Therapy with a Family

Families exist in many forms; nuclear, single parent, step, gay parent,
multi-racial, adoptive, sibling, surrogate, grandparent, foster, family of choice,
communal, extended, multigenerational, childless couple, single adults,
tribe, to name a few.

When a family comes to therapy, something isn’t working and they need help figuring out what to do. Often this involves helping them adapt to new ways of living together because of growth and development, an unexpected event or a trauma.

Typically, family problems are variations of:

The task of therapy is to determine what changes or adjustments the members need to make
and to support them through these changes. My basic style with families is similar to my work with individuals and couples. The difference is often that the issues are more complex and the therapy room, more crowded! It is important for me to orient the family to therapy, maintain a
good relationship with each member, provide a neutral and supportive environment in which all are heard, be directive when needed, and set clear goals and a treatment contract, involving all family members present. It is often dynamic, interactive and productive.