Photo of Marcela Johnston, Psychologist in Arkansas
Marcela Johnston
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72205
As a psychologist, I help people change the thoughts, emotions, or behaviors that interfere with their physical and psychological health. As individuals begin to examine their feelings and attitudes and develop more effective patterns of behavior, they begin to feel happier and more content with their lives. Each individual, couple or family is provided with a supportive environment to talk openly about concerns, solve problems and achieve a healthier and happier lifestyle as quickly as possible.
As a psychologist, I help people change the thoughts, emotions, or behaviors that interfere with their physical and psychological health. As individuals begin to examine their feelings and attitudes and develop more effective patterns of behavior, they begin to feel happier and more content with their lives. Each individual, couple or family is provided with a supportive environment to talk openly about concerns, solve problems and achieve a healthier and happier lifestyle as quickly as possible.
(501) 588-8029 x105 View (501) 588-8029 x105
Photo of Angelica Gray, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Angelica Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jonesboro, AR 72401  (Online Only)
Do you feel lost and broken? Does life seem hopeless right now? It’s not. Your trauma and pain can actually be an essential part of transforming your life. There is no substitute for painful life experience in moving you toward learning to experience life in the moment, with a greater sense of purpose and contentment. My name is Angelica Gray and I am a clinical social worker/therapist. I have been in the field for 9+ years working as a family service worker, school-based case manger, outpatient mental health paraprofessional and as a therapist in private practice. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma and family conflicts.
Do you feel lost and broken? Does life seem hopeless right now? It’s not. Your trauma and pain can actually be an essential part of transforming your life. There is no substitute for painful life experience in moving you toward learning to experience life in the moment, with a greater sense of purpose and contentment. My name is Angelica Gray and I am a clinical social worker/therapist. I have been in the field for 9+ years working as a family service worker, school-based case manger, outpatient mental health paraprofessional and as a therapist in private practice. I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma and family conflicts.
(870) 621-3259 View (870) 621-3259
Photo of Charis Parker, Counselor in Arkansas
Charis Parker
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bentonville, AR 72712
When Charis is not seeing clients, she is most likely spending time with family and friends, playing with her dog, trying out new recipes, riding roller coasters or attending concerts.
Neurodiversity is more common than you might think. Roughly 15-20% of the world's population experiences neruodivergence; however, there is still not enough support for neurodivergent individuals. Charis is passionate about helping clients with neurodiversity such as ADHD, OCD, sensory needs, and various learning disorders. In addition, she has experience working with clients with anxiety, trauma, sleep disturbances, depression, grief and loss, relational concerns and behavioral issues. Charis enjoys working with adolescents, teens and adults and is trained in EMDR, TheraPlay, DBT, and TF-CBT.
When Charis is not seeing clients, she is most likely spending time with family and friends, playing with her dog, trying out new recipes, riding roller coasters or attending concerts.
Neurodiversity is more common than you might think. Roughly 15-20% of the world's population experiences neruodivergence; however, there is still not enough support for neurodivergent individuals. Charis is passionate about helping clients with neurodiversity such as ADHD, OCD, sensory needs, and various learning disorders. In addition, she has experience working with clients with anxiety, trauma, sleep disturbances, depression, grief and loss, relational concerns and behavioral issues. Charis enjoys working with adolescents, teens and adults and is trained in EMDR, TheraPlay, DBT, and TF-CBT.
(479) 349-4816 View (479) 349-4816
Photo of Jeanine Bengtson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Jeanine Bengtson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72701  (Online Only)
We can explore using CBT, DBT, ACT, EFT, and Internal Family Systems, somatic experiencing, and phase oriented therapy, as well as many other well known approaches.
Do you feel lost? Growth facilitated in a safe space that allows you to process, explore and discover your capacity to manage your symptoms and develop your daily practice that helps you find the state of mind that resonates with you. I can assist you with boundary improvement, feelings of low self worth. Socratic method is utilized to enhance self reflection, growth. Personal impact of social science is important as well. Specializing in struggles intersecting in: Trauma, neurodivergency. This could include those who identify as asexual, demisexual, or other less understood, nontraditional identities and relationships.
We can explore using CBT, DBT, ACT, EFT, and Internal Family Systems, somatic experiencing, and phase oriented therapy, as well as many other well known approaches.
Do you feel lost? Growth facilitated in a safe space that allows you to process, explore and discover your capacity to manage your symptoms and develop your daily practice that helps you find the state of mind that resonates with you. I can assist you with boundary improvement, feelings of low self worth. Socratic method is utilized to enhance self reflection, growth. Personal impact of social science is important as well. Specializing in struggles intersecting in: Trauma, neurodivergency. This could include those who identify as asexual, demisexual, or other less understood, nontraditional identities and relationships.
