One-size-fits-all therapy is not what we offer. For their own challenges, some people require thorough, introspection. Others want assistance in handling relationships that seem to be precariously balanced. Here is where the decision between a conventional therapist and a licensed marriage and family therapist (MFT) counts. Two roads, distinct objectives, but each can transform a life.

A conventional therapist addresses the person. Depression, anxiety, prior trauma—they sink into the personal conflicts you are waging within your own thoughts. You, your routines, your emotions—that is the focus here. It’s like learning to tune an instrument—getting your mind to cooperate with itself.

A therapist in marriage and family relations? They enlarge on their zoom out. They observe the system you live in, not only you. Your spouse, your children, the way each person in your life interacts. It is more about “How are we caught in this cycle” than about “Why do I feel this way?” An MFT helps sort the chaos and change those patterns if your arguments keep running down the same road.

Ever feel as though your spouse hears something quite different from what you just said? That greatly raises concerns about a breakdown in communication. Conventional therapy might help you find the reason you find difficult to express yourself. If it’s a problem between you and your partner, though, an MFT will fit better. They will enable you to stop passing each other and start really listening to what is being said.

Family conflicts? Likewise deal. Older therapists assist with personal trauma resulting from family problems. But an MFT invites everyone into the dialogues. It’s about realizing how the challenges of one person affect the whole group.

Hence, which is better? Neither either. All relies on your search for something. A conventional therapist could be the appropriate guide if you find yourself lost in your own thoughts. An MFT is the one you wish for on your corner if your relationships are the battlefield.