Medical Family Therapy

WHAT IS MEDICAL FAMILY THERAPY?

Medical Family Therapy addresses the interconnectedness of mental and physical health. It recognizes that emotional, relational, and psychological factors are inseparable from physical well-being. As McDaniel, Doherty, and Hepworth state, “There are no psychosocial problems without biological features, and there are no biomedical problems without psychosocial features” (Medical Family Therapy and Integrated Care, 2nd ed., 2014, p. 5).

WHAT IS THE GOAL OF MEDICAL FAMILY THERAPY?

The goal of Medical Family Therapy is to bridge the gap between medical and mental health care by working collaboratively with healthcare professionals—such as physicians, nurses, physician assistants, and care teams—to support the whole person within the context of their relationships and health challenges.

WHAT DOES MEDICAL FAMILY THERAPY ADDRESSES?

Mind and Body: Medical Family Therapy explores the link between mental and physical health, addressing how psychosocial stress and support impact a wide range of medical conditions. Therapists examine the interplay between physical illness and mental health—for example, how cancer may relate to depression or how trauma can influence chronic pain. 

Intimate Relationships: Therapists work with individuals and their families to understand how relationships and social connections influence health, illness, and healing. These dynamics are essential to holistic care and recovery.

Healthcare System: Chronic illness often creates an ongoing relationship between patients, families, and healthcare providers. Medical Family Therapists help navigate this system by collaborating with both the medical team and the family to support coordinated, compassionate care.

Clinical, Financial and Operational World: Therapists consider what is clinically appropriate and effective for each individual, helping to develop personalized treatment goals. They may also guide patients in accessing community, state, or federal resources for those facing chronic illness, while understanding the broader healthcare system and its impact on care.