Why do people go to therapy? Common Topics in the Psychologist's Office

In the previous articles, we explored the principles and techniques of systemic therapy. Now let's dive into the real-life applications of this transformative holistic approach. Some of the common topics and challenges clients face in the office are:

• Family Dynamics and Conflict Resolution:

Systemic therapy is particularly effective in dealing with family dynamics and conflicts. Helps family members understand their roles, patterns, and contributions to conflict. By improving communication and fostering empathy, systemic therapy paves the way for healthier and more harmonious family relationships.

The most common topics covered in the office when working with families:

- Difficult communication with family members and extended family

- Problems in parent-child relationships

- Reconstructed families

- Dynamics with former partners/spouses in the context of a new family

- Life transitions and changes (divorce, moving, loss, etc.)

- Emotional and behavioral problems

- Resolution of generation models

- Chronic illness in the family (autism, schizophrenia, dementia, addictions and others)

• Couples therapy:

Couples facing challenges often turn to systemic therapy. Whether dealing with communication issues, infidelity, differences in values, or intimacy, systemic therapy helps couples gain insight into their relationship dynamics. It equips them with tools to deal with difficulties and strengthen their relationship.

The most common topics covered in the office when working with couples:

- Difficult communication

- Intimacy in the couple

- Differences in parenting

- Life transitions and changes (divorce, moving, loss, etc.)

- Trust

- Distribution of finances

• Personal development:

Systemic therapy is not limited to families and couples. Individuals seeking personal growth, self-discovery, and improved mental health can embark on this journey through systemic therapy. It enables a safe space to explore personal narratives, relationships, and life goals.

The most common topics discussed in the office during individual work:

- Life transitions and changes (divorce, moving, loss, etc.)

- Age crises

- Stress

- Motivation and productivity

- Difficulties in partner relations

- Identity, self-esteem, self-esteem

- Professional Development

- Emotional regulation

- Health issues

• Depression:

By exploring the interconnectedness of thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, systemic therapy helps individuals and families untangle the complexities of depression. Through open communication and shared understanding, an environment is created in which change can take place.

• Anxiety, panic attacks:

Anxiety and panic attacks often occur in the context of relationships. Systemic therapy delves into the systemic factors that contribute to them. She provides tools to promote emotional safety and reduce triggers. By addressing the roots and creating a support system, individuals and families can find long-term relief.

• Support for parents:

Parents can turn to a system counselor for guidance on effective parenting strategies. A systems approach offers a new perspective on family dynamics and helps parents create a supportive and supportive environment for their children.

• Workplace conflicts, burnout:

In the corporate world, systemic therapy techniques are applied to resolve workplace conflicts and improve team dynamics. Encourages cooperation, effective communication and a positive work environment.

• Addictions and substance abuse:

Very often, when there is an addict in the family, he becomes the 'black sheep'. When dealing with addiction, systemic therapy looks beyond the individual and their 'disease', and examines how addiction is affected by and on the entire family system. It provides a supportive framework for both the individual struggling with addiction and their loved ones.

• Trauma recovery:

Systemic therapy can be a tool for recovery from trauma. It helps individuals and families cope with the consequences, build resilience and create a supportive 'healing' environment. Any trauma has the ability to fade and reduce its impact on life when the attitude towards it changes and a person turns to those more resourceful relationships with his supportive environment, and when it is missing, through systemic therapy, a new one is built.

• Eating disorders:

For those struggling with eating disorders or body image issues, systemic therapy examines the systemic factors contributing to these issues. Promotes self-acceptance and healthier relationships with food and body image.

In each of these applications, systemic therapy empowers individuals and systems to explore their challenges, identify strengths, and achieve meaningful change. It is a multifaceted and compassionate approach that addresses problems at their root, promoting lasting transformation.

As a psychologist, I know that each person's life is a series of different, extremely meaningful experiences, which I always approach with respect. If you do not find yours in any of the above, do not hesitate to contact a specialist, as this article does not aim to list every single challenge of our colourful life, but to take a look at some of them.