Family Counselling

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Family counselling involves relationships in a family, often involving parent-child relationships. At times, it can also be for relationship between siblings.

When families experience stress due to family dynamic challenges or changes, like marriage, divorce, or issues among parent-child, siblings or extended family, family counselling can help family members to:

Recognise patterns of communication that destruct your relationship with each other
Work through the issues to resolve conflicts
Learn how to communicate, emotionally relate and connect with each other more openly
Build a secure attachment between parents and their children.

If you wish to find out more about our family counselling services, kindly reach out to services@emcc.org.sg.

How Family Counselling Can Help

Family counselling in Singapore is here to help individuals, couples, and families work through emotional challenges and conflicts that can turn up within a family. Counselling offers a safe space to communicate and find solutions together, whether it’s tough conversations, major life changes, or navigating difficult times.

Family conflict: Unresolved conflicts, such as tension between spouses, siblings, or extended family, can affect everyone.
Money problems: Financial stress can easily spill over into relationships, causing a lot of agitation.
Infidelity and trust issues: Dealing with the pain of infidelity or rebuilding trust takes time and guidance.
Divorce, separation, or custody struggles: Going through a separation or custody battle is emotionally and logistically challenging.
Grief and loss: Counselling can help families process grief and loss together.
Coping with illness or disability: Adjusting to life when a family member is dealing with a serious illness or disability can be challenging for everyone.
Blended families: Creating a new family dynamic when step-families form can bring its own set of challenges.
Parenthood and big life changes: Family counselling can help you adjust to the transition into parenthood, navigate major life events, and grow as a family.

These are just a few examples. If you’re facing any family issues, don’t hesitate to reach out and see how family counselling in Singapore can support you and your loved ones.

Signs To Look Out For & Considering Counselling

If your household is experiencing any of the following, it could be a good time to consider family counselling in Singapore. A counsellor can help you work through challenges and strengthen your relationships.

Communication Breakdown

When communication within a family becomes scarce or ineffective, it’s hard to resolve conflicts or even understand each other. A family counsellor can help you improve communication, teach everyone how to express their feelings better and work through issues together.

Perpetual Conflicts and Frustrations Within the Family

Ongoing misunderstandings and frustrations within a family can lead to a tense, emotionally draining environment. When anger or resentment is misdirected, it often causes further strain, especially if emotions are repeatedly taken out on the wrong person. Family counselling can help identify the root causes of these conflicts, guiding family members to healthier ways of managing disagreements and addressing unresolved issues.

Loss of Trust

Trust is the foundation of any relationship and is essential within a family. If trust has been damaged—whether through broken promises, lies, or other actions—family counselling provides a safe space to rebuild it and restore strong bonds.

Withdrawal or Isolation

It’s often a sign of deeper issues, like feeling unaccepted or dealing with trauma when a family member pulls away or isolates themselves. Counselling can help uncover the reasons behind the withdrawal and work towards reconnecting with that family member.

Changes in Children’s Behaviour

If your child’s grades are dropping or they’re acting out at school, it might be a sign that something deeper is happening at home. Family counselling helps get to the root of the problem and addresses it with the help of a supportive environment.

Major Stressors

Significant life changes like the death of a loved one, divorce, or separation can cause a lot of emotional strain within a family. A family therapist can help everyone cope with these changes and work through the grief together.

If any of these signs sound familiar, don’t hesitate to reach out for family counselling in Singapore. It can provide the support and tools needed to heal and strengthen family relationships.

The Benefits of Family Counselling

Family counselling in Singapore offers valuable benefits that can significantly improve family dynamics and overall well-being. With the guidance of a trained professional, families can tackle challenges and reinforce their connections. Here’s how:

Resolve Conflicts: Counselling provides a structured approach to addressing and resolving ongoing disputes, helping family members work through issues constructively.
Foster Understanding: It promotes deeper empathy and understanding among family members, enabling everyone to see things from each other’s perspectives.
Improve Communication: Families learn to communicate more effectively, allowing for clearer expression of feelings and better listening skills.
Address Unhealthy Patterns: The process helps identify negative behaviour patterns and replaces them with positive, constructive alternatives.
Build Trust and Openness: Counselling supports the rebuilding of trust and encourages open, honest communication, leading to stronger, more supportive relationships.

With family counselling in Singapore, families can create a more harmonious and connected environment where issues are managed effectively and relationships are strengthened.

Why Choose EMCC for Family Counselling

When it comes to family counselling in Singapore, EMCC stands out as a trusted choice.

Evidence-Based Therapies and Holistic Approach

EMCC uses proven therapies and methodologies to address family issues effectively. Our approach integrates various therapeutic techniques to provide a well-rounded solution for relational challenges.

Expertise in Mediation and Psychotherapy

Our team is skilled in mediation and psychotherapy, offering a holistic approach to resolving disputes and improving family dynamics. This expertise ensures that you receive the support needed to navigate complex family challenges.

Commitment to Emotional and Psychological Resilience

We believe in strengthening individuals and families to build emotional resilience and psychological well-being. Our services are designed to foster healthier relationships and support mental wellness within the family unit.

Established and Trusted Organisation

As a registered charity and a full National Council of Social Service member, EMCC has a strong reputation for delivering quality counselling services. Since our founding in 1997, we have consistently worked to bring hope and assistance to families.

Choosing EMCC for family counselling in Singapore means you’re opting for a respected organisation with a commitment to improving family relationships and overall well-being.

FAQs about Family Counselling

1. What can I expect from family counselling or therapy?

In family counselling in Singapore, you can expect a supportive environment where a trained counsellor helps you address and resolve family issues. Sessions typically involve open discussions, guided by the counsellor, to improve communication, better understand each other, and work towards practical solutions.

2. How can I prepare for the counselling sessions?

To make the most of family counselling in Singapore, it’s helpful to come with an open mind and a willingness to share your thoughts and feelings. Think about the issues you want to address and be ready to discuss them honestly. It can also be helpful to set goals for what you hope to achieve from the sessions.

3. What should I do if my family members refuse to go for the counselling sessions?

If some family members are hesitant about attending the counselling sessions, it’s important to address their concerns openly and gently. Sometimes, discussing the benefits or exploring individual sessions can help them feel more comfortable. The counsellor can also provide guidance on how to handle these situations.

4. Are there situations where family counselling would not work?

While family counselling in Singapore can be very effective, there are times when it may not work. For example, if family members are unwilling to participate or if there are severe issues that require more intensive intervention, the counsellor might recommend other forms of support or therapy.

5. How long does family counselling typically last?

The duration varies depending on the issues at hand and the progress made. Generally, sessions can range from a few weeks to several months. The counsellor will work with you to determine a suitable timeframe based on your family’s needs and goals.