Family dynamics can be extremely complicated. No two families are the same, following different structures, experiencing diverse life events, and maintaining varied relationships. Whilst some families may reflect the picture-perfect stereotype, others will reflect the opposite, showing how unconventional family life can be.
Tough times, as either an individual or as an entire family, can show the importance of family for many. Yet for others, it can sadly damage bonds, cause disagreements and complicate the dynamic some more.
Family therapy is a form of talking therapy that is designed to support families through turbulent and emotional situations, events, and moments. It is an inclusive therapy that helps to increase understanding, empathy, and strength among families. It’s also offered as a resolution technique, to resolve conflicts in a neutral and unbiased environment.
At some point in life, an event or occurrence will happen which divides or disrupts family life. Anything from arguments, divorce, mental health issues, financial problems and substance abuse can cause domestic issues. Family therapy is recommended for those at the forefront of the disruption, helping to bridge the gaps in communication and offer a form of meditation.
Here’s some insight into how family therapy works, who it is suitable for, and the benefits of accepting family counselling sessions. At Addiction Advocates, we can help you arrange appropriate and private family therapy sessions.
What is family therapy?
Family therapy is a form of counselling. It’s designed to support families through conflict or disruptions which may damage or diminish relationships. Family counselling sessions can be led around a certain talking point or event, acting as a form of resolution.
Sessions are designed around specific needs and issues, such as marriage and divorce, emotional problems, and parental issues. Therapy is beneficial whilst restoring communication, building trust, and increasing understanding and respect.
Family therapy sessions are suitable for all types of issues, are appropriate for both adults and children to partake in and are led by specialist family therapists. The process is extremely inclusive and encourages family members to share their thoughts, beliefs, and emotions, to reconcile and to move on from any family issues.
There are different types of family therapy sessions on offer, due to how different family systems, issues and dynamics are. The goals of family therapy also fluctuate, all depending on the nature of the problem and the willingness of each member of the family to partake and bond.
Here is how family therapy works and the available benefits of committing to family counselling sessions.
What can family therapy help with?
Family therapy is an adaptable form of counselling that can adjust to the needs of our clients. There are some common family issues that benefit from this type of therapy. Family therapy can help with:
- Mental illness in the family, by working through emotional problems
- Conflicts between family members by offering a form of mediation and resolution
- Infidelity
- Divorce and separation
- Financial worries
- Substance abuse problems and addiction
- Parental issues
- Behavioural problems in children
- Loss or trauma
- Significant life changes, such as a move
As family therapy is inclusive, it can pretty much help with all types of problems that are disrupting or damaging relationships. Prior to beginning family counselling, assessments will be completed to understand the goals of family therapy and to also plan for impending sessions. Appropriate members of the family will then be invited to attend therapy. As family systems differ, in some instances, all parties may be invited, yet in others, key members may be prevalent to the success of therapy.
What happens during family therapy?
Once family therapy sessions have been constructed, sessions can begin, guided by a specialist family therapist. A therapist will be in place to act as a mediator and to offer support whilst working through conflict and any emotional problems.
Questions will then be asked to each family member, to gain an understanding of personal feelings, outlooks, and opinions. This is very important, to provide each member with an equal opportunity to share, gain relief and experience some form of closure.
A therapist will maintain a neutral standpoint whilst exploring ways to help family members understand each other, respect each other’s views, and move on. Depending on the nature of the problem, certain techniques may be incorporated, such as role-play, to open up perspectives and to increase mutual understanding.
Regular family therapy sessions will be arranged, to slowly build bridges and to resolve conflicts. It is important to remember that it will take some time to improve relationships and to also address further issues which may be fuelling family feuds.
For example, family therapy may be recommended for an addict and their loved ones. Sessions can help loved ones and friends understand the severity of substance abuse and its true reality. Family counselling will also offer a safe space for loved ones to share their concerns and to increase the acceptance of treatment.
Many family systems fail due to a lack of communication and limited sacrifices. Family therapy helps to increase the value of sacrifice whilst strengthening communication techniques.
Each session will slowly move family members together, to agree, to source closure and to understand one another. Different strategies will be followed, yet the core benefits of family therapy will be available for all clients to encounter.
Benefits of family therapy
Family therapy works by resolving many underlying issues. It understands the root of the problem, followed by resolution management. It is a highly beneficial treatment that is recommended here at Addiction Advocates as a part of our addiction and mental health recovery plans. Here’s why family therapy works throughout rehabilitation.
It is inclusive
Sessions are inclusive, suitable for all members of the family. The most prevalent will be asked to attend family therapy sessions.
It’s led by specialist therapists
Whilst sessions are set on neutral grounds, medical advice, mental health support and relationship guidance are all available for the specialism of the sessions. They are led by specialist family therapists, fully qualified, and experienced in family resolutions.
It works well alongside other treatments
Family therapy works well alongside further treatments. It is an effective talking therapy that helps to resolve many stresses and triggers. Family counselling is a common step with addiction treatment and mental health recovery plans. It’s adaptable yet highly effective through mental rehabilitation.
It offers a safe space
All parties can benefit from full privacy and discretion whilst partaking in family therapy. A safe space is present to share emotions, beliefs and wants.
It helps with a multitude of problems
Family therapy can help with a multitude of problems. As it is inclusive and adaptable, sessions can be tailored to deal with specific family issues.
If you are struggling as a family, therapy may be recommended to you as a next step. Reach out for more insight into how family therapy works, along with arranging your family counselling sessions here at Addiction Advocates.
