Theresa Sheremeta

Family therapy is a form of psychotherapy that addresses the psychological health of a family or a group. Rather than focusing on individuals, family therapy takes a systemic approach, looking at family members collectively to understand how relational dynamics affect each person. By examining family patterns, interactions, and roles, family therapists help families develop healthier ways to communicate, support each other, and resolve conflicts.

Here, we’ll explore family therapy, why it’s helpful, and some of the common techniques that therapists use in this form of therapy.

What is Family Therapy?

Family therapy involves a licensed therapist working with two or more family members, such as a couple, a parent and child, or the whole family. Family therapists often use insights from various psychological approaches, including cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and systemic perspectives, to address familial relationships.

The goal of family therapy can vary depending on the family’s needs. It might involve helping members improve communication, rebuild trust, resolve conflict, or navigate major transitions such as divorce, bereavement, or illness.

Common Family Therapy Techniques and Strategies

1. Structural Family Therapy (SFT):

Structural Family Therapy (SFT) is a therapeutic approach developed by Salvador Minuchin. SFT is based on the concept that a family’s structure influences each member’s behavior and emotional wellbeing. The therapist works to identify and modify dysfunctional patterns within a family by restructuring the family dynamics.

Strategies Used in SFT:

– Mapping Family Structure: The therapist observes and charts interactions and alliances within the family, such as coalitions or power imbalances.

– Joining and Accommodating: The therapist builds rapport with family members and adapts to their communication style.

– Restructuring Interactions: The therapist encourages changes in behavior, setting boundaries and reestablishing hierarchies, such as reinforcing parental authority or clarifying sibling roles.

2. Bowenian Family Therapy:

Bowenian Family Therapy, developed by Murray Bowen, emphasizes the emotional system of the family, particularly the intergenerational transmission of patterns. Bowen believed that unresolved issues within one’s family of origin could affect an individual’s relationships later in life.

Strategies Used in Bowenian Therapy:

– Differentiation of Self: The therapist encourages family members to separate their emotions from those of others and develop their own identity.

– Triangulation: Triangulation occurs when a third person is drawn into a two-person conflict, which can relieve tension but also perpetuate unhealthy dynamics. The therapist works to identify and address these triangles.

– Family Projection Process: Bowenian therapists explore how parental anxieties are passed down, helping family members break this cycle.

3. Narrative Family Therapy:

Narrative therapy, pioneered by Michael White and David Epston, centers around the idea that people interpret their lives through personal narratives. In this approach, the therapist works with family members to identify negative or harmful stories they may be telling about themselves and each other and then helps them to “re-author” these stories.

Strategies Used in Narrative Therapy:

– Externalization: The therapist encourages family members to view problems as external, rather than internal. This helps to separate the person from the problem, reducing blame and fostering collaboration.

– Re-authoring Conversations: Family members are invited to explore their values, strengths, and positive attributes, enabling them to develop a new narrative that promotes healing and unity.

– Unique Outcomes: The therapist identifies exceptions to the family’s dominant story, highlighting times when family members acted in ways that contrast with the problem-saturated narrative.

4. Solution-Focused Family Therapy:

Solution-Focused Family Therapy is a short-term approach focused on identifying and enhancing family strengths. The therapist emphasizes the family’s resources and abilities rather than spending extensive time analyzing problems.

Strategies Used in Solution-Focused Therapy:

– Miracle Question: Family members are asked to envision what life would look like if a “miracle” happened and their problems were resolved. This encourages them to articulate their goals.

– Scaling Questions: Family members rate their current situation on a scale, which helps them to measure progress and recognize improvements.

– Goal-Oriented Conversations: The therapist works with the family to set achievable goals and to identify specific, small changes that will contribute to those goals.

5. Cognitive-Behavioral Family Therapy (CBFT)

Cognitive-Behavioral Family Therapy combines principles of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with family therapy techniques. CBFT aims to change negative thought patterns and behaviors within family interactions.

Strategies Used in CBFT:

– Behavioral Contracting: Family members agree on specific behaviors they will each try to change, making a clear commitment to modify problematic behavior.

– Cognitive Restructuring: Family members work with the therapist to identify and alter negative thought patterns or assumptions about each other.

– Skills Training: The therapist teaches family members communication and problem-solving skills to help them express themselves more constructively.

6. Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFFT)

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a therapeutic approach that focuses on understanding and regulating emotions within the family unit. By addressing the underlying emotional needs and attachment bonds between family members, EFFT aims to improve relationships and deepen trust.

Strategies Used in EFFT:

– Emotion Identification and Validation: The therapist helps family members recognize and express their emotions in a safe environment.

– Attachment-Based Interventions: The therapist explores attachment bonds, helping family members to create more secure, supportive relationships.

– Reframing Negative Interactions: Negative cycles of behavior are examined and reframed, helping family members move toward positive patterns of interaction

Benefits of Family Therapy

Family therapy can lead to improved communication, stronger relationships, and better individual mental health outcomes. It helps families navigate complex life transitions, manage stressors, and work through conflicts constructively. By addressing underlying dynamics and

unresolved issues, family therapy provides a platform for family members to grow, heal, and rebuild their connections.

Family therapy offers a unique approach to treating issues that affect not just individuals, but entire families. With techniques tailored to address the unique complexities of family dynamics, therapists empower families to foster healthier relationships. Each therapeutic strategy brings its own strengths, from cognitive restructuring and solution-focused exercises to emotionally centered, attachment-based approaches. With the support of a skilled therapist, families can make lasting changes that enhance their well-being, communication, and resilience.