Family Therapy is used to reduce distress and conflict by improving the interactions between family members. As a family therapist it is preferable to have all family members present, but I also recognize that it is not always possible. The difference between family therapy and individual therapy is how the problems are viewed as a pattern or systems that need adjustment.

Some of the common reasons for seeking family therapy include:

• parent-child conflict
• trauma or major life transition that impacts the family (moving, loss, incarceration of a family member etc…)
• Adjustment of a new family member
• domestic violence
• divorce
• parent conflict

There are many positive outcomes to family therapy:

• builds empathy and understanding
• reduces family conflict
• develops and maintain healthy boundaries
• promotes problem solving through understanding of family patterns and dynamics
• fosters cohesion and communication among family members