Family therapy plays a central role in treatment for many New Paradigm Recovery clients. Additionally, we work with clients to address deeply rooted family system issues.
Family systems play multiple roles in developing addictive disorders and, conversely, in helping overcome them. Evidence suggests individuals may inherit addictive disorders, such as alcohol and substance use disorders. Evidence shows that people with a family history of addiction are more likely to experience addiction in their lifetime. Additionally, living with family members and loved ones affected by addictive disorders can be traumatic. This trauma may lead to emotional distress and mental health problems, including anxiety and depression. Families with untreated or unaddressed problematic substance use may foster an environment in which other family members believe that problematic substance use is normal or even encouraged. The trauma and emotional impacts of living in a family affected by addiction can cause other family members to self-medicate. Self-medication further perpetuates the downward spiral of family system dysfunction.
Relationships between substance use disorders and family system dynamics can be complicated and impact many family members. Family problems caused by living with active addiction are not limited to mental and physical health threats. Addiction can expose people to financial loss, legal problems, estrangement, divorce, and other serious negative life experiences. Education and retirement financial resources may be lost to support problem substance use. Breadwinners experiencing addiction may be at a higher risk for job loss due to the side effects of their addiction. Family members in active addiction can feel guilty that their health problem is endangering the welfare of loved ones. Furthermore, loved ones can also feel guilty that they are unable to stop the painful cycle of addiction and mental health disorders.
For these reasons and more, successfully treating addiction requires assessing the family system. We do this to help the identified client and their affected family members. Educating family members and helping multiple members make changes at the family level is often necessary to support recovery for one or all of its members.
Family Therapy for Adult Children of Addicts and Alcoholics
At New Paradigm Recovery, we understand that the impact of addiction extends beyond the individual, often deeply affecting adult children of those struggling with substance use. Family therapy offers a space for adult children to address the emotional and relational challenges that come with having a parent in active addiction. Through therapy, we work with families to rebuild trust, improve communication, and address unresolved trauma or pain. We help adult children navigate these complex family dynamics while providing the tools to support their own well-being and their loved one’s recovery.
Family Therapy for Parents and Siblings of Young Adults Experiencing Addiction
At New Paradigm Recovery, we recognize the significant role parents and siblings play in the recovery journey of young adults facing addiction. Family therapy provides a crucial space for families to address the unique challenges that arise when a loved one struggles with substance use. By involving parents and siblings, we help family members understand how their dynamics can impact the recovery process, offering strategies to improve communication, set healthy boundaries, and support their loved one’s sobriety. Our approach fosters healing for the entire family, helping to break cycles of dysfunction and promote lasting recovery. To learn more about how we integrate family support into our programs, visit our Emerging Adult IOP Program.
New Paradigm’s Approach to Family Therapy
New Paradigm Recovery offers a strong focus on family systems. We offer family support groups as well as family therapy sessions. We also understand that all families are different. Family members do not have to be related, and life partners do not need to be married. No matter one’s relationship with blood relatives, gender orientation or identification, or the size of one’s family, all family systems are vital to us, and we strive to ensure that every member of identified families feels heard and helped.
Our therapists can provide education, counseling, and therapy and connect clients and families to resources. They are also adept at helping families find the most appropriate and least destructive ways of navigating issues such as divorce, the emancipation of children, and other relationship changes affecting clients and families. Most importantly, our goal is always to seek the best outcomes for our clients and their families.