Family therapy works with the family as a whole rather than with one person alone. It starts from the idea that each family member affects the others, and that changes in the family can help everyone.
When family therapy can help
Frequent conflict, arguing or poor communication at home
A child's emotional or behavioral problems that affect the whole family
Adjusting to divorce, remarriage, a blended family, adoption or a move
Coping with a family member's illness, disability or death
Supporting a child's recovery from conditions such as depression, anxiety or an eating disorder
Parenting disagreements between caregivers
Who attends
That depends on the goals. Sessions might include parents and all the children, or only some family members, and the therapist may also meet with individuals or with parents alone. Grandparents or other caregivers sometimes join.
What happens in sessions
A family therapist helps family members understand patterns in how they interact, listen to one another, and try new ways of talking and solving problems. Sessions often involve:
Agreeing on goals that matter to the family
Each person having a chance to speak and be heard
Practicing communication skills, such as listening without interrupting and stating needs calmly
Working out household rules, routines and consistent responses to behavior
Tasks to try at home between sessions
Therapists draw on different models of family therapy. Some focus on behavior and parenting skills, others on family structure and roles, or on the stories families tell about themselves. It is reasonable to ask how a therapist works.
How long it takes
Family therapy is often short-term, with weekly or fortnightly sessions over a few months, but this varies. You and the therapist should review progress regularly.
Preparing your family
Explain to children that the family is going to meet someone who helps families get along better, not because one person is in trouble.
Agree as parents to approach sessions with openness rather than blame.
Expect some sessions to feel uncomfortable. Difficult feelings coming up is often part of the work.
Family therapy is provided by licensed marriage and family therapists and by other licensed professionals with family training. See how to choose a child therapist for questions to ask.
Types of Therapy for Children and TeensA plain-language overview of common therapy approaches for children: CBT, play therapy, PCIT, family therapy, DBT, trauma-focused CBT and more.
Helping Children Cope With Separation or DivorceHow to tell children about a separation, common reactions by age, how to co-parent in ways that protect children, and when to consider counseling.
How to Choose a Child TherapistThe kinds of professionals who treat children, how to find one, questions to ask, what the first appointment is like, and how to tell if therapy is working.
This guide is general information, not medical or psychological advice. For questions about your child, talk with a pediatrician or a licensed mental health professional. In a crisis in the US, call or text 988 or call 911; elsewhere, call your local emergency number.