Structural Versus Strategic Family Therapies

Structural and strategic family therapies are both widely used approaches in family therapy, but they have distinct theoretical foundations and practical applications. As a therapist, understanding these differences is crucial when developing treatment plans for clients. Below is a sample assignment we have solved, which demonstrates how to effectively compare and contrast these two approaches, as well as how to develop a structural family map and recommend appropriate therapy for a family.

Structural Versus Strategic Family Therapies

Although structural therapy and strategic therapy are both used in family therapy, these therapeutic approaches have many differences in theory and application. As you assess families and develop treatment plans, you must consider these differences and their potential impact on clients. For this Assignment, as you compare structural and strategic family therapy, consider which therapeutic approach you might use with your own client families.

Learning Objectives

Students will:

• Compare structural family therapy to strategic family therapy
• Create structural family maps (Refer to Gerlach (2015) in this week’s Learning Resources for guidance on creating a structural family map.) or LOOK AT THE ATTACHED ONE.
• Justify recommendations for family therapy

The Assignment

In a 2- to 3-page paper, address the following:

• Summarize the key points of both structural family therapy and strategic family therapy.
• Compare structural family therapy to strategic family therapy, noting the strengths and weaknesses of each.
• Provide an example of a family in your practicum using a structural family map.
• Recommend a specific therapy for the family, and justify your choice using the

Required Readings

Nichols, M. (2014). The essentials of family therapy (6th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.

• Chapter 5, “Bowen Family Systems Therapy” (pp.      69–88)
• Chapter 6, “Strategic Family Therapy” (pp.      89–109)
• Chapter 7, “Structural Family Therapy” (pp. 110–128)

Gerlach, P. K. (2015). Use structural maps to manage your family well: Basic premises and examples. Retrieved from http://sfhelp.org/fam/map.htm

McNeil, S. N., Herschberger, J. K., & Nedela, M. N. (2013). Low-income families with potential adolescent gang involvement: A structural community family therapy integration model. American Journal of Family Therapy, 41(2), 110–120. doi:10.1080/01926187.2011.649110

Méndez, N. A., Qureshi, M. E., Carnerio, R., & Hort, F. (2014). The intersection of Facebook and structural family therapy volume 1. American Journal of Family Therapy, 42(2), 167–174. doi:10.1080/01926187.2013.794046

Nichols, M., & Tafuri, S. (2013). Techniques of structural family assessment: A qualitative analysis of how experts promote a systemic perspective. Family Process, 52(2), 207–215. doi:10.1111/famp.12025

Ryan, W. J., Conti, R. P., & Simon, G. M. (2013). Presupposition compatibility facilitates treatment fidelity in therapists learning structural family therapy. American Journal of Family Therapy, 41(5), 403–414. doi:10.1080/01926187.2012.727673

Sheehan, A. H., & Friedlander, M. L. (2015). Therapeutic alliance and retention in brief strategic family therapy: A mixed-methods study. Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, 41(4), 415–427. doi:10.1111/jmft.12113

Szapocznik, J., Muir, J. A., Duff, J. H., Schwartz, S. J., & Brown, C. H. (2015). Brief strategic family therapy: Implementing evidence-based models in community settings. Psychotherapy Research, 25(1), 121–133. doi:10.1080/10503307.2013.856044

Required Media

Psychotherapy.net (Producer). (2010). Bowenian family therapy [Video file]. Mill Valley, CA: Author.

Triangle Productions (Producer). (2001). Brief strategic therapy with couples [Video file]. La Jolla, CA: Author.

Ace Your Family Therapy Assignments

Successfully applying family therapy concepts to real-world cases requires in-depth understanding and the ability to critically analyze therapeutic approaches. Here’s how we support you in mastering family therapy assignments:

1. Comprehensive Analysis: We help you break down complex theories like structural and strategic family therapy, guiding you to a thorough understanding of both approaches.
2. Practical Application: Our assistance ensures that you can effectively apply theoretical knowledge to case examples, including creating structural family maps and applying the appropriate therapeutic methods.
3. Evidence-Based Recommendations: We guide you in making evidence-backed decisions, helping you justify therapy recommendations based on your knowledge and practice.
4. Clear and Concise Writing: We provide support with organizing your thoughts and presenting your work clearly and professionally, adhering to academic standards.
5. Tailored Support: Whether you need assistance with understanding family therapy theories or guidance on structuring your paper, we offer personalized support that aligns with your coursework needs.

With our expert guidance, you’ll enhance your understanding of family therapy and be well-equipped to recommend effective therapeutic approaches to your clients. Contact us for quality support!