Working With A Family Doctor

Family therapists are trained to work with entire families. They can address issues that individuals are struggling with inside of those families, and they can also address dynamics that are affecting relationships within the family. Even families who are not in crisis can often benefit from working with a family therapist to improve their relational skills. So, what are some signs your family should seek therapy, sooner rather than later? Take a look.

You're not talking about your problems.

Do you have a sense that something is bothering multiple family members, yet nobody seems like they want to talk about it? This might feel like you're all trying to avoid your problems rather than voice and solve them. Refusing to talk about it is not healthy, as eventually these problems will grow larger and start really weighing on all of you. A therapist can help you and your family members develop the communication skills necessary to talk about your problems, rather than just letting them stew beneath the surface.

Substance abuse.

Does someone in your family seem to be using alcohol or another substance to excess? Maybe this is a problem with multiple family members. Substance abuse is often treated as if it is an individual problem, when really, it is an issue that affects the whole family. Seeking family therapy can help ensure that the person who is abusing substances gets help, but that others in the family also learn how to best care for and support the individual who is abusing substances. In therapy, you may uncover some unhealthy dynamics that have perpetuated the substance abuse so you can then address them.

Traumatic events.

Did your family recently lose someone close? Maybe you were all in a car crash, or perhaps you were the victims of a crime. Trauma has a way of haunting families, turning up years later in ways you did not expect. However, if you seek family therapy earlier, you can work with a professional to process that trauma together. This will help you avoid bigger problems like depression, anxiety, and PTSD down the road, and it will also unite you as a family. 

Family therapy can be a great way to ensure you and your family members get the care and mental health support you/they need. There is something undeniably special about working through things together as a family, and that's exactly what a therapist can help you do.