Marriage and Family Therapy
MS 3XM3/6XM6
Although this course is primarily about Marriage and Family Therapy, the themes and concepts it explores are relevant for anyone who works with families (e.g., youth workers, pastors, etc.). This course will introduce students to selected theories of marital and family therapy and key intervention methods related to each theoretical orientation. These therapeutic models are examined in terms of their theoretical tenets, views of family functioning and dysfunction, methods of assessment, therapeutic goals, treatment process & techniques, role of the counsellor/therapist and evaluation.
Knowing…
- To understand systemic thinking as it applies to marital and family relations (CRPO Competencies 1.1; cf. AAMFT Competencies).
- To envision strategies for responding to the challenges of marital and family life (cf. AAMFT Competencies).
- To be able to reflect on marital and family life using at least two different perspectives ( AAMFT Competencies).
Being…
- To reflect on one’s own experience of marriage and family, how this influences the student, and how it may impact the counselling relationship (CRPO Competencies 1.4 & 4.3; cf. CASC competencies).
Doing…
- To be able to provide a relationship-centred approach to assessment and care that sensitively connects with people and engages them in the healing process (cf. CASC & AAMFT Competencies).
- To be able to facilitate hope by strengthening relational connections within marital and family systems (cf. CASC & AAMFT Competencies).
- To be able to support couples and families as they seek reconciliation, learn to resolve conflict, and experience forgiveness (cf. CASC & AAMFT Competencies).
- To know when and how to make a referral to a qualified counsellor or therapist (cf. CRPO, CASC & AAMFT Competencies.