"Understanding Family Therapy: What to Expect"

While you may be familiar with individual therapy, couples therapy, and group therapy, the transformative potential of family therapy is a unique concept. Unlike other forms of therapy, family therapy focuses on family dynamics and conflict, offering a beacon of hope for improved communication and relationships. 

Family therapy can consist of sessions with the family, just the parents or guardians, just the children, or a mixture of both. It can also be for non-immediate family members, such as aunts and uncles, grandparents, and cousins. But the key is that these sessions are not just about gathering or venting laundry lists of problems about a scapegoat.

The sessions are about active guidance. The therapist, trained in specific family therapy theories, plays a crucial role in guiding communication and problem-solving, making the process more effective and beneficial. 

During these sessions, the therapist will ask the family members questions like: 

·        What is going on from your perspective?

·        How long has this been happening?

·        Have you tried anything to resolve this problem, and if so, what did you try?

These questions will give the therapist a look into the family system, each member's roles and perspectives, and the dynamics as a group and between individuals. This will help the therapist see where progress can be made to work together toward family goals.

While the therapist may not hold the key to everlasting peace, they can empower the family to enhance communication skills. They can help resolve misunderstandings and arguments and guide the family in learning how to work together to solve problems. Additionally, they can provide education on any mental health conditions that a member may be experiencing, fostering a sense of empowerment and understanding within the family, making you feel more capable and in control. 

If family therapy sounds like something you might want to consider, look for my next post, in which I will discuss its benefits and potential drawbacks that may keep people from seeking help.