Photo of Patricia Estella Gould, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Patricia Estella Gould
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Waitlist for new clients
At Chrysalis CFT, every child and teen, couple, and family will find a safe environment where they can remember or discover who they are, resume or begin a meaningful life, where they can share their life’s story, and feel safe from judgment, embarrassment, shame, and hatred.
As an immigrant, I have become part of a country that values diversity and integration, where I experienced the transformation of my life and therefore the transformation of my surroundings. While living in Alaska, I realized there is a need for mental health professionals who understand the implications of being an immigrant, and the importance of processing the loss of your language, food, music, friends, and place. Who also understand the difficulty of not knowing how to preserve who we are while adopting the values and gifts of the country which opened its doors to us.
At Chrysalis CFT, every child and teen, couple, and family will find a safe environment where they can remember or discover who they are, resume or begin a meaningful life, where they can share their life’s story, and feel safe from judgment, embarrassment, shame, and hatred.
As an immigrant, I have become part of a country that values diversity and integration, where I experienced the transformation of my life and therefore the transformation of my surroundings. While living in Alaska, I realized there is a need for mental health professionals who understand the implications of being an immigrant, and the importance of processing the loss of your language, food, music, friends, and place. Who also understand the difficulty of not knowing how to preserve who we are while adopting the values and gifts of the country which opened its doors to us.
(907) 341-4802 View (907) 341-4802
Photo of Karuna Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Karuna Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
I specialize in providing care to families and individuals facing mental health struggles for over six years. My clients are typically committed to discovering easier ways to overcome hardships and move past them. I have sixteen years of experience as a paralegal, providing me with a unique insight into the intricacies of bankruptcy, civil, and criminal court proceedings. My approach is integrative, solution based and trauma informed. Continued education I am pursing are certifications in Brainspotting and IFS (Internal Family Systems).
I specialize in providing care to families and individuals facing mental health struggles for over six years. My clients are typically committed to discovering easier ways to overcome hardships and move past them. I have sixteen years of experience as a paralegal, providing me with a unique insight into the intricacies of bankruptcy, civil, and criminal court proceedings. My approach is integrative, solution based and trauma informed. Continued education I am pursing are certifications in Brainspotting and IFS (Internal Family Systems).
(866) 805-7463 View (866) 805-7463
Photo of Crystal Herring, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Crystal Herring
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99518
Waitlist for new clients
My specialty has been working with adolescents and their families for close to 20 years regarding various issues that come up for both the teenager themselves and within the family system. My experience spans inpatient, residential, and community-based programs, as well as private practice. I believe that treating clients in these vastly different environments has enriched the quality of my work and my perspective on life. I use an integrative approach to therapy that is based on your unique strengths, individual needs, and circumstances.
My specialty has been working with adolescents and their families for close to 20 years regarding various issues that come up for both the teenager themselves and within the family system. My experience spans inpatient, residential, and community-based programs, as well as private practice. I believe that treating clients in these vastly different environments has enriched the quality of my work and my perspective on life. I use an integrative approach to therapy that is based on your unique strengths, individual needs, and circumstances.
(844) 456-0654 View (844) 456-0654
Photo of Katie Corwin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Katie Corwin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99508  (Online Only)
I enjoy providing therapy for adults and adolescents addressing a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, family and communication concerns, life transitions, personality disorders, and relationship problems.
I enjoy providing therapy for adults and adolescents addressing a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, self-esteem, family and communication concerns, life transitions, personality disorders, and relationship problems.
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Photo of Mara Cramer, Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Mara Cramer
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99508
Waitlist for new clients
Prior to private practice, I worked in a residential treatment setting with adolescent girls ranging in age from 11 to 18, providing individual, family and group therapy.
As a therapist, the relationship I develop with clients is based on respect, support and encouragement, and is focused on building their individual strengths and resources. I believe that a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment is crucial to provide a safe space for clients discuss past and current issues and move forward. I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, family relationships, stress, adjustment problems, social difficulties, and life transitions. My approach is eclectic, tailored to each individual, and uses strategies, techniques and tools that best fit the needs and preferences of each client.
Prior to private practice, I worked in a residential treatment setting with adolescent girls ranging in age from 11 to 18, providing individual, family and group therapy.
