Family dynamics can include dysfunctions that can affect multiple generations. However, the family is also a typical person’s first support network—and, in many cases, their closest and strongest one. That’s why participants of addiction treatment programs benefit from family programs that require their family members to undergo therapy with them.
Family therapy for addiction is not a new concept. Most rehab programs include family therapy in their components. In fact, studies show that behavioral health treatment that includes family therapy works better than treatment that doesn’t include it. When combined with one-on-one therapy, family therapy can improve medication adherence, reduce psychiatric symptoms, reduce the likelihood of addiction relapse, and relieve stress. Looking for a family therapy program in Los Angeles, California? Contact Silicon Beach Tx today by calling [Direct] or contacting our team online.
What Is Family Therapy?
Family therapy is a type of psychotherapy that can help family members improve their communication habits and resolve conflicts. It’s usually provided by a clinical social worker, a licensed therapist, or a psychologist. These therapists must have graduate or postgraduate degrees and should be credentialed by the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT).
A family program that offers therapy for addiction is often a short-term one. It may include all of a client’s family members or just those able or willing to participate. Family therapy sessions can teach participants skills to deepen family connections and get through stressful times, even after the family program is over.
What Are the Benefits of Family Therapy for Addiction?
1. Improved Communication
When families communicate better, they can resolve conflict better and understand each other’s perspectives. Family therapy for addiction teaches participants how to express their thoughts and feelings healthily. If a client’s family has a history of trauma or conflict, family therapy can help them heal those past hurts. When healing begins, moving forward in addiction recovery becomes less stressful and more possible. The client will have less baggage to deal with and can focus on their treatment goals.
It’s not an exaggeration to say that communication issues make most family conflicts become out of control. When a family is dealing with the fallout of addiction, poor communication can be an issue because it can split the family apart—resulting in an unsafe home environment and an unsecured support network for the client.
2. Improved Mental Health
Having healthier family relationships can help reduce anxiety, leading to improved mental health and overall well-being for everyone in the family—not just the client in addiction recovery. Family therapy sessions can also result in an increased understanding of the situation and can help reduce the stigma surrounding addiction. This understanding can help clients and their families accept the situation and work together to get past it.
3. Increased Support
Addiction recovery can be a long and challenging journey, but a client doesn’t have to go through it alone. Family therapy can help increase their support from their closest loved ones. A client’s family members will learn how to communicate better and find help for their own mental health needs in family therapy. Along with this information, they’ll also learn how to provide more emotional and practical support for the client.
This type of increased support can help a client stay on track in addiction recovery. When someone in recovery has a reliable support system, the chances of relapse also decrease significantly.
When Should You Consider a Family Therapy Program?
As mentioned earlier, family therapy is typically included in addiction treatment programs. If you or someone you care about is already in rehab, it is not really up to you. However, some family members can refuse to participate.
If being part of a rehab program is the only reason for a family member’s refusal to go to therapy, consider setting up an assessment for undergoing a family therapy program at another mental health institution. Or, you can encourage those family members to consider one-on-one therapy sessions.
Learn More About Silicon Beach Tx’s Family Therapy Program
If you’re searching for a family therapy program in Los Angeles, California, contact Silicon Beach Tx today. Call [Direct] or reach out to our team online.
