Family members often form the basis of our most profound relationships, representing individuals to whom we are genetically or emotionally connected. However, these connections are not impervious to conflict. Family therapy or counseling is a type of psychotherapy designed to alleviate distress within the family system. It seeks to equip family members with innovative approaches to collaborate effectively and navigate difficulties.
In Family Therapy, the family is viewed as a cohesive system, greater than the sum of its individual members. The approach centers on the relationships within the family unit, engaging all members in the therapeutic process. Similar to individual and group therapy, Family Therapy is applicable to a diverse array of therapeutic objectives.
Rather than attributing issues to a single family member, often termed the "identified patient," Family Therapy serves to pinpoint the relational and individual challenges arising from, and sustained by, the dynamics of the family. For instance, when a child experiences academic or social difficulties, the emphasis shifts to recognizing the family patterns that contribute to the child's behavior, rather than solely addressing the child's internal experiences.
Family Therapy can act as the main focus of treatment, or it may be integrated as a complementary component alongside individual therapy.
