Heal the Whole Family by Understanding the System

Family Systems Therapy helps individuals, couples, and families resolve dysfunction by examining how roles, communication patterns, and intergenerational dynamics affect the whole unit. Healing happens when the system—not just one person—changes.

Woman sitting closely beside sculpted busts, symbolizing identity, intergenerational patterns, and relational roles in family systems therapy.
Woman sitting closely beside sculpted busts, symbolizing identity, intergenerational patterns, and relational roles in family systems therapy.
Woman sitting closely beside sculpted busts, symbolizing identity, intergenerational patterns, and relational roles in family systems therapy.

What Is Family Systems Therapy and How Does It Help?

Family Systems Therapy views problems not as individual pathology, but as relational feedback loops. Each family member plays a role that maintains the system—often unconsciously. This approach strengthens boundaries, improves communication, and promotes lasting relational change through collective insight.

Key Benefits

Strengthens Family Communication

Interrupts blame and shutdown cycles with assertive, respectful dialogue.

Identifies Unhealthy Roles

Recognizes how patterns like “scapegoat,” “hero,” or “peacekeeper” show up and why.

Resolves Generational Trauma

Examines inherited behaviors and emotional rules passed down over time.

Builds Clearer Boundaries

Supports differentiation while fostering mutual support and empathy.

Treatment Goals

Create Emotional Safety Within the Family

Build an environment where honest conversation is possible without fear or escalation.

Recognize Family Dynamics and Roles

Understand how current behavior maintains balance—or dysfunction.

Facilitate Systemic Change

Adjust patterns and expectations across the entire family unit, not just individuals.

Empower Each Member Individually

Support personal development within the context of collective healing.

person in black long sleeve shirt holding babys feet
person in black long sleeve shirt holding babys feet
person in black long sleeve shirt holding babys feet

Family Systems Therapy for Communication, Boundaries, and Balance

Family Systems Therapy helps people understand how each member contributes to patterns of conflict, silence, anxiety, or resentment. It builds awareness of invisible rules and roles—and provides tools to restore emotional connection and healthy functioning.

The Process

The Process

The Process

1

1

Family Mapping and Role Identification

Use genograms and discussion to reveal unconscious patterns and relational scripts.

2

2

Establish Ground Rules for Dialogue

Create emotional safety for each person to speak without interruption or attack.

3

3

Explore Cyclical Interactions

Examine how behaviors and reactions loop through the system over time.

4

4

Promote Differentiation and Emotional Regulation

Help each member define themselves without cutting off connection.

5

5

Rebuild Functional, Flexible Roles

Guide the family toward healthier interaction styles and shared responsibility.

woman in red blazer holding white paper
woman in red blazer holding white paper
woman in red blazer holding white paper

Techniques Used

Scientific Background

Historical Development

Techniques Used

Genograms

Visual mapping of family relationships and multigenerational patterns.

Reframing

Shift blame toward understanding relational roles and motivations.

Structural Interventions

Reorganize seating, speaking order, or alliances to promote system rebalancing.

Role Exploration and Flexibility Exercises

Practice stepping out of fixed roles to restore balance.

Techniques Used

Scientific Background

Historical Development

Techniques Used

Genograms

Visual mapping of family relationships and multigenerational patterns.

Reframing

Shift blame toward understanding relational roles and motivations.

Structural Interventions

Reorganize seating, speaking order, or alliances to promote system rebalancing.

Role Exploration and Flexibility Exercises

Practice stepping out of fixed roles to restore balance.

Techniques Used

Scientific Background

History

Techniques Used

Genograms

Visual mapping of family relationships and multigenerational patterns.

Reframing

Shift blame toward understanding relational roles and motivations.

Structural Interventions

Reorganize seating, speaking order, or alliances to promote system rebalancing.

Role Exploration and Flexibility Exercises

Practice stepping out of fixed roles to restore balance.

Typical Exercises

Typical Exercises

Family Roles Inventory

Identify and track recurring roles in emotional and behavioral patterns.

Circular Questions Worksheet

Explore how members perceive each other’s role in the system.

Boundary Mapping

Clarify emotional, physical, and conversational boundaries between family members.

Repair Conversations

Practice structured dialogue around past injuries, misunderstandings, or breakdowns.

Select your insurance company
to see your coverage

Don't see your plan? 

Give us a call: 818.821.6012

Cigna

Aetna

Beacon

Optum

L.A. Care

United Health

Other

Your copay could

be as low as

$0

Average Cigna member copay

per session

$15*

Want to know your exact copay and coverage? Give us a call

at (818)-821-6012 we'll verify your insurance in minutes.

What your coverage may include

Cigna members often enjoy reduced copays and extensive mental health benefits.

Get started quickly - most Cigna members begin therapy within the same week!

Choose your preferred method: in-person style video sessions, phone therapy, or text-based support based on what works best for your lifestyle.

*Actual costs may be lower than expected. Verify your specific benefits as coverage varies by plan.

Select your insurance company
to see your coverage

Don't see your plan? 

