A Unique Approach Supporting Mental and Emotional Well-Being for Individuals and Families

CHICAGO – April 2025 – For over 55 years The Family Institute at Northwestern University has been a leader in the field of behavioral health, remaining at the forefront of relationship-based mental healthcare.  Through advancements in research, education and therapy, The Family Institute continues to meet the growing mental health needs within the Chicagoland community, providing over 30 different therapy service offerings to support the unique needs of each client. 

Last year alone, The Family Institute provided therapy services to more than 6,000 people and has continued to grow. The practice experienced a 12% increase in first-time appointments, with most clinicians able to schedule appointments within 48 hours. Once clients have established care, The Family Institute delivers comprehensive treatment with nearly 30% of clients staying for over a year receiving over 90 weeks of care.    

The Family Institute distinguishes itself through an evidence-based, integrative approach to therapy—one that considers individuals within the context of their relationships and takes a holistic approach to the complex factors influencing the well-being of both individuals and families. Through a team of more than 110 licensed clinicians, The Family Institute provides customized treatment plans through a range of therapy approaches and specialized treatments. Available services include trauma-informed therapy, mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), and services aimed at addressing issues related to LGBTQIA+ individuals and families with additional expertise in areas such as:   

  • Child and Adolescent Therapy 
  • Couples and Family Therapy 
  • Adult Trauma and Emerging Adults 
  • Grief and Loss Counseling 
  • LGBTQ+ Affirmative Therapy 
  • Mindfulness and Stress Reduction 

Therapy services are available in-person and via teletherapy, which allows for increased flexibility and convenience. Currently The Family Institute sees 77% of clients via teletherapy. 

In keeping with our history of being a leader in behavioral health care, The Family Institute integrates measures into client care. Measurement Informed Care - also called Measurement Based Care or outcome monitoring - is an evidence-based practice that involves the systematic collection of patient-reported measures to track progress and guide clinical decision-making over time. By using validated tools to regularly assess symptoms, functioning, and the therapeutic alliance, providers are empowered to tailor treatment to each client’s needs.  

"Decades of research support this data-driven approach," Nancy Burgoyne Ph.D., ABPP, Chief Clinical Officer of The Family Institute at Northwestern University, explains, "which has been shown to enhance patient engagement, improve communication, and lead to more effective and efficient care."  

"Measurement Informed Care," Dr. Burgoyne adds, "represents best practice in behavioral health and is transforming how care is delivered and experienced." 

The Family Institute is currently utilizing Measurement Informed Care for over 2,400 clients and across 105 providers. Early findings from 51 randomized controlled trials found almost all trials that used Measurement Informed Care showed significantly improved outcomes, compared to one time screening. 

Research is an integral part of The Family Institute’s mission where researchers and scholars work together to help improve client outcomes. Through their affiliation with Northwestern University, The Family Institute currently has over 10 active research labs in areas addressing anxiety, couple stress, and gender & sexuality.  

In addition to research and therapy services, The Family Institute provides a variety of educational resources, webinars and workshops; on the Library & Resources page  that provide valuable information on mental health concerns impacting communities. These programs and resources offer valuable information on mental health issues affecting individuals, couples and families. 

For those in need of more immediate support or interested in additional therapy services, please visit The Family Institute website at www.family-institute.org to schedule an appointment with one of their expert therapists.  

Media Contact: Crystal Reynolds creynolds@family-institute.org 

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ABOUT THE FAMILY INSTITUTE AT NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY    

Incorporated in 1969, The Family Institute at Northwestern University is committed to strengthening and healing families, couples, children and adults through the highest quality, relationship-based mental health services. As partners to see change, The Family Institute brings together research, education and clinical practice leading to growth for our clients, the next generation of therapists and the field of behavioral health.         

For more information, visit www.family-institute.org.