In dealing with a troubled teen parents may disagree about what is causing the problems or how to respond. Siblings often resent the increased focus on the teen who's getting into trouble. This is why family therapy is an effective way to help a troubled teen and their family.
Here's how to find a family therapist, get family members to agree to participate and prepare for the initial session.
Find a family therapist
1. Get specific therapist referrals from informed sources to include:
- friends who've participated in family therapy
- health care professionals
- insurance companies
- clergy
- employee assistance programs
- professional organizations
2. Make certain the therapist has specialized training in family therapy, and specifically in helping teens, such as a licensed clinical social worker or marriage and family therapist.
3. For family therapy to be effective, the therapist needs to a “good fit” with the family, someone who is perceived as knowledgeable, helpful and able to engage your teen to talk openly. If this is not the case, ask the therapist for referrals to other therapists who may be a better fit.
Get family members to agree to participate
Explain to all family members that their participation is needed in order to help your teen. Provide reassurance that therapy will take place in a safe environment. Ask each member to commit to participating in an initial session, after which each person can decide whether to continue. A good therapist will work with all family members in the first session to gain their cooperation and continued participation.
How to prepare for the first session
Be prepared to answer the primary question that will be asked by the therapist, “What do you want to change?”
In addition:
1. Make notes about when your teens' troubling behavior started and any contributing factors you are aware of.
2. Have questions for the therapist such as:
- What is your approach to working with families and why does it work?
- How long will it take to start seeing changes?
- What kind of success rate do you have?
- What can each of us do to help make this a positive experience?
Quick Links: Treatment Programs for Troubled Teens