(479) 431-6117 View (479) 431-6117
Photo of L.I.F.E. Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
L.I.F.E. Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, DCH, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Harrison, AR 72601
Specialty includes: High risk family concerns, caregiving, grief, anger, depression, anxiety, PTSD, Stress, Self Esteem, Goals, Communication Skills, Sleep, Relationship Problems, anger management, behavior concerns, military issues for active duty & family along with retired military.
Let's get talking! Taking the first step and reaching out for help is huge, you made a big decision in getting better. If you prefer to stay in the comfort of your own home tele-counseling and email counsel is available. For those that continue to enjoy face to face counseling, we are located in a very convenient location in Mountain Home, Idaho. I have been working in mental health since 2003 with Children, Adolescents, Adults and Geriatrics. Contact me today about starting your service.
Specialty includes: High risk family concerns, caregiving, grief, anger, depression, anxiety, PTSD, Stress, Self Esteem, Goals, Communication Skills, Sleep, Relationship Problems, anger management, behavior concerns, military issues for active duty & family along with retired military.
Let's get talking! Taking the first step and reaching out for help is huge, you made a big decision in getting better. If you prefer to stay in the comfort of your own home tele-counseling and email counsel is available. For those that continue to enjoy face to face counseling, we are located in a very convenient location in Mountain Home, Idaho. I have been working in mental health since 2003 with Children, Adolescents, Adults and Geriatrics. Contact me today about starting your service.
(870) 224-0232 View (870) 224-0232
Photo of Emily Pearson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Emily Pearson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jonesboro, AR 72401
I have experience working with school-aged children, adolescents, and adults providing individual and family therapy, as well as adults within the acute hospitalization setting.
As a therapist, I am passionate about helping others learn to care for themselves and curate the future they desire, no matter their beginnings. My goal is to provide a comfortable and safe space where clients can process their thoughts and emotions while working towards positive changes that they set out to achieve. I utilize treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused and Trauma Informed interventions, Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. Currently, I am working towards certification in Cognitive Processing Therapy.
I have experience working with school-aged children, adolescents, and adults providing individual and family therapy, as well as adults within the acute hospitalization setting.
As a therapist, I am passionate about helping others learn to care for themselves and curate the future they desire, no matter their beginnings. My goal is to provide a comfortable and safe space where clients can process their thoughts and emotions while working towards positive changes that they set out to achieve. I utilize treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused and Trauma Informed interventions, Person-Centered Therapy, and Solution Focused Therapy. Currently, I am working towards certification in Cognitive Processing Therapy.
(870) 860-8611 View (870) 860-8611
Photo of Mary M Ekdahl, Psychologist in Arkansas
Mary M Ekdahl
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
At Arkansas Families First, we have available an interdisciplinary team of professionals to meet the behavioral healthcare needs of your child and family, including psychologists, licensed social workers, professional counselors, a nutritionist, and a psychiatrist.
Parenting is a challenging endeavor in the most ideal of circumstances, but parenting children with learning problems, disruptive behaviors, social skills deficits, or emotional disturbance can tax even the most well-informed parent. There are many effective ways to parent children and my goal is to provide evaluation and treatment approaches that allow you to parent your child based on your own values while using the most healthy and effective strategies. For those children already in treatment, I can collaborate with the child's therapist and/or physician to provide evaluations that help to clarify diagnosis and treatment needs.
At Arkansas Families First, we have available an interdisciplinary team of professionals to meet the behavioral healthcare needs of your child and family, including psychologists, licensed social workers, professional counselors, a nutritionist, and a psychiatrist.
Parenting is a challenging endeavor in the most ideal of circumstances, but parenting children with learning problems, disruptive behaviors, social skills deficits, or emotional disturbance can tax even the most well-informed parent. There are many effective ways to parent children and my goal is to provide evaluation and treatment approaches that allow you to parent your child based on your own values while using the most healthy and effective strategies. For those children already in treatment, I can collaborate with the child's therapist and/or physician to provide evaluations that help to clarify diagnosis and treatment needs.
(501) 483-3721 View (501) 483-3721
Photo of Catherine L Coon, Psychologist in Arkansas
Catherine L Coon
Psychologist, LP, RPT
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72205
As part of Chenal Family Therapy PLC, I consult with our team of therapists and psychiatrists who specialize in different issues, ensuring that all possible treatment approaches are considered.
