How does Family Counseling Work? - Theory of Life?

Whether one of your serious concerns in the family is about the loss of someone or marital disagreements, you can go for counseling. Irrespective of the level of life issue you are struggling with, family counseling can give you invaluable support. But how does it work and what is the theory behind this? Let's find it out today. 

The Foundation of Family Counselling 

When you choose to take the help of Christian family therapist, the sole foundation is the Biblical principles. Yes, your therapist will use the knowledge given in the Bible to strengthen your familial relationships. Generally in family counseling, it is considered that the whole family is a unit and any change from any one member affects every other. That's why in the family counseling session, the main focus is to address all these problems by improving communication and fostering a sense of collaboration within the family unit. 

If we look at the theoretical foundation of family counseling, it is related to many psychological models considering both individual and collective dynamics. These include systems theory, communication theory, and biopsychosocial models. 

Systems theory 

If you ever go for family or individual counseling in Duluth, you can understand the gist of ‘systems theory.’ During the therapy session, the family is considered a system of interconnected members where each one has to play an individual role to maintain the equilibrium within the family. In the ‘systems theory’, as the Christian family counselors say, every small issue in one area of family life is related to some larger relational patterns existing in the whole family system. That's why the therapist asks the whole family to come together for the session so that there can be healthier interactions. 

So, what is the major focus of ‘systems theory’ used in family therapy? It is mainly about ‘homeostasis.’ Yes, it works to create balance or stability within the family unit. It teaches the families to understand that if one member is under stress, then all others need to maintain the equilibrium on their part. By considering the whole family as a whole, the family therapists can identify existing unhealthy patterns, if any, and help the members to find a way to solve them.

Communication theory

Another aspect of Christian family counseling is ‘communication theory.’ It revolves around the fact that how different members communicate with each other defines their relationships. If there is miscommunication or poor communication within the family, misunderstandings, frustration, and emotional dispense will be there. The Christian family counselors, specifically trained in communication theory, understand that it is important for the members to express themselves more clearly. Not only this, they also need to listen to others attentively and work through conflicts constructively to promote a sense of understanding and empathy.

In family counseling, communication theory teaches families that it is important to recognize your communication style. No matter whether it is passive, aggressive, passive-aggressive, or assertive, recognize it at first and then work ahead. With better communication, better familial bonds will be fostered. 

The role of the family counselor 

Irrespective of whether you take the help of a Christian therapist online or offline, their role is of a neutral facilitator. They are trained particularly to understand your family dynamics, identify any unhealthy patterns, and guide the family towards a healthy way of living. 

Yes, your Christian family therapist will offer suggestions or guidance during the session. Do not consider it as taking sides or imposing solutions. Their task is to help you out and provide a safe, supportive space for you and your family to express freely.

In a family counselor, the following skills are very important: 

• Active listening 

• Empathy, and 

• Conflict resolution 

If your therapist is skilled at managing difficult emotions involving anger, guilt, and sadness, your family can benefit a lot. 

Benefits of family counseling 

Online Christian counseling for families can benefit them in many ways: 

Improved communication 

Every member understands the importance of explaining one's feelings freely.

Strengthened relationships 

The bonds within the whole family as a unit get better.

Conflict resolution 

The members also learn constructive conflict resolution skills that reduce the chances of repeated disputes.

Emotional support 

With the help of family therapy, if there is a lack of emotional support, it can also be fulfilled.

Coping with life changes

Major life transitions including divorce or financial stress can also be dealt with very easily with the help of family counselling.

Conclusion 

Family counseling in Duluth is a very effective way to address the problems within the family as a whole unit. It ultimately helps promote healthier relationships and better communication. By looking at family counseling through the lens of various psychological theories, including systems theory and communication theory, one can get the most out of it.