Understanding Family Therapy for Substance Abuse
Bringing a loved one into therapy for substance abuse treatment can be a difficult decision. It may feel overwhelming and even scary to admit that you or someone in your family is struggling with addiction.
At Mile High Recovery Center, we see the strength in unity. The family unit is often our biggest supporter and the ones who know us best. That’s why we offer family therapy as an integral part of our treatment program.
What Is Family Therapy for Substance Abuse?
Family therapy is a form of group therapy that involves the family unit. It focuses on improving communication and relationships within the family system to support recovery from substance abuse.
In family therapy for substance abuse recovery, all members of the family are encouraged to participate if they are willing and able to contribute positively. This may include parents, siblings, spouses, or other close family members.
During sessions, family members can share their experiences, feelings, and concerns related to their loved one’s substance misuse. The therapist will then guide the discussion and help family members understand each other’s perspectives, create healthy boundaries, and heal any harmed relationships.
Involving Families in the Recovery Process
This involvement offers a dual benefit. For the individual, it creates a more robust support network, grounded in a deeper mutual understanding. For the family, it’s an opportunity to heal from the collective trauma and learn healthier ways of relating to each other.
Common Goals and Objectives in Family Therapy for Substance Abuse
- Understanding family dynamics: A therapist helps everyone understand these roles and how they affect relationships.
- Safe, inclusive space to voice feelings: Family therapy cultivates a space where everyone feels comfortable sharing their feelings without fear of judgment or retaliation. It’s a space where all voices are heard.
- Reframing relationships and behaviors: Therapy can help family members see their relationships and actions in a new light. For example, what might seem like nagging could actually be a sign of care.
- Shift perspectives: Sometimes, we get stuck seeing things from just our point of view. Family therapy allows family members to understand each other’s experiences and challenges.
Mile High Recovery Center's Approach to Family Therapy for Substance Abuse
Multidisciplinary Team Expertise
Our team has skilled professionals with expertise in addiction counseling, therapy, and family systems. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that every aspect of the individual and family’s needs are addressed.
Addiction counselors bring a deep understanding of the challenges and processes of overcoming substance abuse. Family system therapists, skilled in various modalities, offer emotional support and strategies for personal and interpersonal healing.
Personalized Support
Compassionate Care
We also recognize the sensitivity of family relationships, along with the potential for tensions or conflicts during therapy. Our team is trained to handle these situations with care and facilitate healthy discussions that lead to positive outcomes.1
Core Components of Family Therapy for Substance Abuse at Mile High Recovery Center
Education on Addiction and Its Impact on the Family System
Communication Skills Training for Improved Family Dynamics
Identifying and Establishing Boundaries
Conflict Resolution Strategies
Addressing Underlying Family Issues Contributing to Substance Abuse
Supporting Family Members in Their Own Recovery and Self-Care
Supporting a loved one through recovery can be challenging. It can take a toll on your own mental and emotional well-being. Recognizing this, our program emphasizes the importance of self-care for each family member.
We provide resources and support to help family members take care of themselves while also supporting their loved one’s recovery.
Benefits of Family Therapy for Substance Abuse Treatment
Enhancing Family Communication and Support Networks
Strengthening Family Bonds and Relationships
Providing a Safe and Supportive Environment for Healing and Growth
Reducing the Risk of Relapse and Promoting Long-Term Recovery
Do I Need Family Therapy?
Most addiction recovery programs include family therapy for substance abuse because it works in multiple ways during the healing process.
Here are some signs family therapy may be right for you:
Persistent Blame and Shame Dynamics
Unprocessed Family Trauma
Families carrying the weight of unprocessed trauma, such as the loss of a family member, experiences of abuse, or significant traumatic events, may find solace and resolution through family therapy.
This therapeutic approach can help process these deep-seated issues, fostering healing and understanding.
Misunderstanding Around Addiction
Communication Breakdowns
Stagnation in Relationships
Suspected Toxic Influences
Desire for Mediated Conversations
When Family Therapy May Not Be Suitable
Presence of Abuse or Severe Dysfunction
In such situations, individual therapy might be a more appropriate starting point until a safe environment for family therapy can be established.
Lack of Willingness from Family Members
Geographic or Logistical Constraints
Healing Begins Here, at Mile High Recovery Center
The journey of recovery is not one to be walked alone. Family therapy offers a path to healing that is shared, deeply enriching, and profoundly effective. It’s an opportunity to heal together, grow together, and ultimately, triumph together.
If you and your family are prepared to begin this journey, Mile High Recovery Center is here to support you at every step. Our doors are open, and our hearts are ready to welcome you into a healing process that is both inclusive and transformative.
