Family Therapy including Co-Parenting
Our family affects who we are and who we become, consciously or unconsciously. We learn all the practical things like language & vocabulary, habits, customs & rituals, and how we view and observe the world around us. This is if we happen to live with our family of origin or a family for the greater part of our childhood. Not all of us do. And even when we do, this may not be the best thing for us… while for others, it is absolutely amazing! But then, we may need some help with the family we have created!
Common reasons for seeking family therapy include:
- Divorce
- Parent-child conflict
- Problems between siblings
- Intimate Partner Violence
- The unexpected or traumatic loss of a family member
- Substance Abuse Issues
- Unresolved Family of Origin Issues
- Unresolved Extended Family Issues
Family therapy is necessary to address family issues and heal a family’s wounds. If any of the above scenarios resonate with your family, consider seeking family therapy. Family therapy can be beneficial on many different levels.
Some positive family therapy outcomes are:
- Strategies to develop and maintain boundaries
- Foster a sense of cohesion and communication among family members
- Promotes problem-solving through an understanding of family patterns and dynamics
- Builds empathy and understanding.
- Reduces family conflict
- Develop problem solving strategies and communication skills to address family issues in an agreed upon manner
- Develop Family Goals as family members are able to express personal feelings, thoughts and values in a safe place
- Effective Co-Parenting
Studies show that family therapy is particularly important for families with members who struggle with substance abuse, eating disorders and other behavioral issues. When the whole family grows, each member is better off. Research has also shown that in order for the individual struggling with a substance abuse issue, learning disorder or behavioral challenge (often referred to as the “identified patient” because this is the family member that brings the family into therapy), “to change”, the family must change as well. Oftentimes, the behavioral issue affecting the individual is a systemic issue that needs to be addressed within the family if at all possible for the change to become permanent.
If you’re interested in learning about how we can help you establish a healthy family relationship, please contact me for a free phone consultation.