Family Therapy Flashcards
(3 cards)
Family Therapy - Multiple Relationships
Because we’ve already built an individual therapeutic relationship, it wouldn’t be ethically appropriate for me to also work with your family.
Why: That would mean taking on two roles—supporting you individually, while also trying to work with your whole family. This kind of dual relationship can confuse where my responsibilities lie, and it could make it harder for you to feel that this space is just for you. It also risks undermining trust within your family, especially if others feel I’m already aligned with your perspective.
Family Therapy - Neutrality
I already know your perspective well, which makes it hard to stay fully neutral in a family therapy setting.
Why: Because I’ve developed a strong understanding of your views and experiences, it would be difficult for me to offer the same balanced support to each family member. That lack of neutrality could make others feel dismissed or misunderstood, which would reduce the effectiveness of the therapy.
Family Therapy - Boundaries
Therapy works best when roles are clear, and changing from your individual therapist to a family therapist would shift the boundaries we’ve set.
Why: Shifting roles mid-way can create confusion about who the therapy is for and what it’s meant to achieve. That confusion can affect your experience, reduce clarity, and weaken the trust that’s been built in our sessions.
