Family therapy involves all members of the nuclear and extended family and can be used to resolve specific problems such as eating disorders, addiction, difficulties with school, or to assist a family having a difficult time adjusting to a recent loss of a loved one or a move to a different geographical location.
The therapist collaborates with the family and uses the process to identify problematic familial patterns as well as the role each member of the family plays in maintaining those patterns.
The therapist facilitates constructive dialogue between members of the family by assisting them to communicate more effectively.
Family therapy also affords the therapist the unique opportunity to assist parents in developing ways to deal with the specific issues related to their children in the moment.