Family Therapy
Strengthening family bonds through evidence-based therapeutic approaches
Understanding Family Therapy
Family therapy is generally conducted by a psychologist or other highly trained professional experienced in family and group therapy techniques. Family therapy involves multiple therapy sessions, usually lasting 1½ to 2 hours each, conducted at regular intervals (for example, once weekly) for several months.
Typically, family therapy is initiated to address a specific problem, such as an adolescent with a psychological disorder, coping with separation or divorce, or adjustment to a death in the family. Therapy sessions may also reveal additional problems in the family unit, such as communication issues, behavioral difficulties, or challenges with trust.
Family Systems Theory
Family therapy is based on family systems theory, in which the family is viewed as an entity or organism itself, rather than just the sum of its individual members.
Family therapy uses systems theory to evaluate family members in terms of their position or role within the family unit. Problems are treated by changing the way the entire system works, rather than trying to fix a specific member or "identified patient."
All individual members of the family who attend therapy will be best served by the process if they challenge themselves for growth and positive change.
What We Address
Co-Parenting Agreements
A co-parenting agreement is a document that outlines how parents who are separated or divorced will raise their children together. Think of it as a roadmap for navigating the complexities of raising kids across two households.
Legal Custody
Determines who has the right to make major decisions about the child's life, such as education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. It can be sole (one parent) or joint (both parents share decision-making).
Physical Custody / Parenting Schedule
Outlines where the child will live and the schedule for each parent's time with the child. This includes weekly schedules, holiday arrangements, and vacation plans.
Communication
Specifies how parents will communicate about the children, whether through email, phone calls, or a specific co-parenting app. It may also address how disagreements will be handled.
Financial Responsibilities
Details how parents will share the costs of raising children, including childcare, school fees, extracurricular activities, and medical expenses.
Relocation
Outlines procedures if one parent wants to move a significant distance with the child.
Dispute Resolution
Specifies how disagreements about the co-parenting agreement will be resolved, such as through mediation or arbitration, before resorting to court intervention.
A well-crafted co-parenting agreement strives to provide clarity, consistency, and predictability for both parents and, most importantly, for the children involved. It's a proactive step towards fostering a healthy co-parenting relationship and ensuring the children thrive despite the change in their family structure.
Support Your Family's Journey
Connect with our team to schedule your family therapy session today