Families are made of people who should support and love one another. However, there are times when different opinions and unfortunate circumstances cause family members to hurt one another or fall out of touch. Family therapy with the relationship counselors at McLean Counseling Center can help you and your family reconnect and understand each other. All it takes is some hard work and guidance for families to be happy again. A McLean family therapist can help reconcile and improve your family’s relationship over time. There is also family therapy for grieving families who are dealing with the loss of a loved one.
All families experience issues, problems, stressors, and struggles over time. Common family struggles and stressors include discipline problems, issues with communication, parenting concerns, adjustment to divorce or new living situations, or problems acclimating to being a blended family. There are practical methods to aid in improving family life for those who are experiencing struggles. Parents should keep in mind that teenagers may become closed off, but they can, and they will, talk about struggles and issues that they are experiencing. Family members should be seen as allies in navigating through difficulties.
Family therapy can help families through any stressful time. But some of the most common reasons to seek family therapy include:
Whether your family is experiencing a major upheaval or is simply going through a rough patch, McLean Counseling Center is here to help with our family therapy services. Communication is key to resolving issues within the family. A lack of clear and effective communication can lead to dysfunction. Communication may suffer due to:
These issues usually increase and arise when members of the family become angry or frustrated, which then leads to blaming and withdrawal from the situation. Withdrawing from communication leads to avoidance of problems and thus, the problems are never solved.
There are several myths regarding family life. These myths lead parents to believe that they should not seek treatment for problems that would be significantly easier to navigate with the aid of therapy. These myths include:
Family therapy in McLean may allow for the development of more effective communication between teenagers and their parents. Therapists may also increase the parents’ and teenagers’ abilities to implement effective problem-solving skills. Further, therapists may aid parents in the establishment of better and more effective strategies for discipline, resolving issues between adolescents and their family members, and aid in the adjustment to changes in family dynamics (e.g., divorce, separation, marriage, moving, and/or financial changes)
This type of counseling mainly deals with family members and couples who are experiencing issues communicating and understanding each other. It can also help family members who have had a falling out or a misunderstanding that has severely damaged the relationship. These sessions aim to show each member how important their family actually is and why their relationship is worth fighting for. The key to setting a solid foundation for a new relationship in these circumstances often involves getting several family members involved in the solution.
During family therapy counseling in McLean, all grievances and personal opinions are laid out on the table. These issues are discussed openly and without judgment or criticism. The main intention of family therapy counseling is to make sure that each member has the chance to voice their opinion and clear the air about miscommunications. Once everyone has had a chance to speak, the healing process can truly begin.
Our providers offer a variety of expertise that allows us to address the unique needs of children, teens, and families. We understand that children and adolescents have very different therapeutic needs than adults do. That’s why we adapt our treatment methods to best support children and teens.
In a family setting, our McLean team sees therapy as an opportunity to foster openness and learning. Our therapists are there to support your family through difficult transitions and to talk about difficult topics–not to assign blame.
Depending on your situation, we can provide traditional talk therapy or more tailored approaches. When necessary and appropriate, we may recommend medication to support therapeutic measures. Rest assured, we always discuss treatment options with parents beforehand.
Our providers’ specialties include treating ADHD, behavioral issues, trauma, and selective mutism in children and adolescents. Your child’s treatment may include tailored therapies such as trauma-focused therapy, attachment-based therapy, sand tray therapy, and child-centered play therapy. This diverse approach can help children and teens express themselves and articulate their struggles.
Growing up is never easy. But if your child or teen is exhibiting any of these behaviors, they might benefit from seeing a therapist:
Parents often see therapy as a last resort for their child. But a therapist can help smooth out the regular ups and downs of growing up, especially in adolescence. Even if your teenager’s struggles seem within the range of “normal,” you may want to talk to them about seeing a therapist.
McLean Counseling Center is proud to provide mental health services for all ages, from children all the way to adulthood. We also provide therapy for families of all shapes and sizes. Parents often feel hesitant to seek therapy for their children or family. It can be difficult to know whether therapy is the right choice for them. But knowing a bit about the process can go a long way in helping them feel comfortable and confident when seeking mental health services. Contact us today to schedule a session.
