Family Systems Therapy Therapists

Family systems therapy views families as interconnected units where each member influences the whole. Browse therapists on First Session who use this approach to help address relationship patterns and family dynamics.

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Family systems therapy is a therapeutic approach that understands individuals within the context of their family relationships. Rather than focusing solely on one person, this modality examines the patterns, roles, and communication styles that develop within family units. Therapists using this approach may work with entire families together or with individuals who want to explore how family dynamics have shaped their experiences and relationships.

This approach can be particularly supportive for those navigating family conflict, relationship challenges, or patterns that seem to repeat across generations. On First Session, you can explore therapist profiles, watch intro videos, and find practitioners who incorporate family systems thinking into their work. All therapists on the platform have their credentials verified during onboarding.

Emily Duggan

Registered Psychotherapist
Waitlist
Offers In-Person (Alliston, ON)
Virtual Sessions in ON.
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Emily Duggan

Emily Duggan

Registered Psychotherapist
She/her
$165/session
LGBTQ2IA+, Neurodiversity, Eating disorders, ADHD, Attention and Impulsivity, Anxiety, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Attachment, Borderline Personality Disorder, Coming out and identity, Childhood trauma, Children/Teens, Fears and phobia, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Depression, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), PTSD, Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Stress, Body Dysmorphia, Chronic and acute illness, Highly Sensitive Person, Identity and Self-Exploration
LGBTQ2IA+, Neurodiversity, Eating disorders, ADHD, Attention and Impulsivity, Anxiety, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Attachment, Borderline Personality Disorder, Coming out and identity, Childhood trauma, Children/Teens, Fears and phobia, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Depression, OCD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), PTSD, Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Stress, Body Dysmorphia, Chronic and acute illness, Highly Sensitive Person, Identity and Self-Exploration
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Halyna Polityka

Registered Psychotherapist
Waitlist
Offers In-Person (Toronto, ON)
Virtual Sessions in ON, BC, AB, SK, MB, NL, YT, NT, and NU.
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Halyna Polityka

Halyna Polityka

Registered Psychotherapist
$190/session
Abuse (Sexual/Physical/Verbal), Addiction, Anger, Anxiety, Assertiveness, Attachment, Behaviour, Boundaries and boundary setting, Burnout, Couples, Decision making, Early childhood, Familial and social relationships, Family Conflict, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Mind-body connection, Mindfulness, Negative thinking and ruminating, Nervous system regulation, Understanding & Regulating Emotions, Supervising qualifying therapists, Stress, Trauma, Grief and Loss, Identity and Self-Exploration, Break-up recovery, Childhood trauma, Family issues, Relationships, Goal Setting, Emotional regulation, Career Performance, Work-Life Balance, Substance Use, Somatic Therapy, Sleeping difficulties
Abuse (Sexual/Physical/Verbal), Addiction, Anger, Anxiety, Assertiveness, Attachment, Behaviour, Boundaries and boundary setting, Burnout, Couples, Decision making, Early childhood, Familial and social relationships, Family Conflict, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Mind-body connection, Mindfulness, Negative thinking and ruminating, Nervous system regulation, Understanding & Regulating Emotions, Supervising qualifying therapists, Stress, Trauma, Grief and Loss, Identity and Self-Exploration, Break-up recovery, Childhood trauma, Family issues, Relationships, Goal Setting, Emotional regulation, Career Performance, Work-Life Balance, Substance Use, Somatic Therapy, Sleeping difficulties
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Jacqueline Groves

Registered Social Worker
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Offers In-Person (Toronto, ON)
Virtual Sessions in ON.
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Jacqueline Groves

