Family Therapy
Family therapy is unique because it addresses problems at a systemic level. Multiple points of view must be considered, and multiple voices must have the opportunity to be heard. In a family therapy session you don’t just “treat” the problem, you explore the intricacies of the relationships involved to find the answers.
Family therapy can be especially useful in dealing with complex and difficult situations such as in-laws, blended families (step children or step parents) and former spouses. A family therapist is there to facilitate the flow of communication and to empower you to work together toward a compromise that will allow harmony to return to your lives.
Therapy for School Disruptions or Acting Out
If a child is suddenly disruptive in school or acting out in unusual ways they may be crying out for help. They could be being bullied, they could be experimenting with substances, they could be having a hard time adjusting to a new school or home or sibling. A child may be scared to express these feelings. Working in a safe environment with a family therapist can help the child get back on track.
Dealing With In-Law’s
In-Laws can be great, but they can also put a tremendous amount of stress on the family dynamic. Family therapy may be the best way to deal with some of these delicate situations without causing strain between you and your spouse.
Therapy for Blended Families
Blended families are very common and can produce wonderful experiences as well as unique challenges. The step parent – step child relationship can be fragile at times. The same can be said for adoptive siblings, step siblings, and half siblings. You may find yourself needing a family therapist. Family counseling can help you deal with any jealousy or resentment that may be undermining the situation, and restore peace and harmony to your home.
Ex Spouses
In the aftermath of a divorce you may not wish to have a lot of contact with your former partner. When children are involved however, that is not always an option. Often there is unresolved animosity and resentment and when there are parenting decisions to be made these feelings tend to be expressed through the children. You don’t want to use the children to hurt each other, and you don’t want the children to use that hurt to manipulate both of you. It may be difficult, but family therapy can help you work to find the common ground.