Bilingual Family Therapist
Family therapy, terapia familiar, is a powerful and transformative approach to addressing interpersonal and relational challenges within families. Our bilingual therapists have the cultural awareness and sensitivity to bridge language and cultural barriers, and facilitate healing and understanding across diverse family dynamics. In our society of diverse cultural, we recognize the significance of cultural nuances, communication patterns, and traditions in shaping family dynamics.
Family Dynamics
Family dynamics refer to the patterns of interactions, roles, relationships, and behaviors within a family unit. These dynamics are shaped by a variety of factors, including culture, tradition, and family history, among others. There are several compelling statistics that highlight the relationship between family dynamics and mental health:
Parental Support: Research consistently shows that a supportive and nurturing family environment has positive effects on mental health outcomes. According to a study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders, children who experience supportive parenting are less likely to develop depressive symptoms later in life.
Family Conflict: On the other hand, family conflict and dysfunctional dynamics can have a detrimental impact on mental health. A study published in the Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology found that adolescents who experienced high levels of family conflict were at a greater risk for developing anxiety and depression.
Communication Patterns: Effective communication within families play a crucial role in maintaining good mental health. Research suggests that open and frequent communication between family members can reduce stress and contribute to better mental well-being for all family members.
Inter-generational Transmission: Mental health issues can be passed down from one generation to another. A study published in the journal Psychiatry Research found that individuals with a family history of mental illness were at a higher risk of developing mental health disorders themselves.
Divorce and Separation: Family dynamics can significantly change after a divorce or separation, which can have negative consequences for mental health. According to a study published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, children who experience parental divorce often have higher rates of mental health issues, including depression and anxiety.
Parental Mental Health: The mental health of parents influences the mental health of children. A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry found that children of parents with mental health disorders were at an increased risk of developing similar disorders themselves.
Overall, these statistics demonstrate the close relationship between family dynamics and mental health. A supportive and nurturing family environment tends to promote better mental health outcomes, while dysfunctional family dynamics or parental mental health issues can significantly impact the mental well-being of individuals and their children.
Stages of Family Therapy
We follow four major stages in family therapy, knowing that each stage will be unique to each family given their dynamics.
1. The Preparation Stage: mutual acceptance, definition of the problem, formulation of goals.
2. The Transition Stage: beginning actualization, crisis, reformulation and acceptance.
3. The Consolidation Stage: investment in the therapeutic work, working through alternatives.
4. The Terminal Stage: introduction to termination, defining the duration and format of the ending. Universal issues are identified, tasks for the therapist are outlined and common problems are described.
Goal of Family Therapy
Our goal in family therapy is to improve the communication within the family, help members understand and handle family situations, and create an overall healthy functioning home environment. Our bilingual therapists help families navigate their complex journeys towards harmony and well-being.
Contact us today for an intake call to see if Ascend Individual and Family Therapy Services is appropriate for you and your family needs.