As a therapist, the relationship I develop with clients is based on respect, support and encouragement, and is focused on building their individual strengths and resources. I believe that a nonjudgmental and welcoming environment is crucial to provide a safe space for clients discuss past and current issues and move forward. I work with adolescents and adults who are seeking help with depression, anxiety, family relationships, stress, adjustment problems, social difficulties, and life transitions. My approach is eclectic, tailored to each individual, and uses strategies, techniques and tools that best fit the needs and preferences of each client.
(907) 312-2729 View (907) 312-2729
Photo of Dr. Nathan Fearrington, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Dr. Nathan Fearrington
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCMHC, MAC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Greetings friend, allow me to introduce myself. I have a Ph.D. in Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and Master Addictions Counselor. Additionally, I am credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, groups, and families. The services that I provide are tailored to service the needs of adolescents and adults. The following are some of the treatment areas that I typically address: family dynamics, mood disorders, substance use, stress, anxiety, personal growth, and other behaviors and disorders.
Greetings friend, allow me to introduce myself. I have a Ph.D. in Psychology. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, and Master Addictions Counselor. Additionally, I am credentialed as a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, groups, and families. The services that I provide are tailored to service the needs of adolescents and adults. The following are some of the treatment areas that I typically address: family dynamics, mood disorders, substance use, stress, anxiety, personal growth, and other behaviors and disorders.
(844) 758-0463 View (844) 758-0463
Photo of Kristi Horst, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Kristi Horst
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99515  (Online Only)
I have an integrative approach to therapy which incorporates my experience and training in attachment theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level 1 certified, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Certified, IFS informed EMDR therapy (Syzygy), Filial therapy, TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Behavioral Therapy), mindfulness, and Gottman Level’s 1 and 2.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I specializing in the areas of trauma (sexual abuse, physical abuse, maltreatment, PTSD), anxiety, depression, self-esteem & identity, and couples and family work. I have experience working with children ages 3 and up, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. When working with couples I utilize the research and theories of the Gottman Method developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman to facilitate reconnection and strengthen communication. I find it is important to use empathy, respect, compassion, and authenticity to form a genuine, trusting relationship with all my clients.
I have an integrative approach to therapy which incorporates my experience and training in attachment theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS) Level 1 certified, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Certified, IFS informed EMDR therapy (Syzygy), Filial therapy, TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Behavioral Therapy), mindfulness, and Gottman Level’s 1 and 2.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I specializing in the areas of trauma (sexual abuse, physical abuse, maltreatment, PTSD), anxiety, depression, self-esteem & identity, and couples and family work. I have experience working with children ages 3 and up, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. When working with couples I utilize the research and theories of the Gottman Method developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman to facilitate reconnection and strengthen communication. I find it is important to use empathy, respect, compassion, and authenticity to form a genuine, trusting relationship with all my clients.
(907) 318-7963 View (907) 318-7963
Photo of Quinn's Counseling Services LLC, Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Quinn's Counseling Services LLC
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
Hello! My name is Patty Quinn and I have a passion for working with young children and families and helping them realize their full potential. I strongly believe that parents know their children best and I appreciate my role as a guide in supporting families and children realize their full capacities. I have experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma, ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, Depression, Behavioral challenges, and Attachment issues. I've been privileged to see the impact play therapy can have on a child as well as the entire family system.
Hello! My name is Patty Quinn and I have a passion for working with young children and families and helping them realize their full potential. I strongly believe that parents know their children best and I appreciate my role as a guide in supporting families and children realize their full capacities. I have experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma, ADHD, ASD, Anxiety, Depression, Behavioral challenges, and Attachment issues. I've been privileged to see the impact play therapy can have on a child as well as the entire family system.
(907) 406-2642 View (907) 406-2642
Photo of Dr. Nina F Clark, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Dr. Nina F Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99516  (Online Only)
Since 2005, I’ve been working in the field of counseling and school psychology. My degrees include a doctorate in Clinical Psychology, two Masters, one being in Marriage Family Therapy and the other in Educational Counseling with thousands of hours of work with individuals and families. I’m licensed as a professional counselor.
Since 2005, I’ve been working in the field of counseling and school psychology. My degrees include a doctorate in Clinical Psychology, two Masters, one being in Marriage Family Therapy and the other in Educational Counseling with thousands of hours of work with individuals and families. I’m licensed as a professional counselor.
