Photo of Anu Spain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Anu Spain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
As a clinician drawing from Family Systems theories, I utilize concepts of a person in environment perspective I see the therapeutic relationship as a collaboration between the individual and the therapist while exploring and creating supportive systems in the community.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 15 years of psychotherapy experience. I received dual master’s degrees in Social Work and Women’s Studies from Loyola University, Chicago. I previously worked as a hospice and palliative care social worker for 7 years at Midwest Palliative and Hospice CareCenter (now Journeycare) where I provided care for individuals and families coping with with terminal and life limiting illnesses. I was a therapist at Thrive Counseling Center in Oak Park for 8 years, working with older adults and also doing individual and family therapy with adults; I also started a grief and loss support group there.
As a clinician drawing from Family Systems theories, I utilize concepts of a person in environment perspective I see the therapeutic relationship as a collaboration between the individual and the therapist while exploring and creating supportive systems in the community.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with 15 years of psychotherapy experience. I received dual master’s degrees in Social Work and Women’s Studies from Loyola University, Chicago. I previously worked as a hospice and palliative care social worker for 7 years at Midwest Palliative and Hospice CareCenter (now Journeycare) where I provided care for individuals and families coping with with terminal and life limiting illnesses. I was a therapist at Thrive Counseling Center in Oak Park for 8 years, working with older adults and also doing individual and family therapy with adults; I also started a grief and loss support group there.
(312) 284-3217 x2 View (312) 284-3217 x2
Photo of Community Wellness Group, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Community Wellness Group
Counselor, EdD, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608
We all have experience working with complex family systems, provide guidance when needed to navigate problems, and hold a grounded space for you to process difficulties.
This a group practice that employs clinicans of various ethnicities and backgrounds. People come to therapy due to feeling excessive stress at work, at home, or in their relationships. They find the pressures of everyday life have exceeded their abilities, overwhelmed their senses, and left them with an inability to cope. They are often having problems with school, completing tasks, getting along with others at work, and finding activities enjoyable. We believe in the resiliency of the human spirit, and that therapy is a process of exploring and getting to know oneself.
We all have experience working with complex family systems, provide guidance when needed to navigate problems, and hold a grounded space for you to process difficulties.
This a group practice that employs clinicans of various ethnicities and backgrounds. People come to therapy due to feeling excessive stress at work, at home, or in their relationships. They find the pressures of everyday life have exceeded their abilities, overwhelmed their senses, and left them with an inability to cope. They are often having problems with school, completing tasks, getting along with others at work, and finding activities enjoyable. We believe in the resiliency of the human spirit, and that therapy is a process of exploring and getting to know oneself.
(872) 278-6233 View (872) 278-6233
Photo of Molly Pachan, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Molly Pachan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I am trained in CBT, but specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy, with special attention to trauma, family systems, relationships, divorce/separation, academic / career challenges, and multicultural identity.
What makes an impact? Is it your will? Your intentions? Your heritage? Your chemistry? My work is collaborative meaning we will discuss your reasons for seeking care and selecting goals.
I am trained in CBT, but specialize in psychodynamic psychotherapy, with special attention to trauma, family systems, relationships, divorce/separation, academic / career challenges, and multicultural identity.
What makes an impact? Is it your will? Your intentions? Your heritage? Your chemistry? My work is collaborative meaning we will discuss your reasons for seeking care and selecting goals.
View
Photo of Shoshana Kahn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Shoshana Kahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
I use cognitive behavioral therapy and family systems to help change patterns and learned behaviors.
Life can be very challenging. If you are reading this you might be ready to talk. And talking helps. But, it isn't everything. Therapy is a puzzle that we never complete. Therapists sort through thoughts and ideas with you so things don't seem so overwhelming. Here we create a space to breath. I have been honored to work with clients who experience many issues such as anxiety, depression, poor familial relationships, loss, death, grief, divorce, commitment difficulties, loneliness, PTSD, difficulty sleeping, concentrating, focusing, ADD, eating disorders,codependency, isolation. And more.
I use cognitive behavioral therapy and family systems to help change patterns and learned behaviors.
Life can be very challenging. If you are reading this you might be ready to talk. And talking helps. But, it isn't everything. Therapy is a puzzle that we never complete. Therapists sort through thoughts and ideas with you so things don't seem so overwhelming. Here we create a space to breath. I have been honored to work with clients who experience many issues such as anxiety, depression, poor familial relationships, loss, death, grief, divorce, commitment difficulties, loneliness, PTSD, difficulty sleeping, concentrating, focusing, ADD, eating disorders,codependency, isolation. And more.
