FAMILY THERAPY
IN NEWCASTLE
WHAT IS FAMILY THERAPY?
Introduction to Family Therapy
Families are the foundation of human relationships, binding us together and shaping who we are. However, conflicts and challenges are bound to surface within these complex connections, putting the strength of family ties to the test. Family therapy is a glimmer of hope in these situations, providing a path to understanding, healing, and growth.
The Essence of Family Therapy
Family therapy acknowledges the complexities that come with family dynamics. Regardless of structure or composition, every family faces trials and tribulations. Communication breakdowns, unresolved conflicts, and external stressors can all cause stress on familial relationships.
Family therapy, also known as family counseling or systemic therapy, helps families overcome these challenges and conflicts. The therapy is based on the belief that families have the resources and strengths necessary to overcome adversity. Therapists provide a safe space for families to express their feelings and experiences without fear of judgment or reprisal.
WHY DO PEOPLE SEEK FAMILY THERAPY?
There are a number of reasons why families seek family therapy. Below are some of the common issues that family therapists support families with:
Support adults or children dealing with mental health problems and addiction.
Parenting issues
Trauma
Adjusting to major life events such as bereavement, divorce and moving house or school.
The process of adoption or fostering.
Domestic violence and abuse.
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HOW DOES FAMILY THERAPY WORK?
Family therapy is a journey guided by mental health professionals, where families create a safe space to share and heal. Therapists help navigate family dynamics and embrace diversity, offering strategies for growth and healing in concise, tailored sessions.
Understanding The Process
Family therapy is a process of self-discovery and collective healing, where mental health professionals, often marriage and family therapists, guide families to create a safe space for expressing their thoughts, feelings, and experiences without any fear of judgment or retaliation.
In therapy sessions, families explore the intricacies of their relationships, the patterns that shape them, and traverse the landscapes of their shared narratives. Every member of the family has the opportunity to find their voice and share their story, which is then woven into the rich tapestry of familial experiences.
The therapist plays the role of a mediator and facilitator, gently guiding conversations, offering insights, and illuminating pathways towards resolving conflicts and reconciling differences. Through this process, families can find resolution and healing.
Navigating Family Dynamics
Family therapy is based on the dynamics of each unique family unit, which serve as the foundation for therapy sessions. Whether it’s multigenerational households, blended families, nuclear families, or chosen families, familial relationships come in different forms. The essence of family therapy lies in the understanding of the systemic nature of familial bonds.
Every member of the family contributes to the intricate patterns of interaction and communication that define the family system, just like threads in a tapestry. Systemic therapy recognises the interconnectedness of individuals within the broader context of family relationships.
Embracing Diversity in Family Therapy
The human experience is a mosaic of diversity that enriches the tapestry of familial relationships with its myriad hues and shades. Family therapists take a culturally sensitive approach to therapy, honoring the unique backgrounds, traditions, and beliefs of each family.
Family therapists strive to create inclusive spaces where every voice is heard and respected, regardless of their background. They address intergenerational conflicts within immigrant families, navigate the complexities of blended households, and support LGBTQ+ families in their journey towards acceptance and understanding.
Unlocking Strategies for Healing and Growth
Families can find strength in therapy sessions, where they can face challenges with newfound insights and coping strategies. Therapy sessions can help improve communication, conflict resolution, empathy, understanding, and personal and relational growth.
Therapists use evidence-based interventions such as narrative therapy, cognitive-behavioural techniques, and structural family therapy to tailor their approach to suit each family’s unique needs and goals. Whether families face an acute crisis or longstanding conflict, therapy sessions can provide a roadmap towards healing and reconciliation.
FAQS
Does family therapy really work?
With the right therapist and the motivation to work through issues as a family, family therapy can be a great way to improve communication and enhance relationships.
What are the most common problems within a family?
Some common issues families may face are pressure at work or school; unemployment and financial problems; illness or disability of a family member; the death of a family member; drug, alcohol or gambling addiction, and domestic violence. However, due to the unique nature of every family and the individuals within them, they will all respond differently to any problem. There is nothing wrong with seeking support from a family therapist to help work through any issues or conflicts that may emerge.
Can people attend family therapy on their own?
Yes. You can see a family therapist one to one. In some cases a mixture of sessions are appropriate some with the whole family present, some with a few members and others one to one. This can be useful to help a family therapist understand family dynamics better.
Is family therapy necessary if only one member of the family is struggling with an issue?
It can come as a shock to families when one of the members is dealing with a serious problem. Family therapy can help families learn about the issue, where it may have stemmed from and develop ways to support the individual. This can be a challenging process especially when other members believe they are at fault for the issue. It is important to note that the family therapist is not there to judge or blame other members but to assist families through these difficulties.
How do I know if a family therapist is right for me?
Select Psychology can provide guidance and information to support your decision to choose a therapist, ultimately, the only way to find out is to attend sessions and see. Sometimes families are able to build rapport with the therapist and establish a stable working relationship. However, this is not always the case, due to no fault with the family or the therapist. If this does happen it is essential to have a discussion so a way forward can be agreed upon.
RESOURCES
To learn more about family therapy and systemic therapy visit The Tavistock and Portman NHS Foundation Trust – Family Therapy