Photo of Cherie LaLone, Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan
Cherie LaLone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Clare, MI 48617
Extensive experience with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, childhood behaviors, suicidality, self-harm behaviors, family systems, adolescents, divorce, transitions, to name a few.
Clinically, I have worked in the Community Mental Health system and in a private practice prior to opening my own private practice. I am trained in 10+ evidenced-based practices like Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy, used in treating PTSD, the Nurturing Parent Program (NPP), and Brief Strategic Family Therapy (BSFT). My passion is to help others to live life as the best version of themselves, regardless of their age or presenting issues. I believe that each of us is just one person away from reaching that goal of a happy life, and if I can be that for you then it is a win for us both.
Extensive experience with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, childhood behaviors, suicidality, self-harm behaviors, family systems, adolescents, divorce, transitions, to name a few.
Clinically, I have worked in the Community Mental Health system and in a private practice prior to opening my own private practice. I am trained in 10+ evidenced-based practices like Cognitive Behavior therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy, used in treating PTSD, the Nurturing Parent Program (NPP), and Brief Strategic Family Therapy (BSFT). My passion is to help others to live life as the best version of themselves, regardless of their age or presenting issues. I believe that each of us is just one person away from reaching that goal of a happy life, and if I can be that for you then it is a win for us both.
(989) 200-4671 View (989) 200-4671
Photo of Kelly Kieft, Pre-Licensed Professional in Michigan
Kelly Kieft
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49503  (Online Only)
The following therapies inform my practice: depth psychology, psychodynamic, humanistic and existential, Internal Family Systems (IFS parts work), ecopsychology, and mindfulness.
My imagination is captivated by how intricate and interconnected our stories are with the world around us, both in our intimate relationships and in the culture and society in which we live. Oftentimes these stories can weave patterns of disconnection between oneself and others, leaving us feeling stuck, and in need of care and tending. In my work, I offer a heartfelt and empathic space to explore your experience in the world. Whether it’s finding self-acceptance, moving through anxiety or depression, or navigating relationship challenges, I meet you where you’re at and help you find your inner resources for healing.
The following therapies inform my practice: depth psychology, psychodynamic, humanistic and existential, Internal Family Systems (IFS parts work), ecopsychology, and mindfulness.
My imagination is captivated by how intricate and interconnected our stories are with the world around us, both in our intimate relationships and in the culture and society in which we live. Oftentimes these stories can weave patterns of disconnection between oneself and others, leaving us feeling stuck, and in need of care and tending. In my work, I offer a heartfelt and empathic space to explore your experience in the world. Whether it’s finding self-acceptance, moving through anxiety or depression, or navigating relationship challenges, I meet you where you’re at and help you find your inner resources for healing.
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Photo of Motor City Center for Hope , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
Motor City Center for Hope
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Motor City Center for Hope offers Comprehensive Assessments, Individual and Group Therapy, Specialized Treatment Approaches, Couples and Family Counseling, Trauma Informed Care, Parenting Classes and Support, Workshops and Eduction, Telehealth Services, Crisis Intervention, Community Outreach, Collaboration with Other Providers, and Professional Development.
In the context of mental health, an ideal client is someone who actively engages in the therapeutic process, is open to self-reflection, and is committed to making positive changes in their life. However, It's important to note that everyone is unique, and the ideal client can vary based on the specific therapeutic approach, the individual therapist's style, and the client's specific needs and goals. Our focus is on matching clients with the right therapist to maximize the effectiveness of treatment. It ensures that clients receive personalized and tailored support that aligns with their needs and preferences.
Motor City Center for Hope offers Comprehensive Assessments, Individual and Group Therapy, Specialized Treatment Approaches, Couples and Family Counseling, Trauma Informed Care, Parenting Classes and Support, Workshops and Eduction, Telehealth Services, Crisis Intervention, Community Outreach, Collaboration with Other Providers, and Professional Development.
In the context of mental health, an ideal client is someone who actively engages in the therapeutic process, is open to self-reflection, and is committed to making positive changes in their life. However, It's important to note that everyone is unique, and the ideal client can vary based on the specific therapeutic approach, the individual therapist's style, and the client's specific needs and goals. Our focus is on matching clients with the right therapist to maximize the effectiveness of treatment. It ensures that clients receive personalized and tailored support that aligns with their needs and preferences.
