Minuchin Family Therapy

Synopsis

The module is designed for gaining a deeper theoretical knowledge of the Four-step Model developed by Salvador Minuchin and colleagues, and its application in family therapy. Using video segments of family interviews, the course will cover the theoretical bases, conceptual frameworks, and skills in marriage and family therapy. A unique feature of the module lies in its heavy emphasis on clinical data in raising students’ awareness of theoretical application to clinical practice. The module also focuses on the therapist’s style, and utilising the family therapist’s pouch in the family session.

Level: 5
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: Every January

Topics

Assessing Families: From Symptoms To Systems
Basic principles in Structural Family Therapy
Step One: Surfacing the Presenting Problem
Step Two: Highlighting Problem-maintaining Interactions
Step Three: A Structurally-focused Exploration of the Past
Step Four: An Exploration of Alternative Ways
Working with Children
Working with Adolescents
Working with Couples
Working with Larger Systems
Conducting the First Family Interview
Structural Family Therapy Techniques

Learning Outcome

Examine the philosophical and theoretical concepts underpinning structural family therapy.
Appraise the structural family therapy map for assessing families.
Organise the Four-step Model and the craft of family therapy in clinical practice.
Assess the problem-maintaining patterns from a structural family therapy perspective.
Design structurally focused exploration of the past.
Compose structural interventions in changing family interactions and patterns.

Part-time Programmes

Singapore University of Social Sciences

Minuchin Family Therapy