Family Therapy

We believe family relationships are a major factor in promotion of psychological health. Family Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that involves all members of a nuclear or extended family, and it can be very beneficial in situations such as:

-Families with a member that is suffering from mental illness, addiction or anger control

-Families that deviate from social norms- multigenerational households, mixture of cultural or religious backgrounds, blended families or gay couples rearing children

-Families with a member or members with behavioral issues

-Families struggling with life changes such as loss of a family member, a family member with a chronic illness or a geographic relocation

Family Therapy is usually a short-term treatment over several months with a focus on resolving specific problems or issues.  All members of the family participate in sessions.  At Ascendant Clinics we offer different types of family Therapy- Family Systems Therapy and Family Function Therapy

Family Systems Therapy is a specialized treatment focused on nurturing change within families. This treatment draws on systems thinking in its view of the family as an emotional unit and evaluates the parts of a system in relation to the whole.  Treatment emphasizes the interdependency of family members rather than focusing on individuals in isolation from the family. Problems are treated by the way the family system works rather than by trying to target an individual.

Functional Family Therapy (FFT) was founded in the 1970s by Dr. James F. Alexander, and is one of the most sought-after treatment for families in distress. FFT has received international recognition for its outcomes in helping troubled youth and their families to overcome delinquency, substance abuse, violence, and teen acting out behaviors. It is built on a foundation of respect of individuals, families and cultures, that includes powerful treatment strategies that pave the way for motivating individuals and families to become more adaptive and successful in their own lives.

The goals of Family Function Therapy are:

-Engage and motivate youth and their families by decreasing intense negativity (blaming, hopelessness)

-Reduce and eliminate problem behaviors

-Change family relational patterns through individualized behavior change interventions

FFT utilizes a strong cognitive therapy along with systematic skill­ training in family communication, parenting, problem solving, and conflict management skills.

To find a therapist at Ascendant Behavioral Health Clinics that specializes in Family Therapy go to Our Staff or call (801) 872-5516.