Photo of River Valley Behavioral Health & Wellness Center, Psychologist in Savage, MN
River Valley Behavioral Health & Wellness Center
Psychologist, PsyD, LP, LMFT
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378
Highly trained child/adolescent & adult psychiatric providers along with nurse practitioners offering individual, group, couples & family therapy, psychological assessment and medication management. Experienced professionals committed to helping you reach your goals in a confidential & comfortable setting. Assessment & treatment for ADHD, learning/developmental disabilities, veterans, PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, substance abuse, relationships, life changes, divorce, stress & coping, anger, autism, & borderline personality disorder
Highly trained child/adolescent & adult psychiatric providers along with nurse practitioners offering individual, group, couples & family therapy, psychological assessment and medication management. Experienced professionals committed to helping you reach your goals in a confidential & comfortable setting. Assessment & treatment for ADHD, learning/developmental disabilities, veterans, PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, substance abuse, relationships, life changes, divorce, stress & coping, anger, autism, & borderline personality disorder
(952) 479-4846 View (952) 479-4846
Photo of Tracy L Kotval, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Savage, MN
Tracy L Kotval
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378
My professional experience includes providing treatment for Anxiety, Anger, Depression, Marital Issues, Stress Management, Panic Attacks, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, Assertiveness, Procrastination, Impulse Control, Emotion Regulation, Sexual Abuse, Family Conflict, Adolescent Issues, School Problems, Parenting Issues and Women's Issues.
Are you struggling with uncertainty and stress? Do you feel socially isolated or depressed? Have you lost a job or been laid off? Do you need support? I offer in person and online therapy. My approach is short term, practical, collaborative and results-oriented. I primarily use Narrative Therapy when working with individuals, couples, children, and families by focusing on the problem and investigating possible solutions and teach coping skills. Play Therapy is often used when working with children. I am in network with most insurance.
My professional experience includes providing treatment for Anxiety, Anger, Depression, Marital Issues, Stress Management, Panic Attacks, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Trauma, PTSD, Assertiveness, Procrastination, Impulse Control, Emotion Regulation, Sexual Abuse, Family Conflict, Adolescent Issues, School Problems, Parenting Issues and Women's Issues.
Are you struggling with uncertainty and stress? Do you feel socially isolated or depressed? Have you lost a job or been laid off? Do you need support? I offer in person and online therapy. My approach is short term, practical, collaborative and results-oriented. I primarily use Narrative Therapy when working with individuals, couples, children, and families by focusing on the problem and investigating possible solutions and teach coping skills. Play Therapy is often used when working with children. I am in network with most insurance.
(952) 856-8622 View (952) 856-8622
Photo of True North Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Savage, MN
True North Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LSSW, MSW, EMDR, IASIS
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378
My clinical focus includes trauma processing, adolescent health (refusal behaviors, self injurious behavior, relational concerns), veteran/ first responder wellness, family/ parent coaching, couples counseling and experiential therapy (get outdoors!).
True North is your orientating point. It is your point of discipline. Motivation will fail you every time. Find your discipline and you will find your freedom. I have 8+ years as a therapist specializing in adolescent health, parent coaching and trauma informed therapies for individuals, couples and families; speciality groups include veterans and first responders. Therapy & skills work are vital in both self regulation and self awareness, however holistic/integrative modalities can enhance a strong therapeutic framework. As such, I am also an IASIS provider (Microcurrent Neurofeedback), helpful in balancing your nervous system.
My clinical focus includes trauma processing, adolescent health (refusal behaviors, self injurious behavior, relational concerns), veteran/ first responder wellness, family/ parent coaching, couples counseling and experiential therapy (get outdoors!).
True North is your orientating point. It is your point of discipline. Motivation will fail you every time. Find your discipline and you will find your freedom. I have 8+ years as a therapist specializing in adolescent health, parent coaching and trauma informed therapies for individuals, couples and families; speciality groups include veterans and first responders. Therapy & skills work are vital in both self regulation and self awareness, however holistic/integrative modalities can enhance a strong therapeutic framework. As such, I am also an IASIS provider (Microcurrent Neurofeedback), helpful in balancing your nervous system.
(952) 373-4062 View (952) 373-4062
Photo of Kelly Vourlos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Savage, MN
Kelly Vourlos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378
I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress management issues and working with family systems.
