Understanding the Uniqueness of Marriage and Family Therapy: Who MFTs Help and How
When it comes to mental health treatment, marriage and family therapy offers an all encompassing systemic and unique approach. While some might assume that marriage and family therapists (MFTs) only work with couples and families on relationship issues, MFTs also provide therapy to individuals addressing a wide range of personal challenges. Marriage and Family therapists consider the different systems in each clients life, including their relationships and environment. This unique holistic perspective to mental health care is comprehensive and transformative.
Who MFTs Help
Contrary to the title, MFTs work with a diverse range of clients, including individuals, couples, families, and groups. They are trained to diagnose and treat various issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, eating disorders, ADHD, and relationship challenges. Some cleints may be meeting with a marriage and family therapist for personal concerns, while others may be seeking support for relational changes. MFTs are equipped to tailor the treatment plan and goals to the client.
How MFTs Help
MFTs employ evidence-based therapeutic techniques that focus on the relational and systemic factors influencing a person's mental health. They often will construct a genogram of the presenting client(s). A genogram is visual diagram that maps out familial and social relationships, medical history, and behavioral patterns. This provides insight on how the systems of client influence their well-being and life patterns.
For example, in treating anxiety, an MFT might explore how familial interactions and history contribute to the client's stress levels and personal narrative. By addressing these relational factors, the therapist can help the client develop healthier coping strategies and improve their relationships.
In cases of grief or trauma, an MFT might work with the client to process their emotions while considering the systemic relationships. By supporting clients in navigating these complex emotions within the context of their support systems, MFTs provide a more holistic and personalized approach to healing.
Additionally, MFTs can work with clients experiencing chronic pain by addressing the emotional and relational aspects that may contribute to their experience of pain. For example, some clients may have trouble voicing their needs to their family due to previous family attitudes around pain. By exploring connections between pain, stress, and relationships, an MFT can help clients develop effective coping strategies.
The Benefits of a Systemic Approach
Clients often find this perspective helpful in understanding how their personal struggles are intertwined with their upbringing, relationships, and environment. By addressing these connections, MFTs can help clients create meaningful and lasting change in their lives.
Marriage and family therapists offer a unique, systemic approach to mental health care that can be highly beneficial for individuals, couples, and families. By considering the larger context of a client's life, MFTs provide tailored treatment plans that address the root causes of issues and support clients in achieving their therapeutic goals.- Joelle Santiago DC, AMFT
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog post is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a mental health condition.
If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or crisis, please contact your local emergency services immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.