Family Therapy
The family structure is a multifaceted aspect of human existence. It includes those we hold closest, but numerous families encounter challenges and obstacles for which they lack the tools to overcome. In the form of group therapy, families who may be going through stress, grief, or dealing with major life changes have the opportunity to sit with a licensed professional to communicate and work through conflict.
Treatment sessions include but are not limited to children, parents, couples, and extended family members. Family therapy sessions aim to improve relationships within the family dynamic by working with members involved versus an individual one-on-one session.
How Does Family Therapy Work?
In family therapy, a trained therapist collaborates with all or some members of a family to address conflicts challenges, and improve the way family members interact with each other. The process begins with an initial assessment to understand the family’s dynamics, concerns, and therapy goals. Family members who are willing to participate come together for sessions involving open communication facilitated by the therapist.
During these sessions, family issues are identified and discussed, with a focus on problem-solving and changing unhealthy patterns of interaction. The therapist helps family members develop practical skills for effective communication, conflict resolution, and coping with stress. The therapy process also considers the family as an interconnected system, addressing underlying dynamics that contribute to conflicts.
The ultimate goal of family therapy is to strengthen relationships, promote understanding, and facilitate positive change within the family unit. The duration of therapy varies based on the family’s needs and progress. It’s a collaborative effort that requires active participation and commitment from family members to achieve meaningful outcomes.
Five stages of family therapy:
- Joining
- Identify
- Shifts
- Maintaining the Gains
- Ending/Termination
Who Can Benefit from Family Therapy?
Strengthening the family unit can yield positive effects in the present and for generations to come. When the family collectively learns to communicate emotions, tackle challenges, and collaborate towards solutions, it enhances the overall quality of life. Families will leave each session with a better understanding of each other, how to support one another and build skills to face challenges. This therapy style can be beneficial for family members of all ages. It can especially benefit members who may be experiencing mental health disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, or addiction.
Benefits of Family Therapy
Identify and overcome daily stressors and triggers
Improve the quality of life
Build stronger and healthier relationships
Learn how to implement boundaries
Recognize past traumas and work through them
Personalized sessions with a licensed professional
Develop healthy coping strategies
Change patterns for a healthier future
Increase self-awareness
Creating a support network
Breaking The Cycle With Onyx
Family units are intricate systems woven with close bonds among those we love. Strengthening these connections might take outside help, and that’s perfectly fine. At Onyx, we stand ready to provide assistance and support to you and your family.
Michaela Welk, LMHC
Bunny Berman
Tank
Richard E. LoSardo, MD
Christopher Payne
Bernard Benjamin
Tiffany Bellino