FAMILY COUNSELING
Families are complex, unique, and one of the most important relationships you will form in your lifetime.
Stressful situations and disagreements among family members can challenge family dynamics. Conflict within the family bonds can affect each and every family member. Differences in opinions, thoughts, values, and personalities can make it difficult to resolve conflict, especially when tensions are high. Arguments among family tend to affect us because the family bond is so important to our overall wellbeing.
What happens when you ignore family conflict?
It may seem easier to ignore family conflict. Bringing up issues can sometimes feel pointless or unwelcomed. You might also worry about hurting the feelings of your parents, siblings, or children. For some, the idea of discussing problems within the family can seem more stressful than ignoring them. Additionally, some families might feel as if going to family counseling means that there is something wrong with the family.
While many families write off their concerns to the fact that some conflict is normal, this might not be the best action to take.
Unresolved conflict within the family can lead to:
- Estrangements among family members
- Divorce
- Lack of communication
- Feelings of anger or resentment
- Excessive stress
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Substance abuse
A lot of people do not even realize how much their family conflict is wearing on them until they finally release it. Family conflict can continue to affect each member’s overall mental health. It can affect your academic or career success, external relationships, or even your physical health. By addressing your family concerns, you can face them head-on and begin to repair the important bonds of your family.
While family counseling can be an effective tool for managing difficult times, it can also be used to strengthen the important bond of the family. Families are the people you will turn to for emotional support and companionship. Family counseling can help you and your family strengthen the necessary skills to prepare for life’s many challenges.
How We Help
It may initially feel odd to welcome another person into the middle of your family’s conflict, especially someone that does not know or understand the dynamics of the family.
However, counselors are in a unique position to help families overcome stressful situations and get past difficult conflict. Not only are family counselors unbiased, but they can offer a third-party subjective view on the way you and your family communicate. It can be too easy for family members to get caught up in their own feelings and thoughts, which can make it difficult to address other’s concerns.
