Family Therapy
Benefits
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observing family dynamics may lead to better
understanding and resolution of family issues
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family members more able to learn about the
views, observations and actual concerns / caring
of others in the family
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gains made / problems resolved are seen as collective
effort, thereby enhancing sense of family
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provides context and broader focus for individuals
exhibiting symptoms
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assists family to change perceptions of adolescent
(i.e. minimizes scapegoating)
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all family members given an arena to express
thoughts, feelings etc.
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healthier communication and better understanding
can result
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parents cem learn strategies of effective parenting
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preserves the integrity of the family system
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strength of the family system can bring about
behaviour change
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families have a common goal and can keep
each other "honest" in facing issues
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provides support to families
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helps families clarify their thinking about themselves
and issues they have
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models empathy, creativity and authenticity
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helps families face issues and learn to cope in
healthier ways
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provides families with an "objective" listener
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family may get opportunity to bring issues to the
surface so they can be resolved
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more successful transactions in the family
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helps families to readjust to changes
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involves all family members who care to be
involved and establishes a role for all involved
Risks
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individuals may close up, be anxious, minimize
or exaggerate
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greater chance of scapegoating / ganging up on
one family member
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long-standing complex dynamics / issues more
difficult to unravel
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family members may collude to maintain secrets
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family members may reveal family secrets
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things may become worse before they get better
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family roles may be challenged
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parents and adolescents may experience a sense
of disempowerment
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different therapists have different ideas about
what families should do
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anticipated outcomes may not always be the
actual outcome
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families may separate
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may be less useful where there is family violence
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not recommended when one member of family
is profoundly emotionally / psychiatrically ill
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all family members may not be committed to
change
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privacy is limited
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problems other than presenting ones may arise
as therapy progresses
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vulnerable member(s) in family, where there is a
power differential may require information
about the risks if certain issues come up in the
treatment process
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as parents get empowered, children / adolescents'
behaviour could escalate
CHIMO Youth and Family Services
2 Kent Street West, Unit #3
Lindsay, ON
K9V 2Y1
Central Intake: 1-888-454-6275
