Family Therapy
Family therapy is a therapeutic approach that involves a psychologist meeting with either the entire family, or part of the family system.
Some common issues addressed in family therapy may include: behavioural problems, co-parenting difficulties, a lack of emotional connection, communication, and so on. Other examples, may include coping with parental separation or divorce, illness or disability within the family, or dealing with the loss of a loved one.
Family Therapy Theory
The rationale behind family therapy involves recognizing that the presenting therapeutic issues are often bigger than any one person. To understand their underlying causes, one must get a sense of the interpersonal dynamics operating within the family.
Families typically work as a fluid and functional unit as they respond to the 'pushes and pulls' triggered by the thoughts, feelings, and actions, of its members. Most of the time, we do not even realize it happening. While family systems almost always find a stable equilibrium, the patterns of functioning can be at times unhealthy or unbalanced. A family therapist or psychologist therefore works collaboratively to identify and eventually change relational patterns or family issues.
Typical Structure
The initial meeting usually consists of the therapist meeting with the whole family together. This is a chance for the psychologist to see how family members interact, while listening to how each person conceptualizes the main problems. It is not uncommon that each will have a unique perspective that can shed shed light on the whole.
After the initial meeting, the family therapist will often choose to meet with the parents on their own, or perhaps even the children. Of course each therapist will have a good rationale for how they choose to structure the family sessions. Most psychologists would be happy to discuss their thoughts and solicit feedback about how to make the best use of the therapy time.
Adult Family Therapy
Family therapy is not just for parents and smaller children living together. Sometimes adult relationships can become strained and are in need of repair. It can therefore be helpful to address unresolved feelings, misunderstandings, or work to improve overall communication.