(907) 331-8854 View (907) 331-8854
Photo of Katherine Foster-Dalmolin (Karuna Counseling), Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Katherine Foster-Dalmolin (Karuna Counseling)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501  (Online Only)
Kat is a long-time Alaskan who has lived and worked in the Mat-Su Valley since 1996. A hopeless geek, she enjoys all things science fiction and fantasy with a particular love for Star Trek and the Marvel Universe. She has many hobbies including reading, roller derby, cat rescue and crafts. She also loves exploring the Alaskan outdoors with her husband and their blended family of 5 children, 8 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. Professionally, she has been a counselor for 13 years and has been doing EMDR for 5 years. Her goal is helping clients overcome the barriers that keep them from living full and authentic lives.
Kat is a long-time Alaskan who has lived and worked in the Mat-Su Valley since 1996. A hopeless geek, she enjoys all things science fiction and fantasy with a particular love for Star Trek and the Marvel Universe. She has many hobbies including reading, roller derby, cat rescue and crafts. She also loves exploring the Alaskan outdoors with her husband and their blended family of 5 children, 8 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. Professionally, she has been a counselor for 13 years and has been doing EMDR for 5 years. Her goal is helping clients overcome the barriers that keep them from living full and authentic lives.
(907) 444-5641 View (907) 444-5641
Photo of Deborah M Gonzales, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Deborah M Gonzales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW, CHT, CFSW
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503  (Online Only)
If you are struggling to adjust to being in a new place, far from family and friends, and certainly not an easy road trip away, I hear you and can help!.
ALL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOW VIA TELE-HEALTH to clients anywhere in Alaska, N.C. or FL https://youtu.be/3rgHRqrzuEg Are you stressed out, anxious? Overwhelmed? Struggling with perfection? Do you deal with chronic pain or illness? Are you having communication problems with your partner? Is your plate too full and are you struggling to keep up? I PROMISE to respond to your Email and/or request for an appointment in less than 24 hours. When you reach out for help, you deserve to be heard and respected with a timely response.
If you are struggling to adjust to being in a new place, far from family and friends, and certainly not an easy road trip away, I hear you and can help!.
ALL APPOINTMENTS ARE NOW VIA TELE-HEALTH to clients anywhere in Alaska, N.C. or FL https://youtu.be/3rgHRqrzuEg Are you stressed out, anxious? Overwhelmed? Struggling with perfection? Do you deal with chronic pain or illness? Are you having communication problems with your partner? Is your plate too full and are you struggling to keep up? I PROMISE to respond to your Email and/or request for an appointment in less than 24 hours. When you reach out for help, you deserve to be heard and respected with a timely response.
(907) 891-8699 View (907) 891-8699
Photo of Lawrence Whitaker, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Lawrence Whitaker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Accepting telehealth clients. Really enjoy helping others find relief & working with all types of issues whether it be a life change or lingering relationship issues, I am excited to work with you. I have been lucky enough to have worked in a variety of settings giving me unique insight to critical life situations such as: divorce, loss of a loved one, legal issues, family members with severe mental illness. Master’s Level Licensed Mental Health Professional letter for emotional support animal-related services (assessments and therapeutic counseling) for adults.
Accepting telehealth clients. Really enjoy helping others find relief & working with all types of issues whether it be a life change or lingering relationship issues, I am excited to work with you. I have been lucky enough to have worked in a variety of settings giving me unique insight to critical life situations such as: divorce, loss of a loved one, legal issues, family members with severe mental illness. Master’s Level Licensed Mental Health Professional letter for emotional support animal-related services (assessments and therapeutic counseling) for adults.
(907) 420-4764 View (907) 420-4764
Photo of Brandi Askeland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Brandi Askeland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99503
Hello! I am currently accepting new clients! Parenting is hard. When your child experiences behavioral health difficulties, this can feel confusing, frustrating, as well as exhausting. Keep hold of your hope, there are clinically proven strategies out there. I utilize an integrative and cooperative approach to support both you and your child in treatment. My passion is helping parents be the best parents they believed they could be, supporting connections within the family unit and helping youth heal. It takes courage, work, and intention to reach your full potential.
