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What Techniques Are Used in Family Therapy?

a family smiles after engaging in helpful family therapy techniques

Addiction can wreak havoc on a person’s life. At a time when they need help the most, they may feel isolated and alienated from loved ones. Family therapy in addiction treatment is a form of talk therapy that strengthens interpersonal relationships and fosters an environment of healing and support. Family therapy techniques can resolve conflict and enhance the patient’s recovery journey. If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance use disorder, reach out to Northpoint Seattle’s family therapy program.

Family therapy benefits include providing loved ones with education about the nature of addiction while the patient receives the right kind of compassionate care, support, and encouragement. To know more about our family therapy techniques, call us at 888.483.6031.

Effective Family Therapy Techniques

Family therapy for addiction can be of several kinds and utilize a variety of approaches to resolve dysfunctional dynamics and foster a loving home environment.
Some of the most popular family therapy techniques are discussed below:

Bowenian Therapy

Bowenian therapy is particularly recommended in situations where a family member has a tense relationship with another. Instead of venting to third parties, this form of therapy encourages togetherness without losing a sense of self. The therapist evaluates the family dynamics and facilitates open communication.

Strategic Family Therapy

This is a short-term approach aimed at making positive and sustainable changes in the home environment. It identifies the key issues that need fixing and suggests steps accordingly.

Structural Family Therapy

In structural family therapy, the counselor closely looks at the relationships and hierarchies within the family unit. Guided by the therapists, the family members learn to be empathetic and open-minded in their interactions with each other.

Systemic Family Therapy

Finally, in systemic family therapy, the therapist assesses the various roles played by each family member in different contexts. It unravels the subconscious biases and processes behind certain traditions and rituals. Ultimately, it encourages loved ones to adopt a fresh perspective while navigating personal issues.

Additionally, the therapist may make genograms to depict the relationships between family members, ask introspective questions, and suggest fun exercises to strengthen familial bonds.

Family Therapy Benefits

Addiction can drive a wedge between family members. The patient may feel increasingly misunderstood and alone, while loved ones may be unsure how to help. Family therapy techniques can help bridge the gap and bring estranged families closer to one another.

Thus, choosing family therapy for addiction has numerous advantages. The chief family therapy benefits include the following:

  • Heal estranged relations between family members
  • Learn to communicate one’s needs clearly
  • Understand each other’s perspective and peacefully resolve disagreements
  • Figure out ways to work together to solve challenging issues
  • Set firm and healthy boundaries without hurting loved ones
  • Build a strong support network to promote accountability
  • Develop contingency plans to prevent relapses
  • Educate members on the complex facets of addiction and clear up misconceptions
  • Create a better home environment to relax and recuperate

Get Family Therapy for Addiction at Northpoint Seattle

At Northpoint Seattle, we are committed to helping people find healthy and sustainable ways to conquer addiction and mental health disorders. From partial hospitalization to outpatient treatment, we offer a plethora of programs and services at our state-of-the-art clinic in Seattle.

Our personalized treatment programs include one-on-one counseling sessions and family therapy for addiction. We believe that family and friends can play a big part in one’s healing. Thus, we educate and train them to provide active and ongoing support and foster a nurturing environment at home.

It is never too late to ask for help. Call us at 888.483.6031 or contact us online today and schedule a consultation.