I earned my Master's degree in Social Work from Minnesota State University, Mankato in 2014 and my undergraduate in social work from St. Cloud State in 2000. I also earned my certificate in play therapy from Minnesota State University, Mankato in 2016. I have worked in a variety of settings including outpatient mental health, school social work, and child welfare. I have spent my career working with children of all ages and their families to provide support and improve their well-being.
I have extensive experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, stress management issues and working with family systems.
I earned my Master's degree in Social Work from Minnesota State University, Mankato in 2014 and my undergraduate in social work from St. Cloud State in 2000. I also earned my certificate in play therapy from Minnesota State University, Mankato in 2016. I have worked in a variety of settings including outpatient mental health, school social work, and child welfare. I have spent my career working with children of all ages and their families to provide support and improve their well-being.
(952) 746-7664 View (952) 746-7664
Photo of Andrea D Shellen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Savage, MN
Andrea D Shellen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378  (Online Only)
Areas of focus in my work have been domestic violence, sexual assault, relationship/family problems, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, traumas, loss, parenting styles and many others.
What exactly IS trauma? Trauma is any experience that the person deems negative and continues to live in the shadow of the event(s). If you feel trapped, like the trauma is following you, within you, or pops up at random, I can help. I love helping people to get "unstuck," so that they are no longer being controlled by their past traumas. I offer two life-changing therapies, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy). These therapies help clients transform themselves from symptomatic to symptom-free, giving people a sense of peace, safety and the freedom to truly live life.
Areas of focus in my work have been domestic violence, sexual assault, relationship/family problems, depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, traumas, loss, parenting styles and many others.
What exactly IS trauma? Trauma is any experience that the person deems negative and continues to live in the shadow of the event(s). If you feel trapped, like the trauma is following you, within you, or pops up at random, I can help. I love helping people to get "unstuck," so that they are no longer being controlled by their past traumas. I offer two life-changing therapies, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy). These therapies help clients transform themselves from symptomatic to symptom-free, giving people a sense of peace, safety and the freedom to truly live life.
(952) 260-8927 View (952) 260-8927
Photo of Hope Tree Therapy and Wellness, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Savage, MN
Hope Tree Therapy and Wellness, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Savage, MN 55378
I also utilize genograms, which are like family trees, to understand how family influences ways you perceive and interact within relationships.
Feeling hopeless, disconnected, and disengaged from your life or partner? If you are seeking life-work-spirit-soul balance, want to improve relationships, and/or explore your personal growth journey, I can help you communicate better, understand yourself and your emotions more clearly, and avoid confusing and negative assumptions. My mission at Hope Tree Therapy and Wellness is to provide couples and individuals with comprehensive and person-centered therapy tailored to the client’s needs and meet the client where they are at in all aspects of wellness: Physical, Financial, Intellectual, Emotional, Social, and Spiritual.
I also utilize genograms, which are like family trees, to understand how family influences ways you perceive and interact within relationships.
Feeling hopeless, disconnected, and disengaged from your life or partner? If you are seeking life-work-spirit-soul balance, want to improve relationships, and/or explore your personal growth journey, I can help you communicate better, understand yourself and your emotions more clearly, and avoid confusing and negative assumptions. My mission at Hope Tree Therapy and Wellness is to provide couples and individuals with comprehensive and person-centered therapy tailored to the client’s needs and meet the client where they are at in all aspects of wellness: Physical, Financial, Intellectual, Emotional, Social, and Spiritual.
(952) 977-8175 View (952) 977-8175
Photo of Sheila J. Marker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Savage, MN
Sheila J. Marker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Savage, MN 55378
My specializations abuse, trauma, PTSD, EMDR therapy, chemical dependency, addictions, phobias, attachment issues, relational issues, family issues, depression, anxiety, play and art therapy, women’s issues, grief/loss, ADHD and spiritual issues including faith-based perspective.
My passion is to come along side of you in your struggles, offering hope and encouragement that you can find healing and wholeness in your life. My commitment is to provide an environment that is supportive and safe. We will journey together to find the pathway to a new life; a life filled with meaning, purpose and fulfillment.
My specializations abuse, trauma, PTSD, EMDR therapy, chemical dependency, addictions, phobias, attachment issues, relational issues, family issues, depression, anxiety, play and art therapy, women’s issues, grief/loss, ADHD and spiritual issues including faith-based perspective.
