For many who struggle with addiction, substance use issues lead to conflicts with loved ones. Families can be impacted by addiction in myriad ways, and the most effective treatment programs for drug and alcohol addiction take these issues into account. The family therapy program is one way that Northpoint Washington supports our patients. Through sessions with an experienced therapist, you’ll discover new ways to communicate with loved ones, solve conflicts, and rebuild your support network.
Learn more about our addiction and mental health treatment program by calling 888.450.2153.
Addiction and Mental Health Affect Families
Addiction and mental health conditions often have a profound impact on not only the individual struggling with these issues but also their loved ones. Families can be greatly affected emotionally, financially, and socially by a family member’s addiction or mental health struggles.
Some common complications among families dealing with addiction and mental health include:
- Increased stress and tension within the household
- Financial strain due to lost income or medical expenses
- Difficulty communicating effectively with the individual struggling
- Feelings of guilt, anger, and resentment toward the individual
- Changes in family dynamics and roles
These challenges can create a toxic environment for both the individual and their family members. It is important for families to address and work through these issues in order to support their loved one’s recovery journey. The family therapy program at Northpoint Washington is designed to do just that.
What Is Family Therapy?
In a family, each member contributes, and each member receives support. But family life is rarely perfectly balanced. The family is a system, and the actions of each member—like substance abuse, for example—affect others in the family. And when a family is off-kilter, family therapy can help immensely for loved ones to find equilibrium.
Family therapy is not a substitute for other therapies and approaches to addiction treatment. Instead, it complements these other approaches. Combined with group therapy, one-on-one cognitive-behavioral therapy, and interventions for mental health concerns, family therapy can help our patients as they heal in every aspect of their lives.
Counseling aims to promote collaboration among family members to solve the problems of one or more individuals. It can also help family members understand one another better and learn coping skills to bring them closer together.
What to Expect in Family Therapy
While what happens in a family therapy session will depend on your family’s unique situation, there are a few things you can come to expect.
Sessions will typically last for about an hour, and you’ll meet regularly for as long as several months. Your therapist will likely ask some questions and bring up certain topics. These might include:
- Mental health issues like depression and anxiety
- How substance abuse has impacted family members
- Ways to handle conflict between family members
You’ll learn about how your family solves problems and the patterns contributing to conflict. Your therapist will help you talk openly about challenging issues and discover ways to care for each other best.
Family Therapy for Treating Co-Occurring Disorders
Individuals who have both an underlying mental health issue and a substance use disorder (addiction to drugs or alcohol) are said to have a co-occurring disorder. This means that both conditions need to be treated simultaneously for the individual to heal properly. Otherwise, the risk of relapse greatly increases.
Our family therapy program can help in the dual diagnosis treatment process. By working through issues springing from and affecting one’s family relationships, counselors and therapists can discover, explore, and ultimately help individuals overcome their underlying mental health issues to heal.
A Family Counseling Program Sheds Light on Addiction and Mental Health
Addiction is a disease, and mental health conditions are not desperate pleas for attention. Many family members struggle to empathize with someone who is struggling with addiction or mental illness, but family therapy can help bridge the gap and foster understanding. By participating in family therapy, loved ones can gain a better understanding of the underlying issues contributing to their family member’s substance use and mental health struggles.
Additionally, family therapy can help rebuild trust and communication within a strained relationship. It provides a safe space for open and honest discussions about difficult topics, leading to better problem-solving and support for recovery.
Learn More About Family Therapy Program at Northpoint Washington
Our family therapy program is here to support you and your loved ones on the road to recovery. Participate in sessions in our peaceful center in Edmonds, WA. Learn about the coping skills and strategies that can promote lasting recovery and healthy relationships between loved ones.
At Northpoint Washington, family therapy is just one of the interventions we offer. Our inpatient treatment programs are tailored to each client’s needs. We offer individual counseling and group therapy as well to give those who come to us for support the best chance of success and making a lasting recovery. Addiction can impact your whole family, which is why addiction treatment needs to address everyone involved. Contact Northpoint Washington at 888.450.2153 or reach out to us online to get started.