The role of family therapy in treatment programs - Psychotherapy | Online ®

Психотерапия
Jan 15
2 min read

Updated: Feb 6

A therapist takes notes while listening to a couple during a counseling session.

A Cornerstone in Addiction Treatment

Family therapy has emerged as a pivotal component in addiction treatment, with various approaches demonstrating significant positive outcomes. Structural and structural-strategic family therapy, in particular, have shown remarkable success. Other effective approaches include outpatient treatment in a family setting, group therapy for parents, and multiple family therapy. Interestingly, for alcohol addictions, marital counseling is ineffective unless underlying dysfunctional patterns within the biological family are addressed first.

Approaches and Effectiveness

*In family therapy, ecological interventions refer to an approach that considers the family not in isolation, but as part of a larger system that includes the social environment, cultural values, school, community, and other external influences. This approach recognizes that problems within the family are often a reflection of larger systemic problems and therefore solutions must also be sought at the systemic level.

* Ecosystemic Family Therapy: This approach, incorporating ecological interventions, has shown significantly better results in reducing adolescent drug use. Interventions enhance family relationships, increase cohesion, and decrease conflicts, leading to improved treatment outcomes. The work involves peers, schools, and other institutions to create a supportive social environment.

* Family Systems Therapy: The integration of structural and strategic approaches demonstrates the highest effectiveness in reducing problem behavior and halting drug use. Therapy encourages intensive engagement of parents and children while developing conflict resolution skills and improving emotional connection among family members.

Comparison Between Family and Individual Approaches

* Multidimensional Family Therapy (MDFT) vs. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Research suggests MDFT is more effective in:

* Reducing the severity of substance use problems.

* Maintaining remission and reducing symptoms up to 12 months post-therapy.

* Decreasing the frequency of additional substance use.

* CBT, on the other hand, offers quicker results through behavioral techniques, but combining it with MDFT provides better sustainability.

Therapeutic Modules and Stages

Treatment follows three phases:

* Initial Phase: Setting priorities and establishing a therapeutic contract.

* Middle Phase: Implementing interventions to reduce risky behavior and develop coping skills.

* Final Phase: Relapse prevention through assertiveness training and rehearsing real-life situations.

Recommendations for the "Psychotherapy" Platform

The "Psychotherapy" platform, offering online consultations and in-person sessions with psychologists, can integrate these proven approaches. Here are some ideas to adapt the services:

* Incorporating family therapy sessions: To improve family relationships.

* Developing MDFT-based programs: For clients with substance use issues.