Dysfunctional Family

Every family tree is bent or broken

What is a Dysfunctional Family?

Family dysfunction can be any condition that interferes with healthy family functioning. Most families have some periods of time where functioning is impaired by stressful circumstances (death in the family, a parent’s serious illness, etc.). Healthy families tend to return to normal functioning after the crisis passes. In dysfunctional families, however, problems tend to be chronic and children do not consistently get their needs met. Negative patterns of parental behavior tend to be dominant in their children’s lives.

Break a Cycle of Family Dysfunction

Destructive relationship patterns can get passed down from one generation to the next.
Become aware of your family’s destructive relationship patterns. This is the first step in moving toward healthy functioning.
It is possible for you to overcome a painful past, to rediscover your unique individuality, and to become more effective in your personal life
Remember, you cannot change others, but you can change yourself. Counseling is recommended

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a relatively short-term, focused psychotherapy for a wide range of psychological problems including depression, anxiety, anger, marital conflict, loneliness, panic, fears, eating disorders, substance abuse, alcohol abuse and dependence and personality problems.

The focus of therapy is on how you are thinking, behaving, and communicating today rather than on your early childhood experiences. The /counselor/therapist assists the patient in identifying specific distortions (using cognitive assessment) and biases in thinking and provides guidance on how to change this thinking. Cognitive therapy helps the patient learn effective self-help skills that are used in homework assignments that help you change the way you think, feel and behave now.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is action-oriented, practical, rational, and helps the patient gain independence and effectiveness in dealing with real-life issues. Many people wonder what to expect when they begin counseling/therapy. Although you’re individual experience will vary depending on the problems and goals that you have.