All in the Family

Presenting Problem: Leah and Yehuda are at a loss over how to deal with their daughter’s difficult behavior.

Tools Used: Structural family therapy

I’d seen “Unknown Caller” on my caller ID for several weeks, but it was never followed with a message. I assumed it was a telemarketer, or a distressed potential client, who wasn’t entirely sure she was ready to commit enough to leave a message.

One day, the caller finally left a message, and the latter proved to be true.

The message was brief and stilted, something about wanting help for her daughter. I called back. I did a quick intake over the phone with Leah, and ascertained that she was under heavy pressure from her daughter’s school to find support for her daughter — or else.

I explained to Leah that I don’t generally see adolescents, as my practice focuses primarily on adults and couples. However, I could see her daughter as part of a family therapy structure.