Building Stronger Foundations: Working with Children and their Families

Photo by Any Lane

Erika Torres, LMSW (she/her), is a compassionate clinician with a dedication to promoting justice and healing. With extensive training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, domestic violence, sex trafficking, and more, Erika brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her clients. She specializes in working with individuals, teens, adults, and families in transition, providing essential support and guidance for those seeking a path to healing and growth.

Nedgé Antoine, LCSW-LP (she/her), is a dedicated clinician, embodying the role of a peace and healing conduit. Her approach centers on meeting clients where they are and guiding them toward transformation, emphasizing the importance of shifting mindsets and perceptions. Nedgé’s has an extensive background in therapeutic services which complements her practice. She specializes in working with individuals, teens, and emerging adults, offering expertise in life transitions, life coaching, relationship issues, and family functional therapy. Her multilingual capabilities in English and Haitian Creole ensure she can connect with a diverse range of clients. With a wealth of experience as a director of mental health professions, family functional therapist, and clinical social worker, Nedgé is a compassionate advocate, supporting her clients through life’s challenges and transitions with skill and empathy.

Family dynamics play a critical role in shaping a child's behavior and development. The family is often considered the primary social unit where children first learn about relationships, communication, and values. Children are highly influenced by the interactions and relationships within their families, and these dynamics can either promote healthy or problematic behaviors. For instance, a supportive and nurturing family environment can lead to positive behaviors in children, fostering qualities like empathy, cooperation, and self-confidence. Conversely, a family with a high level of conflict, neglect, or inconsistency can contribute to behavioral problems, such as aggression, anxiety, or poor social skills.

Additionally, the family serves as a model for children in terms of communication and problem-solving. Children exposed to open and respectful communication tend to develop better communication skills themselves, which is crucial for interpersonal relationships and conflict resolution. Furthermore, family dynamics can impact a child's self-esteem and sense of identity, as they internalize the attitudes and values they observe at home. In essence, family dynamics act as a powerful influence on a child's behavior, setting the foundation for their social and emotional development throughout their lives.

Photo by Jordan Whitt

So what happens when you see your children struggling? You might decide to send them to therapy. Adolescent and teen therapy is a powerful tool for addressing various emotional, behavioral, and psychological concerns. However, the significance of involving families in the therapeutic process cannot be overstated because our families shape us and play a pivotal role in supporting and facilitating a child's growth and healing. With that in mind we believe that a collaborative approach can improve outcomes for children for everyone’s benefit.

Some reasons why involving families is valuable:

• Understanding the Whole Picture: Families possess valuable insights into the child's life and experiences that a therapist may not have access to. They can provide context, share concerns, and contribute to a more comprehensive assessment of the child's situation.

• Support System: Families are the child's primary support system. Their involvement in therapy can help reinforce the skills and strategies taught during sessions, ensuring that they are practiced and reinforced at home.

• Strengthening Communication: Family involvement in therapy can facilitate healthier communication within the family unit. Improved communication can lead to a more harmonious family environment, reducing stressors that may have contributed to the child's issues.

• Empowering Parents: Parents and caregivers can learn effective parenting techniques and strategies through family therapy. They can gain a deeper understanding of their child's needs and challenges, empowering them to provide better support.

• Reducing Stigma: Family participation can help reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues. When families openly engage in therapy, it sends a positive message to the child, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength and that it is okay to talk about one's feelings.

Photo by Annie Spratt

Additionally, there are several ways families can participate in their child's growth that do not eliminate the child/teen having their own supportive process:

• Family Therapy: This involves the entire family attending therapy sessions together, focusing on improving family dynamics and communication.

• Psychoeducation: Parents and caregivers can receive education about their child's condition and learn how to provide the necessary support.

• Parent Training: Parents can participate in training sessions to learn effective parenting strategies and techniques.

It goes without saying that the awareness a family has in recognizing that their child (and by way themselves) need additional support is a first step on their healing journey. Continuing to encourage open communication and emotional support can significantly benefit the child's therapy progress. Ongoing involvement and consistency is key. The benefits are seen when families remain engaged throughout the therapy process, by attending sessions when asked and actively participating in treatment planning and goal setting. By understanding the child's experiences, providing support, and improving family dynamics, families will develop better communication with their child/teen. Ultimately, the collaborative effort between therapists and families can lead to fostering healthier dynamics within their loving home.

Written By Erika Torres, LMSW (she/her) & Nedgé Antoine, LCSW-LP (she/her)