Family Therapy in Portland, OR

Photo of Tom Dooley, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Tom Dooley
Psychologist, PsyD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Feeling stuck in life's circumstances? Don't just "Do it" as Nike says, but "Do something healthy"! With memberships in ADAA (anxiety) and the OCD Institute, trained in trauma treatment, and a certified domestic violence provider, I work with a variety of issues in marital, individual, and family counseling. I seek to be collaborative, practical, and respectful. My doctorate is from George Fox University, and I have been in the field since 1986. Offices are in Vancouver WA and Portland OR. Thank you for considering me.
Feeling stuck in life's circumstances? Don't just "Do it" as Nike says, but "Do something healthy"! With memberships in ADAA (anxiety) and the OCD Institute, trained in trauma treatment, and a certified domestic violence provider, I work with a variety of issues in marital, individual, and family counseling. I seek to be collaborative, practical, and respectful. My doctorate is from George Fox University, and I have been in the field since 1986. Offices are in Vancouver WA and Portland OR. Thank you for considering me.
(360) 513-7398 View (360) 513-7398
Photo of Mary Mayfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Mary Mayfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe an individual's role and patterns within their family system and close relationships are valuable avenues of exploration and growth.
I strive to hold an environment in which people feel safe to acknowledge their internal process and are encouraged to discover their resiliency. I have experience working with individuals and families on a variety of issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, communication, and life transitions.
I believe an individual's role and patterns within their family system and close relationships are valuable avenues of exploration and growth.
I strive to hold an environment in which people feel safe to acknowledge their internal process and are encouraged to discover their resiliency. I have experience working with individuals and families on a variety of issues such as trauma, anxiety, depression, communication, and life transitions.
(503) 487-5573 View (503) 487-5573
Photo of Susan Yoon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Susan Yoon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
‍‍I really am a child at heart. This is why I love creating connections with children and teens. I see individuals as part of a larger system, via family, community and culture. I believe that the therapeutic alliance I make with my clients is really the heart of therapy and I have seen positive outcomes for my clients when they live confident, happy and healthy lives. In addition to my work with children and teens, much of my practice concentrates on counseling women who have recently separated from their partners, empowering women of all ages to be the best version of themselves. I strive to be the kindest human I can be.
‍‍I really am a child at heart. This is why I love creating connections with children and teens. I see individuals as part of a larger system, via family, community and culture. I believe that the therapeutic alliance I make with my clients is really the heart of therapy and I have seen positive outcomes for my clients when they live confident, happy and healthy lives. In addition to my work with children and teens, much of my practice concentrates on counseling women who have recently separated from their partners, empowering women of all ages to be the best version of themselves. I strive to be the kindest human I can be.
(517) 994-1093 View (517) 994-1093
Photo of Glynis 'glee' Lumb, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Glynis 'glee' Lumb
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-LAT, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
Are you tired of struggling to thrive in relationships with friends, family, and lovers? Are your emotions running your life? Interacting with others can be overwhelming when you have experienced trauma, grief, depression or anxiety. This can lead to coping through addictions or harmful behaviors. I believe we all have the capacity to change and that focusing on strengths can give clients a new outlook on life. Together, we can practice mindfulness, reflection, and positive coping skills. I collaborate with clients to build positive experiences in a caring therapeutic relationship through talking, playing (children), and art.
Are you tired of struggling to thrive in relationships with friends, family, and lovers? Are your emotions running your life? Interacting with others can be overwhelming when you have experienced trauma, grief, depression or anxiety. This can lead to coping through addictions or harmful behaviors. I believe we all have the capacity to change and that focusing on strengths can give clients a new outlook on life. Together, we can practice mindfulness, reflection, and positive coping skills. I collaborate with clients to build positive experiences in a caring therapeutic relationship through talking, playing (children), and art.
(458) 218-8822 View (458) 218-8822
Photo of Samantha Wolf, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Samantha Wolf
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
I find working with children, teenagers, and adults in family/couple systems important because of the influential nature of environment.
There are many different ways to heal, just as there are many different ways to grieve and process emotions. I believe that you do not need to have something “wrong” with you in order to seek help. Whether you have hit your personal rock bottom, or just a blip in the road, I will provide a safe and healing space to come along side you, and work collaboratively in order to find what feels authentic for you and your life. I care about my clients feeling acknowledged, comfortable and challenged when appropriate. Growth with a hefty side of warmth.
