Understanding Family Therapy: How Relationships Shape Mental Health

Written By Maya Owens, MFTC

The Importance of Relationships in Mental Health

Relationships are an incredibly important part of the human experience, and they can also be among the most complex. When we discuss our individual mental health in therapy, it is imperative to look at how the external context of our lives influences our internal experience. Family therapy is a way to expand our understanding of the connection between our external and internal experiences by exploring our complex relationships directly.

What is family therapy?

Family therapy is a type of therapy that focuses on healing relationships and addressing problems by working with the entire family rather than focusing on one individual. Family Therapy can be done with two or more people, can be composed of any type of family relationship (siblings, parents-child relationships, blended families, etc.), and can include family members of all ages. 

Understanding Family Systems Theory

There are many different modalities and approaches to family therapy, but each approach is guided by Family Systems Theory. Family therapists view families as a “family system”. This is a way to conceptualize how families function as an interconnected group where each family member has an impact on family functioning. Similarly, the family system has an impact on individual functioning. Rather than viewing a family member’s behavior as an isolated event, behavior is viewed as interconnected to and influenced by the individual’s family system (Guise, 2009). Family Systems Theory helps us to understand why family has such a profound impact on our individual mental health, and how working with family members together in therapy can help to create positive change.


How Family Therapy Supports Individual Mental Health

Family history, individual functioning, relationships, roles, expectations, and interactional patterns combine and interact to determine family functioning (Guise, 2009). Family therapy helps families to strengthen their ability to navigate each of these factors to achieve a healthier pattern of family functioning. By supporting the family as a unit, family therapy in turn supports the individual mental health of each family member. 


Common Goals of Family Therapy

Examples of goals for family therapy include but are not limited to:

  • Improving communication skills

  • Navigating conflicts more effectively 

  • Fostering deeper understanding and empathy between family members

  • Adjusting to life transitions

  • Improving ability to respond to mental health challenges

  • Healing past relationship wounds

Is Family Therapy Right for You and Your Family?

By seeking out family therapy, you are choosing to nurture your relationships with your family members in addition to nurturing your own mental health. If you are interested in the benefits of family therapy, please email us at info@movement-counseling.com or give us a call at 303-876-7658 to chat with our intake team and get paired with a therapist today!

References

Guise, R. (2009). Study guide for the marriage and family therapy national licensing exam. Fifth edition. Maryland: The Family Solutions Corporation.

Maya Owens, MFTC

Hi there! My name is Maya and I work with individual kids, teens, and adults, as well as couples and families. My approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and creating a safe, nonjudgmental space for growth and exploration. I believe deeply in each person’s innate capacity for positive change. I understand that each individual’s journey is unique, and I am committed to meeting you where you are.

With a background in both musical theatre and psychology, I’ve come to value the profound impact of storytelling, creativity, and human connection. This led me to earn my Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Regis University, where I cultivated my passion for systemic therapy. The primary modalities that inform my approach include Emotionally Focused Therapy and Narrative Therapy. I view therapy as a journey towards self-compassion, empowerment, and fostering deeper connections. I am passionate about hearing your personal story and developing a collaborative relationship to promote healing and growth.

When I am not in session, you can find me spending time in the mountains, seeing live music, singing, cooking, crafting, and spending time with my family and dogs!

https://www.movement-counseling.com/meetourteam
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