Marriage and family counselors (MFTs), like GPS, are essential for any relationship road trip. They will help you to figure out what your destination is, how to reach it, and what steps to take when you encounter a pothole. These professionals have a specialization in the dynamics between families. These professionals can help you navigate through emotional conflict and rough personal situations that can strain even the strongest family bonds.
Imagine your team as climbers preparing to scale a high mountain. Each family member is carrying a pack containing their personal emotions, experiences, and expectations. Consider an MFT to be your experienced guide. They’ve studied weather patterns (family dynamics) and the various trails to map out (therapeutic techniques). Their job is to? Lead your team to the top without any one falling off.
The goal of family therapy is to improve communication, and strengthen relationships. This doesn’t mean sitting in circles airing out grievances. It’s time to unpack those emotional bags and figure out why Dad always has a heavy pack or why the teenager wants to take a different route.
MFT sessions might include exploring patterns within family interactions. You might find that every conversation you have about money ends up with the doors being slammed. An MFT works with you to identify patterns, disrupt them and find new ways of engaging.
They also bring light to the areas of family life which are usually shrouded by silence. Topics such as mental illness or substance abuse are sensitive. MFTs can help families confront these issues together, instead of letting them fester.
Relationship architects serve couples pondering marriage and those who are already married. They help couples build a blueprint for their future that is based on trust and mutual understanding. These therapists help couples to build bridges between them when they are separated by islands.
But let’s be honest: Therapy is not magic. It doesn’t happen overnight, nor is it just about having heart to hearts with breakthroughs at every session. It can also be about how to argue better. Or finding ways to help each other out without losing ourselves in the process.
Imagine for a second that your therapist is wearing referee strips during sessions with high tension. Interjecting “Let’s take turns,” or “What’s wrong with what you said is …”” can be helpful in re-directing conversations.
In addition, the modern world can throw curveballs older generations haven’t had to deal with. For example, managing careers which require 60-hour week or managing digital intimacy. MFTs have the ability to help couples balance these modern challenges, while still maintaining their relationship.
MFTs help to bring together different cultures into a harmonious family unit.
Remember that seeking therapy does not necessarily mean there is something wrong with you or your loved ones. Think of it instead as regular maintenance for your car. Regular check-ins will prevent minor issues becoming major problems down the line.
Marriage and family therapy equips individuals with strategies that will not only help them survive storms in life, but also to thrive. If you ever feel that life is like a rough sea, tossing the ship of your family around, then consider booking an appointment with an MFT. After all, we can all use some guidance when it comes to stormy weather.