My ideal client is self motivated, verbally expressive, with therapy goals of improvement and growth. They ask questions and use suggestions from session. They usually like homework and I love to see the change in them.
As part of Chenal Family Therapy PLC, I consult with our team of therapists and psychiatrists who specialize in different issues, ensuring that all possible treatment approaches are considered.
My ideal client is self motivated, verbally expressive, with therapy goals of improvement and growth. They ask questions and use suggestions from session. They usually like homework and I love to see the change in them.
(501) 781-2230 View (501) 781-2230
Photo of Sarah Heard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Sarah Heard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bella Vista, AR 72715
I have a Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy.
I am passionate about working with couples, families, and individuals who are looking to make changes in their lives. I am honored when I am invited to come alongside someone to hear their story and move with them toward a positive change and balance.
I have a Masters of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy.
I am passionate about working with couples, families, and individuals who are looking to make changes in their lives. I am honored when I am invited to come alongside someone to hear their story and move with them toward a positive change and balance.
(479) 802-4258 View (479) 802-4258
Photo of Wellspring Renewal Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Wellspring Renewal Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72205
Is your child having problems academically, socially, or behaviorally? Are there relationship problems within your family? Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, chronic pain, anger, moodiness? We can work together toward a more peaceful life.
To that one soul reading this, I know you're tired. You're fed up. You're so close to breaking, but there's hope and strength within you. You deserve a happier, healthier life, and you can have it. I have years of experience and success helping my clients break out of unhealthy patterns to feel more empowered and strong. I provide empathy, compassion, and offer a supportive, safe, judgement free environment where all are welcome. I am skilled in, and use a variety of evidence based treatment modalities to tailor each client's care individually.
Is your child having problems academically, socially, or behaviorally? Are there relationship problems within your family? Are you dealing with depression, anxiety, stress, chronic pain, anger, moodiness? We can work together toward a more peaceful life.
To that one soul reading this, I know you're tired. You're fed up. You're so close to breaking, but there's hope and strength within you. You deserve a happier, healthier life, and you can have it. I have years of experience and success helping my clients break out of unhealthy patterns to feel more empowered and strong. I provide empathy, compassion, and offer a supportive, safe, judgement free environment where all are welcome. I am skilled in, and use a variety of evidence based treatment modalities to tailor each client's care individually.
(501) 238-6613 View (501) 238-6613
Photo of Cori Alexander, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Cori Alexander
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
As part of Chenal Family Therapy PLC, I consult with our team of therapists and psychiatrists who specialize in different issues, ensuring that all possible treatment approaches are considered.
I enjoy working with couples and families to help them learn how to effectively communicate and build connection. I have experience in working with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, and trauma. I have a special interest in working with clients who identify as neurodivergent, including children, adolescents, and adults who have been diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, and other conditions. In my experience, here are certain challenges these individuals face that can lead to stress, secondary anxiety and depression, and ultimately burnout.
As part of Chenal Family Therapy PLC, I consult with our team of therapists and psychiatrists who specialize in different issues, ensuring that all possible treatment approaches are considered.
I enjoy working with couples and families to help them learn how to effectively communicate and build connection. I have experience in working with a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, and trauma. I have a special interest in working with clients who identify as neurodivergent, including children, adolescents, and adults who have been diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, and other conditions. In my experience, here are certain challenges these individuals face that can lead to stress, secondary anxiety and depression, and ultimately burnout.
(501) 506-5638 View (501) 506-5638
Photo of Cottrell O'Shea , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Cottrell O'Shea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LCSW
Verified Verified
Therapeutic modalities/services provided may include: Assessment/Diagnostic and Evaluation, Individual, Family Therapy, and Crisis Intervention services when warranter.
Psychotherapy and behavioral health services targeting a wide range of behavioral disorders including PTSD, Anxiety Disorders,Depressive Disorders, Anger, Trauma, Abuse, Mood Disorders, Attachment Disorders and Family Instability.
Therapeutic modalities/services provided may include: Assessment/Diagnostic and Evaluation, Individual, Family Therapy, and Crisis Intervention services when warranter.
Psychotherapy and behavioral health services targeting a wide range of behavioral disorders including PTSD, Anxiety Disorders,Depressive Disorders, Anger, Trauma, Abuse, Mood Disorders, Attachment Disorders and Family Instability.
