For many families, working through the challenges of aging and caregiving is a group effort.  And most often, the group doesn't see eye to eye.  

You may feel overwhelmed, angry, resentmentful, and worried. Maybe small disagreements have escalated. Maybe old wounds and old roles are getting in the way. Maybe you don't have a clear plan for what the future may bring.

Emotions are high, a lot is at stake, and sometimes competing interests are at play. This can lead to disagreements, misunderstandings, and a breakdown in communication. A solution seems out of reach.

I work with families to create a space in which each person feels heard and supported. This allows the family reach a decision and take action in a way that reflects their shared needs and values.

Let's get your family unstuck and moving forward.

• One family member feels a growing resentment about carrying most of the caregiving responsibility.
• An out of state adult child is worried about the primary caregiver "burning out," but is reluctant to step in.
• An older adult's living situation is becoming unsafe, but they don't want to accept help.
• A sudden event like a stroke or major fall has occurred and you don't know where to start figuring out all the changes that will need to happen.
• It's time to talk to a dementia-affected individual about stopping driving, but you're not sure how to go about it.
• The flow of information about an older adult's situation is broken. How will you know if something important is going on?
• Family members disagree about spending financial resources on care.
• The medical decision-maker needs to communicate important information, but is worried that other family members won't accept the news.
• It's time to make tough medical choices, and family members have different opinions.

Let my expertise and experience help guide your family to a solution

1. How is this service different from family therapy?

Family therapy is typically a longer-term process, often with the aim of resolving underlying issues. Short-term family sessions are much more solution-focused. The emphasis is on solving the problem rather than delving into why the problem exists. 

2. How much does it cost?

My rates for family sessions are $250 per hour. 

3. What happens during the family meeting?

I will introduce myself to everyone, and go over a few ground rules (eg no interrupting). I will guide the group in identifying the point of conflict, or the issue that is causing difficulty. I will ask for input from each person, then summarize and characterize the viewpoints. I'll ask what each person believes is the best possible outcome. Along the way I will check for understanding and engagement, so each person feels like part of the process. I will help the group evaluate different possible solutions until we find the one that fits your family best. I reserve time at the end to decompress and restabilize so the meeting doesn't end with folks feeling frayed.

4. How long does it take?

Each meeting takes 90 minutes -2 hours. Families typically need just 1 or 2 meetings to feel they are on track, with an option to schedule again if new concerns arise.

5. Where does the meeting take place?

The meeting can take place at my office, at your home in the San Gabriel Valley, or virtually via video conference. If an attendee is joining virtually, they need to be located in a state in which I am licensed to practice (currently CA, FL, NC, IL).

6. Who should attend?

This type of therapy works best with groups of 2-4 people. This would typically include the person with the aging-related concerns, and any combination of spouse, adult children, or other family caregivers.

7. Wait, I still have more questions!

No problem! Please reach out and I'll be happy to answer them during a free consultation.