Strategic and Structural Therapies

Strategic Therapy and Structural Therapy are two approaches to family therapy that focus on the dynamics and patterns of interaction within families. Both approaches aim to identify and address dysfunctional patterns of behavior in order to improve family relationships and functioning.

Strategic Therapy is based on the idea that people's problems are often a result of their attempts to solve a problem. In other words, individuals may try to solve a problem in a way that ultimately makes the problem worse. The therapist works with the family to identify these problematic patterns and then helps them find new, more effective ways of addressing the problem.

Strategic Therapy is often brief and goal-oriented, with a focus on practical solutions. The therapist may use techniques such as reframing, which involves shifting the family's perspective on the problem in order to find a new solution. Another technique used in Strategic Therapy is prescribing the symptom, which involves directing the family to continue their problematic behavior in a way that ultimately leads to positive change.

Structural Therapy, on the other hand, focuses on the larger patterns of interaction and relationships within the family. The therapist works with the family to identify and address power dynamics, boundaries, and roles within the family system. Structural Therapy aims to help the family restructure these patterns in a way that is more functional and healthy.

Structural Therapy often involves the therapist observing the family as they interact with one another. The therapist may make suggestions or provide feedback in real time in order to help the family shift their patterns of interaction. In addition, the therapist may use techniques such as joining, which involves building rapport and trust with the family in order to facilitate change.

Both Strategic Therapy and Structural Therapy have been shown to be effective approaches to family therapy. By identifying and addressing dysfunctional patterns of behavior, these approaches can help families improve their relationships and functioning. Whether one approach is better than the other may depend on the specific needs and dynamics of the family being treated.

Strategic Therapy and Structural Therapy are two approaches to family therapy that focus on identifying and addressing dysfunctional patterns of behavior in order to improve family relationships and functioning. By using a range of techniques and approaches, these therapies can help families find new and more effective ways of addressing their problems.