What is Family Therapy?

Family therapy is a therapeutic modality designed to repair trauma, wounds, misunderstandings, and other disruptions in the family system. The goal of family therapy is to rebuild trust, restore family harmony, and reopen lines of communication. Hence, a young adult can turn to their parents for support as they become more autonomous and independent. 

In addition, healing relational trauma helps young adults enhance their relationships outside the family. Family therapy methods can provide emerging adults with the skills and self-knowledge to form satisfying romantic relationships and peer friendships, and to build a supportive community. 

 There are many family therapy models and family therapy methods, including a category known as family systems therapy, developed by the psychiatrist Murray Bowen. Within that category, strategic family therapy addresses specific problems within the family system. Structural family therapy looks at the family as a system of relationships, behaviors, and patterns. In multiple-family therapy, a therapist facilitates as several families attend a session together to learn from each other’s experiences. 

Family Therapy Models

Childhood trauma is often at the root of young adult mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. That’s why family therapy methods to repair parent-child relationships are an essential part of healing and recovery. Healthy and supportive family connections make a powerful positive difference in the lives of emerging adults.