Jacqueline Groves

Registered Social Worker
She/Her
$160/session
Anxiety, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Depression, Depression coping skills, Anger Management, Attention and Impulsivity, Behavioural Issues, BIPOC, Break-up recovery, Boundaries and boundary setting, Building Meaningful Connections, Building Self-Care Routines, Women's Health, Workplace stress, Understanding & Regulating Emotions, Personal Growth, Burnout, Interpersonal dynamics, Conflict resolution, Meaning and purpose, Imposter syndrome, Christian counselling
Anxiety, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Depression, Depression coping skills, Anger Management, Attention and Impulsivity, Behavioural Issues, BIPOC, Break-up recovery, Boundaries and boundary setting, Building Meaningful Connections, Building Self-Care Routines, Women's Health, Workplace stress, Understanding & Regulating Emotions, Personal Growth, Burnout, Interpersonal dynamics, Conflict resolution, Meaning and purpose, Imposter syndrome, Christian counselling
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Alisha Kandler

Registered Clinical Counsellor
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Offers In-Person (Kelowna, BC)
Virtual Sessions in BC.
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Alisha Kandler

Alisha Kandler

Registered Clinical Counsellor
she/her
$160/session
Abuse (Sexual/Physical/Verbal), ADHD, Adoption, Anxiety, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Attachment trauma, Attachment, Blocks in Connecting with Self and Others, Boundaries and boundary setting, Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Childhood trauma, Transitioning into Adulthood, Depression, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Life transitions, Health anxiety, People pleasing, Intergenerational trauma, Workplace stress, Trauma processing, Negative thinking and ruminating, Nervous system regulation, PTSD, Grief and Loss
Abuse (Sexual/Physical/Verbal), ADHD, Adoption, Anxiety, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Attachment trauma, Attachment, Blocks in Connecting with Self and Others, Boundaries and boundary setting, Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Childhood trauma, Transitioning into Adulthood, Depression, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Life transitions, Health anxiety, People pleasing, Intergenerational trauma, Workplace stress, Trauma processing, Negative thinking and ruminating, Nervous system regulation, PTSD, Grief and Loss
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What is family systems therapy?

Family systems therapy is a form of psychotherapy that views the family as an emotional unit. It recognizes that individuals are deeply connected to their family members and that changes in one person can affect the entire system. This approach focuses on understanding patterns of interaction, communication styles, and the roles people take on within their families. Therapists may draw on various family systems models, including structural, strategic, and Bowen family systems theory.

Who might benefit from family systems therapy?

Family systems therapy may be helpful for individuals, couples, or families experiencing a range of concerns. This can include family conflict, communication difficulties, life transitions such as divorce or blending families, and patterns that seem to repeat across generations. It may also support those exploring how their family background influences their current relationships, even if they attend sessions individually. This approach can be particularly valuable when challenges seem connected to family dynamics rather than existing in isolation.

What does family systems therapy involve?

Sessions typically focus on exploring relationships, communication patterns, and the roles each family member plays. A therapist may use genograms (family diagrams) to map out relationships and identify patterns across generations. Depending on the specific approach, therapy might involve the whole family, specific family members, or an individual examining their family system. The therapist helps identify unhelpful patterns and supports the development of healthier ways of relating and communicating.

How long does family systems therapy take?

The duration of family systems therapy varies depending on the concerns being addressed and the goals of those involved. Some families or individuals may find meaningful progress within several months, while others may benefit from longer-term work, especially when exploring deeply rooted patterns. Your therapist can discuss expectations and help establish a timeline that feels appropriate for your situation. Progress is often reviewed regularly to ensure the work remains helpful.

How do I know if a family systems therapist is right for me?

Finding the right therapist is an important part of the process. Consider looking for someone whose approach and background resonate with your needs. On First Session, you can watch intro videos to get a sense of each therapist's style and read about their training and areas of focus. Many people find it helpful to have an initial consultation to discuss their concerns and see if the therapeutic relationship feels like a good fit. All therapists on the platform have their credentials verified during onboarding.

How do I book a family systems therapy session?

Booking a session on First Session is straightforward. You can browse therapist profiles, filter by approach or specialization, and watch intro videos to help you decide. Once you find a therapist who seems like a good match, you can book directly through their profile. If you're unsure where to start, our guide on how to find a therapist in Canada offers helpful tips for beginning your search and making the most of your first session.