Family Therapy

One of my specialties is working with adolescents and their families. Teenagers in therapy usually have multiple challenges that they are trying to juggle, being able to rely upon their family is extremely helpful to effectively cope with them.

I have worked with teenagers struggling with suicide, self-harm, addiction, bullying, parents' divorce, family conflict and many other afflictions.

Family therapy is beneficial in these and other circumstances for a variety of reasons. First, it helps the parents to know how to help. Despite their best efforts, many parents are at a loss for how to intervene with their struggling teens. Second, it removes barriers to communication. Teenagers often are guilty of short-sighted perspectives and this can inhibit them from reaching out to their parents. Third, it helps the family to utilize its strengths and resources. Fourth, it helps the adolescent feel loved.

What family therapy looks like depends on your unique situation. It may include the entire family, but more often than not it is the parent/s and adolescent. I usually meet with the parents and adolescent separately prior to any family therapy session.