Family therapy, also known as family counselling, is a type of psychotherapy that evaluation and intervention of mental and emotional disorders within the framework of couples and family. It recognizes that the behaviors of a family unit impact the individual and thus be included in the treatment process.
This therapeutic approach engages all family members, including children, in addressing and resolving conflicts or sources of distress. Through family therapy, therapists aims to uncover and tackle the root causes of issues affecting the family's well-being.
How does Family Therapy work:
Family as a system, it considers that the family member as a sub-system can affect the entire family (an interconnected whole). The process typically involves multiple sessions, it can be last longer. The trained therapist works with the family to understand their dynamics and communication patterns. The goal of family counselling is to cultivate strategies that enhance familial relationships and overall functioning.
Avoid pathologizing, family therapy focus more on the interaction within the family members than the “identified patient”. When family come to therapy, it’s very typical that they identify one member as the problem or the patient and just want the therapist to “fix” the problem or the identified patient. That is not how family therapy should be. Family therapist look at the relationships, interactions and communication patterns between the members, and provide safe space for them to express themselves. Also, the therapist may engage every member of the family and understand their perceptions in the process.
Strengths-based approach is necessary, each family has strengths and inner resources. Therapist should help the family member to explore their own strengths, construct and gain new perspectives in their life story.
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