This answer often looks different to each family that starts family therapy. However, some signs that your family might need to consider family counseling include frequent fights or misunderstandings, constant tension, experiencing loss, behavioral issues, marital issues, divorce, and blended family issues, among others.
No family gets along all the time, no matter how much they love each other. Ups and downs are normal and disagreements are bound to happen. Family relationships are like that sometimes. But what happens when you can’t stop fighting with a family member and it’s causing you to dread family gatherings? What happens when your children won’t talk to you or keep acting out? What happens when you feel like you are walking on eggshells inside your own home?
Strong family relationships can be one of life’s greatest joys but when they turn sour, they can have the opposite effect. If your family relationships have been difficult lately, it may be time to seek out the help of a family therapist.
Making the decision to work through difficult issues with your family may not be easy, but neither is living with conflict for the rest of your life. If you’re ready to improve communication between family members and resolve long-term conflicts, we’re standing by to offer guidance and support at Thriveworks Counseling in San Bernardino, CA.
When Is the Right Time To Seek Family Therapy?
Family systems are incredibly complex, which is why seeking out therapy together can often be the best way to solve family issues. While it may be difficult to bring these topics up, marital and family therapy offers a safe and non-judgmental space to discuss your thoughts and emotions with the helpful guidance and input of an experienced professional.
Here are some of the most common problems that inspire people to seek out the help of a family therapist:
- Long-term conflicts and grudges
- Separation, divorce, or remarriage
- Parenting issues
- Troubles with blended families
- Substance abuse
- Behavioral problems
- Mental health issues within the family
- Loss of a family member
- Major life transitions
- Abuse or trauma
If these or other issues are causing conflict and unhappiness in your family, you don’t have to simply accept this as your way of life. When you’re ready to work on strengthening your family relationships, contact us at Thriveworks Counseling in San Bernardino, CA for professional family counseling services.
How Family Therapy Works
Issues between family members can start small yet quickly snowball into conflicts that feel unbearable. You may argue constantly over the littlest things and not even remember what prompted those divisive feelings in the first place. These kinds of issues are common and can be resolved by talking openly and honestly about them under the supervision of a licensed family therapist. Your therapist will listen to your concerns and tailor a treatment plan that addresses your specific situation.
Cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, is an essential tool that family therapists often use to work through family issues. This form of therapy deals with how our behaviors and emotions are influenced by our internal beliefs and thought patterns. Many clients are unaware that their negative beliefs are significantly impacting the way they feel and act among their family members.
By verbalizing these thought patterns, it’s possible to work towards a healthier dynamic with more honest communication. You may also learn how to deal with stressors more productively to avoid future conflict. Understanding the role you may have played, even unintentionally, in hurting another member of your family can help everyone move forward.
Schedule Family Therapy Sessions at Thriveworks in San Bernardino, CA
When you’re ready to take the first step and work through family issues, we’re here to ensure the process is as simple and stress-free as possible. Simply call or click our booking widget to get an appointment scheduled during the week, in the evenings, or on weekends.
We even offer remote therapy options so everyone can access family therapy services by phone or video chat. It’s a convenient way to participate from the comfort of your home. This is particularly helpful for family members who may not live together or who have busy schedules that make commuting a challenge.
Getting along with your family may feel impossible right now, but we’re here to help you work towards a healthier family dynamic. Make your appointment by getting in touch with us today at Thriveworks Counseling in San Bernardino, CA.