Give us a call: 818.821.6012

Cigna

Aetna

Beacon

Optum

L.A. Care

United Health

Other

Your copay could

be as low as

$0

Average Cigna member copay

per session

$15*

Want to know your exact copay and coverage? Give us a call at (818)-821-6012 we'll verify your insurance in minutes.

What your coverage may include

Cigna members often enjoy reduced copays and extensive mental health benefits.

Get started quickly - most Cigna members begin therapy within the same week!

Choose your preferred method: in-person style video sessions, phone therapy, or text-based support based on what works best for your lifestyle.

*Actual costs may be lower than expected. Verify your specific benefits as coverage varies by plan.

Select your insurance company
to see your coverage

Don't see your plan? 

Give us a call: 818.821.6012

Cigna

Aetna

Beacon

Optum

L.A. Care

United Health

Other

Your copay could

be as low as

$0

Average Cigna member copay

per session

$15*

Want to know your exact copay and coverage? Give us a call at (818)-821-6012 we'll verify your insurance in minutes.

What your coverage may include

Cigna members often enjoy reduced copays and extensive mental health benefits.

Get started quickly - most Cigna members begin therapy within the same week!

Choose your preferred method: in-person style video sessions, phone therapy, or text-based support based on what works best for your lifestyle.

*Actual costs may be lower than expected. Verify your specific benefits as coverage varies by plan.

Testimonials

100+ Google reviews with an average 4.8★ rating

  • “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Justin M.

    Google SVG Logo

    It’s been a life-changing expierence since I started my therapy with Michelle at this center. All the time I am warmly welcomed by the staff members, but most importantly I see the difference in my life finding all those new ways to heal. Highly recommend!

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Cielo P.

    Google SVG Logo

    I love Family Centers, my individual therapist has been helping me a lot, i love the flexibility they have in case i have an emergency they give me options to either reschedule or have my appointment in a call or videocall.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Ricky M.

    Google SVG Logo

    I have seen many therapist over the years and I have never been so impressed with such emotional intelligence that both inspires and challenges me. Huge thanks to Karen at FamilyTime Centers for connecting me with her. It is an invaluable boost to my quality of life.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Jessa R.

    Google SVG Logo

    Good place to be start the healing! Very nice ladies in the office! So very sweet with every interaction we had! Started therapy over a year ago & have improved so much! It's great to put myself first & I recommend FTC! ✨👍

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Quinton H.

    Google SVG Logo

    My experience with family time centers has been amazing. I was always told that men don’t need therapy, we just need to tough it out lol… I went to the family time center and they welcomed me with open arms.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Chris M

    Google SVG Logo

    Very happy with the therapist I was matched with. He has a background in helping people through trauma, which is exactly what I was looking for. The staff has been very helpful. Highly recommended!

  • “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Cal B.

    Google SVG Logo

    I'm truly grateful for Family Time Centers. I've been working with a fantastic therapist here for around 6 months, during which time I have made some large discoveries about myself, and some great strides in my personal evolution.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Anne B.

    Google SVG Logo

    Even after years of therapy, my specific work with IFS allowed me to go much deeper, healing at another level, all while feeling manageable; recommended for beginner to advanced to get to joy.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Rebecca H.

    Google SVG Logo

    FamilyTime Center has been nothing but friendly and helpful through out my experience. They even give you a call after a few weeks of service to check in and make sure everything is going well. I would recommend then to anyone.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Jessica S.

    Google SVG Logo

    My child sees Kimberly, and she is absolutely great! My child looks forward to each session and opens up to her effortlessly!

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Aileen D.

    Google SVG Logo

    Such a great experience with FamilyTime Center. Definitely recommend, if you are considering this is your sign! Staff was amazing and accommodating throughout my entire time here, they truly care for us all.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Yesenia G.

    Google SVG Logo

    I want to thank FamilyTime Centers for promptly giving me an appointment when I needed it the most. I recommend them they are fast and kind. Thank you for your support

Testimonials

100+ Google reviews with an average 4.8★ rating

  • “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Justin M.

    Google SVG Logo

    It’s been a life-changing expierence since I started my therapy with Michelle at this center. All the time I am warmly welcomed by the staff members, but most importantly I see the difference in my life finding all those new ways to heal. Highly recommend!

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Cielo P.

    Google SVG Logo

    I love Family Centers, my individual therapist has been helping me a lot, i love the flexibility they have in case i have an emergency they give me options to either reschedule or have my appointment in a call or videocall.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Ricky M.

    Google SVG Logo

    I have seen many therapist over the years and I have never been so impressed with such emotional intelligence that both inspires and challenges me. Huge thanks to Karen at FamilyTime Centers for connecting me with her. It is an invaluable boost to my quality of life.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Jessa R.

    Google SVG Logo

    Good place to be start the healing! Very nice ladies in the office! So very sweet with every interaction we had! Started therapy over a year ago & have improved so much! It's great to put myself first & I recommend FTC! ✨👍

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Quinton H.

    Google SVG Logo

    My experience with family time centers has been amazing. I was always told that men don’t need therapy, we just need to tough it out lol… I went to the family time center and they welcomed me with open arms.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Chris M

    Google SVG Logo

    Very happy with the therapist I was matched with. He has a background in helping people through trauma, which is exactly what I was looking for. The staff has been very helpful. Highly recommended!

