Understand How You Communicate—and Why It Matters
Transactional Analysis (TA) explores how patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving—rooted in early experiences—shape present-day interactions. By identifying ego states and recurring “transactions,” clients learn how to improve communication, reduce conflict, and build healthier relationships.
What Is Transactional Analysis and How Does It Work?
Developed by psychiatrist Eric Berne, Transactional Analysis is a psychological model that breaks down interpersonal dynamics into three ego states: Parent, Adult, and Child. TA helps clients understand which state they’re operating from in conversations, recognize unproductive “games,” and build more authentic, adult-to-adult communication.
Key Benefits
Improves Interpersonal Communication
Teaches clients to recognize and shift ego states during conversations.
Increases Emotional Awareness
Enhances understanding of internal emotional responses during conflict or intimacy.
Breaks Toxic Relational Patterns
Identifies and disrupts self-defeating interactions known as “games.”
Builds Assertiveness and Boundaries
Strengthens the capacity for adult, direct, respectful communication.
Treatment Goals
Identify Dominant Ego States
Understand whether your responses come from the Parent, Adult, or Child.
Improve Communication Awareness
Notice when conversations shift into unproductive patterns or emotional reactivity.
Disrupt Harmful “Games”
Learn how unconscious scripts repeat in relationships—and how to exit them.
Support Adult-to-Adult Dialogue
Build clarity, accountability, and maturity in your interpersonal style.
Why You Keep Having the Same Arguments—and How to Change That
Transactional Analysis helps clients decode their own and others’ communication patterns. By recognizing predictable roles and unconscious scripts, people gain the tools to interact from a grounded, authentic place—rather than repeating inherited or emotionalized responses.
The Process
The Process
The Process
1
1
Ego State Identification
Explore real-life situations to determine whether the Parent, Adult, or Child is speaking.
2
2
Transaction Mapping
Break down recurring communication patterns into structured sequences for analysis.
3
3
Game Recognition and Disruption
Learn to identify emotional “games” that produce predictable, negative outcomes.
4
4
Script Analysis
Uncover life narratives formed in childhood and examine how they shape behavior now.
5
5
Adult Ego Strengthening
Practice communication that is calm, direct, responsible, and present-focused.
Techniques Used
Scientific Background
Historical Development
Techniques Used
Structural Analysis
Map and understand the three ego states operating in the self and others.
Transactional Diagrams
Visualize back-and-forth exchanges to highlight dysfunctional dynamics.
Game Analysis
Identify repeated negative patterns like “Why Don’t You, Yes But...” or “If It Weren’t for You…”
Script Work
Reflect on early decisions and inherited beliefs that drive life roles or expectations.
Techniques Used
Scientific Background
Historical Development
Techniques Used
Structural Analysis
Map and understand the three ego states operating in the self and others.
Transactional Diagrams
Visualize back-and-forth exchanges to highlight dysfunctional dynamics.
Game Analysis
Identify repeated negative patterns like “Why Don’t You, Yes But...” or “If It Weren’t for You…”
Script Work
Reflect on early decisions and inherited beliefs that drive life roles or expectations.
Techniques Used
Scientific Background
History
Techniques Used
Structural Analysis
Map and understand the three ego states operating in the self and others.
Transactional Diagrams
Visualize back-and-forth exchanges to highlight dysfunctional dynamics.
Game Analysis
Identify repeated negative patterns like “Why Don’t You, Yes But...” or “If It Weren’t for You…”
Script Work
Reflect on early decisions and inherited beliefs that drive life roles or expectations.
Typical Exercises
Typical Exercises
Ego State Journaling
Track which ego state dominated during key conversations throughout the week.
Game Spotting Log
Identify when and how common interpersonal “games” appear in daily life.
Script Rewriting Worksheet
Reframe inherited beliefs like “I’m not allowed to succeed” or “I must please others.”
Adult Ego Dialogue Practice
Roleplay emotionally neutral, direct conversations using only the Adult voice.
Select your insurance company
to see your coverage
Don't see your plan?
Give us a call: 818.821.6012
Cigna
Aetna
Beacon
Optum
L.A. Care
United Health
Other
Your copay could
be as low as
$0
Average Cigna member copay
per session
$15*
Want to know your exact copay and coverage? Give us a call
at (818)-821-6012 we'll verify your insurance in minutes.
What your coverage may include
Cigna members often enjoy reduced copays and extensive mental health benefits.
Get started quickly - most Cigna members begin therapy within the same week!
Choose your preferred method: in-person style video sessions, phone therapy, or text-based support based on what works best for your lifestyle.
*Actual costs may be lower than expected. Verify your specific benefits as coverage varies by plan.
Select your insurance company
to see your coverage
Don't see your plan?
Give us a call: 818.821.6012
Cigna
Aetna
Beacon
Optum
L.A. Care
United Health
Other
Your copay could
be as low as
$0
Average Cigna member copay
per session
$15*
Want to know your exact copay and coverage? Give us a call at (818)-821-6012 we'll verify your insurance in minutes.
What your coverage may include
Cigna members often enjoy reduced copays and extensive mental health benefits.
Get started quickly - most Cigna members begin therapy within the same week!
