Family therapy
Family Therapy is a branch of psychotherapy that focuses on the interactions between family members, viewing the family as a unified system where each member influences the others. This approach helps identify and change dysfunctional communication patterns, resolve conflicts, strengthen bonds, and improve the overall emotional climate within the family.
The primary goals of family therapy are:
Improving understanding — creating a space for open and safe discussions of thoughts and feelings from each family member.
Conflict resolution — analyzing the causes of tension and developing effective strategies to address them.
Strengthening relationships — teaching new behavior models that promote cooperation, trust, and support.
Adaptation to changes — helping the family navigate through crisis periods, such as divorce, loss, relocation, or other significant life changes.
Family therapy is based on various theoretical approaches, such as systems theory, structural family therapy, strategic therapy, or attachment theory. It can be effective for addressing issues like intergenerational conflicts, parenting difficulties, overcoming addictions, and providing support during crises.
Gurman, A. S., & Kniskern, D. P. (Eds.). (1991). Handbook of Family Therapy (Vol. 2). Brunner/Mazel.
Nichols, M. P., & Schwartz, R. C. (2006). Family Therapy: Concepts and Methods (7th ed.). Pearson/Allyn & Bacon.
Goldenberg, I., & Goldenberg, H. (2013). Family Therapy: An Overview (8th ed.). Cengage Learning.