Our family lives can be tremendously gratifying and enriching. They can also become a source of tension, especially during periods of stress. Such responses to stress are often normal, but you may need some help from time to time. Families seek the support of psychotherapy for many reasons. Most come wishing to resolve chronic tensions that have developed with certain members or the family as a whole. Sometimes these tensions are fueled by change and loss, and at other times, long-standing difficulties in mediating competing or conflicting needs within the family. We understand how inevitable these kinds of hardships can be, even among families that love each other deeply.
If you’re struggling with your brother, sister, parents, nuclear, extended, chosen or step-family, psychotherapy can help. The FAQ, Philosophy and How to Select a Therapist pages may also be helpful in answering questions.
Families often seek assistance for:
- A history of abuse
- Addiction or problematic drug and alcohol use
- Adjustments to change related to losses, separation, adoption, marriage, remarriage, separation, divorce, relocation or financial or employment stresses
- Care of children with special needs, aging parents or an ill family member
- A child’s transition to adolescence or young adulthood
- Changes in family structure
- Conflicts between siblings or parents
- Difficulties with anger and emotional regulation
- Difficulties with schooling
- Difficulties with step and co-parenting or creating a blended family
- Divorce
- Grief and loss
- Parenting conflicts or difficulties
- Separation and loss
- The need to develop better coping and problem-solving skills or more family structure
- Stressful transitions