Family Counseling Services in Ceres, CA.

Family dynamic can be very complicated. When problem occur with one member of the family it can have a devastating effect on each one of the family unit. Lack of communication, respect and consideration can tare the unit apart. I offer eclectic approach from efferent theories to tailor to the needs of each family. I offer warm and safe environment for families to learn how to grow and move back toward closness, understanding and love.

When working with children and youth, the therapist cannot ignore the family system in which the child lives. I work with parents in multiple ways to help support youth in treatment, which may include separate parent sessions, co-parenting sessions, systemic family therapy, or Filial Therapy, a play therapy practice that coaches and guides parents in special play sessions with their child to decrease unwanted behaviors, improve relationships and communication, increase the child's emotional vocabulary, and increase the child's self-esteem.

Imagine a family as a tree with branches, roots, trunk representing parts of the immediate and extended family. When working with families, all elements are considered. Usually there is a request for family therapy due to one of it's members in crisis, often a child. However, when an analysis of need is done it becomes apparent that more than one member of the family needs help in adjusting, growing and learning new behaviours. Clients contact me for a variety of reasons: to improve communications, solve family problems, support in special situations such as death, divorce, marriage, illness, child or adolescent issues.

Family relationships can be stressful and challenging. There may be anger, arguments, grief & loss, mental or physical illness, unresolved trauma, abuse, neglect, betrayal, financial or occupational challenges that create distress in the family system. Healthy family members have open, honest and compassionate communication. They hear, know and understand each other. They take responsibility and are accountable for their impact on each other. They show love and care through affection, attention, appreciation, being of service, spending quality time with and being there for each other. I guide you in developing the skills, qualities and habits needed to get your family to a better place!

I work within a family framework, but I do not treat families as part of traditional "family therapy." This means that if you are a parent and you struggle with your child's behavior, I can help you learn techniques to manage the behavior better. I have extensive experience working with parents of children with autism and other mental health disorders that can make parenting extremely challenging. There is no shame in asking for support. I can help with creating a parenting plan, I can help with co-parenting after divorce, and I can help parents who care for their own aging relatives. We truly live in the "sandwich generation" where family can grow far.

Families engaging in therapy with me will find a compassionate and strong leader who understands the profound stress that family conflicts and perpetual problems can create. My approach is centered on guiding families through their tensions and difficulties, providing a structured and supportive environment where each member feels heard and valued. By focusing on your family's unique dynamics and challenges, I facilitate open communication and collaboration, leading to practical and lasting solutions. Clients will leave with a renewed sense of connection and the tools to foster a more harmonious family life, turning seemingly insurmountable problems into opportunities for growth.

Family Therapy has benefits beyond the individual because it allows for each member to bring their strength to each session and to have imput where the environment is safe. Ina family session, members have the safety to say what they want others to hear, with the trust that the family will use the information shared as tools, not weapans (including outside the sessions). The effective and healthy communication skills (i.e., active listening, paraphrasing, empathy, support) developed and used in family therapy is generalized to home and community. As the family communicates more effectively, conflicts are reduced and self-worth and trust can be re-established and increase the quality of life.

Is your family having constant battles, difficulty communicating with one another, or having difficulty resolving their differences? Seeking support from an objective and nonjudgmental therapist can help. I provide family counseling focusing on supporting each family member, enhancing communication, building stronger bonds between family members, conducting family discussions, and approaching family problems in an a effective and objective manner. Please call today for a free consultation for more information.