Conflict and disagreements are a normal part of family life. Getting through these conflicts is only possible through open communication and support. Every member of the family plays a part in the family dynamics that contribute to a non-judgmental environment for dialogue. However, when a family member is experiencing a mental health issue or substance use disorder, this family dynamic can easily be thrown off. Teens are particularly prone to the stresses of life events. They may develop mental health issues or substance use disorders as they don’t have all the tools necessary to cope in a healthy and productive manner.
Imagine Boise offers family therapy for teen addiction or for any other issue your teen faces that is causing conflict within the family. We specialize in helping teens age 12 to 17, and our experienced and compassionate therapists are familiar with all sorts of adolescent issues. Our family therapy program is just one of the many treatment modalities we offer for teen mental health issues and teen addiction treatment. If you are interested in learning more about what Imagine Boise offers, contact us at 888.597.2807.
What Is Family Therapy for Teens?
Family therapy is a type of psychological counseling that aims to improve communication between all participating family members. The family members and the adolescent patient participate in sessions together, learning how to resolve their current conflicts and developing the tools to prevent future problems.
A licensed therapist will facilitate each session, beginning with an assessment to determine the proper treatment program for the specific issue that is causing a breakdown in communication. While the inability to communicate one’s fears, hopes, and thoughts is sometimes an internal matter, it is common for there to be a mental health issue or other external factor that causes family members to stop understanding one another. If a mental health condition or addiction is the main point of conflict, the therapist and other mental health professionals can help with the recovery process.
How Family Therapy Can Help Your Teen
Frequently, a teen’s family is their first support network when they go through a mental health disorder or teen drug abuse. However, getting support can be incredibly difficult when the teen is overwhelmed, as they may lash out or simply refuse to ask for help. Family therapy can help your teen:
- Learn healthy ways to communicate their thoughts and emotions
- Manage their mental health
- Develop confidence in their ability to handle stress
- Repair damaged or broken relationships
- Address the impact of a mental health disorder or substance use disorder
What to Expect in Family Therapy for Teens
In a family therapy session, a therapist meets with the family members and the teen patient. The therapist’s role is to provide insight and give the family the tools to resolve conflicts, not to provide a solution for the conflict. The family members will learn to:
- Identify strong emotions such as guilt, fear, or anger that may prevent them from communicating freely
- Develop insight into their own behaviors and reactions
- Reduce aggressive, negative, or judgmental communication
- Break unhealthy patterns of behavior
- Understand each other’s struggles with mental health disorders or substance use
Start a Family Therapy Program at Imagine Boise
Our treatment center near Boise, Idaho, offers family therapy alongside a wide range of comprehensive treatment programs for teens aged 12 to 17. If you’re interested in what you can do to help your teen with their mental health disorder, you can reach out to us to learn more. Our mental health professionals are ready to guide both you and your teen to a brighter future. We are committed to helping you achieve better communication and a healthier family dynamic. Call us at 888.597.2807 to get started.