Existential Issues, Veterans' Issues, Women's Issues, Men's Issues, Abuse Issues.
I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, extensive experience in mental health, substance abuse & spiritual issues as a Chaplain/Pastoral Counselor. I hold two Masters Degrees: Master of Divinity in Pastoral Care/Counseling & Master of Education in Counseling/Guidance. Worked over 10 years with adults & now am expanding into work with children/adolescents. Enjoy working with people in building their self-esteem, exploring impact of families of origin on their current functioning, & helping persons connect with their identity/purpose, using various modalities. I enjoy using Sandplay Therapy & other creative methods. I invite you to contact me to help you discover your strengths & build coping tools.
(205) 928-3834 View (205) 928-3834
Photo of Laura B Young, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Laura B Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCH
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36117
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT. a Clinical Hypnotherapist, CCH... and a Manifestation Coach for Women I know these are difficult times. Here is help for you! My Personal and Professional Experiences come together to help Women overcome “feeling stuck and discouraged. “I am devoted to unraveling difficult situations allowing for meaningful change to occur. Together we can bring clarity to complicated situations, respond to loss and regret with compassion: and break the cycle of addictive behaviors. I welcome whatever you bring to the table. .Call (no text) FREE 20 min consult.334-277-7955.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, LMFT. a Clinical Hypnotherapist, CCH... and a Manifestation Coach for Women I know these are difficult times. Here is help for you! My Personal and Professional Experiences come together to help Women overcome “feeling stuck and discouraged. “I am devoted to unraveling difficult situations allowing for meaningful change to occur. Together we can bring clarity to complicated situations, respond to loss and regret with compassion: and break the cycle of addictive behaviors. I welcome whatever you bring to the table. .Call (no text) FREE 20 min consult.334-277-7955.
(334) 651-0938 View (334) 651-0938
Photo of Zachary Aaron Dembo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Zachary Aaron Dembo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
“Am I broken?” This is a question that many of us ask ourselves when our lives become filled with suffering. It often arises after an experience leaves us struggling to return to normal or causes chaos to become our new normal. It's something considered after comparing ourselves to the people around us, friends, family, colleagues and seeing our differences. It is something we wonder when unending worry robs our life of joy or when overwhelming sadness and mental fog obscure the possibility of anything better. In actuality we do not break and within our misery we will find the tools needed to build ourselves a life worth living.
“Am I broken?” This is a question that many of us ask ourselves when our lives become filled with suffering. It often arises after an experience leaves us struggling to return to normal or causes chaos to become our new normal. It's something considered after comparing ourselves to the people around us, friends, family, colleagues and seeing our differences. It is something we wonder when unending worry robs our life of joy or when overwhelming sadness and mental fog obscure the possibility of anything better. In actuality we do not break and within our misery we will find the tools needed to build ourselves a life worth living.
(205) 831-3921 View (205) 831-3921
Photo of Crosswalk Psychological Services, LLC, Psychologist in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Crosswalk Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35223
Maple provides individual therapy, marriage therapy, and family therapy in his office & via telepsychology for clients in 33 states (listed on website).
Give up the pursuit of happiness and take up the pursuit of joy and peace. Dr. Maple is a psychologist whose jurisdictions include 38 U.S. states. He provides psychotherapy in his Auburn AL office or via a secure audio-video connection or via a plain phone call. After years of work in university counseling centers and the VA healthcare system, Dr. Maple created Crosswalk Psychological Services to serve adults, teens, & young children who want their therapy to align with their Christian faith. To view Dr. Maple's current jurisdictions, see www.crosswalknow.com. To schedule a session or ask a question, phone us or email us.
Maple provides individual therapy, marriage therapy, and family therapy in his office & via telepsychology for clients in 33 states (listed on website).
Give up the pursuit of happiness and take up the pursuit of joy and peace. Dr. Maple is a psychologist whose jurisdictions include 38 U.S. states. He provides psychotherapy in his Auburn AL office or via a secure audio-video connection or via a plain phone call. After years of work in university counseling centers and the VA healthcare system, Dr. Maple created Crosswalk Psychological Services to serve adults, teens, & young children who want their therapy to align with their Christian faith. To view Dr. Maple's current jurisdictions, see www.crosswalknow.com. To schedule a session or ask a question, phone us or email us.
(334) 432-8372 View (334) 432-8372
Photo of Bass Assertive Solutions & Support, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tuscaloosa County, AL
Bass Assertive Solutions & Support, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
Homewood, AL 35209
I have extensive experience with child welfare, families, and the challenges that come along with being a survivor of childhood abuse or a family member who witnessed the abuse.
As a mental health therapist, I provide a safe and pleasant environment for you to share your life's challenges. I believe in helping you realize your strengths and abilities to overcome these challenges. I assist you with processing and working through your troubles as well as equipping you with the knowledge and tools to combat your obstacles. Working together we will make positive changes in your life. Some of the areas I address are: depression; anxiety; physical, sexual, and emotional abuse; anger management; couple's counseling; sex therapy & concerns; PTSD; and ADHD. Telemental health therapy services are also available.
I have extensive experience with child welfare, families, and the challenges that come along with being a survivor of childhood abuse or a family member who witnessed the abuse.
As a mental health therapist, I provide a safe and pleasant environment for you to share your life's challenges. I believe in helping you realize your strengths and abilities to overcome these challenges. I assist you with processing and working through your troubles as well as equipping you with the knowledge and tools to combat your obstacles. Working together we will make positive changes in your life. Some of the areas I address are: depression; anxiety; physical, sexual, and emotional abuse; anger management; couple's counseling; sex therapy & concerns; PTSD; and ADHD. Telemental health therapy services are also available.
(205) 703-2877 View (205) 703-2877

See more therapy options for Tuscaloosa County

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.