Family therapy or family counseling is intended to assist in identification of specific issues that affect the mental, behavioral and systematic health of the family. It may be used as the primary mode of treatment or as a complementary approach.

The benefits of family therapy are increased positive communication, cultivation of family connectedness, and creating an environment that promotes individual growth and healing.  In addition, it can be effective in treating mental health concerns that impact the family.

Family counseling is provided by licensed social workers, (LCSW) licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT). Other mental health professionals—such as professional counselors, social workers, and psychologists—who have received formal training in family therapy approaches may incorporate those principles into their own work. Family counseling is conducted in a variety of settings including family counseling services, community agencies, and residential treatment centers.