My passion is to come along side of you in your struggles, offering hope and encouragement that you can find healing and wholeness in your life. My commitment is to provide an environment that is supportive and safe. We will journey together to find the pathway to a new life; a life filled with meaning, purpose and fulfillment.
(952) 260-5239 View (952) 260-5239
Photo of Southbridge Counseling Associates, Counselor in Savage, MN
Southbridge Counseling Associates
Counselor, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Savage, MN 55378
We are a general mental health clinic specializing in DBT. Clients learn techniques on mindfulness, breathe awareness and visualization to name but a few. We run our DBT Program per Marsha Linehan's model, Including the components of: Skills Training Classes, Coaching Calls, Individual Therapy, Consultation and Up to Date Training. We also provide services one-to-one, addressing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions. We work with as couples and families clients as young as 10 and as old as 80+. Currently we are building programming around grief/loss and anxiety.
We are a general mental health clinic specializing in DBT. Clients learn techniques on mindfulness, breathe awareness and visualization to name but a few. We run our DBT Program per Marsha Linehan's model, Including the components of: Skills Training Classes, Coaching Calls, Individual Therapy, Consultation and Up to Date Training. We also provide services one-to-one, addressing anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, grief/loss, life transitions. We work with as couples and families clients as young as 10 and as old as 80+. Currently we are building programming around grief/loss and anxiety.
(952) 236-1743 View (952) 236-1743
Photo of Angela M Eischens, Marriage & Family Therapist in Savage, MN
Angela M Eischens
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Savage, MN 55378
My wish for You is that you will feel more deeply connected to yourself, your Spirit, and feel free and present in your life. To help you learn to trust your intuition to guide you in the right direction, to be able to tune into both the darkest and the lightest areas of yourself without fear and avoidance, to tap into your own inner healing potential, to align with relationships that feel more fulfilling and authentic. To support you in trusting your body as your most trusted guide. To develop an intimacy with yourself and acceptance, gratitude, and forgiveness for what is and has happened for you up to this point in your life.
My wish for You is that you will feel more deeply connected to yourself, your Spirit, and feel free and present in your life. To help you learn to trust your intuition to guide you in the right direction, to be able to tune into both the darkest and the lightest areas of yourself without fear and avoidance, to tap into your own inner healing potential, to align with relationships that feel more fulfilling and authentic. To support you in trusting your body as your most trusted guide. To develop an intimacy with yourself and acceptance, gratitude, and forgiveness for what is and has happened for you up to this point in your life.
(952) 592-9690 View (952) 592-9690
Photo of Kim Busse, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Savage, MN
Kim Busse
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378
I work with clients of all ages who want to make a positive change in their lives. My primary focus is helping individuals and families who are experiencing the challenges of Autism/Asperger's. Many of my clients also seek help for anxiety, depression, ADHD and other neurological disorders. The goal of counseling is intended to have the client feeling better than before they started.
I work with clients of all ages who want to make a positive change in their lives. My primary focus is helping individuals and families who are experiencing the challenges of Autism/Asperger's. Many of my clients also seek help for anxiety, depression, ADHD and other neurological disorders. The goal of counseling is intended to have the client feeling better than before they started.
(612) 255-6731 View (612) 255-6731
Photo of Andrea Carin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Savage, MN
Andrea Carin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378  (Online Only)
​Hello! I am glad you are here and welcome to APEX Counseling Online. My name is ​Andrea Carin, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). A supportive and trusting connection are the most important ingredients to the therapy relationship and they are my priority. I believe in the power of seeing the positive possibilities in life and am focused on identifying people’s strengths and seeing the greater potential in each individual. I’ve worked with clients for 20+ years to help them find whatever it is they are looking for in their life journeys, and I consider it an honor to be a part of the process!
​Hello! I am glad you are here and welcome to APEX Counseling Online. My name is ​Andrea Carin, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW). A supportive and trusting connection are the most important ingredients to the therapy relationship and they are my priority. I believe in the power of seeing the positive possibilities in life and am focused on identifying people’s strengths and seeing the greater potential in each individual. I’ve worked with clients for 20+ years to help them find whatever it is they are looking for in their life journeys, and I consider it an honor to be a part of the process!
(952) 592-9124 View (952) 592-9124
Photo of Shawn Gravelle, Counselor in Savage, MN
Shawn Gravelle
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Savage, MN 55378
I work in collaboration with clients exploring current issues and reviewing how mind and body are interconnected. I believe when people have hope, create awareness and can learn to challenge and replace irrational thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes, they can experience change.
