Reduce tension
Lower the conflict that creates distance.
Family systems
work matters.
Whether your family is intact, in transition, or in trouble, and whether it is blended, nested, or in conflict, we have solutions. Family therapy provides a safe place to understand roles, rules, and dynamics so change can happen.
- Blended and step-families
- Co-parenting support
- Family systems expertise
We help families:
Blended families can accentuate differences more than other families. We help:
Address alliances and triangulation
Stop children being pulled onto sides.
Create healthy boundaries
Clear expectations for everyone in the home.
Reconcile past wounds
Heal the hurts that keep a family stuck.
Children need security and confidence.
A new step-parent can threaten a child’s sense of stability unless clear roles and rules are defined and lived out. Even what to call the new parent can matter a great deal.
Loyalty is closely tied to security. Children need to understand how the new parent fits alongside both biological parents. It doesn’t happen overnight, and there isn’t one right way, but a clear plan prevents confusion and divided loyalties.
“Respect and trust are qualities that children will use to build their self-esteem upon.”— Alira Family Therapy
Congruence and consistency.
Central to working with blended families is getting every leader and caregiver on the same page.
Understand the system
Map family roles, rules, and dynamics, honoring each person’s developmental stage.
Align the caregivers
Parents, step-parents, and co-parents agree on expectations, boundaries, and consequences.
Build a family culture
Consistent, loving leadership creates respect and trust and reduces sibling tension.
Our therapists and coaches have experience teaching family systems and raising children and step-children.
Questions about family therapy.
It depends on your goals. We may meet with parents, the whole family, or smaller groups within it.
Yes. Creating consistency across households is a central part of blended family work.
We are not an emergency service. Call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, free and available 24/7. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
Build a family where everyone belongs.
Let’s talk about what your family needs.
Emily Brown, Client Care CoordinatorSchedule a consultation with Emily to be matched with the right therapist or coach for your needs and your timeframe.Families · In person in Los Gatos and by telehealth