FAMILY THERAPY
Family therapy is an important area of psychotherapy aimed at improving relationships and resolving conflicts within the family. It helps family members better understand each other, communicate effectively, and overcome life's difficulties together.
What is family therapy?
Family therapy is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on the interactions between family members. It views the family as a system where each member influences the others, and changes in the behavior of one member can affect the entire family. The main goal of family therapy is to create a harmonious environment where all family members feel heard and understood.
How psychoanalysis sees family problems and their solutions
The work of a psychoanalytic family psychologist is based on the recognition of the ubiquity of unconscious conflict and the understanding that when a person finds himself in relationships with others, he brings to these relationships "behavioral strategies" formed in early childhood. In the parental family, the person's psyche, his ways of communicating, ideals, desires and needs are formed, and then, building any relationships, he uses these strategies and tactics to build relationships with other people. The clash of strategies and tactics is inevitable and disadvantageous, but not critical if a person has the skill of reaching a compromise. If this skill is poorly developed, it can be developed in work with a specialist.
When should you seek a family therapist?
Family therapy can be helpful in a variety of situations, including:
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Conflicts between spouses: constant quarrels, misunderstandings, or alienation.
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Problems in parent-child relationships: difficulties in upbringing, disobedience, teenage crises.
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Family crises: loss of a loved one, divorce, serious illness.
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Trust issues: betrayal, jealousy, deception.
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Communication problems: inability to express feelings and needs.
Main approaches in family therapy
Family therapy process
1
Evaluation
The therapist gathers information about the family, its history, and current problems.
3
Intervention
The therapist uses various techniques and strategies to achieve the goals set.
2
Setting goals
Specific therapy goals are established together with the family.
4
Progress assessment
Progress is regularly assessed and, if necessary, the therapy plan is adjusted.
The duration of therapy depends on the complexity of the problems and the motivation of family members to change. Some families achieve significant improvements in just a few sessions, while others may need more time.
