What Types of Therapy are Available for Families in California?

A lingering misconception about family therapy is that it is only for families with severe issues: Mom is gripped with crippling anxiety and depression, unable to function. Or, Dad’s cheating has rocked the foundation of the marriage so badly that it’s in danger of toppling over.

The truth is, therapy can help families in multiple ways. And yes, of course, it does help with those colossal issues that threaten to tear the family unit apart. But it can also strengthen families that are functioning well overall, but need a little help navigating certain issues.

In a nutshell, family therapy teaches people to coexist in a healthy, cohesive way, leading to better resiliency and a more peaceful and pleasant dynamic overall.

Here are six common types of family therapy available in California.

1. Functional Family Therapy (FFT)

This modality of therapy was created for families who have a child exhibiting behavioral issues, which often throws the whole family dynamic off kilter.

The therapist works with both the child and the parents to eradicate the problem. This involves addressing specific patterns that may be leading to the negative behavior. It involves helping parents establish boundaries and teaching the child healthier ways to express themselves and get their needs met.

2. Bowenian Family Therapy

It’s rare for someone in a family unit to consciously decide what role they’ll play. Most people assume these roles without thinking about them, and often, the relationship patterns function from an instinctual learned pattern rather than a practical solution-based manner.

Bowenian family therapy brings these patterns to light. It examines the social and generational influences. It illuminates the dysfunction that has been passed down from generation to generation. Family members learn healthier ways to get their needs met and discover how to express themselves so they’re heard and understood.

3. Systemic Family Therapy

Rather than focusing on the “problem person” within a family, systemic family therapy examines the family dynamics as a whole.

As always, the therapist maintains a neutral stance. They help families uncover some of the factors contributing to dysfunction by asking direct, pointed questions.

4. Structural Family Therapy

As the name suggests, structural family therapy explores the family structure. It delves into interactions between family members and how they relate to one another. It helps restructure dysfunctional hierarchies, for example, through teaching parents how to set boundaries.

The goal is to encourage change by restructuring dynamics in a way that is healthier for everyone involved.

5. Couples Therapy

Probably the best-known type of family therapy, couples therapy helps couples with all sorts of issues learn to communicate better, work through their problems, and return to common ground.

There are many different techniques used in couples therapy, and a therapist will choose one or a few depending on the issue.

Couples counseling is helpful for all couples, not just those who experience challenges like infidelity or other forms of deception.

6. Narrative Family Therapy

This technique helps families rewrite unhelpful stories, reframing them from a more resilient perspective. Rather than focus on all the hardships, the therapist helps the family lean into their strengths.

This style of therapy is especially helpful for families who are experiencing grief or addiction.

Since no two families are exactly alike, your family therapist in California may use a few different techniques to best address your situation.

At the Relationship Therapy Center, we understand the complex nuances of family dynamics. Our experts are here to help, and we have sessions available on weekends and afternoons to accommodate busy schedules. We’d love to hear from you; please reach out anytime to learn more about what we do and how we can help.

Begin Family Therapy in the Sacramento Area and Online in California

Your family deserves to find peace and healing. Our family therapists can help. Ultimately, we want to strengthen the relationships you have with each other and restore love and harmony in your family. To begin counseling at our Roseville or Fair Oaks counseling center or online in the state of California please follow these simple steps:

1. Contact our office to get more information about family counseling and to schedule a free consultation.
2. Make an appointment with one of our caring therapists.
3. Discuss your family’s unique needs and goals with your therapist.
4. Develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your family.
5. Engage in regular sessions to build stronger, healthier relationships.
6. Find support and healing in your relationship!

Other Services Offered at The Relationship Therapy Center in California:

In addition to family therapy, Our Sacramento area counseling clinics located in Roseville and Fair Oaks, CA are pleased to offer a variety of mental health services. Our couples services include: Counseling after infidelity, sex therapy, co-parent counseling, family therapy, divorce counseling, intensive couples retreats, and premarital counseling. Our individual therapy services include, therapy for children, teen therapy, depression treatment, and individual relationship counseling. Our therapists offer online counseling in California to treat a variety of mental health concerns. Please reach out to our Sacramento area therapy office to learn more about the many ways we can help you or your loved ones heal and grow.