I find working with children, teenagers, and adults in family/couple systems important because of the influential nature of environment.
There are many different ways to heal, just as there are many different ways to grieve and process emotions. I believe that you do not need to have something “wrong” with you in order to seek help. Whether you have hit your personal rock bottom, or just a blip in the road, I will provide a safe and healing space to come along side you, and work collaboratively in order to find what feels authentic for you and your life. I care about my clients feeling acknowledged, comfortable and challenged when appropriate. Growth with a hefty side of warmth.
(503) 610-4450 View (503) 610-4450
Photo of Catherine M Saunders, Counselor in Portland, OR
Catherine M Saunders
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221
Waitlist for new clients
Client-Centered Individual, Family & Couples Counseling, for Adolescents, Adults, Children, Families and Couples utilizing Play & Art Therapy, Personal Healing and Empowerment through Mindfulness, Dynamic Personalized Treatment Planning, Goal Setting & Problem Solving with Caring Attention to Identity, Culture & Inclusion, Grief Counseling.
I am partnering with Mindful Therapy Group for scheduling and billing. Please call 971-352-6971 or email highlands@mindfulsupport services.com. I believe every person has natural healing abilities and wisdom. My role is to help clients determine their way to growth, healing, positive action and improvement of life quality through relationship with self and others. I base my work on theories from Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic and Family Systems Therapies to carve the therapy that works personally for each client.
Client-Centered Individual, Family & Couples Counseling, for Adolescents, Adults, Children, Families and Couples utilizing Play & Art Therapy, Personal Healing and Empowerment through Mindfulness, Dynamic Personalized Treatment Planning, Goal Setting & Problem Solving with Caring Attention to Identity, Culture & Inclusion, Grief Counseling.
I am partnering with Mindful Therapy Group for scheduling and billing. Please call 971-352-6971 or email highlands@mindfulsupport services.com. I believe every person has natural healing abilities and wisdom. My role is to help clients determine their way to growth, healing, positive action and improvement of life quality through relationship with self and others. I base my work on theories from Cognitive-Behavioral, Psychodynamic and Family Systems Therapies to carve the therapy that works personally for each client.
(971) 306-4938 View (971) 306-4938
Photo of Sunny Sky Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Sunny Sky Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97216
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I am Chad Ernest, Owner and Counselor of Sunny Sky Counseling, LLC. Every one could use some sunny sky in Portland now and again. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Oregon, who believes in the best in all of us and tries to help you find that in yourself. Whether that means I am working with you as an individual, your family, or as a couple, I am working to help you find the best outcomes. I believe in a client/family centered approach with collaboration in treatment between you and myself.
Hello! I am Chad Ernest, Owner and Counselor of Sunny Sky Counseling, LLC. Every one could use some sunny sky in Portland now and again. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of Oregon, who believes in the best in all of us and tries to help you find that in yourself. Whether that means I am working with you as an individual, your family, or as a couple, I am working to help you find the best outcomes. I believe in a client/family centered approach with collaboration in treatment between you and myself.
(503) 374-1642 View (503) 374-1642
Photo of Italia Hensley : Congruent Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Italia Hensley : Congruent Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CNM-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215  (Online Only)
Hello! In addition to counseling services, I am hiring to supervise Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselor Associates. You are in a relationship with your partner(s) or a part of a family unit. You have gotten to a place you never thought you could get to with yourself or loved one(s); you feel unheard, unloved, and undervalued, but you love them, and that is why you are here seeking me, a couple, polycule, and family therapist. I have been where you are now; it is overwhelming, painful, and discouraging. I am here to tell you this happens for so many people, and there is hope and a path to where you want to be.
Hello! In addition to counseling services, I am hiring to supervise Marriage and Family Therapists and Professional Counselor Associates. You are in a relationship with your partner(s) or a part of a family unit. You have gotten to a place you never thought you could get to with yourself or loved one(s); you feel unheard, unloved, and undervalued, but you love them, and that is why you are here seeking me, a couple, polycule, and family therapist. I have been where you are now; it is overwhelming, painful, and discouraging. I am here to tell you this happens for so many people, and there is hope and a path to where you want to be.