(773) 358-1037 View (773) 358-1037
Photo of Rebecca L Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Rebecca L Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618
Although I work using many treatment modalities, my primary approach is Internal Family Systems, which is a modality built on self-awareness and compassion.
My expertise lies in helping people of all ages, from children to seniors, who are struggling with issues such as life transitions, anxiety and depression, relationship problems, family conflict, problematic behavior patterns, coping with divorce, death, and other types of loss, parenting challenges, and childhood trauma. My goal is to help my clients better understand their own feelings and behaviors so as to reduce emotional suffering and make positive changes in life.
Although I work using many treatment modalities, my primary approach is Internal Family Systems, which is a modality built on self-awareness and compassion.
My expertise lies in helping people of all ages, from children to seniors, who are struggling with issues such as life transitions, anxiety and depression, relationship problems, family conflict, problematic behavior patterns, coping with divorce, death, and other types of loss, parenting challenges, and childhood trauma. My goal is to help my clients better understand their own feelings and behaviors so as to reduce emotional suffering and make positive changes in life.
(773) 985-5296 View (773) 985-5296
Photo of Deanna Pacelli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Deanna Pacelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I believe a person’s identity, values and beliefs guide their path of healing. Therapy can be a way of liberating ourselves from limiting ideas, societal messages, oppression and isolation. I see you as the expert in your experience and collaborate with you to develop a space to learn and grow. My therapeutic approach is both systemic and person-centered with a focus on inherent strengths and resilience. I pull from relational, attachment, family systems, racial trauma and polyvagal theories while using such modalities as ACT, DBT, CBT, TCI-F and Motivational Interviewing. I also draws, when appropriate, from my own experience.
I believe a person’s identity, values and beliefs guide their path of healing. Therapy can be a way of liberating ourselves from limiting ideas, societal messages, oppression and isolation. I see you as the expert in your experience and collaborate with you to develop a space to learn and grow. My therapeutic approach is both systemic and person-centered with a focus on inherent strengths and resilience. I pull from relational, attachment, family systems, racial trauma and polyvagal theories while using such modalities as ACT, DBT, CBT, TCI-F and Motivational Interviewing. I also draws, when appropriate, from my own experience.
(312) 598-1261 View (312) 598-1261
Photo of M Estey Ticknor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
M Estey Ticknor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
I am a therapist in private practice with a caseload consisting of adults, adolescents, and varied family and relationship groupings. My approach is client centered and collaborative, tailoring each therapy to the individual or family culture. I am most interested in helping people improve their lives and harnessing their own strengths and resources. My techniques emphasize cultural competency and are informed by many theoretical foundations including psychodynamic theory, family systems theory, and cognitive-behavioral theory. My practice is currently only virtual due to the pandemic.
I am a therapist in private practice with a caseload consisting of adults, adolescents, and varied family and relationship groupings. My approach is client centered and collaborative, tailoring each therapy to the individual or family culture. I am most interested in helping people improve their lives and harnessing their own strengths and resources. My techniques emphasize cultural competency and are informed by many theoretical foundations including psychodynamic theory, family systems theory, and cognitive-behavioral theory. My practice is currently only virtual due to the pandemic.
(312) 262-5592 View (312) 262-5592
Photo of Victoriya Tsaran, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Victoriya Tsaran
Psychologist, PsyD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Over the years, I have developed an eclectic perspective to therapy and utilize a unique combination of psychotherapy, mind-body awareness and hypnotic relaxation techniques, family systems therapy, emotion focused therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques. My wide range of knowledge and competency in various psychological theories allows me to be flexible in my treatment. I aim to revive my patients from the current positions in their lives and help bring in the much needed harmony and infused positivity that will allow my clients to progress in their minds, their mental health and their overall life.
Over the years, I have developed an eclectic perspective to therapy and utilize a unique combination of psychotherapy, mind-body awareness and hypnotic relaxation techniques, family systems therapy, emotion focused therapy and cognitive behavioral techniques. My wide range of knowledge and competency in various psychological theories allows me to be flexible in my treatment. I aim to revive my patients from the current positions in their lives and help bring in the much needed harmony and infused positivity that will allow my clients to progress in their minds, their mental health and their overall life.
