Family therapy is defined as a branch of psychotherapy in which close relationships within the family are explored in order to promote change and development. The relationships individuals establish with others hold great importance for mental health and emotional satisfaction. This role becomes even more apparent in close relationships such as those with parents, spouses, and children. In marital relationships, which are among the closest forms of connection, couples may experience conflicts and challenging periods.
The aim of family therapy is to address and resolve the challenging processes experienced within the family and to promote growth. It includes regulating family relationships as well as adjusting relationships with others.
What Is Family Therapy?
It is a therapeutic method in which psychological issues and interpersonal problems present within relationships are addressed through interaction. The goal is to resolve problems between couples as well as difficulties between parents and children. It is a highly effective process and widely used by families around the world.
Almost every family experiences certain difficulties at times. These difficulties may sometimes lead situations into dead ends, negatively affecting the flow of life. To resolve issues within the family, individuals seek therapy to help regulate thoughts and behaviors.
Who Can Benefit From Family Therapy?
Anyone experiencing difficulties in family or couple relationships can benefit from this therapy. It is widely accessible and commonly used. In general, the aims of Family Therapy include:
- Couple therapy
- Marital problems
- Divorce
- Child and adolescent mental health
- Eating disorders
- Substance use
- Changes in family life
- Anxiety and depression
- Parenting skills
- Psychosexual difficulties
- Adoption
- Self-harming behaviors
- Support for migrant families
- Work-related stress
- Financial difficulties
- Loss, grief, and trauma
- Emotional abuse and violence
- Blended families and stepfamily dynamics
- Self-harming behaviors
- Chronic physical illnesses
When Should Family Therapy Be Considered?
Therapy is recommended if one or more of the following situations are present:
- Frequent conflict with your partner
- Your partner’s behaviors you wish to change feel overwhelming
- You often think “I wish we had never been together”
- Daily problems have become major conflicts
- Lack of sexual desire
- One partner consistently feels alone
- Academic difficulties in children
- Weak family bonds
- Alcohol or substance use
- Eating disorders or suicide attempts
- Tension, restlessness, or unhappiness
- Behavioral or psychological problems in children
- Anger cannot be expressed constructively
- Communication breakdown within the family
- A family member acting in ways inappropriate to their age or role
How Many Sessions Does Family Therapy Take?
First, the core issue within the family is assessed. Generally, therapy lasts between 8 and 20 sessions. However, the duration may vary depending on the specific needs and difficulties of each family.
What Are the Benefits of Family Therapy?
Negative behaviors within the family may lead to disconnection over time. For this reason, families often turn to therapy. Through therapy, communication problems, lack of empathy, behavioral issues, and psychological difficulties are addressed.
Family members begin to form healthier bonds. The aim is for them to communicate more effectively and understand one another. When progress is made in this direction, family problems can be resolved, and a more peaceful environment can be created.