I work in collaboration with clients exploring current issues and reviewing how mind and body are interconnected. I believe when people have hope, create awareness and can learn to challenge and replace irrational thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes, they can experience change.
(952) 333-4624 View (952) 333-4624
Photo of Lois A Kemmet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Savage, MN
Lois A Kemmet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Savage, MN 55378
Waitlist for new clients
As a social worker / therapist, I have 30+ years of experience serving individuals and families. I specialize in providing Cognitive / Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It is my belief that we can learn from our past, identify and change patterns, overcome negative messages and thoughts, and build on positive behavior. This process can have a positive impact in how you feel about yourself, your relationships, and mood. Special interests include helping individuals and couples resolve or improve quality of life in the following areas; mental health, overcoming the impact of trauma, relationships, life transitions, grief and loss, and life style / health.
As a social worker / therapist, I have 30+ years of experience serving individuals and families. I specialize in providing Cognitive / Behavioral Therapy (CBT). It is my belief that we can learn from our past, identify and change patterns, overcome negative messages and thoughts, and build on positive behavior. This process can have a positive impact in how you feel about yourself, your relationships, and mood. Special interests include helping individuals and couples resolve or improve quality of life in the following areas; mental health, overcoming the impact of trauma, relationships, life transitions, grief and loss, and life style / health.
(952) 260-4580 View (952) 260-4580
Photo of Cody Reinke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Savage, MN
Cody Reinke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378
An ideal client is one who is open to seeing that life can be different. In session I use systems theory and bring awareness to how the 'system' we are currently living in is creating more mental and internal strain which is disconnecting us from our authentic self. I use a blended style of modalities that help the individual heal the wounds that have resulted from life. I blend mindfulness based interventions with Accelerated Resolution Therapy, IFS, polyvagal theory, CBT, DBT, and attachment theory to help individuals find the solutions that exist inside themselves.
An ideal client is one who is open to seeing that life can be different. In session I use systems theory and bring awareness to how the 'system' we are currently living in is creating more mental and internal strain which is disconnecting us from our authentic self. I use a blended style of modalities that help the individual heal the wounds that have resulted from life. I blend mindfulness based interventions with Accelerated Resolution Therapy, IFS, polyvagal theory, CBT, DBT, and attachment theory to help individuals find the solutions that exist inside themselves.
(952) 243-3929 View (952) 243-3929
Photo of Elizabeth Silkey, Counselor in Savage, MN
Elizabeth Silkey
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I received my Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of St. Thomas in 2011. I work with children, teens, women, couples, and families. I enjoy helping people with a variety of topics, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, parent-teen conflicts, spiritual issues, and women's issues. I am DBT-trained, EMDR-certified, and I also use CBT. I take a collaborative approach with clients and integrate faith into counseling when desired. I also specialize in treating Third-Culture Kids (TCKs), as this is part of my personal experience.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I received my Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from the University of St. Thomas in 2011. I work with children, teens, women, couples, and families. I enjoy helping people with a variety of topics, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, parent-teen conflicts, spiritual issues, and women's issues. I am DBT-trained, EMDR-certified, and I also use CBT. I take a collaborative approach with clients and integrate faith into counseling when desired. I also specialize in treating Third-Culture Kids (TCKs), as this is part of my personal experience.
(952) 295-4671 View (952) 295-4671
Photo of Wilhelm Therapy & Consulting, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Savage, MN
Wilhelm Therapy & Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Savage, MN 55378  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Trauma and stress are not distributed fairly among us, but they are a part of life we all have to learn to navigate. While I can't say treatment of trauma - or any successful therapy - is fun, easy, or quick, if you are looking at Psychology Today profiles you are likely considering getting support and making some changes. That is an excellent first step! If you are experiencing difficulties in your relationships, feeling lost, burned out at work, or having difficulty understanding or moving past things that have happened in life, I hope you will consider therapy as an option to help move forward. Even short-term work may help.
Trauma and stress are not distributed fairly among us, but they are a part of life we all have to learn to navigate. While I can't say treatment of trauma - or any successful therapy - is fun, easy, or quick, if you are looking at Psychology Today profiles you are likely considering getting support and making some changes. That is an excellent first step! If you are experiencing difficulties in your relationships, feeling lost, burned out at work, or having difficulty understanding or moving past things that have happened in life, I hope you will consider therapy as an option to help move forward. Even short-term work may help.
