Family therapy helps members address issues that affect the psychological health of everyone in the family unit. Families transition over time and many life stages can introduce different challenges. The mental health issues of one family member can impact others. Unhelpful patterns of relating, ongoing conflict, changes to the composition of the family, among other life events, can result in destabilization and even lead to dysfunction.

Families can benefit from therapy when they experience any stressful life event that may strain relationships. Separation, divorce, remarriage, the introduction of step-siblings, and the death of a loved one often prompt people to seek family therapy. 

When mental health concerns are significant, it can impact the entire family. Problems such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, substance abuse, chronic illness, and other difficulties of one family member can affect the functioning of the whole family. Coming together to set boundaries, create plans, and identify effective familial coping skills can transform a tense home environment to one where everyone feels safe and supported.

Day-to-day concerns, such communication problems, interpersonal conflict, or behavioral problems in children and adolescents are also common reasons for utilizing family therapy.

Family therapy sessions last between 55-60 minutes, unless otherwise determined by your clinician and based on the ages and number of family members participating.