Family Therapy:

A Family may be comprised of children, parents, adult siblings, grandparents and other extended relatives. Many times people include non-genetically related individuals in families like step and foster siblings. In the case of family businesses, the relationships are frequently even more multifaceted. In any case, there are differing opinions, attitudes, ideas, and cultures all trying to assert themselves as individuals, in an environment in which the ideal is a thoughtful blending of each individual.

When families stop working on a mutually agreed upon common goal, the results affect all the members. If the more aggressive members insist upon their way, the dissatisfaction and frustration leads to unhappiness and a breakdown in communication. Many times adult siblings need to work together in decisions about the care of their ageing parents. Differences in financial security, leisure time and other commitments can make a “team approach” difficult at best.

Personal problems can also prevent family members from working as a group effectively. Bipolar and Unipolar Depression are frequent conditions which can interfere with family decision making and cause dysfunction. Having a child with a serious medical or emotional problem can also prevent a family member from having the emotional resources necessary to effectively participate in family discussions and plans.

Improving communication is the foundation of improving family relationships. First, identify the problem(s) as specifically as possible; second, consider all possible solutions to the problem(s) whether they are viable or not; third, identify the positive and negative aspects of communication, including verbal, non-verbal, and body language. Having a non-family member facilitates this process. Taking the burden from any one member for the fourth step involves summarizing the first three steps to come up with a workable solution for the problem/s. If your family is having difficulties getting along and communicating, please contact me to see if your family is appropriate for telephone or online family counseling.