What is the difference between family therapy and family Counselling?

 Family therapy and family counseling are two valuable approaches aimed at addressing issues affecting the psychological health of families. While the terms may be used interchangeably, they encompass distinct practices with unique purposes, techniques, and scopes. In this blog post, we'll explore the differences between family therapy and family counseling, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.

goodings grove psychology associates explains the difference between family therapy and family counseling

Family Therapy

Family therapy is a holistic approach that involves working with the entire family unit to address collective issues and improve family dynamics. It focuses on the interplay between family members and their relationships, seeking to create a harmonious family environment.

Family Counseling

Family counseling, on the other hand, is a more individual-centered approach within the family context. It concentrates on the personal development and well-being of each family member and may be used to address individual concerns that impact family dynamics.

Purpose and Goals

Purpose of Family Therapy

The primary purpose of family therapy is to improve family relationships and address issues that affect the entire family, such as communication problems, conflicts, or behavioral issues.

Goals of Family Therapy

  • Enhance family communication
  • Strengthen family bonds
  • Resolve conflicts within the family
  • Address collective family-wide issues

Purpose of Family Counseling

Family counseling aims to address individual concerns within the family context, such as personal struggles, emotional well-being, or relationship issues.

Goals of Family Counseling

  • Enhance individual well-being
  • Improve personal relationships within the family
  • Address personal issues affecting family dynamics

Approach and Techniques

Approach Used in Family Therapy

  • Systemic Perspective: Family therapy takes a systemic approach, focusing on the interdependence of family members and how their interactions contribute to issues.
  • Focus on Family Dynamics: Therapists in family therapy analyze family dynamics, roles, and communication patterns.

Techniques Used in Family Therapy

  • Communication Skills Training: Teaching family members effective communication techniques.
  • Conflict Resolution Strategies: Helping families resolve conflicts peacefully.
  • Structural Family Therapy: Restructuring family roles and boundaries.

Approach Used in Family Counseling

  • Individual-Centered Perspective: Family counseling adopts an individual-centered perspective, emphasizing personal growth within the family context.
  • Focus on Personal Development: The focus in family counseling is on individual well-being and development.

Techniques Used in Family Counseling

  • Individual Therapy Techniques: Employing traditional therapy techniques to address personal issues.
  • Psychoeducation for Family Members: Providing education to family members about individual concerns.

Focus and Scope

Focus of Family Therapy

  • Addressing Family-Wide Issues: Family therapy addresses collective issues impacting the entire family.

Scope of Family Therapy

  • Working with All Family Members Together: Therapists work with the entire family unit.
  • Exploring Family Dynamics and Interactions: Analyzing interactions and relationships between family members.

Focus of Family Counseling

  • Addressing Individual Concerns within the Family Context: Family counseling concentrates on personal issues affecting family dynamics.

Scope of Family Counseling

  • Working with Individuals within the Family Unit: Therapists work individually with family members.
  • Addressing Personal Issues Affecting Family Dynamics: Focusing on the well-being and development of each individual.

Training and Credentials

Required Training for Family Therapists

Family therapists typically need a master's or doctoral degree in counseling, psychology, or related fields.

Credentials for Practicing Family Therapists

  • Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)
  • Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
  • Clinical Psychologist (with a focus on family therapy)

Required Training for Family Counselors

Family counselors often hold a master's degree in counseling or related fields.

Credentials for Practicing Family Counselors

  • Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)
  • Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)
  • Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT)

Similarities and Differences

Similarities between Family Therapy and Family Counseling

  • Both aim to improve family relationships and well-being.
  • They may use similar techniques, such as communication skills training.
  • Therapists in both fields prioritize client confidentiality and ethical practices.

Differences between Family Therapy and Family Counseling

  • Family therapy focuses on the family unit as a whole, while family counseling centers on individuals within the family context.
  • Family therapy often involves working with all family members together, while family counseling includes individual sessions.
  • Family therapy delves into family dynamics and interactions, while family counseling explores personal development and well-being within the family setting.

When to Choose Family Therapy or Family Counseling

Factors to Consider When Choosing

  • Family-Wide Issues: Opt for family therapy when issues affect the entire family.
  • Individual Concerns: Choose family counseling when personal well-being and individual concerns play a significant role.

Examples of Situations Where Family Therapy Is Recommended

  • Addressing communication issues among family members.
  • Resolving conflicts affecting the entire family.
  • Improving relationships among family members.

Examples of Situations Where Family Counseling Is Recommended

  • A family member dealing with depression or anxiety.
  • Addressing personal issues, such as addiction, that affect family dynamics.
  • Focusing on personal development within the family context.

Family therapy and family counseling offer distinct approaches to improving family relationships and psychological well-being. The choice between the two depends on the nature of the issues at hand. Understanding the differences and similarities between family therapy and family counseling is essential for making informed decisions and selecting the appropriate approach that aligns with your unique needs and goals. 

If you or your family are in need of professional family therapy in Homer Glen, look no further than Goodings Grove Psychology Associates. Our dedicated team of experienced therapists specializes in family therapy and is here to help you build stronger, healthier relationships.


Location: 15915 Crystal Creek Dr suite c, Homer Glen, IL 60491, USA

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