(612) 888-9680 View (612) 888-9680

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Katie deRegnier, Counselor in Savage, MN
Katie deRegnier
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337
I have been doing individual, family, and couples counseling in a private practice setting since 2013.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or unable to feel control over your life, you are not alone. I believe most people at some time in their life are in need of support and guidance through difficult periods. Throughout the therapeutic process, it is important to me to establish a good foundation and relationship with my clients in order to share a bond of trust and acceptance. Throughout our journey, I incorporate skills which help my clients to understand themselves better, as well as give them coping strategies for relief along the way.
I have been doing individual, family, and couples counseling in a private practice setting since 2013.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or unable to feel control over your life, you are not alone. I believe most people at some time in their life are in need of support and guidance through difficult periods. Throughout the therapeutic process, it is important to me to establish a good foundation and relationship with my clients in order to share a bond of trust and acceptance. Throughout our journey, I incorporate skills which help my clients to understand themselves better, as well as give them coping strategies for relief along the way.
(952) 955-9212 View (952) 955-9212
Photo of A Way To It Assessment & Consulting, LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Savage, MN
A Way To It Assessment & Consulting, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC, MSE-CC
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
I am a dually licensed therapist with over 30 years of experience working with complex individuals and family systems. I specialize in chemical health, mental health, wellness, intervention, and recovery services. I complete a strength-based assessment with emphasis on current functioning and skill building to determine individual and/or family needs in an effort to create a collaborative plan for overall health and recovery. (Please note my email response to inquiries sometimes lands in your junk/spam box!)
I am a dually licensed therapist with over 30 years of experience working with complex individuals and family systems. I specialize in chemical health, mental health, wellness, intervention, and recovery services. I complete a strength-based assessment with emphasis on current functioning and skill building to determine individual and/or family needs in an effort to create a collaborative plan for overall health and recovery. (Please note my email response to inquiries sometimes lands in your junk/spam box!)
(612) 441-5499 View (612) 441-5499
Photo of Lance Peterson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Savage, MN
Lance Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
I use family systems, strengths/empowerment, CBT, and emotionally-focused models.
Feeling a sense of belonging is crucial to mental health. You want to feel like you matter to your community, your loved ones, and yourself. Whether struggling in your primary relationship, feeling like you don't fit in with your faith community because of your unique beliefs or identity, or feeling unable to sense your own worth generally, help is available. I will empower you by helping you see how your strengths can help you rekindle a belief in your worth and abilities. Through both empathy and accountability, I can help you find joy in your relationships and your life generally.
I use family systems, strengths/empowerment, CBT, and emotionally-focused models.
Feeling a sense of belonging is crucial to mental health. You want to feel like you matter to your community, your loved ones, and yourself. Whether struggling in your primary relationship, feeling like you don't fit in with your faith community because of your unique beliefs or identity, or feeling unable to sense your own worth generally, help is available. I will empower you by helping you see how your strengths can help you rekindle a belief in your worth and abilities. Through both empathy and accountability, I can help you find joy in your relationships and your life generally.
(651) 273-0978 View (651) 273-0978
Photo of Lisa S. Squire, PhD, LP Clinical Psychologist, Psychologist in Savage, MN
Lisa S. Squire, PhD, LP Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Burnsville, MN 55337
Individual & family psychological services.
I imagine you're seeking a psychotherapist for counseling because you hope to make some important changes. Success working with a psychologist depends on you feeling comfortable engaging in a collaborative manner with her. Some therapy sessions may be difficult as you ask important questions about yourself, how you function in the world. As you proceed, you may experience frustration, confusion, anxiety, self-doubt and/or conflicted feelings, but at the end of your psychotherapy you'll most likely have learned something new to help you with the concerns that brought you in to seek psychological treatment.
Individual & family psychological services.
I imagine you're seeking a psychotherapist for counseling because you hope to make some important changes. Success working with a psychologist depends on you feeling comfortable engaging in a collaborative manner with her. Some therapy sessions may be difficult as you ask important questions about yourself, how you function in the world. As you proceed, you may experience frustration, confusion, anxiety, self-doubt and/or conflicted feelings, but at the end of your psychotherapy you'll most likely have learned something new to help you with the concerns that brought you in to seek psychological treatment.
(952) 373-0446 View (952) 373-0446
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.