Family therapy
What is family counselling?
Family counselling offers a safe environment for families to work through challenges, share perspectives, enhance communication, and rebuild stronger relationships. Developed in the 1960s, family counselling or therapy differs from other forms of counselling, as it focuses on the family itself and the relationships between each member, rather than a single person. Families have their own power structures and dynamics, rituals, hidden meanings, and ways of thinking about the world. Actions by a single member usually trigger a cascade of reactions that can last for years. While rituals and shared values are good, they can also be too rigid and prevent positive change from happening. Family counselling looks at what works and what does not work for the family and then works with the family as a whole to make improvements that benefit all. Our strength-based approach builds on top of the things that work to address things that can be improved.
Common scenarios
Family counselling can effectively address these scenarios:
- Relationship conflicts, such as parent-child conflict or sibling conflict
- Adjusting to a new life change (like moving) or a (mental) health condition
- Breakdown of family relationships
- Managing different opinions and values of family members
Who is it for?
All family members, from children to adults, can participate in family counselling. We help all types of families, from immediate family members to blended, extended families, and caregivers.
What to expect?
Family counselling sessions run between 60 and 90 minutes. To achieve the best outcomes, all family members should attend every session. Sometimes, it may be better to talk to a family member alone, e.g., when they have trouble expressing their views in front of the group.