Family Counselling Melbourne

Family Problems

Families provide a sense of belonging and security, both of which are vital to an individual’s overall wellbeing and self-understanding. 

All families encounter difficulties at times, whether due to developmental changes, communication breakdowns, or health-related challenges. At certain points, these can become overwhelming and hard to manage without support. 

Conflicts between adult family members are common and may arise from a variety of factors, including generational differences, unresolved issues, or differences in values and perspectives. 

Common contributors to adult family conflict: 

• Generational differences – Diverse values and expectations across generations can create tension, particularly around lifestyle, career, or family roles.
• Differing perspectives – Disagreements can emerge due to conflicting viewpoints among adult siblings or between parents and adult children.
• Sibling rivalry – Competition, jealousy or comparison may fuel ongoing tension.
• Unresolved past experiences – Past misunderstandings or emotional injuries may resurface and influence present relationships.
• Strong emotional reactions – Hurt, frustration, or anger can escalate conflict and impact communication. 

The Impact of Conflict on Children 

Family conflict, particularly when young children are involved, can influence their emotional and social development. Children are sensitive to parental stress and may respond in various ways—some may withdraw or become anxious, while others may act out or try to manage the conflict themselves. 

Possible impacts of family conflict:

• Emotional and behavioural responses – Children may display signs of anxiety, distress, or difficulty concentrating.
• Sense of safety and stability – A child’s ability to thrive depends on a secure environment. Persistent conflict can affect this.
• Energy for development – When children are focused on coping with family stress, they may have less capacity to engage with learning or play. 

Counselling can support parents in developing constructive ways to manage conflict and support their children’s resilience.

Blended Families and Modern Parenting 

Parenting is a rewarding but often demanding experience. Blended families, where parents re-partner following separation or divorce, can bring unique dynamics and challenges. 

Children may feel conflicted in their loyalties or resist changes in family structure. This can place stress on both the child and the adults. Support from a psychologist can help family members navigate these changes with greater empathy and understanding. 

Some families may lack extended support, particularly if grandparents or relatives live far away or are unable to assist. Older parents, or those with high work demands, may also experience added pressure. 

Many parents express uncertainty about how to manage difficult behaviours or emotions in themselves or their children. Counselling can help clarify concerns, identify patterns, and build strategies that improve communication and parenting confidence. 

Family Challenges in Adulthood 

Family tensions do not always end when children grow up. Adult families may struggle with: 

• Ongoing differences in values or political views
• Sibling rivalry or competition between adult children and their families
• Conflict over responsibilities related to ageing parents 

Our psychologists can help adult family members better understand one another, reduce conflict, and find common ground. 

What We Can Help With

We can assist parents and families on a range of presenting issues, including:

• Relationship challenges within the family
• Parenting and coping support
• Older adult or ageing parent issues
• Intergenerational conflict
• Emotional or behavioural difficulties in adolescents or young adults
• Parental support around cyberbullying
• Adjustment to parenthood, including peri- or postnatal stress
• Family grief, loss, and life transitions
• Cultural differences in family values or expectations
• Blended family dynamics 

Our Therapeutic Approaches

Our psychologists use a variety of evidence-informed approaches, tailored to the needs of each family. These may include:

• Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Family Therapy
• Relationship Counselling
• Parent training and support
• Intergenerational counselling
• Support for parent-child relationships
• Mindfulness-based strategies and mindful parenting 

All therapies used by Psychology Melbourne psychologists are supported by a sound theoretical basis and relevant clinical research. 

Intergenerational Counselling

Sometimes, patterns of trauma or distress can continue across generations, influencing the way individuals relate to one another. This may occur when past experiences—such as loss, family violence, or untreated mental health concerns—impact parenting behaviours and family communication. 

Intergenerational counselling explores how these patterns have developed and supports families in building healthier ways of relating. Our psychologists work with families to understand the past and promote healing for the future. 

When Should You Seek Help?

It may be helpful to consult a psychologist if your family is experiencing any of the following:

• Repeated conflicts that never seem resolved
• Avoidance, emotional shutdown, or breakdown in communication
• Intolerance of each other’s differences
• Ongoing tension about ageing parents or financial stress
• Escalating emotional reactions or aggressive behaviours
• Parental mental health concerns impacting the family dynamic
• Challenges coping with major life events or natural disasters 

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