Family relationships can be rewarding, but also challenging. Help is available.
Family counselling
Family counselling, also known as family therapy, is a form of therapy that focuses on family relationships. Both the relationships between parents and children, but also other people connected to the family, such as step parents and grandparents.
Family relationships change a lot over time, even just in relation to children growing up. This dynamic time in life can create challenges. It can be helpful to talk to a family therapist.
What set our therapist apart was her genuine empathy and personal insight. Not only did she possess a deep understanding of neurodiversity, but she also shared personal experiences that resonated with us, creating an instant connection and fostering a sense of trust!
Benedetta Osarenk
Our counsellors
Click here to view all psychologists, therapists, and coaches.
What can family therapy help with?
The role of the family counsellor is to lead the conversation and allow everyone in the family to speak and share their perspectives. Common challenges in the family are that parents and children speak “different languages” and that they may not always be able to see eye to eye. Common challenges in communication revolve around the increasing use of cell phones and computers, which often take up attention and make it difficult to talk undisturbed. Family therapy can be a safe space to facilitate conversations and change.
13 frequently asked questions and answers about family counselling
What is the purpose of family counselling?
Family counselling aims to help families improve their communication, resolve conflicts and strengthen their relationships. The aim is to promote a healthy and supportive family environment.
When is it appropriate to seek family counselling?
Family counselling is appropriate when the family is experiencing conflict, communication problems or other challenges that affect their relationships and well-being. It can also be helpful during major changes such as separation, divorce or loss.
What types of problems can family counselling help with?
Family counselling can help with a wide range of problems including conflict. This could be communication difficulties between parents and children, challenges with teenagers, divorce, loss and grief, or other family-related challenges.
How long does the typical family counselling process take?
The length of the family counselling process varies depending on the specific needs and goals of the family. Some problems can be resolved relatively quickly while others may require a longer time commitment.
What kind of methods and techniques are used in family counselling?
The therapist uses various methods and techniques that promote communication, conflict resolution and understanding between family members. This may include role plays, exercises and open discussions.
Can individual problems be addressed during family counselling?
Yes, individual problems can be discussed and explored during family counselling, especially if they affect the whole family. The therapist can help find solutions and strategies that benefit the whole family. Sometimes the therapeutic process can lead to individual therapy for individual family members. This is a need that can be identified during the process. In consultation with the therapist, a decision will be made as to how this can best be achieved.
What happens if a family member is reluctant to participate in family counselling?
If a family member is reluctant to participate in family counselling, it is important to respect their feelings. The therapist can help explore possibilities and options to involve them in a way that feels comfortable.
Can children be involved in family counselling?
Yes, children can be involved in family counselling, especially if their perspectives and feelings are relevant to the family’s challenges. The therapist will adapt methods and conversations appropriately based on the child’s age and maturity level.
How can the family continue to use the skills and strategies they have learned in therapy after the end of the process?
The therapist will give advice and suggestions on how the family can implement the skills and strategies they have learned in therapy. To break old patterns, new regular exercises may be recommended. The therapist can also provide new tools or communication
What if the family feels that the therapy is not working for them?
If the family feels that the therapy is not producing the desired results, it is important to communicate this with the therapist. They can adjust the approach or suggest alternative strategies. If the family wants to change therapists or coaches at Lavendla, that’s fine. Talk to us and we will help you.
Can family counselling be helpful even if the family has no acute problems?
Absolutely, family counselling can help families to strengthen their relationships and prevent future conflicts. It can be a preventive measure to promote a healthy and supportive family environment.
How do I know if family counselling is right for my family?
Family counselling may be appropriate if you are experiencing challenges or conflicts that affect your family’s well-being. An initial consultation with a family counsellor can help you decide if this is the right step for you.
How much does family counselling at Lavendla cost?
At Lavendla, the price is set by the therapists and coaches. In family therapy, the sessions are usually longer as several people need to have the opportunity to be heard. You decide how much time is needed for each session and how many sessions are needed in consultation with the therapist. It may vary depending on how many family members are involved. The first meeting usually focuses on getting to know each other, defining the challenges you face, and then making a plan for how you will work together to achieve your goals.
3 things to remember about family counselling from our counsellor
1. There is no such thing as a “problem child”
When working with families, the child is never the “problem”. Adults are responsible for how the family lives and works together. Together with the therapist, you can find out how your family members experience their everyday lives. Additionally, you can learn about what you can do to break any negative patterns that may have arisen within the family unit. It is important to note that the term “problem child” does not refer to children with various mental health diagnoses. In these cases, the diagnosis may be a cause of difficulties in the family’s daily life. This can also be a reason to see a family counsellor.
2. Listening is key
With a therapist, there is room to talk openly and honestly with each other. The therapist will help you get to the point and facilitate active listening. Listening actively can be a challenge, which is just one reason why counselling is so important.
3. Be honest!
It is difficult for many people to know what they want and have the courage to express your wishes and opinions. No matter what the obstacle may be, your therapist can support you to identify and communicate your needs. All therapy is about being as honest as possible. If clients answer “yes” to questions just to be compliant, then they are not getting the help that they need. With honest answers, which may be uncomfortable, there is room to address the problems and find new strategies to make everyone feel better.
