What is Family Therapy?
Family therapy involves multiple members of the family unit working together with a therapist to make meaningful change in their collective relationships. At PDX Therapy Center, we use a Family Systems approach along with Emotionally Focused Therapy to identify what’s not working, deepen the connection between family members, and re-establish new roles, boundaries, and ways of connecting so that each family member thrives within the family unit.
Do all the family members come to therapy?
Family therapy is most successful when all the family members are present, even if it feels like they are not part of the conflict. However, we understand that our busy lives can make this difficult. We encourage you to call us and speak with a therapist about your particular situation so that we can formulate the most effective plan for working with your family.
My children don’t want to come to therapy. How can I get them there?
Children can be hesitant about therapy and argue about going. We encourage parents to state that their children have to come for at least the first appointment (versus weekly). This helps get the child to the therapy office, and once they’ve met the therapist, things often seem much less scary. Children will usually be more inclined to continue therapy after the first meeting.
WHAT TYPES OF ISSUES DO YOU TYPICALLY WORK WITH?
Improving communication
Decreasing conflict
Identifying new ways of interacting
Establishing boundaries
Improving connection
Blending families
Grief and loss
Life transitions
Parenting issues
