Family therapy is a type of counseling involving the entire family. It can help maintain positive relationships within a family dealing with a stressful situation or a life-changing event, such as having a loved one with a chronic mood disorder.

In family therapy, each person can express any concerns and fears about how the problem is affecting their loved one and the family dynamics. They will also receive support for the frustrations they experience when helping the person through the challenges of his or her situation.

Family therapy should be conducted by a qualified counselor who has had specific training in treating families, such as a licensed professional counselor or psychologist.

By	Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	W. Stewart Agras, MD - Psychiatry
Last Revised	September 29, 2009