(313) 694-3886 View (313) 694-3886
Photo of Shuhrat Shakil Choudhury, Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan
Shuhrat Shakil Choudhury
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Romeo, MI 48065
Since you are here, you are probably at your breaking point. I see you, and I would love to help you. Whether you struggle with individual issues, family problems, or relationship situations, together we will find a way to deal with it. Your needs will always be my top priority and I will be in your corner, putting you first at all times. Counseling helped me during a time when I was very vulnerable and lost. That's when I knew, that being a counselor was exactly what I wanted to do. I want to be there to support people. Being a therapist is not my job, it's my calling.
Since you are here, you are probably at your breaking point. I see you, and I would love to help you. Whether you struggle with individual issues, family problems, or relationship situations, together we will find a way to deal with it. Your needs will always be my top priority and I will be in your corner, putting you first at all times. Counseling helped me during a time when I was very vulnerable and lost. That's when I knew, that being a counselor was exactly what I wanted to do. I want to be there to support people. Being a therapist is not my job, it's my calling.
(586) 300-3342 View (586) 300-3342
Photo of Wendy Croll, Counselor in Michigan
Wendy Croll
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
No matter how hard you try to move forward, you feel like your taking one step back. You’re a high performer with perfectionism tendencies and always put on a smile, which helps you forget your pain. You feel you will never be fully happy and never be able to fully enjoy life how others do, because of your many losses, attributing to your decreased self esteem. You may keep friends and family at a distance, to protect yourself from yet another inevitable loss. You may have stopped exercising and taking care of yourself the way you used to, since it takes too much work and you're just surviving at the end of another long day.
No matter how hard you try to move forward, you feel like your taking one step back. You’re a high performer with perfectionism tendencies and always put on a smile, which helps you forget your pain. You feel you will never be fully happy and never be able to fully enjoy life how others do, because of your many losses, attributing to your decreased self esteem. You may keep friends and family at a distance, to protect yourself from yet another inevitable loss. You may have stopped exercising and taking care of yourself the way you used to, since it takes too much work and you're just surviving at the end of another long day.
(248) 965-5289 View (248) 965-5289
Photo of Gretchen Carruthers Bourbeau, Counselor in Michigan
Gretchen Carruthers Bourbeau
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Troy, MI 48084
Waitlist for new clients
I include a strengths based, family/individual centered, solution focused approach to providing therapy.
If you are reading this it is evident you are willing to take the necessary steps to begin searching for possible answers and solutions to issues and challenges difficult to face alone. As a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, my ultimate goal is to provide you with a safe judgement free space where you can feel heard, understood and able to express yourself openly. In addition to education and clinical experience, I have struggled with many of the same challenges as my clients. Through my own therapeutic journey, education and research I am able to provide a means of moving towards a place of HOPE.
I include a strengths based, family/individual centered, solution focused approach to providing therapy.
If you are reading this it is evident you are willing to take the necessary steps to begin searching for possible answers and solutions to issues and challenges difficult to face alone. As a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor, my ultimate goal is to provide you with a safe judgement free space where you can feel heard, understood and able to express yourself openly. In addition to education and clinical experience, I have struggled with many of the same challenges as my clients. Through my own therapeutic journey, education and research I am able to provide a means of moving towards a place of HOPE.
(313) 254-3063 View (313) 254-3063
Photo of Dejan Jancevski, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Michigan
Dejan Jancevski
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Troy, MI 48084
I have over 15 yrs of experience treating children, adolescents, and adults for various issues, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, family issues, anger, and inattention / impulsivity.
These days, it's understandable to have difficulties with isolation, and having "nothing to do." But are those "difficulties" interfering with your ability to function? Is it preventing you from working as efficiently as you normally do? Have you had difficulty getting or staying motivated? Are you having an issue concentrating or focusing on a task? Parents, are you struggling to keep up with your child's educational performance while managing your own job? Are you having trouble in other areas of life (e.g., substance use, incarceration)? Are you angry/irritable? If you answered yes to any of the above, I can help.
I have over 15 yrs of experience treating children, adolescents, and adults for various issues, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, family issues, anger, and inattention / impulsivity.
These days, it's understandable to have difficulties with isolation, and having "nothing to do." But are those "difficulties" interfering with your ability to function? Is it preventing you from working as efficiently as you normally do? Have you had difficulty getting or staying motivated? Are you having an issue concentrating or focusing on a task? Parents, are you struggling to keep up with your child's educational performance while managing your own job? Are you having trouble in other areas of life (e.g., substance use, incarceration)? Are you angry/irritable? If you answered yes to any of the above, I can help.
