How can Family Counseling Help?

Do you sometimes feel as though the only family member who “gets” you, the one who loves you for who you are – without any judgment – is the dog?

A typical family has many dynamics, and they are constantly evolving. A couple discovers their relationship changes when they begin having children. And as their children grow and experience challenges of their own, the dynamic continues to shift, bringing additional stress and obstacles.

A family experiences a death, and rather than navigate grief because it’s much too terrifying and painful, they never again mention the lost loved one.

A recent traumatic event has occurred affecting everyone differently, and it’s too big to tackle alone.

Maybe you’re sick of all the arguing, and fighting, or worried because one of your children is acting out. Or perhaps you are part of a blended family, and the introduction and integration of new individual and personal dynamics is chaotic and unsettling.

The consequences of stuffing feelings, excessive anger, or ignoring a problem doesn’t serve anyone. It is sad for everyone involved when families resort to feuding.  A refusal to communicate, or a crude attempt to sever a branch from the family tree is all avoidable, thanks to family counseling.

So, how can family counseling help?

In family therapy you and your family learn how to:

• Communicate effectively
• Solve problems
• Discover and implement appropriate boundaries
• Explore new family roles
• Enjoy quality time together
• Heal

Sometimes, dysfunction within a family is passed down unintentionally from generation to generation. By choosing to heal through family therapy, the family is not only putting an end to generational trauma, they are replacing it with a much better, healthier functioning model which in turn will be passed down for generations to come.

Due to the complexity of families, (the individuals involved, their role, their way of coping and communicating, etc.) those who seek guidance from a therapist are the most likely to get to the root of the issues, addressing and remedying all of the contributing factors.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, it may be tempting to put off family therapy, but this can further exacerbate the issues.

All that is expected is that you show up. Your counselor helps guide and structure the sessions. Their neutral position lends a unique perspective as they’re able to see the whole picture. Their goal is to restore happiness, harmony, and healing. They understand conflict, different points of view, and do not take sides.

One of the many benefits of family counseling is it opens lines of communication. It breaks old unhealthy patterns. Each individual within the family gets to be seen and heard. There can be a lot to untangle, and it is not usually something that can be mended overnight. But it is worth it; you and your family are worth it.

If you want to learn more about how family counseling can help, feel free to call us at the Relationship Therapy Center. Our therapists are here to help strengthen your relationships, and restore unity and harmony within your family.  We offer virtual sessions, as well, to accommodate busy schedules.

We know life is complex, and comes with highs and lows. We’re here to help you create a strong supportive family structure, plugging any leaks that have the potential to sink you, and keep you all afloat until you reach higher ground.