Family plays a part in who we become. It is where we learn our vocabulary, our habits, our customs and rituals, and how to view the world around us. We also learn to love and how to interact with others from these important relationships.
Family therapy can help members improve their understanding of each other, support each other, work through difficult situations, provide skills to cope with challenges, and help the family to achieve an increased sense of togetherness.
Some of the reasons for seeking family therapy might be:
- Developmental stages and changes
- Divorce and blended families
- Joint parenting
- Parent-teen conflict
- Abuse
- Grief and loss
- Gender identity issues
- Sexual orientation issues
- Substance misuse
- Self-harm
What to expect in family therapy?
- Examine your family’s ability to express thoughts and emotions
- Explore family roles, rules and patterns
- Identify issues and resolve conflict
- Identify your family’s strengths and deepen connections
Some positive family therapy outcomes are:
- Creates safety and stability
- Strategies to develop and maintain boundaries
- Fosters sense of cohesion and communication
- Promotes problem-solving
- Builds empathy and understanding
- Reduces conflict