Families can look very different. Some are big, some are small. Each family has its own way of doing things and talking to each other. The way your family works can be shaped by your parents, their personalities, how they were raised, and many other things. Your family plays a big role in how you grow—emotionally, physically, and even spiritually.
Sometimes, families have problems. This is called “dysfunction.” When a family has trouble getting along or working together, family therapy can help. Family therapy is when a trained therapist works with your whole family to bring back peace and balance. Almost every family struggles at some point. Some can fix things on their own, but many families need extra help to feel happy and whole again.
When your family first goes to therapy, the therapist usually meets with everyone together. They listen to each person’s story, learn what problems your family is facing, and ask about your goals. They also watch how your family members talk and act with each other. After that, the therapist makes a plan to help your family work on its problems.
Sometimes, not every family member comes to every session. The therapist might ask some people to come alone or suggest that you also have individual counseling. You might even get “homework,” like trying new ways to talk to each other or solving small problems at home. As your family works on the plan, you’ll learn to understand your role in the family, notice what causes fights, and find ways to handle problems better.
Family therapy can help with many things, like:
- Arguments between parents and kids
- Sibling fights
- Stress from illness or big life changes
- Marital problems
- Preparing for adoption, marriage, or divorce
- Learning how your actions affect others
- Improving communication and problem-solving skills
- Making your family stronger and closer
Family therapy gives your family tools to fix problems and grow together. It can even connect you to new resources and skills that will help now and in the future. Over time, your family can become more balanced, happier, and better at working as a team.