Choose your preferred method: in-person style video sessions, phone therapy, or text-based support based on what works best for your lifestyle.
*Actual costs may be lower than expected. Verify your specific benefits as coverage varies by plan.
Select your insurance company
to see your coverage
Don't see your plan?
Give us a call: 818.821.6012
Cigna
Aetna
Beacon
Optum
L.A. Care
United Health
Other
Your copay could
be as low as
$0
Average Cigna member copay
per session
$15*
Want to know your exact copay and coverage? Give us a call at (818)-821-6012 we'll verify your insurance in minutes.
What your coverage may include
Cigna members often enjoy reduced copays and extensive mental health benefits.
Get started quickly - most Cigna members begin therapy within the same week!
Choose your preferred method: in-person style video sessions, phone therapy, or text-based support based on what works best for your lifestyle.
*Actual costs may be lower than expected. Verify your specific benefits as coverage varies by plan.
Testimonials
100+ Google reviews with an average 4.8★ rating
Justin M.
It’s been a life-changing expierence since I started my therapy with Michelle at this center. All the time I am warmly welcomed by the staff members, but most importantly I see the difference in my life finding all those new ways to heal. Highly recommend!
Cielo P.
I love Family Centers, my individual therapist has been helping me a lot, i love the flexibility they have in case i have an emergency they give me options to either reschedule or have my appointment in a call or videocall.
Ricky M.
I have seen many therapist over the years and I have never been so impressed with such emotional intelligence that both inspires and challenges me. Huge thanks to Karen at FamilyTime Centers for connecting me with her. It is an invaluable boost to my quality of life.
Jessa R.
Good place to be start the healing! Very nice ladies in the office! So very sweet with every interaction we had! Started therapy over a year ago & have improved so much! It's great to put myself first & I recommend FTC! ✨👍
Quinton H.
My experience with family time centers has been amazing. I was always told that men don’t need therapy, we just need to tough it out lol… I went to the family time center and they welcomed me with open arms.
Chris M
Very happy with the therapist I was matched with. He has a background in helping people through trauma, which is exactly what I was looking for. The staff has been very helpful. Highly recommended!
Cal B.
I'm truly grateful for Family Time Centers. I've been working with a fantastic therapist here for around 6 months, during which time I have made some large discoveries about myself, and some great strides in my personal evolution.
Anne B.
Even after years of therapy, my specific work with IFS allowed me to go much deeper, healing at another level, all while feeling manageable; recommended for beginner to advanced to get to joy.
Rebecca H.
FamilyTime Center has been nothing but friendly and helpful through out my experience. They even give you a call after a few weeks of service to check in and make sure everything is going well. I would recommend then to anyone.
Jessica S.
My child sees Kimberly, and she is absolutely great! My child looks forward to each session and opens up to her effortlessly!
Aileen D.
Such a great experience with FamilyTime Center. Definitely recommend, if you are considering this is your sign! Staff was amazing and accommodating throughout my entire time here, they truly care for us all.
Yesenia G.
I want to thank FamilyTime Centers for promptly giving me an appointment when I needed it the most. I recommend them they are fast and kind. Thank you for your support
Testimonials
100+ Google reviews with an average 4.8★ rating
Justin M.
It’s been a life-changing expierence since I started my therapy with Michelle at this center. All the time I am warmly welcomed by the staff members, but most importantly I see the difference in my life finding all those new ways to heal. Highly recommend!
Cielo P.
I love Family Centers, my individual therapist has been helping me a lot, i love the flexibility they have in case i have an emergency they give me options to either reschedule or have my appointment in a call or videocall.
Ricky M.
I have seen many therapist over the years and I have never been so impressed with such emotional intelligence that both inspires and challenges me. Huge thanks to Karen at FamilyTime Centers for connecting me with her. It is an invaluable boost to my quality of life.
Jessa R.
Good place to be start the healing! Very nice ladies in the office! So very sweet with every interaction we had! Started therapy over a year ago & have improved so much! It's great to put myself first & I recommend FTC! ✨👍
Quinton H.
My experience with family time centers has been amazing. I was always told that men don’t need therapy, we just need to tough it out lol… I went to the family time center and they welcomed me with open arms.
Chris M
Very happy with the therapist I was matched with. He has a background in helping people through trauma, which is exactly what I was looking for. The staff has been very helpful. Highly recommended!
Cal B.
I'm truly grateful for Family Time Centers. I've been working with a fantastic therapist here for around 6 months, during which time I have made some large discoveries about myself, and some great strides in my personal evolution.
Anne B.
Even after years of therapy, my specific work with IFS allowed me to go much deeper, healing at another level, all while feeling manageable; recommended for beginner to advanced to get to joy.
Rebecca H.
FamilyTime Center has been nothing but friendly and helpful through out my experience. They even give you a call after a few weeks of service to check in and make sure everything is going well. I would recommend then to anyone.
Jessica S.
My child sees Kimberly, and she is absolutely great! My child looks forward to each session and opens up to her effortlessly!
Aileen D.
Such a great experience with FamilyTime Center. Definitely recommend, if you are considering this is your sign! Staff was amazing and accommodating throughout my entire time here, they truly care for us all.
