Family and systemic psychotherapy – also known as family therapy – can help those in close relationships to better understand and support each other. It enables family members to express and explore difficult thoughts and emotions safely, understand each other’s experiences and views, appreciate each other’s needs, build on family strengths, and work together to make useful changes in their relationships and their lives.

Every family is a bit like a human body. Sometimes it feels great, and things work well. Sometimes even small things can feel like a huge challenge. When we hurt one part of our body, every part can be affected in some way. But all the parts of the body can work together to help if a bone gets broken, or if there’s an infection. So family therapy helps family members to work together when something is hurting, or just feeling out of sorts.
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How do I get started?

I like to start with an initial phone conversation, so that I can understand what you are looking for and so we can see whether family therapy is right for you and your family. It will also give us both a sense of each other and whether we will feel comfortable working together. We should allow about 30 minutes for this initial call, there is no charge for this initial call. We can also see whether I have an appropriate slot at a time and location convenient for you. I currently work out of practice rooms in Exeter, Devon and Islington, London. I also offer video/telephone sessions, but this might not be available for all treatments or situations.

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What is Family Therapy?

Family therapy is a branch of psychotherapy focusing specifically on family relationships. It works from the premise that a problem lies within the family as a whole, rather than with a single person within the family unit. It is also referred to as couples therapy and family systems therapy.
Family therapy encourages change and development, and the combined resolution of family conflicts and problems. The focus is on how families interact together, emphasising the importance of a functioning family unit for psychological health and wellbeing. Regardless of the origin of an issue, or whom the problem lies with, the therapist’s aim is to engage the family in beneficial solutions, seeking constructive ways for family members to support each other through direct participation.

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What can I expect in the first session when I see a therapist?

My aim is not to take sides, blame, or provide simple ‘one size fits all’ answers to the difficulties you bring. I hope to encourage you to share understandings and views with each other and explore ways forward that work for you.

A ‘session’ will usually last 60 minutes, depending on your needs. I will do my best to make you feel welcome, and to give everyone a chance to contribute to discussions if you wish.

I will adapt my way of working according to people’s ages, needs, resources and preferences. Sessions involving children, for example, often include play and drawing. Some people may wish to talk together from the start of therapy sessions, while others may prefer some individual time with me before deciding if, what and how to share their thoughts and feelings with others. I will discuss with you how you would like to work together.

I normally work on my own with a family. However, it is possible that I might, in discussion with yourselves, suggest involving a colleague. When this is the case, I typically find that my clients say they find this ‘team’ approach to complex difficulties very helpful.

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