Family Therapy and Counseling Program

Family is an integral part of a person’s life. A person’s family can help determine their values, how they react in certain situations, and who or what they’ll turn to in a crisis. When someone is battling an addiction, their family members are also affected. As such, it is critical to include family members in the recovery process.

During addiction treatment, family members can learn about the behaviors and habits that their loved one has developed to cope with stress and anxiety. They can also air grievances and come to terms with the events that have occurred in the past. Through our family therapy and counseling program in Marne, Michigan, and the family program at Sanford Behavioral Health, loved ones can come together, united to beat the disease of addiction.

How Does Addiction Hurt the Family Unit?

Addiction very rarely affects only one person. It can have harmful consequences to not only the person using substances but also their parents, children, and partners. Unfortunately, addiction has both long and short-term effects on their loved ones. Family members may experience challenges such as:

• Increased conflict between the person using substances and those with whom they live
• Decreased trust within the family unit
• More difficulties in communication
• Higher likelihood of abuse or assault
• Fear for their loved one’s well-being

Addiction can also have devastating consequences for children. Children who grow up watching their parents use drugs or alcohol are more likely to use substances in the future. They’re also at a higher risk of neglect and abuse. In some extreme cases, authorities may be called to remove the child from the home, which can be highly traumatic, both for the child and the adult.

Once an individual has entered treatment, addiction treatment counselors will work with them and those they love to address the long-term effects of their substance use. Many specialists recommend engaging in a family therapy and counseling program as part of the treatment plan.

Why Is a Family Therapy and Counseling Program Necessary?

Research indicates that addiction treatment options that include the family tend to be more effective than those without. People who take part in family counseling are more likely to remain in the treatment program, as well as less likely to relapse. With the help of family therapy, the family unit can work to improve communication and address underlying conflicts. Additionally, it allows loved ones to understand their loved one’s addiction and the effects it has.

Family therapy can also provide a built-in support system for the person in recovery. As family members understand the challenges they’re facing, they can work together to create relapse prevention strategies. They’re also more likely to help the person in recovery stay on track if they can recognize the warning signs that could indicate a relapse.

Find Support at Sanford Behavioral Health

Addiction isn’t a battle that should be fought alone, and, fortunately, it doesn’t have to be. Family therapy and counseling are only part of the support available to family members. The family program offers a range of benefits to the loved ones of those in recovery, including education and support groups. These can be quite beneficial to loved ones who are struggling to come to terms with their loved one’s personal challenges.

Family therapy is an excellent tool for building relationships in long-term recovery. By combining this evidence-based treatment with additional therapeutic options, we’re able to support our clients in their journey to long-term recovery. For more information about the benefits of our family therapy and counseling program in Marne, Michigan, contact Sanford Behavioral Health today at 616.202.3326 or reach out to us online.