How To Bring Up Issues With Your In-Laws In Therapy

If you’re dealing with issues with your in-laws, you may want to pursue therapy individually, with your partner, or as an entire family. It’s important to find a therapist who has experience in this area.

Here are some things to look for and ask about:

• Training and experience with multigenerational family dynamics. This may include the therapist being licensed as a licensed marriage and family therapist or having specific training in that area. Look at the therapist’s website for specific mentions of working with families, in-law relationships, and training in family issues.
  
• Experience with in-law relationships. You may want to ask the therapist how they handle these specific issues. It’s important that the therapist recognizes there are many options when dealing with in-laws, and it’s up to you to decide which option is best for you. They should demonstrate a willingness to allow you to explore these options and not push you toward one specific option or resolution.
  
• Knowledge of how culture, religion, and age impact enmeshment. You’ll want to ask the therapist if they have experience with your specific demographics, especially if they are important to your story or how your family operates.
  
• Experience with emotionally immature parents and/or narcissistic adults. Many families that struggle with in-law issues are also dealing with emotional immaturity, narcissism, or other mental health concerns. Working with a therapist with experience in these areas is important.