(479) 239-4648 View (479) 239-4648
Photo of Amanda Emerson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Amanda Emerson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I have expertise in many areas including complex trauma, abuse, grief counseling, mood disorders, personality disorders, relationship complexities, certified transgender care provider, autism spectrum specialist, ADHD, anxiety, depression, sex therapy, trauma yoga, internal family systems, LGBTQ+ complexities, relationships, and coping with life transitions.
Healing requires honest care without judgment. In order to provide individualized treatment and support, I will work cooperatively with you to clarify your treatment goals and draw from a variety of methodologies to create a plan that fits your needs. My style is warm, open, encouraging, and direct. I consider myself an active therapist, combining experience, education, creativity, with a realistic and effective approach to treatment. To me, an individual should be treated as a whole, including the mind, the body, and the (soul/self)- whatever that is to them.
I have expertise in many areas including complex trauma, abuse, grief counseling, mood disorders, personality disorders, relationship complexities, certified transgender care provider, autism spectrum specialist, ADHD, anxiety, depression, sex therapy, trauma yoga, internal family systems, LGBTQ+ complexities, relationships, and coping with life transitions.
Healing requires honest care without judgment. In order to provide individualized treatment and support, I will work cooperatively with you to clarify your treatment goals and draw from a variety of methodologies to create a plan that fits your needs. My style is warm, open, encouraging, and direct. I consider myself an active therapist, combining experience, education, creativity, with a realistic and effective approach to treatment. To me, an individual should be treated as a whole, including the mind, the body, and the (soul/self)- whatever that is to them.
(870) 521-2204 View (870) 521-2204
Photo of Allison Reichert, MEd, LPC, NCC, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Allison Reichert, MEd, LPC, NCC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211  (Online Only)
My practice is focused on addressing general psychological concerns that may affect an individual and/or their family throughout the lifespan with a special emphasis on individuals affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families. At the heart of my practice is an acceptance and openness to the individual(s) with a focus on their lived experiences. Each of us has unique skills/gifts that provide a foundation upon which we can continue to grow. Through my work with clients I hope to assist them in the development of new skills, greater understanding and improved relationships.
My practice is focused on addressing general psychological concerns that may affect an individual and/or their family throughout the lifespan with a special emphasis on individuals affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families. At the heart of my practice is an acceptance and openness to the individual(s) with a focus on their lived experiences. Each of us has unique skills/gifts that provide a foundation upon which we can continue to grow. Through my work with clients I hope to assist them in the development of new skills, greater understanding and improved relationships.
(501) 322-6546 View (501) 322-6546
Photo of Crystal Stidum, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Crystal Stidum
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72201
Are you struggling with becoming your authentic self? Are you lost and just feel lost, angry, exhausted? Because you are reading this, that means you are considering creating a new narrative to manifest the future you have always dreamt for yourself and/or your family. My job is to walk with you on this journey as you navigate the ups and downs, getting what you desire out of life. I'm holding a space for you to reclaim and protect your peace. Together we will work towards identifying your needs and creating a plan of action that leads to growth and healing.
Are you struggling with becoming your authentic self? Are you lost and just feel lost, angry, exhausted? Because you are reading this, that means you are considering creating a new narrative to manifest the future you have always dreamt for yourself and/or your family. My job is to walk with you on this journey as you navigate the ups and downs, getting what you desire out of life. I'm holding a space for you to reclaim and protect your peace. Together we will work towards identifying your needs and creating a plan of action that leads to growth and healing.
(501) 503-3015 View (501) 503-3015
Photo of Zach Austin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arkansas
Zach Austin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rogers, AR 72758
As a licensed marriage and family therapist with a master's degree in marriage and family therapy, I am trained to help adults, couples, children, and families.
Life can sometimes feel like a journey without a map, a dance without a song, a play without a script, a giant pile of teeny-tiny Legos covering the floor with no instruction manual in sight.... You get the point – finding direction in life can be hard! Whether you are needing help to break free from family burdens, to unravel the constraints of mental health concerns, to weather a difficult phase of life, to work through relational discord, or to parent your children more confidently, I am here to assist you in becoming the mapmaker, composer, playwright, and manual creator you need to be to give your life direction.
As a licensed marriage and family therapist with a master's degree in marriage and family therapy, I am trained to help adults, couples, children, and families.
Life can sometimes feel like a journey without a map, a dance without a song, a play without a script, a giant pile of teeny-tiny Legos covering the floor with no instruction manual in sight.... You get the point – finding direction in life can be hard! Whether you are needing help to break free from family burdens, to unravel the constraints of mental health concerns, to weather a difficult phase of life, to work through relational discord, or to parent your children more confidently, I am here to assist you in becoming the mapmaker, composer, playwright, and manual creator you need to be to give your life direction.
