The Contemporary American Family We live in a patchwork quilt of cultures in America.  Our families reflect our diverse heritage.  Single parent homes, blended families and same sex families are increasingly becoming the definition for the modern  family system.  Today, more than ever,  couples are working hard at their relationships, and are succeeding at keeping their families together through these difficult times. No matter what your family profile  is (divorced, blended, single-parent home)  embrace your identity daily, and know that struggling is part of the process.  Like any great creation, families take work.   When parents give birth to their first child, they quickly realize the profound influence they have upon every aspect of the child's development; particularly,  how the child will see itself in this world.   The family unit is the cocoon to which the child will cyclically return; to recharge, renew, and define itself throughout the life cycle.  It is critical that every child has safety, trust and love in their home. Similar to the development of the child, the family also has a life cycle of its own.  Maintaining a healthy family also requires safety, trust and love.  You can aide the health of your family throughout the lifespan by returning to your family through "connection practices."  Some connection practices are: family rituals, family dinners (how many nights a week do you eat together?), a spiritual life, and healthy relationships with extended family (family reunions).   * What kind of family do you want to have? * Does your reality match your dream?

As One Family - Therapy for the 21st Century American Family Services Provided by Renee M. Cunningham Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist