Family Psychotherapy: A Systemic and Holistic Approach
Family psychotherapy addresses individual problems through the dynamics of the system. It is fundamentally based on Systems Theory and the principles of Circular Causality. The aim is to create a more functional and supportive environment by regulating communication patterns and structural boundaries within the family.
Situations Requiring Family Therapy
Family Internal Problems
- Constant conflicts and arguments
- Communication breakdowns
- Boundary setting problems
- Role confusions
- Child-parent conflicts
Couple Relationship Problems
- Marriage crises
- Trust issues
- Sexual life problems
- Financial disagreements
- Mother-in-law and daughter-in-law problems
Family Assessment Process
Family dynamics, communication patterns, roles, and boundaries are evaluated comprehensively. An intervention plan is developed through family tree work and system analysis.
Family Structure
Analysis of roles, hierarchy and family rules
Communication Patterns
Speaking styles and interaction forms
Family History
Intergenerational pattern transmission
Treatment Approaches
Systemic Family Therapy
This approach conceptualizes individual pathology as a function of the family system, grounded in General Systems Theory. The family is viewed as an open system characterized by circular interactions among its members and self-regulation (homeostasis).
Focus of Intervention:
The therapist aims to restructure systemic balance through changes in interaction patterns. By analyzing feedback loops and networks of interdependent relationships within the family, it is demonstrated how change in one member affects the entire system.
Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT)
Theoretical Framework:
Developed based on Attachment Theory, this model is empirically well-supported (evidence-based). Relationship distress is understood to stem from unmet needs for secure attachment.
Focus of Intervention:
The work focuses on identifying negative interaction cycles between partners.
Structural Family Therapy
A systemic approach that aims to organize and regulate the family's internal structure and functioning.
Core Objectives:
- Clarifying Boundaries: Ensuring differentiation of subsystems (e.g., couple, parental subsystems).
- Hierarchical Structuring: Functionally strengthening the authority and managerial responsibility of the parental subsystem.
- Restructuring: Resolving pathological interaction cycles by increasing the family's flexibility and capacity for adaptation.
Family Communication Development
Communication Skills
- Active listening exercises
- "I" language usage practices
- Empathy development studies
- Conflict resolution techniques
Family Activities
- Quality time spending plans
- Organizing family meetings
- Doing activities together
- Learning love languages
Healthy Family Dynamics
The goal of family therapy is not only to solve current problems but also to create long-term healthy dynamics.
Risk Factors
- • Stressful life events
- • Financial problems
- • Health problems
- • Children's developmental periods
Protective Factors
- • Regular family times
- • Open communication channels
- • Flexibility and adaptation
- • Booster therapy sessions
Treatment Advantages
Improving all family dynamics with systemic family therapy
Expertise in couple therapy and marriage counseling
Creating healthy boundaries in child-parent relationships
Frequently Asked Questions
Family therapy is a flexible process and the participants may vary depending on the nature of the problem. Generally, all family members living in the same household are invited to participate. However, in some cases, only the couple, only parents and children, or even individual sessions may be held. The therapist determines the most appropriate participation plan according to the needs of the family.
Confidentiality is one of the cornerstones of family therapy. The therapist is obliged to keep all information shared during sessions confidential in accordance with professional ethics rules. However, there are some exceptions to this rule: situations where there is a risk of harm to oneself or others, child abuse or neglect cases. Apart from these exceptional situations, no information is shared with third parties without the family's consent.
Children are effectively included in the family therapy process through the use of special techniques appropriate to their age and developmental level. Since children's ability to express themselves verbally like adults is not yet fully developed, the therapist uses play and creative activities, which are the child's natural language of communication.
Family Therapy: Focusing on a System
Family therapy is a branch of psychotherapy that focuses on relationships, communication, and interaction dynamics among family members. It addresses the individual not in isolation, but within the context of the family system to which they belong.