(479) 553-7045 View (479) 553-7045
Photo of Melanie Bailey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Melanie Bailey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LADAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Harrison, AR 72601  (Online Only)
As part of Chenal Family Therapy PLC, I consult with our team of therapists and psychiatrists who specialize in different issues, ensuring that all possible treatment approaches are considered.
I'm a straight-forward, get it done therapist. My goal with any client or family is to help them quickly identify what the core issues are and to create solutions that help them function better on a daily basis. Whether it is a child struggling with behavioral issues or an adult battling depression or anxiety, I'm focused on outcomes, not blame.
As part of Chenal Family Therapy PLC, I consult with our team of therapists and psychiatrists who specialize in different issues, ensuring that all possible treatment approaches are considered.
I'm a straight-forward, get it done therapist. My goal with any client or family is to help them quickly identify what the core issues are and to create solutions that help them function better on a daily basis. Whether it is a child struggling with behavioral issues or an adult battling depression or anxiety, I'm focused on outcomes, not blame.
(833) 227-6079 View (833) 227-6079
Photo of Jeff Nemeth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Arkansas
Jeff Nemeth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Fort Smith, AR 72903
I live and work in the River Valley. Formerly a safety engineer in Chicago, I later trained as a Marriage and Family Therapist in The Canadian Rockies. I’ve been practicing for over 14 years and provide a Christ-centered approach to therapy. I have over 8000 hours of experience with youth issues. I enjoy working with couples and families, helping people fall in love again. I have helped many people work through loss, trauma and, also trained in and advanced trauma techniques using EMDR therapy. I have seen many clients with sexual issues. I have experience working with children and adults with autism and dyslexia.
I live and work in the River Valley. Formerly a safety engineer in Chicago, I later trained as a Marriage and Family Therapist in The Canadian Rockies. I’ve been practicing for over 14 years and provide a Christ-centered approach to therapy. I have over 8000 hours of experience with youth issues. I enjoy working with couples and families, helping people fall in love again. I have helped many people work through loss, trauma and, also trained in and advanced trauma techniques using EMDR therapy. I have seen many clients with sexual issues. I have experience working with children and adults with autism and dyslexia.
(479) 339-8375 View (479) 339-8375
Photo of Home Circle Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Home Circle Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MBA, LPC, LSSBB
Verified Verified
Glenwood, AR 71943
Waitlist for new clients
Those I provide services to are struggling with anger, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, behavioral issues, and much more. I bring experience from multiple settings, including outpatient, inpatient, managed care, school setting, and hospice. These experiences will help me help you and your loved ones. Life has become more challenging and the struggles are real. Related to family, most would agree that the family would be happy if others would stop interfering with your goals for your home. Home Circle Counseling, LLC fundamental belief is that home is the most important environment and everyone wants success in it.
Those I provide services to are struggling with anger, anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, behavioral issues, and much more. I bring experience from multiple settings, including outpatient, inpatient, managed care, school setting, and hospice. These experiences will help me help you and your loved ones. Life has become more challenging and the struggles are real. Related to family, most would agree that the family would be happy if others would stop interfering with your goals for your home. Home Circle Counseling, LLC fundamental belief is that home is the most important environment and everyone wants success in it.
(870) 259-4895 View (870) 259-4895
Photo of Julie Wewers in Arkansas
Julie Wewers
MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72205  (Online Only)
As a member of the Chenal Family Therapy team, I am fortunate to work with a diverse group of strong clinicians.
I'm a Pediatrician by training, who has spent the last decade helping children and their families with behavioral health issues (ADHD, anxiety, depression, etc). I take pride in developing a comfortable working relationship with my patients and their parents, which increases the probability of reaching our goals as fast as possible during their crucial developmental years. As a parent myself, I appreciate straight answers and easy to understand explanations. I strive to give you the time you need to share your journey and the respect you deserve as the person on the front lines with your child.
As a member of the Chenal Family Therapy team, I am fortunate to work with a diverse group of strong clinicians.
I'm a Pediatrician by training, who has spent the last decade helping children and their families with behavioral health issues (ADHD, anxiety, depression, etc). I take pride in developing a comfortable working relationship with my patients and their parents, which increases the probability of reaching our goals as fast as possible during their crucial developmental years. As a parent myself, I appreciate straight answers and easy to understand explanations. I strive to give you the time you need to share your journey and the respect you deserve as the person on the front lines with your child.
(501) 251-6092 View (501) 251-6092
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.