Systemic Approaches to Psychotherapy

This course provides an introduction to systemic approaches to psychotherapy. It begins with an introduction to systemic thinking and an overview of the history of couples and family therapy. It then outlines the fundamental concepts of systems theory and presents the most pertinent systemic couples and family therapy models.

For each model, the instructor discusses with the students its theoretical underpinnings, the meaning of the couple/family symptom, goals of therapy, assessment and intervention strategies, and the role of the therapist in the therapist-client relationship. Clinical examples are provided to illustrate the link between theory and practice. Students are encouraged to apply systemic thinking to their own clinical work through case discussion and reflection.

Students will:

• Understand the theoretical concepts that guide the systemic CFT models.
• Be familiar with the assessment and intervention techniques for each model.
• Be able to formulate systemic hypotheses of client dynamics according to each model’s perspective.
• Be able to articulate the major differences and similarities between the models and provide a critical analysis of these models in comparison with other models previously learned by students.

More info systemic_coordinator@argyleinstitute.org

Course Evaluation

Participation
10% of the final mark

Evaluation criteria:

• Attendance and punctuality
• Participation in class discussion
• Demonstration that assigned articles were read by sharing what was most meaningful about them

Attestation

The Argyle Institute will provide official attestation for the OPQ

Duration

45 hours

Fees

$1150.00 (Coursepacks are not included, cost approximately $120 in total )