Your partner, friends and family are - for most people - a huge part of their lives. They determined your upbringing, frame your social world, impact your day to day experiences, and also are there for the highs and lows that life brings.

It might seem reasonable then, to question whether they too should be a part of your therapeutic process - would their input be helpful? Would it be useful if they could understand a little deeper where you’re at right now? Could there be things they’re doing that might actually be hindering your growth and development? Would a doctor even be open to them being involved in my sessions?

We invited consultant psychiatrist and medical psychotherapist Dr Florian Ruths to speak on the topic, and give his perspective.