Hello! I am currently accepting new clients! Parenting is hard. When your child experiences behavioral health difficulties, this can feel confusing, frustrating, as well as exhausting. Keep hold of your hope, there are clinically proven strategies out there. I utilize an integrative and cooperative approach to support both you and your child in treatment. My passion is helping parents be the best parents they believed they could be, supporting connections within the family unit and helping youth heal. It takes courage, work, and intention to reach your full potential.
(907) 759-3720 View (907) 759-3720
Photo of Roxie Powell, MFT-A/Coastal Wellness & Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Anchorage, AK
Roxie Powell, MFT-A/Coastal Wellness & Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFT-A
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Roxie Powell is a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (MFT-A) who works within a humanistic-experiential perspective. Roxie enjoys working with a broad spectrum of clients including children ages 5+, adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families. Roxie is passionate about relational counseling and uses Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) as her primary approach to working with couples and families to transform their communication style. She utilizes an attachment-based lens and believes that healing relational trauma is essential for lasting connection. This is supported by research in the field of attachment science.
Roxie Powell is a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate (MFT-A) who works within a humanistic-experiential perspective. Roxie enjoys working with a broad spectrum of clients including children ages 5+, adolescents, individual adults, couples, and families. Roxie is passionate about relational counseling and uses Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) as her primary approach to working with couples and families to transform their communication style. She utilizes an attachment-based lens and believes that healing relational trauma is essential for lasting connection. This is supported by research in the field of attachment science.
(907) 917-0191 View (907) 917-0191
Photo of Caroline Blair, Psychologist in Anchorage, AK
Caroline Blair
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
In my therapy practice, I provide individual and family therapeutic services to older children, adolescents, and adults.
I am a Psychologist and lifelong Alaskan, growing up and working in Anchorage. My clinical focus and expertise, whether as a therapist or when conducting evaluations, is to work with individuals to develop a sense of personal strength and capacity, and to identify and achieve their goals. I work with them and their family/support system to understand the basis of their current challenge(s), and collaborate to develop resources and skills that are developmentally appropriate for a successful resolution. My practice is split between providing therapeutic services and conducting neuropsychological evaluations.
In my therapy practice, I provide individual and family therapeutic services to older children, adolescents, and adults.
I am a Psychologist and lifelong Alaskan, growing up and working in Anchorage. My clinical focus and expertise, whether as a therapist or when conducting evaluations, is to work with individuals to develop a sense of personal strength and capacity, and to identify and achieve their goals. I work with them and their family/support system to understand the basis of their current challenge(s), and collaborate to develop resources and skills that are developmentally appropriate for a successful resolution. My practice is split between providing therapeutic services and conducting neuropsychological evaluations.
(844) 407-2123 View (844) 407-2123
Coastal Wellness and Counseling, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Coastal Wellness and Counseling, LLC offers a systemic approach to healing relationships. Whether you are interested in strengthening your couple/marital relationship, your connection with your children and family, your relationship with yourself, and/or are seeking therapy for your child or adolescent, our clinicians specialize in providing an authentic and focused approach to healing. Coastal Wellness and Counseling, LLC maintains a commitment to serving Alaskans with and without insurance by offering a sliding fee scale to those who qualify. All clinicians practice under the mentorship of Ashley M. Barrera, LMFT.
Coastal Wellness and Counseling, LLC offers a systemic approach to healing relationships. Whether you are interested in strengthening your couple/marital relationship, your connection with your children and family, your relationship with yourself, and/or are seeking therapy for your child or adolescent, our clinicians specialize in providing an authentic and focused approach to healing. Coastal Wellness and Counseling, LLC maintains a commitment to serving Alaskans with and without insurance by offering a sliding fee scale to those who qualify. All clinicians practice under the mentorship of Ashley M. Barrera, LMFT.
(877) 664-4279 View (877) 664-4279
Photo of Wendi Joy Compton, Counselor in Anchorage, AK
Wendi Joy Compton
Counselor, MS, LPC (S), HT
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99515
Additional educational credits I have obtained are in Brainspotting, hypnosis, Gottman, Emotionally Focused Family Therapy, play therapy, mindfulness, life coaching strategies for the divorced, NLP, and recovery through 12-step work.
