Five Major Theories of Family Therapy
Most serious students of Family Therapy suggest the birth of this treatment method occurred sometime during the mid-1950's.
From our human chronological perspective Family Therapy may thus be viewed as moving into maturity. From the larger perspective of the behavioral sciences, this approach to treatment is yet in early childhood.
Research and literature in the field of Family Therapy suggest that most current practice benefits from the rich infusion of conceptual material from a number of different teacher-theoreticians. Golden Triad Films, Inc. has identified five major theoretical approaches that encompass the contributions of most of the pioneer builders in this rapidly growing method of treatment.
We purposefully chose Dr. Ramon Corrales, of the Family Institute of Kansas City, MO to present this material. We did this because the Family Institute of Kansas City has developed its own integrated approach to family treatment that draws from all of the major theories rather than advocating a single method.
We recognize that there are those among practicing family therapists who are particularly drawn to one specific theoretical approach. We also know that among students and many practitioners, there are many who are interested in developing their own style and method built upon an understanding of all the major theories. It is to that audience or constituency that we address these films. Whether a student in the classroom, a staff member in a social agency, hospital, or mental health clinic, or a practitioner in private practice, these films are designed to enhance your knowledge and skills in Family Therapy.
Dr. Ramon G. Corrales, Ph.D., the presenter of this series of films are Co-Director of the Family Institute of Kansas City, MO.
VT 111: Intergenerational (Order)
Intergenerational Family Therapy is so closely identified with Murray Bowen it is sometimes known as Bowen-Intergenerational Theory. Bowen believes that tension in the family system will be resolved by the presence of a neutral third person who can avoid emotional participation in the family system. The therapist usually works with one member utilizing the format of a multi-generational family map, or genogram.
Dr. Corrales, in this 50 minute video, defines the conceptual orientation of Bowen theory and discusses what this treatment method looks like in practice. He finally comments on the utilization of this theoretical approach in an 'Integrated treatment model.
Since this treatment form usually suggests working with one member of the family at a time, and utilizing that person's genogram as he/she presents it, we decided to describe rather than picture an interview. Therefore, in this one specific video tape in this series, there is no presentation of a family interview.
VT 112: Structural (Order)
The Structural approach to Family Therapy, as developed by Salvador Minuchin, is a systems approach that views the family as an organism undergoing transformation. The therapist's role is an active, interventive one in which he/she challenges the existant "family reality."
In this tape, Dr. Corrales initiates a discussion of the major constructs of this form of intervention. This is followed by a simulated family interview that provides the viewer, an opportunity to see this theoretical approach in action.
Following the interview Dr. Corrales discusses the interventions that the therapist made during the interview, and finally offers some analysis of this intervention.
VT 113: Strategic (Order)
Strategic Family Therapy, sometimes known as Problem Solving Therapy, is primarily associated with Jay Haley and Cloe Madanes. The focus is on working with the family to define a problem, and then helping the family relate to and solve that problem. Similar to the role of the therapist in Structural Family Therapy, the therapist here is active and interventive.
In this tape Dr. Corrales discusses the major components of the method, conducts an interview (in this case as co-therapist) and then reflects on the interventions made during the interview. He also offers some comments related to integrating this method with other theories in one's own practice.
VT 114: Systemic (Order)
Systemic Family Therapy, sometimes identified as the Milan Model, emphasizes a prescriptive and paradoxical approach based on systems theory. Mara Selvini-Palazolli and her associates in Milan, Italy are credited with developing this method.
As presented by the Milan group, Systemic Family Therapy utilizes a team interview with two members of the team conducting the interview while other member, of the team observe from behind a two-way mirror.
In this tape, Dr. Corrales applies this method to his interview of a married couple. He utilizes circular questioning and then discusses some of the thinking related to this intervention with this couple. He offers a summary of the conceptual understanding of this method, and concludes with some evaluative comments.
VT 115: Communications / Experimental (Order)
The work of Virginia Satir, and Carl Whitaker are included under this heading. We recognize that these two pioneer family therapists are unique and distinct. The common denominator here is that they both pay particular attention to communication in the family, and they both emphasize the importance of the experiential part of treatment.
Dr. Corrales discusses the treatment orientation of both Satir and Whitaker. Video clips of Virginia engaged in live interviews that illustrate some of her interventions. We are working on some modifications of this tape that will include video clips of Carl Whitaker at work.
In the concluding moments Dr. Corrales notes how this framework or orientation may be incorporated in an integrated approach to treatment.
VT 160: Narrative Therapy (Order)
Narrative Therapy emphasizes the construction of meaning as a central theme of therapy. It highlights the influence of language and social context in understanding a problem. Dr. Corrales helps us experience the essence of this approach to treatment.
STUDY GUIDES:
A Study Guide comes with the rental or purchase of any of the Satir or Aponte video tapes, and with any of the Five Theories of Family Therapy Series.
Other films with Dr. Ramon Corrales. |
