What is Family Therapy?
Family therapy is a supportive space where all family members can come together to address challenges and find solutions.
No matter your family's size or background, everyone has a role in creating positive change.
At Resilient Health, our therapists use a family systems approach, which means we focus on understanding how family dynamics influence each member's experiences and behaviours.
Our goal is to support the family as a whole, fostering healthier relationships and communication.
What to Expect
Issues Addressed in Family Therapy
From improving communication to navigating complex emotions, each issue plays a vital role in family dynamics. We aim to provide insight into how therapy can foster understanding and healing, creating a stronger foundation for your family.
Communication Breakdown
One of the most common challenges in family therapy is communication. This process helps each family member identify where misunderstandings occur and teaches effective communication strategies to improve interactions.
Anger
Anger can lead to unhelpful behaviours such as aggression, name-calling, sarcasm, passive aggression, defensiveness, and stonewalling. Family therapy helps address these feelings and encourages healthier ways to express emotions.
Power Struggles
Power struggles can make it hard for family members to communicate directly and assertively. Instead, individuals may become manipulative, indirect, or avoidant. Therapy helps navigate these struggles and fosters a more open dialogue.
Emotional Withdrawal
When communication breaks down, family members may withdraw emotionally. This can lead to feelings of isolation and neglect, making it difficult to maintain close relationships.
Misinterpretation
Misunderstandings can arise from unclear messages or assumptions. Family therapy helps clarify intentions and encourages members to ask questions rather than jump to conclusions.
Lack of Empathy
Poor communication can result in a lack of empathy, where family members struggle to understand each other's feelings and perspectives. Therapy fosters empathy by encouraging active listening and open discussion.
Resentment
Unresolved issues can build resentment over time. When family members feel unheard or invalidated, it can create a toxic environment that further hinders communication.
Anxiety and Fear
Fear of conflict or negative reactions can prevent family members from expressing themselves openly. Therapy provides a safe space for individuals to voice their concerns without fear of judgment.
Conflict Resolution
Conflict resolution teaches important skills such as compromising, being open-minded, expressing oneself in a healthy way, and negotiating with respect. These skills help families solve disputes more effectively.
Behavioural Issues
Behavioural problems may arise in children or adolescents who are defiant or aggressive. Sometimes, a young person might play one parent against the other, which can create tension. Therapy helps parents develop and maintain supportive behavioural plans for their children.
Setting Boundaries
Every family member has individual needs that should be respected. Therapy helps establish healthy boundaries that allow each person to express their needs while maintaining mutual respect within the family.
Change and Transition
Life changes – such as separation, moving, welcoming a new child, or navigating retirement – can be challenging for families. Therapy provides support during these transitions and helps family members adjust more smoothly.
Blending Families
Combining two households can be emotionally complex. When two people with children come together, it often requires an unbiased third party to help mediate differences and plan for a successful blend of families.
Individual Permission
Family members often need to give themselves permission to care for their own well-being while also supporting their loved ones in a healthy way. Therapy encourages individuals to prioritize their needs alongside family responsibilities.
Mental Health Issues
Supporting a family member with significant mental health challenges, such as personality disorders, can be tough. Our team is experienced in mental health issues and includes family members in the treatment process to create a comprehensive support plan tailored to each individual's journey.
Trust Issues
Trust can be a significant factor in family relationships. Therapy can help address breaches of trust, such as infidelity or dishonesty, and work towards rebuilding a sense of safety and openness among family members.
Grief and Loss
Families often need support when dealing with grief, whether from the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or other significant changes. Therapy can provide a space to process these emotions together.
Schedule Your Family Therapy Appointment
Have questions? Reach out for more information about our services.
Our Approach
Our therapists offer an unbiased view and focus on solutions to help your family make positive changes.
Calm & Analytical
Our therapists help you see situations more calmly and clearly. This helps you understand how family members interact and shows you how to improve those relationships.
Open & Clear
We provide a space for open communication, with a professional to keep discussions respectful and clear. Family therapy is mainly about talking, and it works best when everyone participates by sharing their thoughts and giving feedback. You may also have homework and readings to do, as real change happens in your daily life.
Understanding
Issues like mental health or addiction can make family life more complicated. Our therapists help you identify problems such as poor communication and negative feelings like resentment and anger.
Unbiased & Equal
Our team is fair, kind, and honest with every family member. We aim to create a supportive environment where everyone feels heard and valued.
Supplementary Care
We believe in the strength of families and know the importance of addressing their challenges. Our team includes psychologists, social workers, and counsellors who are here to support you and your loved ones.
Family Therapy may be a great fit for you, but families also face a variety of issues at home and from outside influences. Unaddressed mental health problems and unresolved addiction are just two common causes of family struggles.
Specialized Treatment Options
We offer specialized treatment options to help families navigate these challenges.
Group and family consultation
Opportunities for families to share experiences and learn together in a supportive environment.
Assessments
Comprehensive evaluations to better understand your family's needs and strengths.
Couple and sex therapy
Focused support for couples navigating relationship challenges.
Addiction counselling
Assistance for families affected by substance use issues, promoting healing and recovery.
Inpatient treatment
Referrals to secure intensive support for families needing round-the-clock care.
Public healthcare
Help finding access to services that are available through community health programmes.
By choosing Resilient Health, you gain access to a diverse team equipped to provide tailored support including Care Management and Home Based Recovery programs.
Family Therapy FAQs
View all FAQs-
During family therapy, will you meet with my entire family at once?
While your therapist will usually meet with the entire family, there may be times when they meet with only a few members to address specific issues between them.
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How often do we need to attend family therapy sessions?
Family therapy is most effective when sessions are held regularly. Initially, it’s important to meet weekly or every other week. Once you’ve made progress and reached some goals, you may be able to reduce the frequency to monthly check-ins.
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How long are family therapy sessions?
Family therapy sessions typically last either 60 or 90 minutes, depending on your family's needs.
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What should we expect during our first family therapy session?
In the first session, your therapist will typically gather information about your family dynamics, concerns, and goals for therapy. This is an opportunity for all family members to share their perspectives.
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Do we all need to attend every session?
While your therapist will usually meet with the entire family, there may be times when they meet with only a few members to address specific issues between them.
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Is family therapy confidential?
Yes, family therapy sessions are confidential. However, the therapist may discuss certain limits to confidentiality, especially if there are concerns about safety or risk.
Victoria Family Therapy
Find the right fit.
It’s important to find the right fit with your therapist for effective progress. Take a moment to explore our team, or contact us to scheduling your first visit.