(847) 786-2098 View (847) 786-2098
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60616
We have a client centered, Family Systems, and Integrated holistic approach to therapy.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We have a client centered, Family Systems, and Integrated holistic approach to therapy.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Martin McCarthy Jr., Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Martin McCarthy Jr.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626
My graduate education at Columbia University and New York University in experimental psychology, community psychology, and clinical psychology, was followed by postgraduate training in cognitive behavioral therapy at New York State Psychiatric Institute, family systems at Family Institute of Chicago, and a health psychology fellowship at Northwestern University Medical School.
All of us -- women and men, young and old, poor, middle class and upscale folks, minorities and majorities -- have to deal with complexity. As a therapist I help heal hurts from the past, assist clients in managing present challenges, and work collaboratively to create more satisfying future lives. The people who see me for individual, couples and family therapy represent a culturally diverse group. Their difficulties range from anxiety and depression, to stress disorders, OCD/OCPD, relationship problems, employment issues, and bereavement. Many of these women and men report quick progress in better managing their personal, family, academic, and work lives.
My graduate education at Columbia University and New York University in experimental psychology, community psychology, and clinical psychology, was followed by postgraduate training in cognitive behavioral therapy at New York State Psychiatric Institute, family systems at Family Institute of Chicago, and a health psychology fellowship at Northwestern University Medical School.
All of us -- women and men, young and old, poor, middle class and upscale folks, minorities and majorities -- have to deal with complexity. As a therapist I help heal hurts from the past, assist clients in managing present challenges, and work collaboratively to create more satisfying future lives. The people who see me for individual, couples and family therapy represent a culturally diverse group. Their difficulties range from anxiety and depression, to stress disorders, OCD/OCPD, relationship problems, employment issues, and bereavement. Many of these women and men report quick progress in better managing their personal, family, academic, and work lives.
(847) 562-5895 View (847) 562-5895
Photo of Comprehensive Services of Illinois, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Comprehensive Services of Illinois
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAP, CADC, CPLC, CWLC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60612
We specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Solution Foscused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Therapy and Family Marital Therapy.
Welcome to Comprehensive Services of Illinois! CSI staff members are looking forward to servicing you. They are phenomenal, providing comprehensive, high quality, accessible, affordable and effective services to children, adolescent and adults. Professional services are tailored to individual, couple and family need. Their goals are to assist, empower, and respond to your needs. While demonstrating the Comprehensive Services of Illinois philosophy: commitment, compassion, confidentiality, dignity, empathy, empowerment, excellence, genuineness, purpose, respect, support and understanding. Call today to schedule an appointment.
We specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), Solution Foscused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Therapy and Family Marital Therapy.
Welcome to Comprehensive Services of Illinois! CSI staff members are looking forward to servicing you. They are phenomenal, providing comprehensive, high quality, accessible, affordable and effective services to children, adolescent and adults. Professional services are tailored to individual, couple and family need. Their goals are to assist, empower, and respond to your needs. While demonstrating the Comprehensive Services of Illinois philosophy: commitment, compassion, confidentiality, dignity, empathy, empowerment, excellence, genuineness, purpose, respect, support and understanding. Call today to schedule an appointment.
(708) 318-1401 View (708) 318-1401
Photo of Katie Guerrero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Katie Guerrero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60616  (Online Only)
I use a variety of treatment methods depending on each clients' needs, including Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Bowen Family Systems Theory, play therapy, mindfulness, Social thinking, Solution-Focused therapy, etc.
Hi there, my name is Katie Guerrero and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the western suburbs of Chicago. I have 13 years of experience as a clinical social worker and I was previously an elementary school teacher. I have worked with ages 3-63 in home, school, community, and clinical settings, and I look forward to continuing to grow my practice here.
I use a variety of treatment methods depending on each clients' needs, including Cognitive Behavioral therapy, Bowen Family Systems Theory, play therapy, mindfulness, Social thinking, Solution-Focused therapy, etc.
Hi there, my name is Katie Guerrero and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the western suburbs of Chicago. I have 13 years of experience as a clinical social worker and I was previously an elementary school teacher. I have worked with ages 3-63 in home, school, community, and clinical settings, and I look forward to continuing to grow my practice here.
(708) 809-3464 View (708) 809-3464
Photo of Chris Martinez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Chris Martinez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
CBT, strength-based, solution-focused, Family systems, Motivational Interviewing, Harm Reduction, and Mindfulness are some of my approaches.
The human experience can be challenging at times. One can encounter situations leading to feeling powerless, in pain, or stuck. At times, this can look like an individual ruminating in the past or experiencing levels of depression. Or possibly, one can also be worried about the future or experiencing anxiety levels. I value the autonomy that people have and their ability to problem solve. Yet, I also acknowledge that a constructive and intentional space could provide efficiency for individuals maneuvering through various situations. As a counselor, I intend to help you within this space and support you on your healing journey.
