Family therapy is a powerful tool for helping families overcome obstacles, build better bonds, and improve the overall well-being of the family unit. But it’s also important for families dealing with a wealth of specific issues, including substance abuse, trauma, and mental health issues, like depression and anxiety.

Still, introducing the idea of therapy to other family members isn’t always easy. In fact, just broaching the subject can lead to reactions from surprise to anger.

At Sal Rediscovery Center, Salisu Aikoye, MD, helps families in Norwalk, California, improve relationships and strengthen interpersonal bonds through compassionate family therapy tailored specifically to their needs. If you’d like to explore therapy for your family, this post helps you learn how to introduce the idea to your loved ones.

1. Be calm

Family therapy can be a great tool for helping you and your loved ones navigate choppy waters. And when you’re dealing with a stressful concern, it’s only natural to be stressed yourself.

But when you’re broaching the subject of family therapy, it’s essential to present your idea calmly. As natural as it is for you to feel stressed out, it’s also natural for family members to initially feel judged or criticized. They may respond in defensive or argumentative ways that make you angry.

Maintain your cool and calmly explain why you think therapy can be beneficial, focusing on the benefits it can offer your family as a whole. Don’t raise your voice, and be careful to avoid any type of wording that sounds like you’re assessing blame to someone — including yourself.

2. Choose your time wisely

Timing is also important. You certainly don’t want to introduce the topic of family therapy during a heated argument. You also don’t want to bring it up when a family member seems “in a mood” or especially stressed out over something going on at work, school, or home.

Instead, opt for a time when family members are relatively relaxed, and distractions are minimal. Be mindful of other people’s schedules and obligations to avoid having a conversation that can leave people feeling rushed or harried.

In addition to choosing an optimal time, make sure the place you select for your discussion is comfortable and relaxing. Again, find a spot where people are less likely to be distracted and where everyone can have their own space so they feel more confident expressing their opinions.

3. Give them time to respond

Finally, once you’ve introduced the subject and provided your calm reasons why you think therapy is a good idea, it’s time to let others voice their opinions. Don’t interrupt, even if you don’t agree with their arguments (and even if they interrupt you).

Remember, you’ve had a lot of time to think about the subject, but for your family members, the idea is novel — and perhaps a little threatening. It is essential to give them time to respond and voice their feelings without negative feedback. Validating their feelings and concerns helps family members know that their voices will be heard and their opinions thoughtfully considered.

When listening to your family members, don’t trivialize or dismiss their concerns or reservations. Listen thoughtfully to understand those reservations, and always underscore that family therapy isn’t intended to single out one person but rather to support the family dynamic and help it become stronger.

Compassionate support for your family

Family therapy is an important tool for rebuilding and strengthening family relationships and interpersonal dynamics, providing a framework that can yield a lifetime of benefits for every family member. To learn more about family therapy, call 562-669-3287 or book an appointment online at Sal Rediscovery Center today.