Blending two families together can be a wonderful experience but it may also come with some unique and complex challenges. If you are blending a family whether that be due to a new marriage or partnership, Children and adults may struggle to adjust to their new normal or the changing dynamics.. At Wholesome Psychology, our therapists are available to provide support to adults, adolescents, children and families that are struggling with the changes that come along with blending a family.
Understanding the Complexities of Blended Families
Blended families or families that include step parents or children, form when adults with children from previous relationships partner together and create a new household. This change can impact the adults and children or teens involved. Sometimes blending families can even impact extended family members. Emotional reactions may range from excitement and hope to anxiety, sadness, and confusion. Children and adolescents may struggle with the separation of their previous family and have a hard time accepting the new family members into their lives. Parents or the adults impacted may feel stressed when it comes to balancing the family dynamic as well as working to create connection between the new family members.
Common Challenges in Blended Family Adjustment
Some common challenges that families may face are:
Understanding these challenges and how to approach them can be an important part in a smooth transition when blending a family.
How Blended Family Adjustment Counseling Helps
Blended family adjustment counseling at Wholesome Psychology is a safe and understanding space where families can work through:
- complex feelings and create safe and understanding communication channels
- Create and understand realistic expectations for relationships, schedules, and family roles.
- Create empathy and understanding among all family members.
- Strengthen parental unity and co-parenting strategies, including step-parenting roles.
- Create practical tools for conflict resolution and boundary setting.
Our experienced therapists in Edmonton and St. Albert provide evidence-based therapy that is tailored to each individual and families needs to help families navigate the major transitions they face. family systems therapy, trauma-informed therapy and mindfulness strategies may all be helpful in your journey to unity and understanding.
Benefits of Seeking Support from Wholesome Psychology
At Wholesome Psychology, we create safe spaces in Edmonton and St. Albert communities, where families, individuals, children and adolescents feel welcome. We understand that everyone will face unique challenges and experiences throughout the different stages of their lives. Our skilled professionals are understanding of different approaches and backgrounds so they can tailor treatment to your needs and goals while allowing you to pace the sessions to your comfort level. Somethings Wholesome offers is:
- Accessibility: Choose from in-person appointments at either our Edmonton or St. Albert locations or secure virtual sessions.
- Personalized Approach: Every family is different and will experience different challenges. We work collaboratively to create solutions that support your families needs and goals.
- Practical Strategies: We help families implement day-to-day changes that will make a difference. This can include better communication, creating and managing routines and supporting each member through the transitions they face.
What to Expect from Blended Family Adjustment Counseling
Our process begins with a collaborative intake assessment where each family member can voice their perspective in a supportive environment. Your therapist will then work with you to:
- Create and set achievable goals
- Understand and explore relationship dynamics
- Understand and learn more about boundaries and how to set them
- Explore each individuals needs to see how best to support each other
- Introduce tools and skills that improve communication and resolve conflict
- Help to manage emotions
- Check-ins and ongoing support as your family is implementing these changes
Our psychologists are dedicated to blending compassion with evidence-based modalities to best support you and your family on this counseling journey. They work with you to manage these changes and any conflicts that arise while building healthy and trusting relationships between family members.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blended Family Counseling
Is blended family counseling right for our family?
If you are blending a family or are thinking about blending a family, wholesome is here for you. If you and your family are handling tension, ongoing conflicts due to misunderstandings or miscommunications, you can benefit from counseling. We provide support every step of the way wether that be during adjustments or working on effective boundary setting, our trained therapists create a collaborative approach to suit your needs and goals.
How many sessions will we need?
The number of sessions varies by family and the concerns you are managing, Most families can notice improvement within 8-12 sessions. We do also provide check-ins and a few follow up sessions to answer any questions and provide continued support.
Are children involved in the counseling process?
Children are often involved in the counselling sessions. Our therapists provide age -appropriate opportunities for kids and teens to share their feelings and perspectives while allowing them to partake in creating solutions. Parents are also essential to the counselling process, they have their time to share their story and what they feel the best goals for the family are.
Resources and Additional Family Support Services
Some of our resources they you may find helpful for blending a family include:
Book a Consultation with a Local Family Therapist
At Wholesome psychology we strive to create an inclusive and diverse environment where everyone feels welcome. Our trained therapists work with individuals and families from all backgrounds to help them manage the challenges they face.
If you or your family are interested in obtaining counselling support, please I Contact us today to book your first session, or learn more about our approach by visiting our team page: Our Therapists.
References: National Board for Certified Counselors & Affiliates. NBCC. (n.d.). https://www.nbcc.org/resources/nccs/newsletter/challenges-of-counseling-blended-families
