Thursday, May 1st, 2014,  NHS in Colmar, PA
Friday, May 2nd, 2014, The Philhaven Conference Center, Mt. Gretna, PA
9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Learning to translate systems theory into effective family based practice can be a challenge. It involves learning to see pattern, interpreting or thinking about what is observed relationally, then taking actions that disrupt negative patterns and create more positive ones.  All while maintaining a strong therapeutic alliance.  Therapists in training often ask “what does it look like when done well?”  Videos of effective family based therapy sessions with a variety of families and problem situations are used in this workshop to help address this question and highlight foundational clinical skills.  The basic principles of family systems theory and the mechanisms of change are also reviewed and discussed in relation to the observed therapy sessions. This workshop is designed to encourage maximum participation and interaction with the material.

As a result of participating in this training, participants will be able to: 1) Describe basic principles of family systems theory, (2) Explain specific mechanisms of change in family based treatment, 3) Describe eight foundational clinical skills that are essential to conducting family therapy sessions, 4) Identify what these skills look like in actual practice, 5) Describe how to use reflective questions to “push the conversation,” and 6) Describe how to facilitate change through enactments.