Family Therapists Near Me | Find Top Local Family Therapists

Family therapy views problems not as belonging to one person, but as patterns within the family system. A family therapist helps family members understand how they influence each other, improve communication, and develop healthier ways of relating.

How family therapy is different

Unlike individual therapy, which focuses on one person, family therapy focuses on the relationships and interactions between family members. The goal is to change unhelpful family patterns and improve how the family functions as a whole, with everyone participating in the process.

What happens in sessions

In the first session, the therapist typically meets with the whole family to understand the problem from each person's perspective and map out family dynamics. Ongoing sessions may involve the whole family or smaller subgroups (e.g., parents only) to work on communication, problem-solving, and building empathy. Common approaches include Structural, Systemic, and Narrative family therapy.

What family therapy helps with

It is effective for parent-child conflict, sibling rivalry, blended family adjustment, adolescent behavioural issues, communication breakdowns, and navigating major life transitions like divorce, loss, or illness.

Family therapy is helpful whenever a problem seems to involve relationships, communication, or repeating patterns between family members.

Signs family therapy might help

• Communication problems: Frequent arguments, feeling unheard, or avoiding important topics.
• Behavioural issues: A child or teen's behavioural problems at home or school, or intense sibling conflict.
• Family transitions: Navigating divorce, blending families, a new baby, a major move, or the illness or death of a family member.
• Mental health affecting the family: A mental health condition in one member is creating tension or the family is unsure how to provide support.
• Stuck patterns: The same conflicts keep happening, and the family feels stuck in a negative cycle.

Family therapy is particularly effective for addressing children's behavioural problems, as these often reflect family dynamics that need to shift. Even if some members are reluctant, therapy can begin with those who are willing to participate.

It's common for some family members to be reluctant to try therapy, but this doesn't mean it can't be helpful. A skilled family therapist is trained to handle this resistance.

Common concerns and how to address them

Some may worry about being blamed, but family therapy focuses on patterns, not fault. Others may be skeptical it will help. Suggesting a trial of just a few sessions can be a low-pressure way to start. The therapist's job is to create a safe environment where everyone feels respected.

How therapy can proceed

A therapist can begin by working with whoever is willing to attend. When one person in a system changes their behaviour, the entire family dynamic often shifts in response. This can sometimes encourage reluctant members to join later. To encourage participation, frame it as a collaborative effort to improve family life, focus on shared goals like "less fighting," and avoid placing blame.

Finding the right family therapist involves checking their credentials, confirming they have experience with family systems, and ensuring they are a good fit for your family's unique needs.

Step 1: Verify credentials and experience

Look for a licensed or registered professional (e.g., LMFT in the USA, UKCP-registered in the UK, HPCSA in South Africa) with a master's or doctoral degree and specialised training in family therapy. Ensure they have experience with your family's specific concerns, whether it's blended families, adolescent issues, or something else.

Step 2: Consider practical factors

Can the therapist accommodate multiple family members' schedules? Are their fees within your budget, and do they offer a sliding scale? Family sessions are often longer (60-90 minutes) and may cost more than individual therapy.

Step 3: Assess the fit

In an initial consultation, ask about their approach and experience. After the first session, consider if everyone felt heard and if the therapist managed the family dynamics well. It's crucial that the family feels a sense of hope and a good connection with the therapist. For comprehensive guidance, read How to Choose a Therapist.

Yes, online family therapy is widely available and can be a very effective and convenient option for many families.

Benefits of online family therapy

Online sessions eliminate travel and make it easier to coordinate busy schedules, especially if family members are in different locations. Many families also feel more relaxed and open in the comfort of their own home.

Considerations for online sessions

Successful online family therapy requires each participant to have a reliable internet connection and a private space to talk freely. It can be more challenging for a therapist to manage high-conflict dynamics or engage very young children online. For this reason, some therapists may prefer an initial in-person assessment before moving to online sessions. Discuss with potential therapists what format would be best for your family's situation.

Family therapy costs vary, but sessions are often longer (60-90 minutes) and may have a higher fee than individual therapy sessions (typically 50 minutes).

Ways to manage costs

• Insurance: Many health insurance plans cover family therapy. Check your policy to see what is covered, as a diagnosis for one family member may be required.
• Sliding Scale: Ask therapists if they offer reduced fees based on household income.
• Session Frequency: You might start with weekly or bi-weekly sessions and reduce the frequency as your family makes progress.
• Alternatives: Community mental health centres, non-profit family service agencies, and university training clinics often provide high-quality, lower-cost options.

Investing in your family's relationships and communication can prevent more serious problems down the line and improve everyone's quality of life. For more guidance, read our articles on Therapy Cost Considerations and How to Find Affordable Therapy.