Therapists in Charleston, SC

Photo of Bridget Lisa Schmidt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, SC
Bridget Lisa Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29492
I have helped clients over the last 20 years cope with depression, anxiety, grief, mental illness, family issues, and life transitions with specializations in women's issues, hospice, veterans, inpatient and outpatient mental health settings.
Have you been to therapy before and feel like you are back to square one in dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions or adult/young adult struggles? Has life turned out very different than you imagined? Do you feel like it's a battle every day in parenting or do you have an adolescent who needs the help of a counselor? Are you looking for longer term relief from pain or anxiety that seems to come back? If so, you have found the right place. Whether you are new to counseling or not, we will work together through individualized, evidenced based techniques to help you from session ONE. Brighter days await you!
I have helped clients over the last 20 years cope with depression, anxiety, grief, mental illness, family issues, and life transitions with specializations in women's issues, hospice, veterans, inpatient and outpatient mental health settings.
Have you been to therapy before and feel like you are back to square one in dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, life transitions or adult/young adult struggles? Has life turned out very different than you imagined? Do you feel like it's a battle every day in parenting or do you have an adolescent who needs the help of a counselor? Are you looking for longer term relief from pain or anxiety that seems to come back? If so, you have found the right place. Whether you are new to counseling or not, we will work together through individualized, evidenced based techniques to help you from session ONE. Brighter days await you!
(843) 905-2502 View (843) 905-2502
Photo of Michael J Hurd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, SC
Michael J Hurd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29407  (Online Only)
Realism, Personal Responsibility, Individualism. All worthy goals! Coaching with Dr. Michael Hurd is solution-focused and goal-oriented. Time is spent discussing your problems in the here-and-now, with reference to your background and your childhood only when relevant. Together we target self-defeating behaviors and thinking, rather than focusing on psychopathology. Dr. Hurd provides answers in terms you can understand, helping you find solutions to problems in the here-and-now, with a special emphasis on discovering alternatives to the "victim mentality" of blaming everything on your family, "society" or your biological make-up.
Realism, Personal Responsibility, Individualism. All worthy goals! Coaching with Dr. Michael Hurd is solution-focused and goal-oriented. Time is spent discussing your problems in the here-and-now, with reference to your background and your childhood only when relevant. Together we target self-defeating behaviors and thinking, rather than focusing on psychopathology. Dr. Hurd provides answers in terms you can understand, helping you find solutions to problems in the here-and-now, with a special emphasis on discovering alternatives to the "victim mentality" of blaming everything on your family, "society" or your biological make-up.
(301) 343-4171 View (301) 343-4171
Photo of Dr. Kimbi G Marenakos, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charleston, SC
Dr. Kimbi G Marenakos
Licensed Professional Counselor, DNP, FNP-C, LPC
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29412
As a National Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Behavioral Health Specialist licensed in SC, MN, and CO with twenty years of success in clinical practice, I am passionate about providing care that honors the uniqueness of one's life experience and aligns with the body's innate drive toward well-being.
My ideal client recognizes the interdependence of body, mind, and spirit. They know that mental health influences physical health, and the reverse is also true. For example, sometimes depression is not just a mood disturbance, but it can also be a symptom of hormonal imbalance, or perhaps an under-functioning thyroid gland. My clients appreciate an integrative and holistic approach to wellness that respects their intelligence and honors their values. They feel supported with compassionate, relationship-based care and empowered with accurate health information and guidance.
As a National Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Behavioral Health Specialist licensed in SC, MN, and CO with twenty years of success in clinical practice, I am passionate about providing care that honors the uniqueness of one's life experience and aligns with the body's innate drive toward well-being.
My ideal client recognizes the interdependence of body, mind, and spirit. They know that mental health influences physical health, and the reverse is also true. For example, sometimes depression is not just a mood disturbance, but it can also be a symptom of hormonal imbalance, or perhaps an under-functioning thyroid gland. My clients appreciate an integrative and holistic approach to wellness that respects their intelligence and honors their values. They feel supported with compassionate, relationship-based care and empowered with accurate health information and guidance.
(843) 920-2041 View (843) 920-2041
Photo of Walker Behavioral Healthcare, LLC, Counselor in Charleston, SC
Walker Behavioral Healthcare, LLC
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29407  (Online Only)
I focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Family Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques.
