Family counseling is generally composed of two or more individuals who reside in the same household, are individuals of the same family of origin, or have a uniquely composed family unit. Family therapy is found to be more effective than individual therapy in the following circumstances: 

• Adolescent conduct disorders

• Adolescent suicidality

• Adult alcoholism and drug abuse

• Adult schizophrenia

• Aggression and non compliance in ADHD

• Anorexia and bulimia in young adolescent females

• Child and adolescent anxiety

• Childhood autism

• Childhood conduct disorders

• Childhood sexual abuse trauma 

• Childhood sleep problems

• Dementia 

• Depression in Adults with chronic illness

• obsessive-Compulsive disorder

(Dykeman, 2016). 

The above listed issues are not the only instances that family therapy should be pursued. Other issues that could be addressed in family counseling are communication difficulties and transitions such as divorce and separation. Contact a therapist to discuss what therapeutic approach might benefit you or if you are considering pursuing family therapy. 

Reference: 

Dykeman, C. (2016). Family therapy. In D. Capuzzi & M. Stauffer (Eds.) Counseling and psychotherapy: Theories and interventions (6th ed.). (pp. 339-366).  American Counseling Association.