Family therapy is a key element in the recovery process. Family treatment is essential for those who need a better support system, those prone to relapse, and those who have underlying family issues that contribute to their mental health problems. But where can you get the best family therapy needed in mental health treatment, and is it truly necessary for long-term sobriety? In short, yes, and here are some things to consider.
Family Therapy in Mental Health Treatment – The Evidence
Family therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on the dynamics of a family and how those dynamics contribute to mental health issues. Family therapy is often used in conjunction with other forms of therapy, such as individual or group therapy.
Research shows that people with addiction who participate in family therapy are more likely to complete other treatment such as intensive outpatient treatment than those who don’t. Yet other research shows that people with mental illnesses who participate in both family therapy and individual treatment also experience certain benefits including:
- Increased medication adherence
- Reduced rates of relapse and rehospitalization
- Reduced psychiatric symptoms
- Improved stress relief
Engaging in both individual and family therapy can also improve overall family functioning and communication, which can lead to a healthier and more supportive environment for the individual in recovery. In short, family therapy carries more advantages than disadvantages, but only when conducted in a safe, professional, and therapeutic recovery environment.
Who is Family Therapy For?
The great thing about family therapy is that participants don’t need to only be parental relatives. Family therapy can also include other loved ones including:
- Legal guardians like foster parents or stepparents
- Significant others
- Close friends
- In-laws
- Siblings
The inclusion of these individuals in family therapy can help create a stronger support system for the person in treatment. The stronger the support system between the individual and their loved ones, the more likely they are to achieve long-term recovery from mental illness.
Goals of Family Therapy In Mental Health Treatment
No matter what type of therapy is used, the goal is always to help individuals overcome their mental health issues by fostering better relationships with their loved ones. But, goals can still be tailored to each person and their mental health.
Some common goals of family therapy needed in mental health treatment include:
- Creating an alliance with caregivers
- Reducing emotional intra-family conflicts by reducing stress and burden on loved ones
- Helping relatives recognize and solve issues before they start
- Reducing anger and guilt of family members
- Setting realistic expectations for individuals and their mental health
- Promoting reduced stigma and changed behaviors or beliefs
It’s clear from seeing these goals that family therapy isn’t as simple as gathering in a group therapy session. On the contrary, both the individual with mental health issues and their loved ones must make an active effort to learn new skills, actively engage in communication, and work together to achieve these goals.
How to Achieve the Best Outcomes in Family Therapy
Fortunately, engaging in family therapy and making the best of it is easier than you might think. Here are a few tips to help achieve the best outcomes in family therapy.
Work Closely With Mental Health Providers
Forming a close relationship with mental health providers is crucial during the family therapy process. Mental health treatment providers can offer guidance, support, and resources to help improve relationships within the family. These mental health professionals will work closely with you and your loved ones to identify goals, create a treatment plan, and adjust it as needed to ensure the best outcomes during family therapy.
Practice Active Listening and Communication
Active listening and effective communication are essential skills in any relationship, but they become even more crucial during family therapy. It’s important for all family members to actively listen and validate each other’s feelings and perspectives. Research shows that active listening can be taught and practiced, so there’s always room for improvement in this area.
Stay Committed and Consistent
Family therapy is an ongoing process that requires commitment and consistency from all parties involved. Whether your loved one is engaged in inpatient or outpatient treatment, staying consistent and committed to family therapy can make all the difference in their mental health recovery journey.
Find the Right Family Therapy Mental Health Treatment Today
At Elevation Behavioral Health, we believe that everyone deserves a comprehensive, holistic, and innovative treatment experience. Our team of clinical professionals specializes in dual diagnosis and mental health treatment. We want to ensure your stay in our residential treatment facility in Southern California is as relaxing, serene, and life-changing as possible. Through residential treatment, outpatient treatment, virtual IOP, and family therapy, we’ll give you the tools necessary so you can learn to cope, heal, and thrive. Contact us today to learn more about our family therapy program and how we can help you and your loved ones achieve lasting recovery.
