Introduction to Family Therapy

COU FX510 - Introduction to Family Therapy

Credits: 3

This introductory course investigates the major dynamics of family relationships through the lenses of the fundamental concepts and history of family therapy, systems theory, the family life cycle and will place families in relation to social context. The course introduces the paradigm shift from a variety of modern and post-modern perspectives and will provide the basis for family studies and therapy. The course distinguishes similarities and differences between family therapy ideas and other counseling paradigms. Relevant issues will be integrated into classroom discussions and role-plays. Students will utilize family systems ideas to analyze and develop innovative approaches to working with families. The importance of diversity and difference will be addressed throughout the course, such as gender and power issues, social class, and other socio-cultural factors.