Systemic Family Therapy
From Theory to Practice
- Jon L. Winek - Appalachian State University, USA
Family Therapy
No other available text offers such a hands-on approach to marriage and family therapy theory. At the core of Systemic Family Therapy are comprehensive sections devoted to each developmental phase of the family therapy movement. With clear descriptions and session-by-session case examples, the author explores specific approaches within each of these phases. With this pragmatic tenor, students will gain a clear and in-depth understanding of how family theory concepts relate to practice–as well as ways those concepts interact with each other.
Key Features
- Uses specific examples and session-by-session case studies to illustrate how theoretical construct actually work in practice
- Outlines the shifts in thinking of the family therapy field–from modern to postmodern
- Uses rich graphic representations and straightforward tables to illustrate key theoretical concepts
- Incorporates compelling questions and learning exercises that will lead to dynamic class discussions
Intended Audience
A refreshing departure from traditional instruction of family therapy theory, this core textbook is an excellent resource for upper-level undergraduate and graduate students of family therapy, counseling, social work, and family studies.
"This book is the clearest and most comprehensive review of systems-based therapies that I have seen in my 30 years of practicing and teaching family therapy to clinicians in the field. The writing is clean and straightforward, with copious examples to anchor and illuminate concepts. Dr. Winek has covered the subject well, with all major models included. Nine models are reviewed in depth, preceded by three of the best chapters on the history and development of the field that I have ever read.
As the book’s subtitle suggests, this text is an elegant blend of theory and practice, and all readers can find ideas to improve their thinking on the subject, regardless of their level of experience. As a practicing therapist, Dr. Winek never strays too far from the application of theoretical concepts to the actual practice of therapy. He is careful to answer the question, “If this is true, now what?” In my opinion, if this question isn’t answered, theory has little value as a guide to action in face-to-face sessions with client families.
On a 10-point scale of worst-best textbooks on the subject, this book approaches a 10, and is the only book on family therapy—out of a library of 50 books—which sits next to my reading chair."
I chose the book because of it's comprehensive explanations of the theories and practical applications. I feel the students are able to understand the material better when it is also shown how it is used in practice.
This book addresses the topics I need to cover in my Master's Level Marital and Family Systems class. I really like the test bank and the writing style of the author. I like the organization of the topics/theories and the reading is easy to follow. I really love the case studies the most. They offer the students multiple opportunities to review and discuss a diverse variety of cases and to practice their skill development.
Comprehensive yet accessible; provide basic theoretical background
It didn't seem to fit what I was looking for.
Excellent book however.
Best Regards,
Triston
This book was used in an Introduction to Family Therapy course. Students reported the text was a good fit for our learning outcomes. I am going to likely use this text again when we offer this course in 2011.
I really liked the completeness of the text including both the history of the field as well as a brief yet complete overview of each of the major theories in the field. My only disappointment is that the powerpoint presentations stated came w/ each chapter, they are not yet ready. When will they be ready as that was one of my decision making criteria.