Family systems therapy was founded by Alfred Adler and associates. He introduced the idea of understanding the family system. This form of therapy can agree that individual development is connected to family systems. There are different therapeutic approaches: individual and systemic. With an individual approach, the focus is on the individual’s experiences and perspectives. The systemic approach focuses on the family relationships and the process that occurs within a family. The process of family systems therapy is multi-layered due to the different perspectives due to the different families that attend therapy. In family systems therapy it is important to form a relationship with every individual in the family. This can give the therapist multiple opportunities to gain a better understanding of the issues that are being experienced within the family. During the sessions the therapist can conduct assessments, make a hypothesis, share meanings, and facilitate change through collaboration and encouragement. The overall goal of family systems therapy is to allow individuals and families to change in ways to reduce distress.
Case Conceptualization
Zoe is a 24-year-old newlywed. She has experienced anxiety due to the fear of disconnect in her marriage because of her heavy workload. As …show more content…
In family systems therapy no individual takes the blame for the problems. They are allowed to speak openly and to gain an understanding of the other members’ feelings and emotions. This form of therapy is flexible because it can be approached at two levels: individual and systemic, providing the client with options. The drawback to using family system therapy is that there can easily be a focus on the family as a whole and it can make it easier to lose the opinion, feelings, and emotions of the