(458) 204-0197 View (458) 204-0197
Photo of Julie Hassler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Julie Hassler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Our relationships can provide us feelings of connection and safety, and give our lives meaning and purpose. They can also bring us pain and disappointment. Is your relationship in trouble? I specialize with issues that can result within relationships, from premarital to divorce, as well as blended family concerns. Whether communication issues, unresolvable conflict, infidelity/affair, addiction, abuse or mental health issues have affected your connection and attunement, I can give you the tools to turn things around in the present and the techniques to provide consistent connection in the future.
Our relationships can provide us feelings of connection and safety, and give our lives meaning and purpose. They can also bring us pain and disappointment. Is your relationship in trouble? I specialize with issues that can result within relationships, from premarital to divorce, as well as blended family concerns. Whether communication issues, unresolvable conflict, infidelity/affair, addiction, abuse or mental health issues have affected your connection and attunement, I can give you the tools to turn things around in the present and the techniques to provide consistent connection in the future.
(503) 694-3203 View (503) 694-3203
Photo of Lexi Marquardt Hill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Lexi Marquardt Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204  (Online Only)
I work with families and couples around relationship concerns and family planning and provide coaching for eating disorder support.
From the very beginning, I work to build trust and a foundation for my clients that allows them to feel safe to share and explore their personal narrative. I empower individuals to recognize that they have the ability to change negative ways of thinking, create new patterns of relationships with themselves and others, and set boundaries that allow them to move through the world feeling supported. My main focus is treating eating disorders using the HAES foundation. I am a certified clinical trauma professional currently working on my EMDR certification. Other modalities I utilize are CBT, DBT, IFS, Solution Focused, MI, and more.
I work with families and couples around relationship concerns and family planning and provide coaching for eating disorder support.
From the very beginning, I work to build trust and a foundation for my clients that allows them to feel safe to share and explore their personal narrative. I empower individuals to recognize that they have the ability to change negative ways of thinking, create new patterns of relationships with themselves and others, and set boundaries that allow them to move through the world feeling supported. My main focus is treating eating disorders using the HAES foundation. I am a certified clinical trauma professional currently working on my EMDR certification. Other modalities I utilize are CBT, DBT, IFS, Solution Focused, MI, and more.
(971) 328-3338 View (971) 328-3338
Photo of Lauren Stines, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Lauren Stines
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MCFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Lauren. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate who provides integrative telemental health care to Oregon residents.
Welcome! My name is Lauren. I am a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate who provides integrative telemental health care to Oregon residents.
(503) 461-0805 View (503) 461-0805
Photo of Shelley Gillespie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Shelley Gillespie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
I’m here for you and your experience! I welcome your whole self, including the parts that hurt most, have been marginalized by dominant society, and are navigating change. You may be experiencing grief and loss around the death of a loved one, a memory loss diagnosis, the redefining of a role, grief over the climate, or a harm done to a family member. You may find yourself transitioning into caregiving, stepping away from work, or parenting - including grandparents who are returning to raise children. All of this may be resulting in exacerbated stress, depression, anxiety. I'm looking forward to supporting you.
I’m here for you and your experience! I welcome your whole self, including the parts that hurt most, have been marginalized by dominant society, and are navigating change. You may be experiencing grief and loss around the death of a loved one, a memory loss diagnosis, the redefining of a role, grief over the climate, or a harm done to a family member. You may find yourself transitioning into caregiving, stepping away from work, or parenting - including grandparents who are returning to raise children. All of this may be resulting in exacerbated stress, depression, anxiety. I'm looking forward to supporting you.
(503) 966-2330 View (503) 966-2330
Photo of Caitlin (Caity) Lynch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Caitlin (Caity) Lynch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Waitlist for new clients
Our time together may touch on trauma healing/PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship stress, ADHD, Autism, grief/loss, changes in late adulthood, coming out later in life, spiritual abuse, spiritual growth, improving relationship skills, overcoming infidelity, step-families, and any other areas of interest to you, your family, or your partner(s).
You're here because you need something to shift in yourself, your relationships, or your life. I have ADHD, I am queer and genderqueer and work from a strengths-based perspective, utilizing insight-oriented therapeutic change models (Narrative Therapy, EFIT, IFS) and brain/emotion understanding through psychoeducation, CBT, and DBT and self-in-context understanding (social model of disability, self-compassion work of Drs. Kristin Neff and Tara Brach) to help you imagine and take steps toward a life aligned with who you are. > NOTE: I don't offer ADHD or Autism Assessments, this can be obtained through a psychologist or your PCP. <
Our time together may touch on trauma healing/PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship stress, ADHD, Autism, grief/loss, changes in late adulthood, coming out later in life, spiritual abuse, spiritual growth, improving relationship skills, overcoming infidelity, step-families, and any other areas of interest to you, your family, or your partner(s).