(947) 800-5146 x4136 View (947) 800-5146 x4136
Photo of Perspectives Counseling Centers, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Michigan
Perspectives Counseling Centers
Limited Licensed Psychologist
Verified Verified
Novi, MI 48375
Perspectives Counseling Centers is an award winning Metro Detroit counseling center with over 50 Michigan therapists and psychiatrist ready to help you in 4 convenient locations. You will feel comfortable sharing your life in our beautiful, private offices with exceptionally trained, seasoned professionals specializing in a variety of mental health and substance use issues. In addition to individual and family services, we are a full service psychological center including psychological evaluations, group therapy opportunities, and an intensive outpatient program for those struggling with substance abuse.
Perspectives Counseling Centers is an award winning Metro Detroit counseling center with over 50 Michigan therapists and psychiatrist ready to help you in 4 convenient locations. You will feel comfortable sharing your life in our beautiful, private offices with exceptionally trained, seasoned professionals specializing in a variety of mental health and substance use issues. In addition to individual and family services, we are a full service psychological center including psychological evaluations, group therapy opportunities, and an intensive outpatient program for those struggling with substance abuse.
(248) 617-0221 View (248) 617-0221
Photo of Jean Chamness Russner, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Michigan
Jean Chamness Russner
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MSA, MA LLP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holland, MI 49423
Let me assist you in understanding how to best respond to your child and enhance your family relationships.
People are my Passion. If you need a listening ear to process feelings, a helping hand to navigate life transitions or interpersonal relationships, or support for managing mental health conditions, I'm here to help. With over 20 years of experience and being CBT Certified, I use DBT-informed CBT techniques, combined with the healing effects of a positive, supportive relationship, to teach you coping strategies to manage stress and improve your emotional well-being. I especially enjoy working with families of children and adolescents struggling with emotional or behavioral issues.
Let me assist you in understanding how to best respond to your child and enhance your family relationships.
People are my Passion. If you need a listening ear to process feelings, a helping hand to navigate life transitions or interpersonal relationships, or support for managing mental health conditions, I'm here to help. With over 20 years of experience and being CBT Certified, I use DBT-informed CBT techniques, combined with the healing effects of a positive, supportive relationship, to teach you coping strategies to manage stress and improve your emotional well-being. I especially enjoy working with families of children and adolescents struggling with emotional or behavioral issues.
(616) 219-8286 View (616) 219-8286
Photo of Gordie Howe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan
Gordie Howe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
It’s through connection that we find meaning and discover we are not alone. I love working with clients who are curious and ready for positive change. I use Internal Family Systems, EMDR and other evidence-based tools to help my clients navigate their own process of self exploration, resolve trauma, and move in the direction of healing and growth. I believe therapy is an opportunity to explore what is unsaid or undiscovered in our experience. We can learn to hold space for the parts of ourselves most in need of our love and appreciation so we can truly live our most fulfilled life.
It’s through connection that we find meaning and discover we are not alone. I love working with clients who are curious and ready for positive change. I use Internal Family Systems, EMDR and other evidence-based tools to help my clients navigate their own process of self exploration, resolve trauma, and move in the direction of healing and growth. I believe therapy is an opportunity to explore what is unsaid or undiscovered in our experience. We can learn to hold space for the parts of ourselves most in need of our love and appreciation so we can truly live our most fulfilled life.
(734) 547-6462 View (734) 547-6462
Photo of Sheri Saxe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan
Sheri Saxe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLP, LPC
Verified Verified
Highland, MI 48357  (Online Only)
Sometimes living hurts. Sometimes we can be so overwhelmed by circumstances and stresses that it feels difficult to function. Coming to therapy is a courageous and hopeful step. Wether it’s to deal with anxiety, depression, trauma or family conflict, I absolutely believe that together we can find ways to reduce your suffering and find a path to healing and peace.
Sometimes living hurts. Sometimes we can be so overwhelmed by circumstances and stresses that it feels difficult to function. Coming to therapy is a courageous and hopeful step. Wether it’s to deal with anxiety, depression, trauma or family conflict, I absolutely believe that together we can find ways to reduce your suffering and find a path to healing and peace.
(947) 888-7678 View (947) 888-7678
Photo of Dave Zaporski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
Dave Zaporski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Troy, MI 48083
I specialize and have had post graduate training in the treatment of children, adolescents and family therapy.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years of private practice experience in the treatment of children, adolescents, adults and families over a wide range of presenting problems. I have practiced in a variety of treatment settings, including inpatient psychiatry, day hospital, and outpatient child and adolescent psychiatry.