As individuals with lives in constant flux, it can seem strange and feel scary to ask for assistance from other. Despite that fear, when we take that step and seek assistance in life, we open ourselves to wonderful possibilities and opportunities for growth and change. As a Counselor, I find personal growth can flow both ways during therapy. learn more about others and our respective worlds that empowers us to push past barriers that we thought were impossible to breach. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I find great joy in working towards change and growth for not only members of the community but our allies as well.
I focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy, Family Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing techniques.
As individuals with lives in constant flux, it can seem strange and feel scary to ask for assistance from other. Despite that fear, when we take that step and seek assistance in life, we open ourselves to wonderful possibilities and opportunities for growth and change. As a Counselor, I find personal growth can flow both ways during therapy. learn more about others and our respective worlds that empowers us to push past barriers that we thought were impossible to breach. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I find great joy in working towards change and growth for not only members of the community but our allies as well.
(704) 802-1509 View (704) 802-1509
Photo of Terri Southard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charleston, SC
Terri Southard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29407  (Online Only)
I offer individual, family and couples/marital counseling services.
It's difficult making the decision to seek help! When a client finally makes the step to enter counseling, they just hope to find a therapist that is compassionate, non-judgmental, nurturing and able to help them reach their full potential. Throughout my career in working with clients, I've heard many say they wished they entered therapy sooner. Don't hesitate to reach out for support and focus on your self-care and quality of life.
I offer individual, family and couples/marital counseling services.
It's difficult making the decision to seek help! When a client finally makes the step to enter counseling, they just hope to find a therapist that is compassionate, non-judgmental, nurturing and able to help them reach their full potential. Throughout my career in working with clients, I've heard many say they wished they entered therapy sooner. Don't hesitate to reach out for support and focus on your self-care and quality of life.
(843) 894-4089 View (843) 894-4089
Photo of Allyrae Conley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, SC
Allyrae Conley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29492
In life, we can often feel stuck and even lost. AllyRae is a kind, warm, compassionate, professional counselor who is passionate about providing a powerful, life changing experience for kids, teens, and adults experiencing a wide variety of emotional pain. AllyRae has a special interest in helping those with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, general life transitions, child/play therapy, parent coaching, and family therapy.
In life, we can often feel stuck and even lost. AllyRae is a kind, warm, compassionate, professional counselor who is passionate about providing a powerful, life changing experience for kids, teens, and adults experiencing a wide variety of emotional pain. AllyRae has a special interest in helping those with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, general life transitions, child/play therapy, parent coaching, and family therapy.
(854) 458-6039 View (854) 458-6039
Photo of Serenity Psychotherapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Charleston, SC
Serenity Psychotherapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29407
Telehealth gives you flexibility: no travel; see your therapist on your lunch break; no babysitter needed; small group and family therapy from different locations.
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of our approach. We have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more Our approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals. As a psychotherapy group practice, we can see just about anyone no matter what you're dealing with.
Telehealth gives you flexibility: no travel; see your therapist on your lunch break; no babysitter needed; small group and family therapy from different locations.
Getting to the root of your pain, learning to deal with it, building upon your strengths then learning to act versus react to people and events is the goal of our approach. We have a long history of working with diverse populations, who have developed varied problems: Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Marital, Parenting, Occupational, grief and more Our approach is to work with your strengths; help you to develop new views and skills and then organize them into a plan that works in obtaining your goals. As a psychotherapy group practice, we can see just about anyone no matter what you're dealing with.
(843) 920-4323 View (843) 920-4323
Photo of Four Pillars Therapy & Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Charleston, SC
Four Pillars Therapy & Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29412  (Online Only)
I use an eclectic and culturally-sensitive approach including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients when they feel stuck.
Often when we encounter problems in life, we look for external solutions. Many of the obstacles that keep us from feeling better are internal wounds or patterns that once kept us safe. My goal is to help you shift patterns and heal wounds through the four pillars of mental health: self-knowledge, self-compassion, self-acceptance, and self-love. I believe all people have the innate capacity to heal themselves. I am a dedicated collaborator here to listen with curiosity and empathy and help you uncover your most content, authentic self.
I use an eclectic and culturally-sensitive approach including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients when they feel stuck.
