Systemic & Family Therapies

Systemic therapy is relatively short-term. It is based on the idea that the individual does not exist in isolation but affects and is affected by relationships around him/her and the communities that form a part of his/her life. Therefore, it is particularly suited for families, parts of a family or couples, although it can be used with individuals as well. The approach works by viewing people in relation to each other rather than on exploring what is happening within the individual at an intrapsychic level. Initial sessions are used on agreeing and naming the problem and then looking at how 'the problem' arises and how this could be a problem in itself. Often, the focus is on looking at how people communicate with each other and what they choose to communicate. Other issues are also identified and looked at, such as problems of intimacy, trust and power within relationships. The aim is on helping the individual or family members decide how best they can go about change by looking at 'the problem' using different perspectives.age under construction