Medical Family Therapy
Photo by: Pexels
WHAT IS MEDICAL FAMILY THERAPY?
A medical family therapy considers both the mental health and the physical health. According to McDaniel, Doherty, and Hepworth, “There is no psychosocial problems without biological features, and there are no biomedical problems without psychosocial features.” (McDaniel, Doherty, & Hepworth, 2014, p.5, “Medical Family Therapy and Integrated Care, 2nd Ed.”).
WHAT IS THE GOAL OF MEDICAL FAMILY THERAPY?
The goal of a medical family therapist is to work collaboratively with the health care professionals, such as doctors, nurses, physician assistance, and care facilities, in order to bridge the gap between medical and mental health care.
WHAT DOES MEDICAL FAMILY THERAPY ADDRESSES?
Mind and Body: The therapist would address the linkage between brain and the rest of the body; between the psychosocial stress and support and the wide range of medical conditions. Therapist would look at the interplay between medical problem and mental health. For example, say cancer and depression or trauma and chronic pain.
Intimate Relationships: The therapist would explore with the patient and their family, their relationship and social connection, and how that impacts every dimension of health, illness, and health care.
Healthcare System: The importance of looking at the patient and their family in an institutional setting, especially within the health care system. When a patient has a chronic illness, they and their family also have a chronic relationship with health care professionals. Therapist would assist patient and their family by collaborating with them and the medical provider.
Clinical, Financial and Operational World: Therapist would look at what is clinically appropriate and effective to each individual patient; providing treatment plan and goals. Therapist would assist patient in exploring assistance programs that communities, state, or federal offers for those who are diagnosed with cancer or chronic medical issues. Therapist would have an understanding of the systemic view of the health care setting.