Often when we encounter problems in life, we look for external solutions. Many of the obstacles that keep us from feeling better are internal wounds or patterns that once kept us safe. My goal is to help you shift patterns and heal wounds through the four pillars of mental health: self-knowledge, self-compassion, self-acceptance, and self-love. I believe all people have the innate capacity to heal themselves. I am a dedicated collaborator here to listen with curiosity and empathy and help you uncover your most content, authentic self.
(843) 603-7372 View (843) 603-7372
Photo of Jeannelle Perkins-Muhammad, Marriage & Family Therapist in Charleston, SC
Jeannelle Perkins-Muhammad
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29406
Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) specialize in transforming relationships; working with to enhance communication skills, intimacy and sexual pleasure or marriage repair and recovery.
Dr. Perkins has more than 20 years of experience counseling individuals and families, I empower clients to be authentic. You'll immediately feel at ease as I focus on helping you discover your value; work to become fully inspired to achieve a deeper connection from a place of compassion, balance, and wholeness as you create healthy and happy relationships in life overall. We can work through trauma, communication, anger, relationship, sex, finance, parenting, anxiety, depression, addiction concerns, and more.
Marriage and Family Therapists (MFTs) specialize in transforming relationships; working with to enhance communication skills, intimacy and sexual pleasure or marriage repair and recovery.
Dr. Perkins has more than 20 years of experience counseling individuals and families, I empower clients to be authentic. You'll immediately feel at ease as I focus on helping you discover your value; work to become fully inspired to achieve a deeper connection from a place of compassion, balance, and wholeness as you create healthy and happy relationships in life overall. We can work through trauma, communication, anger, relationship, sex, finance, parenting, anxiety, depression, addiction concerns, and more.
(843) 732-4334 View (843) 732-4334
Photo of McInvale Family Therapy LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Charleston, SC
McInvale Family Therapy LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29414
Waitlist for new clients
I truly enjoy facilitating meaningful change. I am not interested in helping your cope. I am interested in helping you heal the root of what you have been living with for too long. Couple and family therapy clients learn to deepen and strengthen their connection so that they are better able to manage the challenges of life. Clients participating in trauma therapy have the opportunity to explore their experience in a safe and healing environment. Individuals may work towards client-identified treatment goals while developing a rewarding and secure connection with themselves.
I truly enjoy facilitating meaningful change. I am not interested in helping your cope. I am interested in helping you heal the root of what you have been living with for too long. Couple and family therapy clients learn to deepen and strengthen their connection so that they are better able to manage the challenges of life. Clients participating in trauma therapy have the opportunity to explore their experience in a safe and healing environment. Individuals may work towards client-identified treatment goals while developing a rewarding and secure connection with themselves.
(843) 491-6511 View (843) 491-6511
Photo of Robert B Woods Jr, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charleston, SC
Robert B Woods Jr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29414  (Online Only)
I'm Robert Woods and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina where I have more than 14 years of experience providing counseling services as an LPC, National Certified Counselor, and Professional School Counselor. I have experience working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress, LGBTQ issues, family conflict, and many more.
I'm Robert Woods and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina where I have more than 14 years of experience providing counseling services as an LPC, National Certified Counselor, and Professional School Counselor. I have experience working with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, stress, LGBTQ issues, family conflict, and many more.
(843) 508-2698 View (843) 508-2698
Photo of Annalise Hays Lind, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Charleston, SC
Annalise Hays Lind
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29410
I specialize in a client-centered approach and often use Internal Family Systems therapy to help you understand your emotions as "parts," or members of your internal family.
Are you processing your story and looking for a safe person to sit with you in your emotions? It is the joy of my work to sit with my clients as they process their stories and how emotions are felt in their bodies. I consider it an honor to walk with you through any stage of life, whether that's childhood, young adulthood, marriage, or further into adulthood.
I specialize in a client-centered approach and often use Internal Family Systems therapy to help you understand your emotions as "parts," or members of your internal family.
Are you processing your story and looking for a safe person to sit with you in your emotions? It is the joy of my work to sit with my clients as they process their stories and how emotions are felt in their bodies. I consider it an honor to walk with you through any stage of life, whether that's childhood, young adulthood, marriage, or further into adulthood.
