5 Signs Your Family Could Benefit from Therapy

Many people think of therapy as an individual experience, and it certainly can be. Working one-on-one with a therapist is a great way to deal with underlying mental health issues while learning how to prioritize your well-being. 

But, family therapy can also be beneficial. 

You might joke about having a “dysfunctional” family, or think that everyone’s family has their own issues. That might be true, to an extent. But, there are some clear signs that the problems in your family run deeper. If you’ve never considered family therapy before, it might be time to start, especially if the issues within your family unit are impacting your well-being. 

With that in mind, let’s look at a few signs your family could benefit from therapy, so you can take action. 

1. Constant Conflict

Families are made up of different personalities. You’re going to butt heads and deal with conflict at times. That doesn’t have to be a bad thing. 

If you’re able to work through your conflicts in healthy, effective ways, they can actually strengthen your family unit and make you closer. But, if there are frequent arguments and no one seems willing to compromise or see any perspective but their own, it’s a sign that therapy could be necessary.

2. Communication Issues

Healthy communication is essential in relationships — including familial ones. 

Maybe certain family members feel like they aren’t being heard, or that their feelings are being validated. Maybe you’re dealing with different communication styles and it’s causing tension. Some people might have a hard time truly listening and understanding what others are trying to say. 

Communication issues can wreak havoc on a family, but they can also often be remedied with the right kind of professional help.

3. Life Changes

Everyone deals with life transitions. Maybe it’s a big move to a new location, a job change, a divorce, or a death in the family. Whether the change is good or bad, it can cause stress within a family. Everyone handles stress differently, and your coping strategies might clash. 

Therapy can help your family work through major life changes together. Instead of trying to cope and move forward on your own, you can lean on one another, learn how to express your feelings and needs, and move forward together.

4. Behavioral Issues

Family therapy isn’t just for adults. If your child is acting out or you’re dealing with behavioral issues, therapy can help you learn how to manage them while prioritizing your mental health and wellness. 

If you’re willing to let your child work with a therapist, they can learn more about what’s causing their negative thoughts and feelings, as well as healthy ways to cope rather than acting out. Teaching your children from a young age how to manage their mental well-being can be extremely beneficial for their futures.

5. Blended Families

According to the Census Bureau, about 40% of families in the United States are blended. There’s often no reason why blended families can’t get along and live harmoniously with each other. But, that doesn’t mean there will never be issues. 

Blended families can deal with cultural differences, different parenting styles, and more. Therapy can help your blended family better understand each other so you can all work together to create a new, strong unit. If you’re clashing or having problems with your children coming together, therapy can make a difference. 

If you’ve never considered family therapy before, it’s not a bad time to start. If any of the issues here sound familiar, your family could likely benefit from working with a professional. Don’t hesitate to contact me for more information about family therapy or to set up an appointment soon.