Research studies repeatedly demonstrate the effectiveness of individual, marriage, and family therapy in treating the full range of mental and emotional disorders and health problems. Adolescent drug abuse, depression, alcoholism, obesity and dementia in the elderly -- as well as marital distress and conflict -- are just some of the conditions psychotherapists effectively treat. Studies also show that clients are highly satisfied with services of therapists. Clients report marked improvement in work productivity, co-worker relationships, family relationships, partner relationships, emotional health, overall health, social life, and community involvement.

In a recent study, consumers report that marriage and family therapists are the mental health professionals they would most likely recommend to friends. Over 98 percent of clients of marriage and family therapists report therapy services as good or excellent. After receiving treatment, almost 90% of clients report an improvement in their emotional health, and nearly two-thirds report an improvement in their overall physical health.

A majority of clients report an improvement in their functioning at work, and over three-fourths of those receiving marital/couples or family therapy report an improvement in the couple relationship.

When a child is the identified patient, parents report that their child's behavior improved in 73.7% of the cases, their ability to get along with other children significantly improved and there was improved performance in school.

Keep in mind that these are averages and that it is impossible to predict an outcome in any one case. However, in YOUR case, which for you is the only really important one, you do play a major role. We have found that when clients genuinely want to heal their relationships and improve their lives, change usually does happen. Your motivation is a primary factor in successful therapy.

Adapted from Aamft.org (aeh edited)