Family therapy relies on family systems theory to assess family members in terms of their position or role within the family and how it affects the overall dynamic.
In family therapy, issues are treated by addressing and shifting the way the entire family system functions. The American Psychological Association (APA) defines family therapy as “a form of psychotherapy that focuses on the improvement of interfamilial relationships and behavioral patterns of the family unit as a whole, as well as among individual members and groupings, or subsystems, within the family.” The work that occurs in family therapy is entirely guided by the needs and therapeutic goals of the family unit. The typical goals of family therapy include “improving the communication, solving family problems, understanding, and handling special family situations, and creating a better functioning home environment.” This can be accomplished through a variety of family therapy techniques including integrating the use of supportive tools, such as family therapy worksheets. Family therapy worksheets can focus on different areas to help a family develop and maintain healthy and functional family relationships. Examples of family therapy worksheets include the following:
- Communication worksheets: communication worksheets (e.g., assertive communication worksheet) can help family members discover effective communication skills and learn to advocate for their own needs while also respecting the needs of others.
- My Changing Family Worksheet is a worksheet intended to help family members that may have difficulty discussing thoughts and feelings express themselves. It is explained as a “sentence-completion activity designed to help children verbalize their thoughts and feelings about family changes, such as separation or divorce.”
- Conflict resolution worksheets: effectively navigating conflict is an essential life skill, and for some cultivating this skill does not come easily; conflict resolution worksheets can help develop and hone these skills.
- Boundaries worksheets: completing a boundary worksheet can help provide a framework for broaching the topic of boundaries within the family unit, and create space for each family member to advocate for their respective needs and comfort levels.
Family therapy worksheets provide an additional opportunity for members to process, reflect, and express their stance on the information touched upon during therapy sessions. They offer the ability for family members to discover healthier, authentic methods of communication that align with the shifting goals of the family unit.
Further Information and Support
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all-consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. At {Upwell Advisors}, we offer unique, customized concierge therapeutic services to provide our clients with unparalleled support throughout every step of the recovery process.
Feel free to reach to contact us anytime via email at [email protected] We look forward to supporting you on your journey.
