All families struggle with conflict and communication issues from time to time. Every person in a family is an individual, even if together those individuals make up one family unit. This means each family member will have their own unique challenges, perspectives, and opinions. However, resolving conflict and communicating more clearly with one another does not have to be a struggle.
Oftentimes, families go through painful or confusing events together, but every member will handle the aftermath differently. Additionally, managing your family can sometimes trigger more conflict if not done so in a compassionate, thoughtful way.
Starting family therapy is a great way to help you and everyone in your family communicate more effectively. Continue reading for tips on how to help prepare yourself and your loved ones for family therapy.
Talk to Your Kids
Often, parents find it hard to talk to their kids about any number of sensitive topics. When introducing them to family therapy, it is best to explain it in a positive way without any resistance to taking part in it yourself. When you feel confident and comfortable, your kids will, too.
A good way to describe family therapy is to explain that nothing is “wrong,” therapy is simply a way to help your family talk more openly, resolve conflicts, and show unconditional support to one another. Having a third party take stock of your family dynamic can help you understand each other better and grow closer as a family.
Write Down What You Want to Discuss
Write down issues or concerns that you want to talk about before each family therapy session. If you have questions you are unsure of how to ask, write them down, as well as why you want to ask them. If topics arise between sessions, make a note of them. Additionally, encourage your children to make their own lists, too. This will help you convey your feelings and help the family counselor better understand the family issues you want to work on.
Consider What You Want to Say
When you have a concern or question you want to bring up to a member of your family, you may be worried they will respond defensively or negatively. Think carefully about how you want to phrase concerns you plan to address in the family session, and how you can be concise, clear, and compassionate.
Improve At-Home Communication & Discussion
Asking your therapist how to address specific issues that arise at home and improve the way you and your family discuss matters will help to better your everyday communication and bring your family closer. Additionally, every family dynamic is unique, so your therapist can help personalize a course of action for better communication at home.
Family Therapy in MN at Options Family & Behavior Services
When you feel that it’s time to address communication issues within your family and find better ways to handle conflict, Options Family & Behavior Services is here to help.
Schedule an appointment to learn more about our therapy options, such as our in-clinic therapy and family counseling near Minneapolis.
Our team of professionals is here to help you and your loved ones create deeper connections and more transparent communication.
