The family is a social system where change or illness in one family member may impact the larger family dynamic. As systemic therapists, we use a family systems perspective to understand family history, communication patterns and dynamics to see the bigger picture of the presenting problem and develop strategies for long-term improvement.
If we are born into a healthy and functioning family, we are most likely to form and maintain healthy relationships. If we are born into a dysfunctional family that has difficulty connecting, that may affect our connection with others. However, these type of situations can be overcome with intentional therapeutic work. Commonly, most families deal with some sort of maladaptation at some point. Most families do strive to work as an interconnected structure to regain wholeness. 

"Like branches on a tree, we all grow in different directions, yet our roots remain as one..."

A blended family or step-family suffer from problems unique to their situations. We help to enhance understanding and facilitate healthy interactions between family members. There are times that differences between step-family members interfere with the way they perceive their own issues in relation to other family members.
Families who come from mixed races, cultural or religious backgrounds may struggle to get to a common ground. The goal we can help with is to get all family members to bridge the gap between one another to better understand where they have come from. 
"Family is family, whether it's one you start out with, the one you end up with, or the family you gain along the way..."