Literature Review
LeeAnn Myers
Capella University
Dr. Ron Muchnik

Family Therapy Models

One of the family systems therapy models that I chose to research is Family Systems Therapy. Family Systems Therapy looks at the family as an emotional unit. The Family Systems approach is based on idea that families and their patterns of communication and interaction directly affect human beings and how they function. When applied to families, Family Systems Therapy allows therapists to evaluate the parts of a system (family) in relation to the whole. This theory further suggests that an individual’s behavior is informed by and inseparable from the functioning of his or her family of origin (GoodTherapy.org, 2007-2015).
The second family systems therapy that I chose to research was Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is based on the premise that therapists help the client or family focus and understand on the solution(s) to their problem(s) instead of understanding the problem(s) itself. SFBT ultimate goal is to create a solution based on the solution of the problem while empowering clients or members of the families to build their self-esteem and independence. In this type of therapy it is imperative that the therapist disregard their own worldview and adapt to their clients or families worldview. The goals for the family in SFBT should be definitive, small, positive, and important to the client or family (Cepeda & Davenport, 2006).
Family Systems Therapy
Family systems theory views the family as an emotional unit and uses systems thinking to describe the complex interactions within this unit (Carr, 2006). This theory suggests that the connectedness and reactivity found among family members makes the functioning of family members interdependent (Corey, 2001). The theory was developed from this suggestion.

Family Systems theory is based