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 a therapist 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. I 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, therapy can help.
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