Family therapy is a form of mental healthcare that helps improve communication, resolve conflict, and strengthen relationships. At Denova, we understand that emotional and mental health are essential to overall well-being, and therapy can play a key role in helping families build a stronger foundation for a better quality of life.
Families come in many forms and face a wide range of challenges—Because every family is different, there are many types of family therapy techniques designed to meet different needs. A licensed family therapist at Denova can help determine the best approach for your situation.
What Is Family Therapy?
The primary goal of Family Therapy is to improve how the entire family works together, strengthen communication, and create a healthier support system. Instead of focusing on just one person, family therapists work with family members as a group. Family therapy is often short-term and goal-oriented, helping families develop real strategies they can use in daily life.
Family counselling can benefit:
- Parents and children
- Couples
- Blended families
- Individuals navigating complex family dynamics
At Denova, therapy is an important part of our collaborative care model. That means therapists work alongside primary care and psychiatric providers, if needed, to support your full mental, emotional, and behavioral health needs.
Types of Family Therapy
There are several types of family therapy, each using different techniques to address specific challenges.
Structural Family Therapy
Focuses on how the family is organized, including roles and boundaries
Primary goal: Restructure unhealthy patterns
Common techniques: Boundary setting, reframing, enactment
Best for: Families with unclear roles or power imbalances
Strategic Family Therapy
Short-term care that focuses on solving specific problems
Primary goal: Address behavioral or communication issues
Common techniques: Directives, reframing, paradoxical interventions
Best for: Families dealing with behavioral concerns, especially in teens
Systemic Family Therapy
Looks at how each member affects the whole family system
Primary goal: Understand patterns within family dynamics
Common techniques: Circular questioning, reflective dialogue, genograms
Best for: Complex or long-term relationship challenges
Bowenian Family Systems Therapy
Focuses on family behavioral development and emotional independence
Primary goal: Help individuals understand their role in the family system
Common techniques: Coaching, differentiation exercises, genograms
Best for: Multigenerational family patterns
Cognitive Behavioral Family Therapy (CBFT)
Identifies unhealthy patterns within family interactions
Primary goal: Change negative thoughts and behaviors
Common techniques: Thought challenging, behavior tracking, communication skills
Best for: Families dealing with anxiety, depression, or behavioral challenges
Narrative Family Therapy
Focuses on how families view their experiences
Primary goal: Help families rewrite negative stories
Common techniques: Externalization, re-authoring
Best for: Trauma, grief, or identity challenges
Emotionally Focused Family Therapy (EFT)
Helps strengthen emotional bonds using attachment-based techniques
Primary goal: Improve emotional connection
Common techniques: De-escalation, emotional expression
Best for: Families experiencing disconnection
How to Know Which Type of Family Therapy Is Right for You
The right type of therapy depends on your family’s needs, goals, and challenges. At Denova, therapists begin with an assessment to understand your concerns and recommend the most effective steps forward. Because therapy is a deeply personal experience, your care plan may include a combination of approaches to best support your family.
What to Expect in Family Therapy Sessions
Family therapy sessions typically last 45–60 minutes and may include several members of the family. Sessions are guided by a therapist who helps facilitate conversation and problem-solving.
Therapy is designed to be supportive, practical, and focused on real-life improvement. Therapists do not take sides—they help families work together toward solutions.
If relevant family members are not ready to participate, therapy can still begin with those who are mentally and emotionally available for healing. Over time, others may feel more comfortable joining.
Family Therapy at Denova
Denova offers family therapy as an option within our vast behavioral healthcare services. We help patients navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and behavioral concerns, in individual and group settings.
Denova’s integrated, collaborative approach to healthcare sets us apart from other providers. Our therapists work closely with primary care providers, psychiatric professionals, and case managers to ensure every aspect of your care is connected and personalized.
In certain situations, we also offer specialty care models, including:
- Art Therapy
- Multicultural Care
- Music Therapy
- Play Therapy
Therapy is a powerful way for families to overcome challenges and build a stronger future together. If you’re ready to take the next step, schedule an appointment with us today at Denova.com/Book or call 602-230-7373
