What does family therapy really mean?

Family therapy is a field that is often misunderstood.  Family therapy is not something that only families with serious problems undergo.  Family therapy is, instead, one way for parents and children to look at and move past issues that are keeping them from interacting with each other in healthy ways.  That's a basic definition of family therapy.

Right now you may be wondering about family therapy because you feel like certain problems—health issues, parent-child conflict, work problems, marital difficulties—are threatening to spin out of control and significantly damage your family.  Here are some answers to questions you may have about family therapy.

What is family therapy?

Family therapy is a type of psychotherapy that's provided by a trained professional.  Family therapy's aim is to help families become aware of the problems they're facing and to interact with each other in healthier ways, so that conflict moves them towards better mutual understanding.

What kind of families go to family therapy?

Family therapy is for any family that is struggling, regardless of class, race, or religion.  Put simply, family therapy is for any family whose members want to find better ways of getting along with each other.

How long does family therapy last?

Family therapy is usually fairly short term.  Families usually attend one session per week, for a few months.  But this can vary depending on your situation.

What kinds of issues does family therapy address?

Essentially, family therapy helps you address whatever issues are affecting your family.  Marital problems, eating disorders, addiction issues, emotional problems, grief, parenting struggles, financial challenges:  All of these (and many more) could be addressed in a family therapy session.

How do I find a professional to provide family therapy?

Family therapists are often well connected in their communities.  Just talk to your primary care physician, a school counselor, or to friends or family members who are aware of your situation.  Ask them for the name of a family therapist.  If you'd like to keep the matter of family therapy private, talk to your insurance provider, or call a neighborhood outreach center with ties in your community.

Additional Resources:
http://www.healthfinder.gov/orgs/HR2417.htm
http://marriage.rutgers.edu
http://marriageandfamilies.byu.edu/
http://www.acf.hhs.gov/healthymarriage/