Family Therapy Techniques: What To Expect

Family therapy, also known as family counseling or systemic therapy, can be a transformative experience for families facing various challenges. If you’re considering family therapy or have been recommended to attend sessions, you might be wondering what to expect.

In this post, we’ll explore the two primary approaches to family therapy—Structural and Strategic Family Therapy—and delve into the family therapy techniques commonly used in each. We’ll also discuss situations when family therapy may not be the most suitable option.

Structural vs Strategic Family Therapy

Family therapy is a versatile approach that aims to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and foster healthier relationships within the family unit. Two prominent models, Structural and Strategic Family Therapy, offer unique perspectives and techniques for achieving these goals.

Structural Family Therapy:

In Structural Family Therapy, the focus is on the family’s structure and organization. Therapists using these family therapy techniques often view family problems as stemming from a dysfunctional family structure. They believe that by restructuring and reorganizing family dynamics, issues can be resolved, partnerships can flourish, and growth in children can be empowered.

Key Structural Family Therapy techniques and aspects include:

Assessment of family roles: The therapist examines the roles each family member plays within the unit and how these roles contribute to problems.

Hierarchy: Evaluating the power dynamics and hierarchies within the family to ensure a balanced distribution of authority.

Boundaries: Identifying and redefining boundaries within the family, ensuring they are healthy and appropriate.

Change through action: Encouraging family members to enact change within the family structure to address problems effectively.

Strategic Family Therapy:

In contrast, Strategic Family Therapy focuses on how the family interacts and communicates. Therapists in this approach believe that problems often arise from ineffective communication patterns and interactions within the family.

Key Strategic Family Therapy techniques and aspects include:

Problem-solving: Addressing specific issues and developing strategies to resolve them, often through directives or tasks given to family members.

Change through paradoxes: Therapists might use paradoxical interventions to help families see their problems from a different perspective, promoting change.

Communication improvement: Teaching family members effective communication skills to reduce conflicts and improve understanding.

Strategic Family Therapy Techniques

Now, let’s dive deeper into some common techniques used in Strategic Family Therapy.

Therapists use circular questions to explore family dynamics and understand how each member perceives the issue at hand. In some cases, therapists may “prescribe” the symptom, suggesting that the family continue their problematic behavior to highlight its negative effects. With reframing, a therapist may work with a family to change the way a problem is viewed, helping members of the family to see it from a different and more constructive angle, helping avoid perspectives that can cause conflict, anger, or anxiety.

Structural Family Therapy Techniques

Structural Family Therapy employs several different techniques designed to reorganize family dynamics:

With joining, the therapist establishes rapport with the family members to gain their trust and understanding of the family’s structure. During enactment, family members act out conflicts or scenarios in the therapy session to help the therapist observe and understand their dynamics. Finally, with restructuring, the therapist guides the family in redefining roles, boundaries, and hierarchies to create a more functional overall structure.

When Is Family Therapy Not Appropriate?

While this therapy can be immensely beneficial, it may not be suitable for every situation. It’s important to consider the following scenarios when determining if therapy for the family is the right choice:

Safety Concerns: If there are ongoing safety concerns, such as domestic violence or abuse, individual therapy or other immediate interventions may be necessary before family therapy techniques can be effective.

Lack of Family Consent: In cases where family members are unwilling to participate or engage in therapy, forcing them into sessions may lead to resistance and ineffectiveness.

Individual Issues: Some issues may primarily stem from individual mental health problems or substance abuse. In such cases, individual therapy or treatment may be necessary before therapy for the entire family can be productive.

Unrealistic Expectations: Expecting family therapy techniques to solve all problems or expecting immediate results can lead to disappointment. It’s essential to understand that therapy is a process that takes time.

Family therapy techniques can be powerful tools for addressing family issues, improving communication, and fostering healthier relationships. However, it’s crucial to consult with a qualified therapist who can assess your specific situation and guide you toward the most appropriate approach. Always keep in mind that therapy is a collaborative effort, and with dedication and patience, positive change within your family unit is achievable!