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Family/Systemic Therapy

Module Synopsis

This module builds on the advanced introduction to the theory and practice of Family/Systemic Therapy provided in Approaches to Therapy 1. The course has been developed around a number of key dimensions, issues, skills and processes in Family/Systemic Therapy. Each of these will be explored from a variety of different perspectives within the broad Family Therapy tradition. Students will be encouraged to engage with Family/Systemic Therapy theory and practice from a critical perspective, evaluating both on the basis of the twin criteria of theoretical power and practical usefulness.

Learning outcomes
  • Identify, compare and contrast different models of Family Therapy
  • Evaluate contemporary critiques of Family Therapy theory and practice
  • Enhance existing competencies in relation to the assessment of family and individual functioning
  • Identify, practice and critique Family Therapy approaches to: listening; questioning; empathy; exploration of clients' "stories"; the facilitation of client change
  • Discuss and analyse issues of power and intimacy from within a Family Therapy framework
  • Outline ways in which social and cultural diversity impinges on therapeutic work with both individuals and families
  • Plan, carry out and critically assess a comprehensive interview with a family group, from initial contact and hypothesising to the selection of interventions and session ending

Content areas
  • An Overview of the Family Therapy Tradition: Review of Family/Systemic therapy history in relation to both theory and practice and identification of contemporary developments, controversies and critiques
  • Questions and questioning in Family/Systemic Therapy
  • Listening and Empathy in Family/Systemic Therapy
  • "Who is the Client?" in Family/Systemic Therapy
  • Exploring the family "story": some classic techniques: Genograms; lifelines; family sculpting; hypothesising; externalising.
  • Relationships in Family/Systemic Therapy
  • Violence and other forms of abuse in families
  • Assessment in Family/Systemic Therapy
  • Power and intimacy
  • Cultural Diversity
  • Emotions and Family/Systemic Therapy
  • Putting it All Together: Family Session Role Play
  • Class-selected content
  • Final critical reflection on Family/Systemic Therapy

Textbook and Readings
The text for this module is Nichols, M.P. (2006) Family Therapy Concepts and Methods (7th edn.) Boston: Pearson. Your readings are an integral part of your studies.

Module Duration and Workload:
This module involves a total of 36 hours of face to face delivery or self-directed study including educator contact in flexible delivery modes, generating a further 120 hours of self-study per module including research and related study activities, including assessment. This translates as 13 hours per week for the module.

Study method:
On Campus, Distance Education and Online Education
The studies, combined with my previous work experience, have led me into a more satisfying role in an industry I know well. My studies have given me the confidence to manage a role where top notch "soft skills" are essential.
Pip Pearson
Graduate Diploma of Counselling