Family Therapy
A well-oiled machine?
That’s right. Your family is like a highly sophisticated machine.
And each member plays a crucial role in its proper function.
That is, each family member’s behavior affects that of the other members.
Patterns emerge.
But some patterns aren’t very healthy or helpful.
Have you noticed that, when one member’s in a bad mood, it’s like a dark cloud has overshadowed the entire house?
Perhaps siblings can’t help but argue at dinner time – yet seem to get along fine interacting on their own.
One parent is identified as problematic, controlling, or hard to connect with, whereas the other parent is seen in a mostly positive light.
Or maybe grandparents who get involved create conflict when they undermine parental authority.
But WHO wouldn’t want their family to get along?!
No one, of course.
But it takes more than good intentions.
Often, the most problematic interactions actually result from an attempt to reduce conflict, resolve a problem, or meet a need.
Unfortunately, somehow, you end up with the opposite effect.
Desire alone doesn’t equal harmony.
Communication breaks down.
Emotions run high.
The problem only gets worse.
Discord reigns supreme.
Instead of feeling better, you end up feeling worse.
Disheartened.
Hurt.
Confused.
How can you ever bring your family together and move forward?
Time for a tune up.
Even the best of machines can burn out if you don’t give it proper care and attention – from a skilled mechanic.
That’s where therapy comes in.
Together, let’s learn what makes your family “tick.”
With the right set of tools, you can keep that well-oiled machine humming.
And that’s a sweet, sweet sound.
Communicate better because everyone is speaking the same language.
Manage structure in the home because you’ve set clear rules and expectations.
Manage conflict more effectively.
Intervene before issues arise.
When the machine works properly, there’s little it can’t do.
You’ll be prepared.
You’ll successfully navigate life experiences – honoring everyone’s perspectives.
You’ll compassionately process death, loss, or changes in the family – divorce, separation, joining two families.
Who participates?
Typically, family therapy includes the members of your immediate family – parents and children (depending on their ages).
But it can also include extended family – grandparents or other primary caretakers (depending on their level of involvement in achieving the treatment goals).
We can use it as a stand-alone treatment or as a supplement to other approaches, including individual or group therapy.
Two visions of the future.
Stop for a moment.
Close your eyes.
Try to envision what your family will look like on its current path.
Now blink – and try again.
Try to envision what you dream your family could be.
How close are the visions?
What will become of your family – if things continue as they are?
It’s not enough just to hope that change will occur – you have to take action.
But you’re not alone in making changes.
You’ve already taken the hardest step – you’re here.
Let’s get that machine humming.
Give me a call, send me an email, or fill out the form below.
Let’s talk. We’ll get to know each other – discover whether we’re a good fit.
And then, together, we’ll start working on discovering how different family life could be.
All services are offered in English or Español. Contact us today!