  • “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Cal B.

    Google SVG Logo

    I'm truly grateful for Family Time Centers. I've been working with a fantastic therapist here for around 6 months, during which time I have made some large discoveries about myself, and some great strides in my personal evolution.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Anne B.

    Google SVG Logo

    Even after years of therapy, my specific work with IFS allowed me to go much deeper, healing at another level, all while feeling manageable; recommended for beginner to advanced to get to joy.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Rebecca H.

    Google SVG Logo

    FamilyTime Center has been nothing but friendly and helpful through out my experience. They even give you a call after a few weeks of service to check in and make sure everything is going well. I would recommend then to anyone.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Jessica S.

    Google SVG Logo

    My child sees Kimberly, and she is absolutely great! My child looks forward to each session and opens up to her effortlessly!

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Aileen D.

    Google SVG Logo

    Such a great experience with FamilyTime Center. Definitely recommend, if you are considering this is your sign! Staff was amazing and accommodating throughout my entire time here, they truly care for us all.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Yesenia G.

    Google SVG Logo

    I want to thank FamilyTime Centers for promptly giving me an appointment when I needed it the most. I recommend them they are fast and kind. Thank you for your support

Testimonials

100+ Google reviews with an average 4.8★ rating

  • “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Justin M.

    Google SVG Logo

    It’s been a life-changing expierence since I started my therapy with Michelle at this center. All the time I am warmly welcomed by the staff members, but most importantly I see the difference in my life finding all those new ways to heal. Highly recommend!

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Cielo P.

    Google SVG Logo

    I love Family Centers, my individual therapist has been helping me a lot, i love the flexibility they have in case i have an emergency they give me options to either reschedule or have my appointment in a call or videocall.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Ricky M.

    Google SVG Logo

    I have seen many therapist over the years and I have never been so impressed with such emotional intelligence that both inspires and challenges me. Huge thanks to Karen at FamilyTime Centers for connecting me with her. It is an invaluable boost to my quality of life.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Jessa R.

    Google SVG Logo

    Good place to be start the healing! Very nice ladies in the office! So very sweet with every interaction we had! Started therapy over a year ago & have improved so much! It's great to put myself first & I recommend FTC! ✨👍

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Quinton H.

    Google SVG Logo

    My experience with family time centers has been amazing. I was always told that men don’t need therapy, we just need to tough it out lol… I went to the family time center and they welcomed me with open arms.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Chris M

    Google SVG Logo

    Very happy with the therapist I was matched with. He has a background in helping people through trauma, which is exactly what I was looking for. The staff has been very helpful. Highly recommended!

  • “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Cal B.

    Google SVG Logo

    I'm truly grateful for Family Time Centers. I've been working with a fantastic therapist here for around 6 months, during which time I have made some large discoveries about myself, and some great strides in my personal evolution.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Anne B.

    Google SVG Logo

    Even after years of therapy, my specific work with IFS allowed me to go much deeper, healing at another level, all while feeling manageable; recommended for beginner to advanced to get to joy.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Rebecca H.

    Google SVG Logo

    FamilyTime Center has been nothing but friendly and helpful through out my experience. They even give you a call after a few weeks of service to check in and make sure everything is going well. I would recommend then to anyone.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Jessica S.

    Google SVG Logo

    My child sees Kimberly, and she is absolutely great! My child looks forward to each session and opens up to her effortlessly!

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Aileen D.

    Google SVG Logo

    Such a great experience with FamilyTime Center. Definitely recommend, if you are considering this is your sign! Staff was amazing and accommodating throughout my entire time here, they truly care for us all.

    “Google review profile image for FamilyTime Center, a trusted provider of family counseling and therapy services.

    Yesenia G.

    Google SVG Logo

    I want to thank FamilyTime Centers for promptly giving me an appointment when I needed it the most. I recommend them they are fast and kind. Thank you for your support

Common Questions

Have more questions? Visit our comprehensive FAQ page for detailed answers about insurance coverage, payment options, and getting started with therapy.

Who are the therapists at FamilyTime Centers, and what are their qualifications?

What does therapy at FamilyTime Centers cost?

What types of therapy services do you offer?

How flexible are your scheduling options?

Can I get online therapy in California from FamilyTime Centers?

How do I start therapy in Valley Village, Los Angeles

Does FamilyTime Centers accept insurance in Los Angeles?

What therapy is offered for anxiety in Los Angeles?

Common Questions

Have more questions? Visit our comprehensive FAQ page for detailed answers about insurance coverage, payment options, and getting started with therapy.

Who are the therapists at FamilyTime Centers, and what are their qualifications?

What does therapy at FamilyTime Centers cost?

What types of therapy services do you offer?

How flexible are your scheduling options?

Can I get online therapy in California from FamilyTime Centers?

How do I start therapy in Valley Village, Los Angeles

Does FamilyTime Centers accept insurance in Los Angeles?

What therapy is offered for anxiety in Los Angeles?

Common Questions

Have more questions? Visit our comprehensive FAQ page for detailed answers about insurance coverage, payment options, and getting started with therapy.