You're here because you need something to shift in yourself, your relationships, or your life. I have ADHD, I am queer and genderqueer and work from a strengths-based perspective, utilizing insight-oriented therapeutic change models (Narrative Therapy, EFIT, IFS) and brain/emotion understanding through psychoeducation, CBT, and DBT and self-in-context understanding (social model of disability, self-compassion work of Drs. Kristin Neff and Tara Brach) to help you imagine and take steps toward a life aligned with who you are. > NOTE: I don't offer ADHD or Autism Assessments, this can be obtained through a psychologist or your PCP. <
(971) 257-1636 View (971) 257-1636
Photo of Amber Valenkamph, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Amber Valenkamph
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Whether you are engaging in individual, family, relationship, or group therapy, Dr.
Psychotherapy is often described as ‘the treatment of mental disorders,’ but that is only one of many reasons a person may seek services. Psychologists have the unique knowledge & expertise to draw connections between past relational patterns, individual brain chemistry, heritability of symptoms, emotional awareness, & thought processes/behaviors that perpetuate impairments in functioning. Psychotherapy isn’t a matter of asking a question & receiving advice - but rather learning the skills to make sense of life & building the confidence to take control of it.
Whether you are engaging in individual, family, relationship, or group therapy, Dr.
Psychotherapy is often described as ‘the treatment of mental disorders,’ but that is only one of many reasons a person may seek services. Psychologists have the unique knowledge & expertise to draw connections between past relational patterns, individual brain chemistry, heritability of symptoms, emotional awareness, & thought processes/behaviors that perpetuate impairments in functioning. Psychotherapy isn’t a matter of asking a question & receiving advice - but rather learning the skills to make sense of life & building the confidence to take control of it.
(458) 206-5212 View (458) 206-5212
Photo of Caitlin Gibb, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Caitlin Gibb
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
In my work, I draw from interpersonal neurobiology, Buddhist psychology, internal family systems, psychodynamic and attachment theory, among others.
My approach to therapy is relational, collaborative, and in-depth. Together, we will cultivate kindness and curiosity for your experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Self-exploration and honest feedback with an attuned listener can strengthen our capacity to be in fulfilling, authentic relationship with ourself and others. As you are ready, we can explore new narratives & develop practices that alleviate anxiety and depression, creating more space for acceptance, ease and joy.
In my work, I draw from interpersonal neurobiology, Buddhist psychology, internal family systems, psychodynamic and attachment theory, among others.
My approach to therapy is relational, collaborative, and in-depth. Together, we will cultivate kindness and curiosity for your experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Self-exploration and honest feedback with an attuned listener can strengthen our capacity to be in fulfilling, authentic relationship with ourself and others. As you are ready, we can explore new narratives & develop practices that alleviate anxiety and depression, creating more space for acceptance, ease and joy.
(971) 257-6707 View (971) 257-6707
Photo of Amelia O'Neil, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Amelia O'Neil
Professional Counselor Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
Please Note: The only type of OHP that I am able to take is CareOregon. If you are struggling with the impacts of trauma, abuse, or loss (no matter how far in the past), there is hope. Using a trauma-informed, client-centered, and strengths-based approach to counseling, we will create a safe space for collaborative work and healing. We can also use mindfulness, somatic, and creative therapies if you feel drawn to that kind of work. I have particular experience working with people who have been impacted by sexual trauma; PTSD that feels out of control; family/relationship issues; attachment wounding; and significant loss.
Please Note: The only type of OHP that I am able to take is CareOregon. If you are struggling with the impacts of trauma, abuse, or loss (no matter how far in the past), there is hope. Using a trauma-informed, client-centered, and strengths-based approach to counseling, we will create a safe space for collaborative work and healing. We can also use mindfulness, somatic, and creative therapies if you feel drawn to that kind of work. I have particular experience working with people who have been impacted by sexual trauma; PTSD that feels out of control; family/relationship issues; attachment wounding; and significant loss.
