Family Therapy.

Families of those dealing with substance use disorder frequently bear a heavy burden. As a result, family therapy and support are crucial in the treatment and recovery process. They support the individual and their loved ones on the path to healing.

What is Family Therapy?

Family therapy offers a space for family members to express their feelings about the impact of substance use disorder (SUD). During recovery, it’s important to recognize that a person’s substance use also affects their loved ones. They should take part in individual and group therapy.

Spouses can feel strong emotions like anger and neglect. Children of addicted parents often feel a heavy sense of responsibility for their parent’s problems. 

Recognizing these feelings is essential, as these kids may face extra challenges with their thoughts and emotions.

Family counseling is crucial for uncovering underlying issues in the family dynamic and providing families with essential tools to navigate these challenges effectively. 

Therapy helps family members support and understand their loved ones in recovery.

When a family faces a loved one’s substance misuse, it can cause anxiety and sadness. Seeking counseling can be transformative, providing essential support and fostering healing. 

Family Therapy in Addiction Treatment

Family therapy for substance use disorder varies based on the individuals receiving treatment and their family dynamics. Its primary objective is to enhance relationships within the family unit and improve overall functioning while supporting the individual in recovery.

Family therapy for addressing substance misuse creates a supportive atmosphere characterized by therapeutic alliances. Relationships are grounded in trust, mutual respect, and understanding among you, your therapist, and your family.

The approach highlights the importance of family resilience, meaning families can work together to overcome challenges. It aims to equip family members with essential skills to manage stressors effectively while fostering a positive outlook.

Types of Family Therapies

Family therapy is important in treating substance use disorder (SUD). It helps meet the unique needs of each family member. 

The overarching goal of family therapy is to engage with a therapist. However, it also offers the option of individual therapy sessions. Each session typically lasts about an hour and can focus on various topics aligned with the participants’ concerns. 

Therapists use various techniques in support groups to help families of people with substance use disorders. They create a supportive and helpful environment.

• Behavioral Couples Therapy (BCT). Behavioral Couples Therapy (BCT) helps couples when one partner struggles with drugs or alcohol. It involves a “Recovery Contract,” where the individual commits to sobriety, and their partner provides supportive encouragement. BCT helps improve communication, reduce stress, and promotes lasting abstinence, fostering a healthier partnership.
• Family Behavioral Therapy (FBT). FBT is effective for adults and teens with substance use problems. It shows how a person’s behavior affects their family. It also identifies the roles that family members take on to cope with SUD. FBT involves the entire family changing these behaviors to promote healing and better relationships.
• Basic Strategic Family Therapy (SFT). This type of family therapy helps people with both SUD and mental health issues. It focuses on finding solutions to problems rather than determining the exact reasons for family issues.
• Multidimensional Family Therapy (MFT). This approach is often used with teenagers. It involves getting help from their families and the community, like schools and the juvenile justice system. The goal is to improve cooperation and reduce problems like delinquency and substance abuse.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) teaches skills to change harmful thinking and behavior. It helps stop substance use and prevent relapse. CBT can be used in individual sessions or with families.
• Family Recovery Support Groups. Support groups for family members of those with SUD offer a space for spouses, caregivers, children, siblings, and others. These groups help them connect with people who have similar experiences. Participants can receive support and guidance from one another as they deal with the challenges of SUD.

Supporting families of individuals with substance use disorder is vital for recovery, as it strengthens the home support system. Substance use affects the entire family, not just the individual. 

If you’re struggling to cope with a loved one’s substance use, our facilities can provide the assistance you need.

Benefits of Family Therapy for Substance Use Disorder

Family therapy is an effective way to help with SUD. It supports not just the person struggling with substance use but also their family and loved ones. This therapy fosters stronger connections among family members.

Below are some of the top benefits of utilizing family therapy in treating SUD:

Support for family members: SUD affects families deeply, creating stress and challenges. Family therapy creates a supportive space for everyone to share feelings and discuss needs, promoting healing and stronger connections.

Feeling less isolated: SUD can leave individuals feeling isolated, often straining family bonds. However, family therapy is a powerful way to rebuild those connections, fostering a sense of belonging and support. When people with SUD unite with loved ones, they can overcome isolation and build hope and resilience together.

Improved communication: Family therapy helps family members talk openly about their feelings and concerns related to substance use. This open communication can repair broken relationships and strengthen bonds during recovery and afterward.

Identifying enabling behaviors: Family therapy helps family members see behaviors that unintentionally support substance misuse. By recognizing and changing these behaviors, families can create a more supportive environment for recovery.

Resolving conflict: SUD can strain family relationships, leading to trust issues and emotional turmoil. Family therapy helps resolve conflicts and encourages family members to talk openly. It builds trust and respect among them.

Family Therapy as a New Beginning

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a chronic condition that, while not curable, can be managed effectively with the proper treatment and support. 

Individual therapy helps people deal with their specific challenges. Involving family members is essential for a successful recovery.

Family support truly enriches the journey to sobriety and promotes long-term wellness. Family therapy fosters lasting recovery by equipping families with valuable knowledge and tools. 

Taking the step to find a licensed family therapist can make a significant difference in this important journey.

Our program provides a versatile care model that empowers you to tackle SUD while balancing your daily life. For those seeking more intensive support, our outpatient facilities offer the dedicated care you deserve for a successful recovery.

Don’t wait to find help for yourself or a loved one. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation with one of our specialists.

References:

1. National Institutes of Health: Emotional and Social Loneliness in Individuals With and Without Substance Dependence Disorder
2. Wiley Online Library: Effects of family therapy for substance abuse: A systematic review of recent research