Families come to therapy at turning points: a child or teenager who is struggling, conflict between parents and adult children, a new diagnosis, a loss, or patterns of communication that leave everyone feeling unheard. Family therapy at Silm Centre for Mental Health brings the relevant family members into the room together, so the relationships themselves can shift — not just one person’s symptoms.
What family therapy involves
- Sessions with the family members involved (about 1.5 hours)
- A focus on how the family communicates and responds to each other, especially under stress
- Room for each person’s perspective, including children’s and grandparents’, in ways that are developmentally appropriate
Who offers family therapy
Registered Psychotherapist
Registered Psychotherapist
Cost and first step
Family sessions are generally 1.5 hours and are pro-rated at the clinician’s hourly rate ($200–$300 per hour, depending on the clinician). The first step is a free initial consultation before you commit to anything.
These services are often covered by extended health benefits plans. Coverage depends on your plan and on the registration of the clinician providing your care — or, for clinicians working under supervision, their supervisor’s registration. We can help you check what to ask your insurer.
Common questions
Who counts as “family”?
Whoever is part of the situation: parents and children, adult siblings, multigenerational households, chosen family. Tell us at the consultation who is involved and we will help decide who should attend.
Does the whole family have to come every time?
Not necessarily. The combination of people in the room can change over the course of therapy, and your clinician will plan that with you.
Can family therapy combine with individual therapy for one of us?
Yes — family members sometimes also work with their own clinician, at Silm Centre for Mental Health or elsewhere. With your consent, clinicians can coordinate.