Why should my family see a family counselor?
If you have asked yourself this question or have asked someone else this question, chances are that you probably have an inkling on why your family may benefit in seeing a family counselor. This is not to say that there is something “wrong” with your family or with your relationships. This just means that you have seen some tale-tell signs of discord in your family, whether it be between you and your partner, your children, or your elderly parents. Recognizing and being vigilant to your family’s dynamics and needs is the first step towards becoming a stronger family unit. And that is where a family counselor comes in.
Who are family counselors and what do they do?
A family counselor is a professional that is licensed by the state to provide services to families and couples to help them build stronger, happier relationships or mediate friction amongst family members. Family counselors can be viewed as non-judgmental, third-party patrons who have been trained to help families make the transitions of everyday life less stressful on all parties involved. Not only are family counselors well-equipped to help these families throughout the different stages of their lives, but they are also prepared to help individual family members by providing better communication skills. In doing so, families can learn to express their emotions, thoughts, and actions appropriately.
What are the goals for family counseling?
Just like human fingerprints, no two families are alike and therefore the goals for each family may look infinitely different. Family counselors view families as a unit and believe that each family abides by specific patterns, behaviors, and communication styles. A family counselor can take an objective view of a family’s dynamics and help members see from each other’s points of view, thus helping the members create trust. Just like communication, trust is a fundamental aspect in any relationship and therefore must be congruent amongst all members of the family.
Some of the goals for family counseling include:
- Developing and maintaining healthy boundaries
- Facilitating cohesion and communication
- Solving concerns by understanding family dynamics
- Building empathy and understanding between members
- Reducing family conflict
What is the success rate of family counseling?
Family counseling can help families and couples benefit by providing them with the tools and guides necessary to overcome the dissonance between members. According to the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT), 90% of clients that attended family counseling – based on 1-hour sessions, at least once a month – report that they have seen vast improvements in their emotional health and an overall improvement in their relationships. Family counselors provide individual members within the family to become healthier as a unit as well, thus reducing both internal and external tension.
Where can I go to find a family counselor that is right for my family?
Here, at SEVN Therapy Co. in Colleyville, TX, we pride ourselves in helping families reach positive outcomes, from meaningful relationships, foster everlasting bonds, and help bridge the differences of all members of the family. Our family counselors help each member establish a “voice.” It is truly remarkable how many misunderstandings, conflicts and confusions can be resolved through effective conversation. I would love to help your family do exactly that! Schedule a session with me or give us a call today at 817-778-0522 to book with me or one of our other family counselors.