I specialize in providing care to veterans, families, couples, and individuals facing overwhelming life struggles in need of guidance. My clients are typically committed to learning, processing, and mastering skill sets that will generate personal growth, better relationships, and, most importantly, improved quality of life. I have helped people navigate complicated marital problems, and parent-child relationships. I provide therapeutic support to single parents, grandparents, and multigenerational caregivers. I also work with people in recovery from addiction, religion-based abuse, toxic workplaces, and manipulation.
Additional educational credits I have obtained are in Brainspotting, hypnosis, Gottman, Emotionally Focused Family Therapy, play therapy, mindfulness, life coaching strategies for the divorced, NLP, and recovery through 12-step work.
I specialize in providing care to veterans, families, couples, and individuals facing overwhelming life struggles in need of guidance. My clients are typically committed to learning, processing, and mastering skill sets that will generate personal growth, better relationships, and, most importantly, improved quality of life. I have helped people navigate complicated marital problems, and parent-child relationships. I provide therapeutic support to single parents, grandparents, and multigenerational caregivers. I also work with people in recovery from addiction, religion-based abuse, toxic workplaces, and manipulation.
(907) 917-4787 View (907) 917-4787
Photo of Ashley M Barrera, Marriage & Family Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Ashley M Barrera
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
As a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist I work with individuals, couples, and families on a wide variety issues related to mental health and relationship concerns. I believe every person has the skills and tools to achieve a healthy and fulfilling life. However accessing these tools and applying them one's life can be a challenging process which can create dissatisfaction in life and relationships. As a therapist, I see my role as that of guiding people through the journey of identifying and harnessing the power of their unique strengths so that they may achieve satisfaction and fulfillment from life.
As a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist I work with individuals, couples, and families on a wide variety issues related to mental health and relationship concerns. I believe every person has the skills and tools to achieve a healthy and fulfilling life. However accessing these tools and applying them one's life can be a challenging process which can create dissatisfaction in life and relationships. As a therapist, I see my role as that of guiding people through the journey of identifying and harnessing the power of their unique strengths so that they may achieve satisfaction and fulfillment from life.
(907) 331-6778 View (907) 331-6778
Photo of Brittney Ramert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Anchorage, AK
Brittney Ramert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99501
If I can be of service to you or a family member, please reach out and I’d be more than happy to connect.
More than any other factor, it is the relationship between client and therapist that has been found to profoundly impact personal change. We are hurt, and healed within relationships. With this in mind, I take a relational approach to all my therapeutic work. I believe in honoring the individual needs of each client, ensuring they are known, seen, and heard. While also gently offering alternative to one’s longstanding views of self, others, and the world. I take a special interest in expanding the social and wellness supports of individuals outside the therapy room.
If I can be of service to you or a family member, please reach out and I’d be more than happy to connect.
More than any other factor, it is the relationship between client and therapist that has been found to profoundly impact personal change. We are hurt, and healed within relationships. With this in mind, I take a relational approach to all my therapeutic work. I believe in honoring the individual needs of each client, ensuring they are known, seen, and heard. While also gently offering alternative to one’s longstanding views of self, others, and the world. I take a special interest in expanding the social and wellness supports of individuals outside the therapy room.
(425) 585-4974 View (425) 585-4974
Chantal Cohen Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99508
Rather your family is not balanced which keeps you from being all that you/family can be.
I am a LMFT Supervisor & a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. I work with children (1 year old up), teens, families, combatants, first responders, victims of violent crimes, & others. I treat preverbal or traumatic attachment (kids/teens), complex trauma, anxiety, behavioral issues and other childhood needs. Learning to see from your child's perspective helps caregiver(s) to understand their child/ren and family. My goals are to collaborate with you & your family to restore balance, improve communication, provide neuro-divergent psychoeducation, promote more secure attachments and develop competency.
Rather your family is not balanced which keeps you from being all that you/family can be.
I am a LMFT Supervisor & a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor. I work with children (1 year old up), teens, families, combatants, first responders, victims of violent crimes, & others. I treat preverbal or traumatic attachment (kids/teens), complex trauma, anxiety, behavioral issues and other childhood needs. Learning to see from your child's perspective helps caregiver(s) to understand their child/ren and family. My goals are to collaborate with you & your family to restore balance, improve communication, provide neuro-divergent psychoeducation, promote more secure attachments and develop competency.
(907) 312-1269 View (907) 312-1269
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.