When one person suffers from substance abuse, it impacts everyone in the family. That is why so many programs have begun implementing family therapy as an integral step on the path to recovery. This involves therapeutic interventions where a specialist will gather everyone in a client’s immediate family to discuss family roles, learn what actions are harmful to the recovering client’s health and identify ways to rebuilt trust.
When is it Time to Incorporate Family Therapy?
Some family members may be more open to going to therapy with their loved ones than others. It may not be best for everyone trying to recover, but there are times when it can help. For example, if family members continue abusing substances that trigger the person in recovery, then it is important for everyone to come together with a neutral third party to discuss this.
Additionally, family therapy for substance abuse and addiction helps when there are other family issues at play negatively affecting the person’s path to recovery. Perhaps there are long-standing grudges or consistent abuse taking place. Therapy gives everyone a chance to voice their opinions in a setting without judgment.
The Benefits of Implementing Family Therapy
The primary benefit of attending therapy as a family is education. Many people have limited knowledge of addictions and the psychology at play. The therapist has an opportunity to educate loved ones about their family member’s addiction. They will come to understand addiction is not simply a choice. It is a complicated system.
Another advantage is that it improves communication among family members. Most families do not necessarily have abusive or negative relationships, but there can be a severe lack of communication. Some families have little emotional involvement in one another’s activities.
In addition to improving communication, therapy also gives loved ones an opportunity to voice their feelings. When the person in recovery was still using, bridges could have been burned. Therapy allows family members to clearly say how the addiction made them feel. Through therapy, relationships can be mended. People have a chance to open their hearts and positive change can occur as a result.
One final benefit is that therapy gives everyone in the recovering client’s immediate circle a clear-cut plan for continued care. Therapy will not last forever, and everyone needs to be on the same page to assist the one in recovery. The person trying to recover may fall off the wagon over time and may be reluctant to go to meetings. Although the therapy sessions are over, the person’s family now has tools and resources to assist in a meaningful way.
Developing a Recovery Plan That Works
Teenagers and adults alike can benefit from going to therapy with their families. In addition to going to therapy, there are plenty of ways for families to become involved. They can attend intakes and appointments, and they can learn to give up certain substances themselves in a show of solidarity. At the end of the day, the best thing families can do is to simply be there for their loved ones. Anyone in need of a substance abuse recovery plan in Pennsylvania should contact Rehab After Work at (610) 644-6464 for more information.
