"Family Therapy"

About: Sligo/Leitrim Mental Health Services / Sligo Child and Adolescent Community Mental Health Services

(as a parent/guardian),

To whom is may concern,

Over the course of our family therapy sessions, we've made noticeable progress in improving communication, understanding, and overall family dynamics. When we first began, we struggled with frequent misunderstandings, and a lack of effective ways to communicate our feelings and needs. Jackie and Marina provided a safe, neutral space where all of us could express ourselves openly, without fear of judgment.

One of the most significant changes we've experienced has been in the way we communicate. Initially, conversations often felt like a tug-of-war, where no one truly listened or understood the other's point of view. Now, we're more intentional about listening to each other, validating emotions, and taking turns speaking. Our daughter, who previously felt overwhelmed or shut down in difficult discussions, now feels more comfortable sharing her thoughts and feelings.

Throughout the sessions, we've all developed a deeper empathy for each other. I (as the mother) have learned to see situations through my husband's eyes, and vice versa. Our daughter, who is navigating adolescence, has begun to express her emotions in a healthier way, rather than resorting to isolation or frustration. We’re better able to put ourselves in each other’s shoes, which has made a profound difference in how we interact on a daily basis.

While disagreements are still a natural part of family life, we now have better tools to handle them. We've learned to stay calm during conflicts, take a step back, and communicate our needs without resorting to shouting or emotional withdrawal. This has made our home feel more peaceful, and we no longer let arguments linger and escalate.

There have been some positive behavioral shifts as well. Our daughter is more proactive about managing her emotions, her anger has settled and my husband and I have become more conscious of how our reactions influence the atmosphere in our home. For example, instead of defaulting to criticism when things go wrong, we try to focus on constructive feedback and acknowledge positive efforts.

Jackie and Marina have been an essential part of this process. They’ve been patient yet firm, guiding us toward deeper self-reflection while also providing practical tools for improving communication and resolving conflicts. Their approach has felt collaborative, rather than directive, which has made us more invested in the process.

Overall, our family dynamic has shifted toward greater unity and mutual respect. While there are still areas to work on, such as navigating differing parenting styles or managing occasional emotional reactivity, we feel we’re on a better path. There is now a shared commitment to making our family environment one that’s more open, supportive, and connected.

Thank you Jackie and Marina for your support during all our sessions.

Best regards. 

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