Parents in Therapy: an act of love and commitment

By Lic. Melina González Paulos, Maternal and Child Therapist@almadenino.crianza

In the daily grind, we often forget that parenting is a constant learning journey. We strive to give the best to our children, but sometimes we encounter challenges that surpass us: a teenager who isolates himself, a child who does not manage his emotions, or simply the feeling of being lost in parenting. It is in these moments, when frustration accumulates and the family bond suffers, that the help of a specialized therapeutic space becomes essential.

Why is it crucial to seek help?
Going to therapy is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength and commitment. It is recognizing that we do not have all the answers and that we want to build a healthier and happier family. A family therapist is not a judge, but an expert guide who provides us with tools to understand and improve family dynamics. It helps us understand child and adolescent development, each stage has its particularities. A therapist guides us about the emotional and cognitive needs of our children at each stage.
Each child is unique, what «works» for one doesn’t work for another, and it is part of our role to be able to identify their characteristics and needs as unique, respect them and guide them as best as possible, as well as communicate family-wise that it is not about «making differences» between siblings but about adapting to the personality of each one with respect and love, setting limits that encompass us all, it seems impossible at times but it is not, and doing a clear reading with a professional this can be something very dynamic.
Improving communication is essential, many family tensions arise from the lack of effective communication. Therapy teaches us to listen actively and express our needs and limits assertively.
Manage conflicts with the appropriate tools disagreements are inevitable. A therapist provides us with strategies to resolve conflicts constructively, without resorting to yelling or punishment that damages the relationship.
Strengthen the emotional bond. By healing wounds and learning to connect more deeply, we strengthen the bond of love and trust that unites us and our children. There is no such thing as perfect motherhood and fatherhood, but we can be more effective with less pressure without running races that take away from what is essential.

A path to healing
Family therapy offers a safe space to address difficult topics. Allow each family member to feel heard and valued. By working together, parents can heal inherited parenting patterns and stop repeating mistakes that perpetuate pain. It is an opportunity to build a positive emotional legacy for future generations.

Let’s not wait for the problems to get worse, we don’t have to be able to do everything. Seeking professional help is an investment in the well-being of the entire family and the best gift we can give our children. Because in the end, the most important thing is not to be perfect parents, but to be present, conscious and constantly evolving parents.