"Family First" is not an uncommon saying, especially in Brooklyn, NY. Our families are the first point of connection in our lives and the people from whom we learn the most. Looking at Bowlby's research on attachment, it is evident that our familial bonds are not just a source of happiness but also a source of survival. That is why when we are in a rough place with our family (life changes, recurrent fights, divorce, someone struggling with addiction, grief, etc.) life can feel all sorts of unstable. Family therapy in Brooklyn, NY, can help you put family first.
What is Family Therapy in Brooklyn, NYC?
Especially if you have never been to therapy, you may be thinking, “What is family therapy, and why should I go?” Family therapy is precisely what it sounds like, it's a therapy session with a family member and in some cases, your entire family. This differs from individual therapy, as you are the only one coming in. In other words, in individual therapy, you're talking about your family; in family therapy, you're talking with your family. Because of this, the role of a therapist in family therapy is guided more toward facilitating communication and conflict resolution. Family therapy is listening and understanding your family better in an effort to build better relationships with them.
Common Family Issues Addressed in Therapy
So, now you know what family therapy is and have some idea why you should go, but maybe you don’t know the specific reasons. Here's a quick list of common family issues people come into address in family therapy:
- Communication breakdowns and misunderstandings: We have all had those conversations where we are talking with a family member, and then all of a sudden, it feels like we're on two different pages. Before we know it, it’s almost like we woke up and are arguing, yelling, screaming, and feeling hurt.
- Parent-child conflicts and behavioral challenges: Parent-child conflicts are all too common and normal, especially with additional behavioral challenges like temper tantrums, aggression, and emotional defiance. In conflict, we all just want to be heard, but sometimes, we don’t have the tools to regulate and keep hurting ourselves and others in the process.
- Sibling rivalry and family tension: If you have a sibling, you know how much comparison has a place in your family. Phrases like “You should be more like your sibling,” can leave you feeling jealous and in constant competition.
- Coping with significant life transitions (divorce, loss, relocation, etc.): We all experience some loss in our family dynamics. It could be due to divorce, death, or relocation. Regardless of the situation, you are going through a huge transition and must find a new normal. This can feel incredibly unstable.
- Managing mental health concerns within the family dynamic: Taking care of our mental health is essential not just for us but also for the people around us. When one family member is struggling with their mental health, life can feel much heavier, and you may
notice it is also affecting you, your well-being, and your other family members, too.
While these are very common reasons why people begin family therapy, family therapy is for any family members looking to resolve conflicts or understand each other better.
Key Benefits of Family Therapy
Family therapy can be the first step to a healthier relationship with your closest family members. Some ways that family therapy can help are as follows:
- Strengthening family bonds and emotional connections: A family feeling distrust and disconnection can now feel more trust, excitement, and a sense of belonging with each other. Evenings where everyone is on their phone in the same room turn into an interactive game night with new inside jokes.
- Improving conflict resolution and communication skills: Those arguments you used to wake up and find yourself in are stopped before they’re even started. You find yourself being able to recognize when a conflict is beginning, take a deep breath, and not only calm yourself down but calm your family members down, too, to find some clarity and common ground.
- Creating a supportive environment for individual growth: With all of this newfound positivity and ability to understand one another, you may find that home feels more supportive and loving. Imagine coming home with good news, and all your family members are eager and excited to celebrate you.
- Addressing generational patterns and unhealthy dynamics: Children learn their behaviors from their parents, and their parents have learned their behaviors from their parents, and so on. It did not start with you. Family therapy can bring this pattern to your attention, empowering you to break it.
- Enhancing problem-solving strategies as a unit: You may find that together, you can work things out better, even with many different personalities and communication styles. Having arguments over family dinner and what to eat becomes a week of rotating who picks the family meal.
What to Expect in Family Therapy Sessions
In the first family therapy session in Brooklyn, NY, you will meet your therapist. There, your therapist will tell you how they approach family therapy. They will also ask you and your family members many questions about family history and current conflicts to get a sense of who you and your family are. With a therapist as your guide, and you and your family as the leader, you will develop goals together. Family therapy is so expansive, so there are so many different approaches, mainly depending on the types of conflict; maybe you are learning more skills, maybe you are setting boundaries, and perhaps you are just actively listening and having conflict with one another with a mediator present. Each family member is a part of this healing process. While the duration and method are based on the family's needs, numerous research studies suggest consistency is key, so weekly or bi-weekly sessions are essential.
Why Seek Family Therapy in Brooklyn, NY?
Family Therapy in Brooklyn, NY, is tailored and prepared to support Brooklyn-based families. These therapists are local to you and live in the area; they know what it's like to be in Brooklyn's heart of creativity, differences, and eclectic culture. These therapists are compassionate, experienced, safe, and nonjudgmental in your vulnerable journey with your family. Not only are they culturally sensitive, but many come from diverse backgrounds and are ready to support your family's unique needs. With that, these therapists are available both in person and online.
Strengthen Your Family with Humantold
Humantold specializes in helping families navigate challenges with expert guidance and personalized care. Our licensed therapists are trained in family dynamics, conflict resolution, and communication strategies to support lasting change. Every family is unique, so we create tailored therapy plans to meet your needs.
Take the first step today—schedule a consultation and start building a stronger, healthier family.
Conclusion
Family therapy in Brooklyn, NY is an investment in your emotional well-being and long-term happiness. Stronger connections, healthier communication, and lasting conflict resolution are all within reach.
Ready to start? Visit Humantold to learn more and book an appointment.