(843) 894-2853 View (843) 894-2853
Photo of Sanford Cassel, Psychologist in Charleston, SC
Sanford Cassel
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29403
I am committed to helping children, adolescents and adults clarify, and remove impediments to realizing, their dreams and desires. My goal is to help you feel heard and respected. I work with you to develop your unique, effective voice. We work together to agree upon, and implement, techniques aimed at achieving your goals. When necessary, we also create, and practice, concrete strategies to advocate for your own interests, within the context of family, relationship and/or work conflict.
I am committed to helping children, adolescents and adults clarify, and remove impediments to realizing, their dreams and desires. My goal is to help you feel heard and respected. I work with you to develop your unique, effective voice. We work together to agree upon, and implement, techniques aimed at achieving your goals. When necessary, we also create, and practice, concrete strategies to advocate for your own interests, within the context of family, relationship and/or work conflict.
(843) 790-5815 View (843) 790-5815
Photo of Sara Tick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Charleston, SC
Sara Tick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29407  (Online Only)
There are so many different therapists to choose from, and reaching out is one way to decide if I’m a good fit for you and your family.
When you first started dating, it was all laughs, flowers, and romantic nights out together. Now your Saturday nights revolve around watching TV while you each scroll through your cell phones. You haven’t exchanged more than a few glances and the only discussion today revolved around carpool schedules and reminders to buy more milk tomorrow. You didn’t know it was possible to feel lonely while not technically being alone. You try to practice gratitude and remind yourself that things are ok, but deep down you know that your relationship could be so much more. You want to feel appreciated, connected, and lit up again.
There are so many different therapists to choose from, and reaching out is one way to decide if I’m a good fit for you and your family.
When you first started dating, it was all laughs, flowers, and romantic nights out together. Now your Saturday nights revolve around watching TV while you each scroll through your cell phones. You haven’t exchanged more than a few glances and the only discussion today revolved around carpool schedules and reminders to buy more milk tomorrow. You didn’t know it was possible to feel lonely while not technically being alone. You try to practice gratitude and remind yourself that things are ok, but deep down you know that your relationship could be so much more. You want to feel appreciated, connected, and lit up again.
(843) 483-5849 View (843) 483-5849
Photo of Shama Ticshera Winston-Ford, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Charleston, SC
Shama Ticshera Winston-Ford
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, , LPC-A
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29401
Types of Therapy : Art Therapy Christian Counseling Coaching Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Eclectic Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Expertise: Family Conflict Relationship Issues Self Esteem Parenting Stress Chronic Illness/pain Coping Skills Life Transitions.
Life is a journey that wasn't meant to be done alone. Seeking help can be overwhelming, and even terrifying. No matter the circumstances that led you here, I look forward to partnering with you through the process. My goal is to assist you in identifying your strengths, goals and passion to empower change.
Types of Therapy : Art Therapy Christian Counseling Coaching Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) Dialectical Behavior (DBT) Eclectic Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) Expertise: Family Conflict Relationship Issues Self Esteem Parenting Stress Chronic Illness/pain Coping Skills Life Transitions.
Life is a journey that wasn't meant to be done alone. Seeking help can be overwhelming, and even terrifying. No matter the circumstances that led you here, I look forward to partnering with you through the process. My goal is to assist you in identifying your strengths, goals and passion to empower change.
(843) 604-1194 View (843) 604-1194
Photo of West Ashley Counseling Associates, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charleston, SC
West Ashley Counseling Associates, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LPC-S, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29407
I have 35 years of experience successfully treating: (Borderline Personality Disorder, Dependent Personality Disorder, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Histrionic Personality Disorder), learning disabilities esp. adult/child ADHD/Aspergers, Suboxone/Subutex management, partner/couples conflict, step/blended family dilemmas, sexual abuse, PTSD, workplace harassment & discrimination, racial profiling, immigration and naturalization cases, mood disorders, grief & loss, domestic violence and substance abuse issues. Terri McCrea (owner) is a self-published author of 31 books (on Amazon). I offer real solutions to everyday problems.
I have 35 years of experience successfully treating: (Borderline Personality Disorder, Dependent Personality Disorder, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Histrionic Personality Disorder), learning disabilities esp. adult/child ADHD/Aspergers, Suboxone/Subutex management, partner/couples conflict, step/blended family dilemmas, sexual abuse, PTSD, workplace harassment & discrimination, racial profiling, immigration and naturalization cases, mood disorders, grief & loss, domestic violence and substance abuse issues. Terri McCrea (owner) is a self-published author of 31 books (on Amazon). I offer real solutions to everyday problems.
