Make your stance clear with all family members, “I will hear what your concerns, provide you a place to share thoughts, however there is only one side I take, that of the patient. Period.”

In the DMT therapy field (dance movement therapy), power dynamics is felt through body transference and counter transference. DMT therapist are well trained and aware of their own body sensations and senses in response to dynamics in their clinic, with one person and later trained as a dyadic therapist and family therapist as awareness grows and skills develop. As I manage to separate my sense and sensations from my patients’ I can as all therapists help them and work with their resistance or unconscious parts of their lives. This is a special spectacular field of research and mental care of patients that I admire.

Prioritize clear communication with the patient while respecting family concerns. Reinforce medical ethics and patient autonomy, ensuring decisions align with their best interests. Facilitate discussions with empathy, setting boundaries when needed. If conflicts persist, involve a mediator or ethics committee to navigate sensitive situations effectively.

When navigating power dynamics in a family while ensuring a patient’s best interests, it is essential to prioritize clear communication, ethical decision-making, and patient advocacy. This involves actively listening to all family members, understanding their concerns, and educating them about the patient’s rights and medical needs. Establishing the patient’s autonomy, if they are capable of making decisions, is crucial, while also considering cultural sensitivities and legal frameworks such as advanced directives or guardianship laws. Engaging a neutral mediator, such as a social worker or ethics committee, can help resolve conflicts and maintain focus on the patient’s well-being.

It's safe to say that it's a significant and widespread issue for many families dealing with illness, disability, or ageing. From caregivers, feeling overwhelmed and unsupported to those that are under emotional and financial strain within the family, can exacerbate even the smallest issue. My advice would be to use a shared online platform, such as a WhatsApp family group chat, where family members can record their thoughts, updates, and decisions about the patient's care. This allows everyone to stay informed without needing to meet in person constantly, which may reduce conflicts. It also provides documentation, accountability and transparency in the decision-making process, helping to keep the patients' needs central.