Sometimes a family problem masquerades as an individual problem. At first glance, it may look like a child or teenager who is acting out. In reality, the behavior is likely a reaction to a problem in the marriage or the presence of some malady in the home such as addiction, illness, or stress. Treatment focus combines individual and family therapy.
LifeWork clinicians trained in family systems therapy treat whole families by assessing structure and boundaries, identifying symptoms and stressors, and implementing strategies that family members can use to solve problems. The methods employed include play therapy, drama, psycho-education, training in communication and conflict-resolution. The goal is to help family members to change how they interact in order to understand each other and make the necessary adjustments that facilitate change and increase harmony and respect.
Family counseling treats some of the following:
- Clarifying roles and responsibilities of parents
- Clarifying roles and responsibilities of children
- Communicating properly
- Emphasis on mutual respect
- Establishing boundaries
- Eliminating power struggles aka “tug-o-war”
- Managing emotions
- Managing behavior