(843) 376-6842 View (843) 376-6842
Photo of Gretchen Sparacino, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charleston, SC
Gretchen Sparacino, MA, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29407
Waitlist for new clients
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Charleston, SC, I offer the privacy and comfort of a private practice setting, along with years of experience in the profession. Evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions are utilized for the treatment of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life adjustment, trauma, in addition to marital and family challenges. Working with adolescents and their families is a strength though I also enjoy my work with adults and couples. Taking the first step towards seeking professional help and knowing where to go is often confusing but finding the right fit is crucial.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor in Charleston, SC, I offer the privacy and comfort of a private practice setting, along with years of experience in the profession. Evidence-based psychotherapeutic interventions are utilized for the treatment of depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life adjustment, trauma, in addition to marital and family challenges. Working with adolescents and their families is a strength though I also enjoy my work with adults and couples. Taking the first step towards seeking professional help and knowing where to go is often confusing but finding the right fit is crucial.
(843) 507-5198 View (843) 507-5198
Photo of M. Peggy Sudol, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Charleston, SC
M. Peggy Sudol, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29414
M. Peggy Sudol, MS, LMFT, LMFTS Marriage & Family Therapist. As a Family Therapist I have worked for over 30 years helping individuals, couples and families find solutions to various situations and emotional concerns. My areas of focus include: Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement, Relationships, Divorce and Step Parenting.
M. Peggy Sudol, MS, LMFT, LMFTS Marriage & Family Therapist. As a Family Therapist I have worked for over 30 years helping individuals, couples and families find solutions to various situations and emotional concerns. My areas of focus include: Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement, Relationships, Divorce and Step Parenting.
(843) 817-8443 View (843) 817-8443
Photo of Samantha Rukavina, Licensed Professional Counselor in Charleston, SC
Samantha Rukavina
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29403
My specialties include relationship conflict, strengthening self-esteem, healing attachment wounds, life transitions, trauma, family dynamics, stress management, depression and anxiety, grief and loss, personal identity development, and spiritual/religious experiences.
As a therapist, I deeply enjoy walking alongside individuals and couples as they pursue healing and navigate the many challenges of life. I am passionate about holistic wellness and strive to create a safe and accepting place for my clients as they seek mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health. I believe that every client is beautifully and uniquely diverse, and I value the opportunity to partner with them as they pursue healing in all areas of their lives.
My specialties include relationship conflict, strengthening self-esteem, healing attachment wounds, life transitions, trauma, family dynamics, stress management, depression and anxiety, grief and loss, personal identity development, and spiritual/religious experiences.
As a therapist, I deeply enjoy walking alongside individuals and couples as they pursue healing and navigate the many challenges of life. I am passionate about holistic wellness and strive to create a safe and accepting place for my clients as they seek mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health. I believe that every client is beautifully and uniquely diverse, and I value the opportunity to partner with them as they pursue healing in all areas of their lives.
(843) 279-5745 View (843) 279-5745
Photo of Nannette E. Williams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Charleston, SC
Nannette E. Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29407
Experienced licensed therapist. Individual, couples and pre-martial counseling. Why can life be so darn difficult? Do you need someone to help unravel this question? Are you in a difficult relationship, with yourself or someone else? Is anxiety, depression, trauma, or loss taking away your chance at living a full authentic life? Family and friends can offer support but may give unhelpful advice, especially if you are dealing with relationship betrayal. A counselor can provide a confidential and nonjudgmental place where you can figure out what's keeping you awake at night. A place to help you heal and strengthen your mental health.
Experienced licensed therapist. Individual, couples and pre-martial counseling. Why can life be so darn difficult? Do you need someone to help unravel this question? Are you in a difficult relationship, with yourself or someone else? Is anxiety, depression, trauma, or loss taking away your chance at living a full authentic life? Family and friends can offer support but may give unhelpful advice, especially if you are dealing with relationship betrayal. A counselor can provide a confidential and nonjudgmental place where you can figure out what's keeping you awake at night. A place to help you heal and strengthen your mental health.
(843) 396-2897 View (843) 396-2897
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.