FRYBURG — With over 20 years experience working with clients age 2 to age 102 through Catholic Social Services of the Miami Valley, Counselor Rick Williams has seen a shift in family dynamics that concerns him.
When approached by Rachel Barber of the Petersburg Pastoral Region (a cluster of Catholic parishes in Auglaize and northern Shelby Counties) to do some sessions about today’s family, Williams was quick to agree. On Nov. 8 and 15 at St. John Parish in Fryburg, Williams will address issues that impact today’s family life.
On Nov. 8 at 2 p.m., Williams will present a session titled “Honor Thy Father and Mother: What Changed the Rules?” The 30 to 45 minute presentation will address the topic of respect and how the changing family dynamic is affecting the boundaries of acceptable behaviors.
“The Greek word for honor means to revere, prize and value,” said Williams. “Honor is giving respect not only for merit but also for rank…… Yet today’s American culture is less closely tied to the entire notion of hierarchy.” Williams goes on to say that the prevailing lack of respect for authority creates a lack of balance in the family. In too many situations today, it is the kids who are in charge, not the parents.
The Nov. 15 presentation will also begin at 2 p.m. and is titled “The Media and Family Dynamics” and will examine the effects of our highly-wired existence on families. “Our culture today encourages the independence of the child,” said Williams. “Since we prefer nonverbal communication instead of face-to-face, there are fewer chances for children to interact with a parent and learn about family relationships.”
Even in the most intact families, much interaction happens through screens (texting, email, etc.) or not at all. Our preoccupation with gadgets both large and small is undermining human contact in general, and severely limiting the bonding processes that must occur on a daily basis to create strong families.
Williams specializes in individual, couples and family counseling. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master of Science in Education, and is licensed by the Counselor, Social Worker, and Marriage and Family Therapist Board. Rick is also a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with supervisory credentials, and was recently certified as an Early Childhood Mental Health Certified Professional.
For more information or to arrange for Williams to conduct a session about family issues at your location, contact [email protected] or call him at 937-498-4593 extension 1107.