I specialize and have had post graduate training in the treatment of children, adolescents and family therapy.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 30 years of private practice experience in the treatment of children, adolescents, adults and families over a wide range of presenting problems. I have practiced in a variety of treatment settings, including inpatient psychiatry, day hospital, and outpatient child and adolescent psychiatry.
(248) 213-8325 View (248) 213-8325
Photo of James F Zender, Psychologist in Michigan
James F Zender
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mount Clemens, MI 48043
Friends and family often do not understand their difficulties which causes painful isolation.
My Clinical Psychology private practice allows for maximum individual attention and confidentiality. Since 1988, I have specialized in treating trauma conditions resulting from war, auto, workplace, violence and residuals of childhood abuse. Related conditions include depression, anxiety, physical pain, relationship difficulties, addictions and cognitive disorders. As a result of auto and occupational injuries, many patients/clients suffer Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injuries; and they can greatly benefit from my individual and group psychotherapy. I am a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist so some of my work involves cases in litigation including evaluations, testimony and expert witness services.
Friends and family often do not understand their difficulties which causes painful isolation.
My Clinical Psychology private practice allows for maximum individual attention and confidentiality. Since 1988, I have specialized in treating trauma conditions resulting from war, auto, workplace, violence and residuals of childhood abuse. Related conditions include depression, anxiety, physical pain, relationship difficulties, addictions and cognitive disorders. As a result of auto and occupational injuries, many patients/clients suffer Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injuries; and they can greatly benefit from my individual and group psychotherapy. I am a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist so some of my work involves cases in litigation including evaluations, testimony and expert witness services.
(586) 804-5724 View (586) 804-5724
Photo of Michele Wilson, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Michigan
Michele Wilson
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS, LLP
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MI 48170
Waitlist for new clients
The Building Bridges team identifies ways to support other family members for a healthy family dynamic.
I provide children, adolescents and families a safe place to explore their feelings, challenges and strengths. My experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, intellectual disabilities, low self-esteem, oppositional behaviors, grief/loss and adjusting to life transitions (ie. divorce, changing schools) helps provide support to the entire family to improve communication and family relationships.
The Building Bridges team identifies ways to support other family members for a healthy family dynamic.
I provide children, adolescents and families a safe place to explore their feelings, challenges and strengths. My experience working with children, adolescents, and adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, Autism, intellectual disabilities, low self-esteem, oppositional behaviors, grief/loss and adjusting to life transitions (ie. divorce, changing schools) helps provide support to the entire family to improve communication and family relationships.
(734) 228-1278 View (734) 228-1278
Photo of Multicultural Counseling Solutions, Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan
Multicultural Counseling Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, , LPC, PCC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Saginaw, MI 48602
Therapist specialized in Substance Use Disorder, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Couples/Family Therapy.
Multicultural Counseling Solutions understands that we live live in a post modern era. Today families and relationships are not stereotypical. We are here to meet with you at where you have found yourself and to assist you in moving forward with your life or situation. We are able to provide therapy services for children, adolescents, and adults. We know each situation is unique and has it own challenges. Take that first step and call for your free initial phone consultation.
Therapist specialized in Substance Use Disorder, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Couples/Family Therapy.
Multicultural Counseling Solutions understands that we live live in a post modern era. Today families and relationships are not stereotypical. We are here to meet with you at where you have found yourself and to assist you in moving forward with your life or situation. We are able to provide therapy services for children, adolescents, and adults. We know each situation is unique and has it own challenges. Take that first step and call for your free initial phone consultation.
(989) 853-2596 View (989) 853-2596
Photo of Colleen Reveley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Michigan
Colleen Reveley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Troy, MI 48084
My areas of expertise include ADHD/ADD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, self-harm, depression, trauma, early childhood, and strengthening parenting skills and family relationships.
Is your child struggling to attend school or engage fully in their life because of symptoms of anxiety or depression? Do you feel like you are at a loss on how to help your child feel more like themselves again? Over the past decade working with families, I have become intensely aware of the struggles, challenges, and hurdles our children, teens, and youth are facing. I've gained deep insights into the unique needs children, adolescents, and families have during these critical years. This knowledge allows me to partner with individuals and families to foster, nurture, and grow wellness as a family.
My areas of expertise include ADHD/ADD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, self-harm, depression, trauma, early childhood, and strengthening parenting skills and family relationships.
Is your child struggling to attend school or engage fully in their life because of symptoms of anxiety or depression? Do you feel like you are at a loss on how to help your child feel more like themselves again? Over the past decade working with families, I have become intensely aware of the struggles, challenges, and hurdles our children, teens, and youth are facing. I've gained deep insights into the unique needs children, adolescents, and families have during these critical years. This knowledge allows me to partner with individuals and families to foster, nurture, and grow wellness as a family.
(248) 453-1393 View (248) 453-1393
Photo of Yasmeen El-Masry, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Michigan
Yasmeen El-Masry
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, TLLP
Verified Verified
Dearborn, MI 48124
I work with a variety of age ranges, ethnicities, and a wide range of issues, including but not limited to family and relationship issues, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, mood disorders, and a range of psychological evaluations.
NOT taking new clients. As a clinician, my main goal is to provide a safe, comfortable environment that also focuses on each individual's life experiences and maintains their personal values in an effort to foster growth. I aim to work with my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, challenges, setbacks, hopes, accomplishments, and future aspirations on a daily basis and on a grander scale. I hope to facilitate a nurturing environment in which my clients and I can work collaboratively to achieve meaningful progress and change and to help my clients to achieve their ideal self and increase their overall life satisfaction.
I work with a variety of age ranges, ethnicities, and a wide range of issues, including but not limited to family and relationship issues, anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, mood disorders, and a range of psychological evaluations.
NOT taking new clients. As a clinician, my main goal is to provide a safe, comfortable environment that also focuses on each individual's life experiences and maintains their personal values in an effort to foster growth. I aim to work with my clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, challenges, setbacks, hopes, accomplishments, and future aspirations on a daily basis and on a grander scale. I hope to facilitate a nurturing environment in which my clients and I can work collaboratively to achieve meaningful progress and change and to help my clients to achieve their ideal self and increase their overall life satisfaction.
(833) 975-0610 View (833) 975-0610
Photo of Michael Richman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Michigan
Michael Richman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grand Rapids, MI 49504
I specialize in addiction treatment. Are you or a loved one struggling with Substance Abuse? Do you need experienced direction for what to do, where to go, and what's the process of substance abuse treatment for yourself or family member? Want to know if you are enabling your family member with a drug or alcohol problem? You need to find an expert in the field with personal experience to guide you through the journey of recovery. I have been in the substance abuse field for 20+ years, I have also survived my own personal struggle with substance abuse and I know the path to follow for long term recovery.
I specialize in addiction treatment. Are you or a loved one struggling with Substance Abuse? Do you need experienced direction for what to do, where to go, and what's the process of substance abuse treatment for yourself or family member? Want to know if you are enabling your family member with a drug or alcohol problem? You need to find an expert in the field with personal experience to guide you through the journey of recovery. I have been in the substance abuse field for 20+ years, I have also survived my own personal struggle with substance abuse and I know the path to follow for long term recovery.
(616) 552-4274 View (616) 552-4274
Photo of Kennedy Steward, Counselor in Michigan
Kennedy Steward
Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Petoskey, MI 49770
My passion for providing counseling comes through the desire to make all of my clients feel heard and supported throughout their therapeutic journey and life journey. I provide therapy services for children, adolescents, adults, and families with my specialty areas including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, stress reduction, family and peer relationship challenges, eating disorders and body image issues.
My passion for providing counseling comes through the desire to make all of my clients feel heard and supported throughout their therapeutic journey and life journey. I provide therapy services for children, adolescents, adults, and families with my specialty areas including, but not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, stress reduction, family and peer relationship challenges, eating disorders and body image issues.
(231) 261-2848 View (231) 261-2848
Photo of Leatrice R. Brooks, Psychologist in Michigan
Leatrice R. Brooks
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Our lives do not always go the way we planned. We all experience challenges and struggles and find ourselves searching for relief. I view therapy as a time to heal, grow, change, discover, and build. I have worked with clients to address such concerns as self-esteem, depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues, parenting, work and career concerns, life transitions, stress and coping, and grief and loss to name a few.
Our lives do not always go the way we planned. We all experience challenges and struggles and find ourselves searching for relief. I view therapy as a time to heal, grow, change, discover, and build. I have worked with clients to address such concerns as self-esteem, depression, anxiety, family and relationship issues, parenting, work and career concerns, life transitions, stress and coping, and grief and loss to name a few.
(866) 984-8338 View (866) 984-8338
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.