What actually happens when the whole family comes to therapy? And how do you even start a conversation when everyone’s at odds?

In this special crossover episode with Dr Bronwyn Milkins from the Mental Work podcast, we explore the unique challenges and dynamics of working with whole families in therapy. From preparing for multi-person sessions to setting boundaries, managing multiple agendas and keeping kids engaged, this is an honest look into the real-world practice of systemic family therapy.

We talk about:

• How therapists manage logistics, power dynamics and safety
• The importance of clear contracting when working with families
• Why it’s important to name the emotional undercurrents in the room
• What makes systemic therapy different from individual or couples work
• Why therapists need to get comfortable with discomfort

Whether you're a social worker, counsellor or psychologist working with families or just curious what it’s really like in the room, this episode shares insights, humour and real talk from inside the therapy process.

Resources

• Mental Work Podcast episode: https://www.mentalworkpodcast.com/intro-to-family-therapy/
• https://mhpn.org.au/members/#/Network/95487
• Professional Learning: https://marievakakis.com.au/professionals-training-and-supervision/

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