Family Counselling Services in Whitby, ON.

In working with families, we aim to explore the power dynamics that exist between individual members and the ways in which these dynamics can work to maintain a particular pattern that is not of interest to everyone in the family. We look at the ways these patterns can prevent "success", or the achievement of what it is the family truly wants and values. In this way, we adopt a method of systemic or relational thinking; we hope to understand patterns rather than making any one person in the family the "problem". As such, we understand problems as a system of unsatisfying responses. Note: When working with families, there are times when it is useful to meet with members individually.

A family of four walks into a bar... (okay, therapist's office, fine) each with a different reason why they're there. Also, some of them don't want to be there at all! Get it! Actually, there's no punch-line, it's just normally how it goes. Regardless of what event brings them through the door, families often come in feeling divided and disconnected. That's why my job is to find the common ground so that everyone feels like they're being respected, heard, and have something to gain from the experience. My hope is that you will leave here: 1) Feeling more unified around a common goal 2) Clarity for how to move forward together 3) A renewed sense of what matters most

Individual therapy often involves considering your family of origin. Family therapy may involve just the two of you or a more extensive collection of relations. Since I exclusively see people online, the practical limit seems to be two people. Larger groups require in-person office visits. Don't worry. You'll find highly competent and informed counsellors for your family on Theravive. In these circumstances, please approach therapy with patience and kindness. It takes time for everyone to engage in family therapy. By avoiding the search for scapegoats or blaming others, you create a safe and supportive environment for everyone involved.

Each family has its own unique personality that impacts the functioning of its members. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic models and the approach I take will be catered to your family dynamics and the special challenges that brought you here today. When working with the family, I help improve their ability communicate openly to challenging issues and work through ups and downs in their relationships.

Imagine a family as a tree with branches, roots, trunk representing parts of the immediate and extended family. When working with families, all elements are considered. Usually there is a request for family therapy due to one of it's members in crisis, often a child. However, when an analysis of need is done it becomes apparent that more than one member of the family needs help in adjusting, growing and learning new behaviours. Clients contact me for a variety of reasons: to improve communications, solve family problems, support in special situations such as death, divorce, marriage, illness, child or adolescent issues.

Families undergo constant change as each member strives to learn, grow and develop individually and in relation to others. Stress and challenges are a normal part of family development and, at times, these can become "too much" to handle alone. When arguments, disagreements, confusion and conflict arise it can be quite helpful to draw upon an experienced family systems specialist. Assessing and prioritizing concerns and developing a game plan for improving communication, relationships and overall functioning is available. Teamwork require good coaches (parents/caregivers) and good coaches benefit from training. Problem-solving, mediation and stress management coaching improves family.

The relationships in your family can often bring you love, joy, and a sense of fulfillment. But when things aren't going well, your relationships can be exhausting and painful. Family therapy provides a safe and fair space for all of you to be heard, and can help you discover and process the root of the issue. Family therapy is hard work, but when all individuals are willing to put the work in, great things can happen.