Many of the problems that surround our lives, or even our day-to-day, can have their origin or as a consequence of an unfavorable family situation. Sometimes, the problematic situation itself is located within the family, the most common being the conflict between some of its members. But in others, although we may not be able to find the cause, or even place it outside of this context, the repercussion that it can have in this area is especially significant. Thus, the function of the nuclear family is crucial not only to understand the different alterations but also to facilitate the improvement of the patient working directly from it.
Family Intervention arises as a proposal to work directly with all family members, or, at least, with those who constitute a more or less significant part of the situation. Some examples of reasons for consultation that may benefit from this intervention are the presence of a physical or psychological illness in a family member (eg, terminal illness, addiction, depression, anxiety disorders, among others). ), specific problematic symptoms or behaviors (eg, aggressiveness, apathy or detachment, fear…), or conflicts between all or some of the members (eg, marital arguments, constant problems between siblings, etc.). All of them are likely to be worked through a family approach. As we see, moreover,
The main objective will therefore focus on modifying dysfunctional interpersonal interaction patterns, considering that the change in each member affects the others, since individual actions, thoughts, and emotions have an impact on all the others. In addition, efforts will be made to facilitate collaboration, cohesion, and objective analysis of the situation, working dynamically and constructively. , one of the fundamental tools of this intervention is communication. According to this type of intervention, it is considered practically impossible not to communicate, being this mechanism, or rather, its inappropriate use, the main cause of most problematic situations. In this way, even if a person in the family is suffering from a particular situation (such as the previous ones exposed),
Family Intervention, then, can be especially useful, not only to treat emotional problems in one or some members but also to resolve conflicts, improve communication and face stressful life events together. All of this will have an impact on promoting and strengthening the function of belonging that the family system itself possesses, favoring that on future occasions the resources that may have been hidden come to light.
At our psychology center located in Mataró, you have at your disposal professionals specialized in this and other types of intervention that have widely demonstrated their effectiveness. If you want to know more about them or consider that it can benefit you, do not hesitate to contact us.
Family Intervention Techniques
There are many types of family therapy techniques to choose from. When selecting a therapist, be sure to find someone who specializes in your family’s specific area of concern. While some therapists follow a specific technique, many therapists choose to use a more eclectic approach. This means that they can take exercises and perspectives from various therapeutic techniques to best meet the needs of their specific client. In family therapy, family therapists:
- Ask questions to get to know each family member.
- Observe and document who is participating and who is not communication styles, and observable power dynamics.
- Use the family therapy session as a microcosm of how the family interacts at home and in the world.
- Diagnose family members if applicable
- Provide psychoeducation to help the family better understand the situation or pattern.
- Provide useful resources and references
- You can give the family exercises to do at home and/or within the therapy session.
- You can meet with different subgroups or individuals within the family to better assess the entire family unit.
- Treat the entire family unit as the customer.
- Share observations with the family regarding unhealthy patterns or pervasive behaviors and give the family space to explore possible solutions.