Yesenia G.
I want to thank FamilyTime Centers for promptly giving me an appointment when I needed it the most. I recommend them they are fast and kind. Thank you for your support
Testimonials
100+ Google reviews with an average 4.8★ rating
Justin M.
It’s been a life-changing expierence since I started my therapy with Michelle at this center. All the time I am warmly welcomed by the staff members, but most importantly I see the difference in my life finding all those new ways to heal. Highly recommend!
Cielo P.
I love Family Centers, my individual therapist has been helping me a lot, i love the flexibility they have in case i have an emergency they give me options to either reschedule or have my appointment in a call or videocall.
Ricky M.
I have seen many therapist over the years and I have never been so impressed with such emotional intelligence that both inspires and challenges me. Huge thanks to Karen at FamilyTime Centers for connecting me with her. It is an invaluable boost to my quality of life.
Jessa R.
Good place to be start the healing! Very nice ladies in the office! So very sweet with every interaction we had! Started therapy over a year ago & have improved so much! It's great to put myself first & I recommend FTC! ✨👍
Quinton H.
My experience with family time centers has been amazing. I was always told that men don’t need therapy, we just need to tough it out lol… I went to the family time center and they welcomed me with open arms.
Chris M
Very happy with the therapist I was matched with. He has a background in helping people through trauma, which is exactly what I was looking for. The staff has been very helpful. Highly recommended!
Cal B.
I'm truly grateful for Family Time Centers. I've been working with a fantastic therapist here for around 6 months, during which time I have made some large discoveries about myself, and some great strides in my personal evolution.
Anne B.
Even after years of therapy, my specific work with IFS allowed me to go much deeper, healing at another level, all while feeling manageable; recommended for beginner to advanced to get to joy.
Rebecca H.
FamilyTime Center has been nothing but friendly and helpful through out my experience. They even give you a call after a few weeks of service to check in and make sure everything is going well. I would recommend then to anyone.
Jessica S.
My child sees Kimberly, and she is absolutely great! My child looks forward to each session and opens up to her effortlessly!
Aileen D.
Such a great experience with FamilyTime Center. Definitely recommend, if you are considering this is your sign! Staff was amazing and accommodating throughout my entire time here, they truly care for us all.
Yesenia G.
I want to thank FamilyTime Centers for promptly giving me an appointment when I needed it the most. I recommend them they are fast and kind. Thank you for your support
Insights & Guidance for a Healthier Mind
Explore expert advice, therapy tips, and mental wellness strategies to support your journey to a balanced life.
Insights & Guidance for a Healthier Mind
Explore expert advice, therapy tips, and mental wellness strategies to support your journey to a balanced life.
Insights & Guidance for a Healthier Mind
Explore expert advice, therapy tips, and mental wellness strategies to support your journey to a balanced life.
Common Questions
Have more questions? Visit our comprehensive FAQ page for detailed answers about insurance coverage, payment options, and getting started with therapy.
Who are the therapists at FamilyTime Centers, and what are their qualifications?
What does therapy at FamilyTime Centers cost?
What types of therapy services do you offer?
How flexible are your scheduling options?
Common Questions
Have more questions? Visit our comprehensive FAQ page for detailed answers about insurance coverage, payment options, and getting started with therapy.
Who are the therapists at FamilyTime Centers, and what are their qualifications?
What does therapy at FamilyTime Centers cost?
What types of therapy services do you offer?
How flexible are your scheduling options?
Common Questions
Have more questions? Visit our comprehensive FAQ page for detailed answers about insurance coverage, payment options, and getting started with therapy.
Who are the therapists at FamilyTime Centers, and what are their qualifications?
What does therapy at FamilyTime Centers cost?
What types of therapy services do you offer?
How flexible are your scheduling options?
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12501 Chandler Blvd, Suite 102
Valley Village, CA 91607
Phone: (818) 821-6012
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00–19:00, Sat 10:00–14:00
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© 2025 Copyright FamilyTime Center. All rights reserved.
Join FamilyTime's newsletter
Receive expert advice, coping strategies, and mental wellness resources from our licensed California therapists - delivered weekly.
By submitting your email, you are consenting to receive emails from FamilyTime Center and accepting the terms.
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12501 Chandler Blvd, Suite 102
Valley Village, CA 91607
Phone: (818) 821-6012
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00–19:00, Sat 10:00–14:00
✉️ Email | 📞 Call Now | 📍 View on Google Maps
© 2025 Copyright FamilyTime Center. All rights reserved.
Join FamilyTime's newsletter
Receive expert advice, coping strategies, and mental wellness resources from our licensed California therapists - delivered weekly.
By submitting your email, you are consenting to receive emails from FamilyTime Center and accepting the terms.
Find care
By conditon
Types of care
Our approaches
By region
Legal pages
12501 Chandler Blvd, Suite 102
Valley Village, CA 91607
Phone: (818) 821-6012
Hours: Mon–Fri 9:00–19:00, Sat 10:00–14:00
✉️ Email | 📞 Call Now | 📍 View on Google Maps
© 2025 Copyright FamilyTime Center. All rights reserved.