Family Work
At The Mind Studio, we aim to help children and families understand one another, grow together, and build healthier relationships.
Family Work looks at the child within the context of their relationship and family environment. Rather than working only on the child's behaviour, we seek to understand the patterns of interaction that may be contributing to the difficulties. Together, we explore what is happening beneath these patterns, process the emotions and experiences involved, and work towards healthier ways of relating to one another.
Our Practitioner
For almost two decades, Elaine has worked with teens and young people through teaching, mentoring, and counselling. She has seen many different struggles they face. Today, as a Family Work Practitioner at The Mind Studio, she works with children, teens, and families who may be finding it difficult to understand one another or navigate challenges together.
Her understanding of family work doesn't come only from working with families. It also comes from being a mother.
Motherhood taught me that family work starts with me.
Having five children has taught me that motherhood is not simply about managing children, balancing responsibilities, or trying to keep everything together.
The biggest hurdle I've had to cross has been coming face-to-face with the person I am. What I once took pride in, were continually being tested as the demands of life became greater. I used to be able to stay calm in difficult situations, and I thought I would be the type of mom who would go 1000 extra miles for her children.
But, my experience showed me that motherhood has a way of revealing the parts of myself I would rather not see.
With each child, I became more aware of my own limitations, triggers, expectations and patterns of relating. I am not who I thought I was.
I began to realise that raising healthy children isn't only about good parenting skills. It requires me to keep doing the work within myself, because who I am inevitably shapes the relationship with my family.
Why Family Work Matters
When a child struggles, there is usually more to the story.
Children may express their struggles through behaviour. They may become angry, withdrawn, defiant, anxious or easily overwhelmed. Teens may feel misunderstood, disconnected, or out of place at home and in school. Parents may find themselves caught in repeated cycles of conflict, frustration and misunderstanding.
It can be tempting to focus on the behaviour we want to change.
At The Mind Studio, Elaine's approach is emotionally focused and relational. She works with children, teens and parents to develop greater understanding, emotional awareness and healthier communication.
You Don't Have to Figure It Out Alone
Elaine doesn't come into this work as someone who has parenting figured out. She comes as someone who has been stretched, humbled and continually changed by motherhood and as a counsellor. She would journey with you in your process of understanding yourself and your children.
If you're wondering whether Family Work might be helpful for your family, reach out for a preliminary conversation with Elaine at bloom@themindstudio.sg.