Theory-Based Assessment The foundational MFT therapy models each offer a unique

Theory-Based Assessment
The foundational MFT therapy models each offer a unique way to assess a client and a client system’s functioning. Each theory orients you to observe specific dynamics or patterns of a family system in order to assess the level of functioning. Likewise, each theory, based on the assessment, suggests how to determine whether the system is functional or dysfunctional. Once you complete the assessment, you should return to the theory to understand the results and, if needed, how to intervene. For example, Bowen Family Systems Theory (Knerr, n.d.) assesses several concepts, including Differentiation of Self, Triangles, Multigenerational Transmission Process, and Family Projection Process, to name a few. Having assessed for these concepts, you might find that the system’s members lack Differentiation of Self, indicating there is an imbalance in the member’s interpersonal connection and personal autonomy. Based on the theory, lacking Differentiation of Self may result in extremes in emotional reactivity or cut-off relationships. Therefore, based on this assessment, we could conceptualize the challenges this family system is facing as related to their lack of Differentiation of Self. From this assessment and conceptualization, the theory would suggest we engage them in processes to increase their Differentiation of Self.
While brief, this example illustrates the basic process of using theory to assess dynamics, conceptualize functioning, and plan for treatment. Notice that the assessment and conceptualization are distinct. Assessment is the process of collecting data, while conceptualization is your interpretation of the data. Therefore, it is important to report the results of the assessment, which are often from multiple sources, and then use your clinical knowledge to synthesize the data and formulate your conceptualization.
Formulating a systemic conceptualization is generally experienced as a paradigm shift as dominant U.S. culture is more individually focused. With a systemic lens, it is important to not neglect the individual experience. Rather, it is important for you to explain the individual experience in relational terms and in context. Shifting away from individual pathology, you see individual behavior as a product of patterns of interactions that are influenced by relationships and layered systems. Through a systemic paradigm and a postmodern approach, you are able to assess an individual or any system by honoring the multiple realities and how these intersect to form their experience.
The resources for this week will provide you with an example of how to assess and conceptualize through a Systems Theory lens and review the foundational MFT theories. Building on your previous theoretical knowledge, we will now focus on how models use assessment to develop a conceptualization of a client system’s functioning through the MFT theory of your choice.
References
Knerr, M (n.d.). Bowen Family Systems Theory. In Y. Watters & D. Adamson (Eds), An introduction to MFT systems theory and foundational models (pp. 132-149).
Weekly Resources and Assignments
Review the resources from the Course Resources link, located in the top navigation bar, to prepare for this week’s assignments. The resources may include textbook reading assignments, journal articles, websites, links to tools or software, videos, handouts, rubrics, etc.
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Week 2 Assignment: Describe How Family System Oriented Models of Therapy Assess Relational Processes
Assignment
Due June 12 at 11:59 PM
Modern and post-modern family therapy models were examined in previous coursework. Each model focuses on different dynamics as they assess a family’s functioning through its unique theoretical lens. For this week’s assignment, you will have the opportunity to apply a family therapy model to your own personal experience. Begin by reflecting on a recent situation in your own life and write a brief vignette. It is important that the vignette reflect relational dynamics that would benefit from family therapy.
Next, access the Theory/ Therapy Resources in the MFT Clinical Support course and select one of the theory-specific Case Conceptualization outlines. Using the outline, complete the case conceptualization based on your personal vignette. As you complete the outline, reflect on how the theory guides your assessment. Further, reflect on how the theory also guides clinical recommendations based on the assessment results.
Your submission will include your vignette (1-2 paragraphs), the completed theory specific case conceptualization outline, a summary of the case conceptualization (1-2 paragraphs), and responses to the following questions (this may be submitted in two documents if needed):
How does your chosen theory assess relational processes? What processes are important to assess, and how are they deemed functional or dysfunctional?
Reflecting on the summary of your case conceptualization, how does the theory guide your clinical recommendations?
Length: 3-4 pages
References: Include a minimum of 3 scholarly resources.
The completed assignment should address all of the assignment requirements, exhibit evidence of concept knowledge, and demonstrate thoughtful consideration of the content presented in the course. The writing should integrate scholarly resources, reflect academic expectations and current APA standards, and adhere to Northcentral University’s Academic Integrity Policy. In the article below please read pages 276-320. Use the Narrative Family Therapy model. A youtube video clip is attached https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6tdvnL2hKw