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Photo of Carrie Love, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Carrie Love
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97227
Waitlist for new clients
If you have wondered why your infant or child: does not bond or connect with you, has behavior problems, does not respect you, seems angry or withdrawn, has temper tantrums often, has excessive or no energy, is vindictive, is not connected with the family, or you ask yourself am I a good parent? Then please seek my support. As a young adult, do you feel: anxious, often worried, rejected, withdrawn, sad, depressed, or discriminated against? If so, please seek my support. Please come Talk With Love!
If you have wondered why your infant or child: does not bond or connect with you, has behavior problems, does not respect you, seems angry or withdrawn, has temper tantrums often, has excessive or no energy, is vindictive, is not connected with the family, or you ask yourself am I a good parent? Then please seek my support. As a young adult, do you feel: anxious, often worried, rejected, withdrawn, sad, depressed, or discriminated against? If so, please seek my support. Please come Talk With Love!
(971) 265-6157 View (971) 265-6157
James D Boyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229
I have a passion for human growth processes. Throughout my thirty years of practice I have appreciated the opportunity to be a resource for those seeking a shift in their lives towards greater health, resolution of trauma and better functioning in the adventure of close relationships. I work with individuals, couples and families collaboratively to find their path towards fuller experiences of self hood and relatedness. I approach human challenges from an integrated framework of family/attachment theory, interpersonal neurobiology and optimal brain functioning. Through research based approaches to greater self regulation clients expand their capacity for health
I have a passion for human growth processes. Throughout my thirty years of practice I have appreciated the opportunity to be a resource for those seeking a shift in their lives towards greater health, resolution of trauma and better functioning in the adventure of close relationships. I work with individuals, couples and families collaboratively to find their path towards fuller experiences of self hood and relatedness. I approach human challenges from an integrated framework of family/attachment theory, interpersonal neurobiology and optimal brain functioning. Through research based approaches to greater self regulation clients expand their capacity for health
(503) 966-5793 View (503) 966-5793
Photo of Zanita B Zody, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Zanita B Zody
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
I hold an MS & PhD in child, adolescent & family development with a specialty in marriage and family therapy and have devoted the past 20+ years to my work in the eating disorder community.
My work focuses on creating body trust and respect, healing from disordered eating behaviors and thoughts, and recovering from diagnosable eating disorders. I have worked across the continuum of all levels of care, age groups, genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions. My work combines honoring your individual story and path toward recovery with evidenced-based interventions to provide you with the tools and information you need for that journey. For my younger clients, this often also includes working with parents so they can effectively support their loved one's recovery.
I hold an MS & PhD in child, adolescent & family development with a specialty in marriage and family therapy and have devoted the past 20+ years to my work in the eating disorder community.
My work focuses on creating body trust and respect, healing from disordered eating behaviors and thoughts, and recovering from diagnosable eating disorders. I have worked across the continuum of all levels of care, age groups, genders, sexual orientations, races, and religions. My work combines honoring your individual story and path toward recovery with evidenced-based interventions to provide you with the tools and information you need for that journey. For my younger clients, this often also includes working with parents so they can effectively support their loved one's recovery.
(971) 351-2835 View (971) 351-2835
Photo of Sarah Adams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Sarah Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97296  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use a systemic lens which helps me see how things can be connected in a large variety of situations whether I am seeing you individually, as a couple or as a family.
Currently on a waitlist. I am a licensed therapist that works with many different types of clients including children/adolescents, families, & couples. My goal is to help my clients work through the issues they are facing so they can work towards their goals in their lives and relationships. Every person has innate strengths and my goal is to help identify those strengths and build on them so that they can reach their goals in treatment and in their lives. Ultimately, I want my clients to feel heard and supported in my practice and I hope to help them on their journey in finding positive change in their lives and relationships.
I use a systemic lens which helps me see how things can be connected in a large variety of situations whether I am seeing you individually, as a couple or as a family.
Currently on a waitlist. I am a licensed therapist that works with many different types of clients including children/adolescents, families, & couples. My goal is to help my clients work through the issues they are facing so they can work towards their goals in their lives and relationships. Every person has innate strengths and my goal is to help identify those strengths and build on them so that they can reach their goals in treatment and in their lives. Ultimately, I want my clients to feel heard and supported in my practice and I hope to help them on their journey in finding positive change in their lives and relationships.
(503) 647-4426 View (503) 647-4426
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.