Drug addiction isn’t just a problem for the person suffering from it. While it may seem that way, addiction is a family sport, and eventually everyone gets to play a part. Family dynamics can deteriorate substantially after a member becomes addicted to drugs or alcohol. For this reason, family programs become an important ingredient of Florida drug rehab model. Moreover, feelings such as anger, guilt, despair, and shame are all commonplace. Many addicts feel that they cannot look their loved ones in the eyes, while other family members feel deeply injured. Through family therapy, individual members have the opportunity to restore all that was lost, in hopes of turning the page and starting anew which begins with getting the focused family member sober.
Family Therapy for Addiction Treatment
What precisely goes into a family addiction program? First, it’s important to know that personal relationships can make or break a recovery. For example, if family members are encouraging, studies show that their loved one has a better chance at getting sober and progressing toward long-term sobriety after addiction treatment. At the same time, negative reinforcement creates hopelessness. Typically, families will have therapy sessions with their loved one to get everyone on the same page. In this way, the family therapist will evaluate the family landscape and later, speak with family members individually.
The therapist evaluates how the family members communicate with one another, which will predictably shed light on some of the interpersonal issues. By learning about their patterns and behaviors, the therapist will work to strategize the best plan moving forward. It is also important that the group agree to set aside their strongest opinions and truly listen to one another. Herein lies the path for healing and transformation. Family members are also encouraged to seek individual counseling or further group counseling to discover ways to be caring and supportive during an addict’s time of need. The therapist will also set boundaries and ground rules for group and direct individual communication. This gets everyone out of their comfort zone of predisposed thoughts and challenges them not to judge, but rather work together.
Family Therapy Has the Whole Family Learning
Family therapy teaches teamwork and the belief that the family unit can and should work well for all involved. Moreover, it displays how crucial clear communication is and discloses where some of the pitfalls lie. With this in mind, families and clients together learn what causes their behavior and how specific behavior affects the whole family. When one member is struggling with a problem, they may be shocked to find out how their individual battle has actually inflicted the entire family. When they reach this understanding, the family can help them uncover better ways to support that person.
Family therapists employ an active participatory method for their therapy. Family members are likely given assignments to complete that will help them understand what is happening and the responsibility they have. Changes in strategy can be discussed and the therapist is there to make sure that all voices are heard.
New Telehealth for Continuing Family Care
Simple Path Recovery now uses telehealth technology to support all of its continuing care services for clients. In this way, we can provide direct support to our clients and their families when they need us after leaving treatment. For example, we can video chat for a family therapy session or an individual one. The services can be done as an outpatient service. This technology fosters continued family growth without relapsing into old habits that are so easy to fall back into. This emerging method allows us to continue meaningful family therapy after discharging from Simple Path Recovery.
Simple Path Recovery is a beach side, boutique addiction treatment center located in Pompano Beach, FL. Recognized as an intimate Florida Drug & Alcohol Rehab, Simple Path is committed to individualized care, 12-step integration, and Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT). Their addiction helpline is available 24/7 at 855-467-3625.
About the Author
Matthew Koenig is the principal of Last Call Marketing, which devotes their efforts to Digital Marketing, Content Marketing, Website Design and SEO, primarily in healthcare and tourism concerns. Mr. Koenig is based out of South Florida. His sober date is June 10, 2013.
