Counseling and support services for families can be incredibly beneficial in addressing a wide range of issues. Below is an interactive discussion between don Henry and a client Sarah on issue on family dynamics
Don Henry: Hi Sarah, it’s nice to meet you. Thank you for coming in today. How can I assist you?
Sarah: Hi Don, thank you for seeing me. I’m really struggling with a few things at home, and I’m not sure where to start.
Don Henry: That’s okay, Sarah. Let’s take it one step at a time. Can you tell me a bit about what’s been happening at home?
Sarah: Well, my husband and I have been having a lot of arguments about how to parent our teenage son. It’s causing a lot of tension. On top of that, my mother recently moved in with us, and we’re having some intergenerational conflicts. It’s overwhelming.
Don Henry: That sounds like a lot to handle. Let’s break this down. We can start with the parenting struggles. Can you share more about the disagreements you and your husband are having?
Sarah: Sure. Our son, Jake, is 15 and has been acting out a lot lately—staying out late, not doing his homework. My husband thinks we should be stricter, but I believe we need to understand what’s bothering him first. We just can’t agree on the approach.
Don Henry: It’s common for parents to have different views on discipline. Have you and your husband had a chance to sit down and discuss a unified approach, perhaps when you’re both calm?
Sarah: We’ve tried, but the conversations usually turn into arguments. It feels like we’re not really listening to each other.
Don Henry: Communication is key here. I can help you both develop better communication strategies. How about we schedule a session with both you and your husband? We can work on finding common ground and developing a consistent approach to parenting Jake.
Sarah: That sounds like a good idea. I think we really need that.
Don Henry: Great. Now, let’s talk about your mother moving in. How is that affecting your family dynamics?
Sarah: It’s been really hard. My mother has strong opinions about how we should raise Jake, and she often undermines our decisions. Plus, she and I have a history of disagreements that are resurfacing now that we’re under the same roof.
Don Henry: That’s a challenging situation. It’s important to set boundaries while also respecting her role in the family. Would you be open to family therapy sessions that include your mother? This could help address these conflicts and set healthy boundaries.
Sarah: Yes, I think that could help. I just want some peace at home and for everyone to get along better.
Don Henry: I understand. We can work on strategies for setting boundaries and improving communication within the family. How does that sound?
Sarah: That sounds really helpful. I’m willing to try anything to improve our situation.
Don Henry: Wonderful. We’ll take this step by step. I’ll schedule a session for you and your husband first, and then we can bring in your mother for some family sessions. In the meantime, I’ll give you some communication exercises to try at home. How does that sound?
Sarah: That sounds perfect. Thank you so much, Don.
Don Henry: You’re welcome, Sarah. We’re in this together, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. Let’s take it one day at a time.
Sarah: Thank you, I feel better already.