Family therapy is a form of systemic psychotherapy that focuses on understanding difficulties within the context of family relationships. Rather than viewing problems as belonging to one individual, systemic family therapy explores how patterns of communication, relationships and interactions influence the experiences of everyone involved. 
 
At Systemic Psychotherapy Ireland, family therapy begins with a conversation about what the family, and each individual family member, understands their difficulties to be. Sessions provide a collaborative and supportive space where family members can explore concerns together, develop greater understanding of one another's perspectives and work towards healthier ways of communicating. 
 
Our systemic approach recognises that every family is unique. Therapy is guided by the needs of those attending and respects each person's experience, perspective and choices. 

What Is Family Therapy? 

Family therapy supports families to better understand one another and the relationships between them. It can involve parents, carers, children, partners, extended family members or other important people within a family's support network where appropriate. 
 
Systemic family therapy aims to help families: 
 
Build stronger communication 
Develop healthier boundaries 
Improve mutual understanding 
Explore different perspectives 
Strengthen family relationships 
Work together towards shared solutions 
 
The focus is not on assigning blame but on understanding how relationships, communication and wider life experiences may be influencing the challenges a family is facing. 

Our Systemic Approach to Family Therapy 

Systemic psychotherapy is based on the understanding that we live our lives through relationships with others. Family relationships, partnerships, friendships and wider social networks all influence emotional wellbeing and how we experience life's challenges. 
 
Family therapy explores these relationship patterns in a respectful and collaborative way. It provides an opportunity for family members to understand one another more fully and to develop new ways of responding to difficulties together. 
 
Not every family therapy session will involve every member of the family. The structure of therapy is agreed collaboratively based on what feels most appropriate and helpful for those involved. 

Our Systemic Approach to Family Therapy 

Systemic psychotherapy is based on the understanding that we live our lives through relationships with others. Family relationships, partnerships, friendships and wider social networks all influence emotional wellbeing and how we experience life's challenges. 
 
Family therapy explores these relationship patterns in a respectful and collaborative way. It provides an opportunity for family members to understand one another more fully and to develop new ways of responding to difficulties together. 
 
Not every family therapy session will involve every member of the family. The structure of therapy is agreed collaboratively based on what feels most appropriate and helpful for those involved. 
Rainbow Flag
Our therapists are committed to inclusive practice for all sexualities, gender identities, and relationship styles. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Family Therapy for a Range of Family Difficulties 

Families seek therapy for many different reasons. At Systemic Psychotherapy Ireland, we work with families experiencing a wide variety of personal and relationship challenges, including: 
 
Family conflict 
Communication difficulties 
Parenting concerns 
Separation and post-separation difficulties 
Relationship challenges 
Adolescent and young adult issues 
Family stress 
Anxiety 
Low mood 
Life transitions 
Bereavement and loss 
 
Therapy provides a safe space to explore these experiences within the context of important family relationships. 

Who Can Attend Family Therapy? 

Family therapy may involve: 
 
Parents and children 
Parents or carers 
Adult family members 
Blended families 
Extended family members 
Other significant people within the family system where appropriate 
 
The people attending therapy are discussed together and agreed based on each family's circumstances. 

Family Counselling Dublin 

If you are looking for family counselling in Dublin, our therapists provide systemic family therapy from our Fairview therapy centre. 
 
We work with families across Dublin using a systemic psychotherapy approach that supports communication, understanding and collaborative problem-solving. Sessions are tailored to the people attending, recognising that every family has different experiences, strengths and goals. 

Arrange a Family Therapy Appointment 

If you are looking for family therapy in Ireland or family counselling in Dublin, Systemic Psychotherapy Ireland provides systemic family therapy for families seeking support with communication, relationships and shared life challenges. 
 
We welcome enquiries from families who would like to learn more about whether systemic family therapy may be appropriate for their circumstances. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is family therapy the same as systemic psychotherapy? 

Family therapy is one application of systemic psychotherapy. The same systemic approach can also be used with individuals and couples, depending on what is most appropriate. 
 

Does everyone in the family need to attend?  

Not necessarily. Family therapy is planned collaboratively, and the people attending sessions are agreed based on what feels most helpful for those involved. 
 

Is family therapy confidential?  

Family therapy is provided within a confidential therapeutic setting in accordance with professional ethical standards. 

What happens during family therapy? 

Family therapy begins with a conversation about how family members understand the difficulties they are experiencing. Sessions provide a space to explore communication, relationships and different perspectives while working towards healthier ways of moving forward together.