Family Counselling can help families improve communication and resolve conflict. Counselling for families can be facilitated and delivered by a trained psychologist. It is based on the concept that each family member’s behaviour can impact the family as a whole. As such, when one family member experiences a problem or issue, that can affect the entire family.
Family Counselling can include all immediate family members or some. The family therapy treatment plan will depend on the issues at play and each family’s circumstances.
Counselling for families is often short-term, and sessions can teach individuals essential skills to deepen their family connection and overcome difficult times less stressfully. In addition, the skills learnt through family counselling sessions can be used and applied long after therapy sessions are finished.
Different psychologists use different evidence-based methods. Depending on each family’s challenges, dynamics and objectives, a psychologist or family therapist may choose to use one or more evidence-based methods to work with a family.
Here are some of the family therapy evidence-based methods that a psychologist may use:
These are some of the methods supported by research that effectively improve family relationships and reduce symptoms of mental health issues. A skilled psychologist or family therapist will tailor their approach to your family’s unique needs and circumstances.
Counselling for families can benefit families experiencing relationship issues with their partner, children or other family members. Examples include marital problems, conflict, or the impact of substance abuse or mental illness of one family member on the entire family.
Family therapy is helpful in any situation causing stress, anger, conflict or grief and can help families learn coping skills to bring them closer together. Some common issues that families can address through Family therapy include the following:
Communication problems, conflicts or misunderstandings.
Behavioural issues such as aggression, substance abuse, or eating disorders by identifying and addressing underlying emotional or environmental factors.
Mental health conditions such as depression, eating disorders, or addictions.
Difficult life transitions such as childbirth, divorce, and blended families.
Trauma from events such as abuse or the sudden death of a loved one.
Overall, family therapy can benefit anyone who wants to improve their relationships and communication within their family and address any challenges they may face.
During Family counselling sessions, a psychologist or family therapist helps families identify the communication and behaviour patterns likely contributing to their problems. Then, the psychologist works with the family members to develop communication skills and problem-solving strategies. They may also explore the family members’ roles, dynamics, and any underlying emotional issues or traumas that may impact the family.
Family therapy can involve various techniques, such as role-playing, communication exercises, and exploring family history. In addition, the psychologist or family therapist works with family members individually or in subgroups within the family to address specific issues.
During Family therapy, you and your psychologist may:
Explore your family’s problem-solving abilities and how thoughts and emotions are expressed.
Examine your family rules, roles, and behaviour patterns to identify issues contributing to conflict.
Identify your family’s strengths, such as care and empathy, and weaknesses, such as difficulty trusting one another.
Family therapy aims to create a more supportive and functional family environment that promotes all members’ wellbeing.
Family therapy sessions typically take about 50 minutes; however, the length of sessions can depend on the psychologist you work with. Counselling for families is often short-term. Depending on your family’s situation and your psychologist or family therapist, the frequency and the number of sessions you’ll need.
Family counselling or therapy is available in Brisbane, and it is generally delivered through group counselling sessions, including the members of the family. It can be tailored to meet your family’s specific needs. Many psychologists in Brisbane who offer family therapy also have experience working with individuals presenting with a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression and trauma.
You can find a Family Therapist online and call or send them an online booking request to learn about their experience, fees and availability. Ensuring that the psychologist you choose is trained and experienced in family therapy is crucial for successful outcomes.
