Family Systems Therapy

Family Systems Therapy:

Family Systems Therapy is a systemic approach that is based on the assumption that the key to changing the individual is by both understanding and working with the family (Corey, 2009).

Key Figures: 

Alfred Adler

Murray Bowen

Virgina Satir

Carl Whitaker

 











Salvador Minuchin

Jay Haley

Cloe Madanes

Goals of Therapy: 

To help family members gain awareness of patterns of relationships that are not working well and create new ways of interacting (Corey, 2009).

Key Concepts:

 

• Verbal and nonverbal communication
• Power coalitions 
• Family of origin dynamics 
• Functional versus dysfunctional interaction patterns
• Dealing with the here and now 

Techniques: 

A variety of techniques may be used, depending on the particular theoretical orientation of the therapist. Techniques include genograms, teaching, asking questions, tracking sequences, initially directives, using countertransference, family mapping, setting boundaries, reenactments, and joining the family (Corey, 2009).

References:

Corey, G. (2009).  Theory and Practice of Counseling and Psychotherapy (eighth edition). Belmont, Ca: Thomas Higher Education.