In this course, the development, principles, conceptual models, applications and limitations of major psychotherapy theories are investigated for working with families. Current research and related case conceptualization models will be discussed. The lab segment of this course focuses on an orientation to the principles, processes and practice of psychological intervention as related to working with families. Candidates will participate in class format training that is skill-based, interactive and focused on experiential learning.

CILO-1: Describe the historical development and evolution of systems, communication, strategic approaches to treating families and couples. CILO-2: Describe family therapy perspectives on the development and maintenance of adaptive versus dysfunctional family systems. CILO-3: Apply central constructs from family therapy approaches including systems and subsystems, homeostasis, boundaries, feedback loops, and meta-communication in formulations of the emergence and perpetuation of dysfunctional family systems. CILO-4: Describe key family therapy techniques used to change dysfunctional family systems including joining, enactment, issuing of directives, and reframing. CILO-5: Practice in the application of family therapy techniques as a means of changing dysfunctional family systems. CILO-6: Critically evaluate the practicalities, uses, strengths and limitations of family therapy approaches to case formulation and intervention.