Pereteraapia

Pereteraapia is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on the family as a system rather than on a single individual. It views problems as arising from patterns of interaction, communication, and roles within the family, and it aims to improve functioning by changing these patterns. Sessions typically involve multiple family members, most commonly parents and a child or adolescent, though other configurations may be included depending on the situation. The overarching goals are to improve parenting skills, reduce conflict, support child or teen functioning, and help the family adjust to life events such as divorce, relocation, or illness.

Therapeutic approaches in pereteraapia are often systemic or structural in orientation. Therapists map interaction patterns, identify problematic sequences, and work to restructure the family’s organization and communication. Common modalities include structural family therapy, strategic or problem-focused family therapy, and attachment-informed or emotion-focused family work. Some forms integrate individual therapy for specific members when appropriate. Pereteraapia is typically time-limited and goal-directed, with sessions held regularly over a span of weeks to months.

Evidence for effectiveness is mixed but supportive in areas such as child and adolescent conduct problems, reduced parental distress, and improved family functioning. Benefits appear to be greater when family involvement is closely aligned with treatment goals and when the issues are rooted in family dynamics. Evidence varies by population and condition, and treatment is most effective when delivered by trained professionals.

Providers are licensed mental health professionals with training in family or systemic therapies, such as psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, or marriage and family therapists. Considerations include cultural sensitivity, ethical practice, and safety concerns, particularly in cases of abuse or domestic violence, where additional safeguards and individual sessions may be required.