Family therapy or counseling can be tremendously helpful for families where there are situational stressors that cause one or more family members to become symptomatic. In order to support the family member in distress, the whole family unit needs to be supported. For example: A marital crisis with potential divorce might trigger one or more children to act out, either at home and/or in school.

To successfully work with this family, the therapist engages both the parents and the children to address not only the concern that brings the family into therapy, but also to explore family dynamics, communication and interaction patterns which cause anxiety or worry.

Other possible stressors include:

• School problems (undiagnosed learning disabilities, ADHD and other neurodivergent spectrum disorders,  other educational/psychological challenges)
• Addiction problems
• Transition problems (change of employment, home relocation)
• Grief and loss complications (death of a pet or family member)

Just as with couples, I can help guide a family in unearthing hidden wounds, instilling hope, and learning new ways to talk with one another, leading to an embrace each other’s individuality and celebrating the family bond.

For many families, online therapy offers a more convenient, accessible, and comfortable option than in-person sessions. Online eliminates travel time, making it easier to fit sessions into tight or conflicting schedules. Some family members – often, teens -  find it easier to speak when they join online while sitting in their own, familiar space.

Additionally, because they are easier to schedule, online sessions can offer better consistency for more rapid progress.

These sessions can, of course, be mixed with in-person meetings if circumstances make that a better option. Many clients choose to go online after an initial, in-person session.•