What Is the Difference Between Family Counseling and Family Therapy?
When families face challenges, they often seek professional guidance to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and build stronger relationships. But when searching for support, many people wonder: What’s the difference between family counseling and family therapy?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, they aren’t exactly the same. Understanding the key differences can help you choose the right support for your family’s needs. If you’re looking for expert care in Coppell, TX, Dr. Audrey Kteily, PhD, LPC, is a highly respected family therapist who provides compassionate and effective guidance to families navigating difficult times.
Family Counseling vs. Family Therapy: What’s the Difference?
Although both approaches aim to strengthen family relationships, they differ in depth, scope, and treatment methods.
Family Counseling: Short-Term & Solution-Focused
Family counseling typically focuses on immediate concerns and practical solutions. It’s often used for:
✔️ Improving communication skills
✔️ Addressing minor conflicts
✔️ Helping families navigate life transitions (e.g., divorce, relocation, blended families)
✔️ Offering parenting support
Family counseling is usually short-term, with sessions designed to resolve specific issues rather than explore deep-rooted patterns.
Family Therapy: Deeper Healing & Long-Term Solutions
Family therapy, on the other hand, goes beyond surface-level conflicts to address underlying emotional and psychological factors. It is often recommended for families experiencing:
✔️ Chronic conflict or recurring relationship struggles
✔️ Mental health challenges (such as anxiety, depression, or trauma)
✔️ Substance abuse or addiction issues
✔️ Behavioral concerns in children or teens
✔️ Grief, loss, or unresolved trauma
Family therapy is typically longer-term, using evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), or Structural Family Therapy to create lasting change.
Why Choose Dr. Audrey Kteily, PhD, LPC, for Family Therapy in Coppell, TX?
If your family is struggling with communication issues, unresolved conflict, or deeper emotional concerns, seeking guidance from an experienced professional can make all the difference.
Dr. Audrey Kteily, PhD, LPC, is a highly regarded family therapist in Coppell, TX, known for her compassionate, results-driven approach. She helps families:
✅ Identify and break negative patterns
✅ Improve emotional connections
✅ Develop healthier communication strategies
✅ Heal from past trauma and build stronger bonds
Her expertise and personalized approach ensure that every family receives the support they need to navigate challenges and grow stronger together.
Which One Is Right for Your Family?
If you need short-term support to address a specific issue, family counseling may be the best choice.
If your family is dealing with long-standing conflicts, mental health struggles, or deeper emotional wounds, family therapy is likely the better option.
No matter your situation, seeking professional help is a powerful step toward healing.
Get the Support Your Family Needs Today
If you’re looking for a trusted family therapist in Coppell, TX, Dr. Audrey Kteily, PhD, LPC, is here to help. With years of experience and a dedicated, compassionate approach, she guides families toward healthier, more fulfilling relationships.
📅 Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward a stronger, happier family!