Family Therapy
What is Family Therapy?
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Families are constantly changing and experiencing transitions, these adjustments can be difficult for each person within the family. Family Therapy provides a safe space for family members to begin to be able to express themselves and feel heard by the other people within the family.
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As a family therapist, I believe that relationship difficulties are circular with each individual influencing the other. Family therapy is a space that allows individuals to explore family dynamics and develop different ways of relating to one another, ultimately promoting better emotional and relational health.
Who We Help?
Family therapy can be attended by the whole family, couples or a single member of a family. Family therapy can support with:
- Parenting Issues;
- Family Relationship Difficulties;
- Child and Adolescent Behaviour;
- Stuck Issues;
- Changes in Family Life; and
- Supporting Members of a Blended Family ​
Therapeutic Approaches:
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Family therapy is grounded in systemic frameworks, recognising that each individual is influenced by the relationships that they share with others in the family. This approach creates a supportive space for families to explore what’s happening beneath the surface, helping to identify patterns that may be keeping them stuck. Through open dialogue and guided reflection, family therapy aims to strengthen relationships, improve communication, and foster a deeper understanding of each other's needs and perspectives.
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What to Expect:
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Family Session may focus on exploring each person's perspective of the issue, identifying interactional patterns and roles within the family as well as understanding communication styles. Every family member is given space to share their experiences in a supportive and non-judgement environment.
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Together, we work to create a shared understanding or family narrative of the challenges that you and your family are facing. Thus providing families with greater clarity, compassion, and direction. ​​​​
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Families may choose to engage in a single session consultation as they may want to explore a topic which is time limited.
Meet Your Psychologist
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Sandy Hunter
Clinical Family Therapist and Psychologist
My Approach:
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My practice focuses on understanding the person — or people — coming to therapy in the fullest sense. This means looking beyond symptoms or diagnoses to explore personal history, life circumstances, and family of origin — or, as I like to call it, the "first family." I’m particularly interested in how people make meaning of their experiences, as this shapes how they understand themselves and relate to the world.
I tailor treatment to the unique person in front of me, recognizing that each individual brings their own life story, needs, and way of being in the world.
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I believe meaningful change begins with curiosity, compassion, and a sincere effort to see the whole person — not just the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Taking the first steps toward therapy can feel a little daunting. I’m committed to making the experience as comfortable and supportive as possible. Below are some common questions clients ask — if you have any others, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
What happens at the first Session? In our first session, we’ll take time to understand your family—exploring your relationships, strengths, challenges, and the goals you’d like to work toward. It’s a chance to share what’s been happening, ask questions, and get a sense of how therapy will unfold. Each session is tailored to your family’s needs. While conversation plays a central role, we may also work on communication skills, identify patterns that keep the family feeling stuck, and introduce practical tools to support the families' goals. This could include exercises to help shift interactions, strengthen connection, and build new ways of relating. Throughout the process, we’ll regularly check in to track progress and ensure therapy continues to support your family in meaningful ways.
How Long are Family Therapy Session? It may be recommended that an initial family sessions be 90 minutes to ensure that there is enough time for everyone to share their perspective. Subsequent sessions are typically 60 minutes depending on the families' needs.
Are all session provided as a family? Not always. While many sessions involve the whole family, there are times when it may be helpful to work with parts of the family separately; such as individual members, sibling groups, or parental subsystems. Even in these cases, the family as a whole remains the 'client,' and relevant insights may be brought into future sessions with everyone present. Any decision to work with part of the family will be discussed with you to ensure it supports your goals and aligns with the overall direction of therapy.
Not everyone in the family wants to attend, can we still come to family therapy?​​​ Yes. Family therapy is based on systemic frameworks that help us understand relationships and patterns within the family. These approaches can be applied to individuals or smaller family groups. While it’s ideal to involve all relevant members, meaningful change can begin with just one person. Your willingness to engage in the process can positively impact the broader family system.
How much do Sessions Cost? 60minute Family Therapy costs $240 90 minute sessions cost $360. See fees section of the website for more information on fees.