CBT, strength-based, solution-focused, Family systems, Motivational Interviewing, Harm Reduction, and Mindfulness are some of my approaches.
The human experience can be challenging at times. One can encounter situations leading to feeling powerless, in pain, or stuck. At times, this can look like an individual ruminating in the past or experiencing levels of depression. Or possibly, one can also be worried about the future or experiencing anxiety levels. I value the autonomy that people have and their ability to problem solve. Yet, I also acknowledge that a constructive and intentional space could provide efficiency for individuals maneuvering through various situations. As a counselor, I intend to help you within this space and support you on your healing journey.
(773) 825-6748 View (773) 825-6748
Photo of David Parris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
David Parris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Waitlist for new clients
To round itself out, life calls not for perfection but for completeness. -C.G. Jung Negotiating life's transitions and the journey of the self is an ever-changing process, one that does not occur within a vacuum.
To round itself out, life calls not for perfection but for completeness. -C.G. Jung Negotiating life's transitions and the journey of the self is an ever-changing process, one that does not occur within a vacuum.
(872) 401-8108 View (872) 401-8108
Photo of Angie Whitfield, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Angie Whitfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCATP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Waitlist for new clients
Greetings! Thanks for stopping by and reading my profile. I know that finding the right therapist-client relationship is vital to the therapeutic process and as such something I prioritize. I truly enjoy learning about and working with all of my clients and helping them use their strengths to meet their goals. We work together to build a strong therapeutic partnership that is holistic, strength-based, person-centered and considers cultural beliefs and backgrounds. I am bilingual (fluent in Spanish) and have a passion for tailoring treatment to meet the specific needs of the person. My style is compassionate and relational.
Greetings! Thanks for stopping by and reading my profile. I know that finding the right therapist-client relationship is vital to the therapeutic process and as such something I prioritize. I truly enjoy learning about and working with all of my clients and helping them use their strengths to meet their goals. We work together to build a strong therapeutic partnership that is holistic, strength-based, person-centered and considers cultural beliefs and backgrounds. I am bilingual (fluent in Spanish) and have a passion for tailoring treatment to meet the specific needs of the person. My style is compassionate and relational.
(773) 839-7935 View (773) 839-7935
Photo of Rosalyn Chrenka, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Rosalyn Chrenka
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
I cultivate active partnerships with emerging adults so that they become more solid selves in work, family, relationships. Ideal clients: Emerging adult professionals, writers, artists, teachers, pregnant and parenting couples, LGBT, all ethnicities. Develop self-management skills, reduce stress, start a mindfulness meditation practice. You don't have to be unwell to get better. I look forward to meeting you and discussing your aims for yourself and your relationships. EDUCATION***AB, cum laude, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut***PhD, Psychology (Clinical), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan***NIMH Post-Doctoral Fellowship, Aging and Mental Health, Northwestern University Medical School
I cultivate active partnerships with emerging adults so that they become more solid selves in work, family, relationships. Ideal clients: Emerging adult professionals, writers, artists, teachers, pregnant and parenting couples, LGBT, all ethnicities. Develop self-management skills, reduce stress, start a mindfulness meditation practice. You don't have to be unwell to get better. I look forward to meeting you and discussing your aims for yourself and your relationships. EDUCATION***AB, cum laude, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut***PhD, Psychology (Clinical), University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan***NIMH Post-Doctoral Fellowship, Aging and Mental Health, Northwestern University Medical School
(773) 863-3786 View (773) 863-3786
Photo of Amalia Pryor-McClellan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Amalia Pryor-McClellan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
Life is ever changing, and with change can bring a plethora of other emotions including stress, depression and anxiety. It takes strength to seek help when we are feeling most vulnerable. I aim to create a safe, warm, and supportive connection with another person and use that connection to cultivate change. I’d like to help you become empowered to accomplish your own goals and to take control of your life. All transitions are difficult, whether it is anticipated or unexpected change. As adults, we have many responsibilities to uphold. This can include career, relationships, and family, emotional and physical health.
Life is ever changing, and with change can bring a plethora of other emotions including stress, depression and anxiety. It takes strength to seek help when we are feeling most vulnerable. I aim to create a safe, warm, and supportive connection with another person and use that connection to cultivate change. I’d like to help you become empowered to accomplish your own goals and to take control of your life. All transitions are difficult, whether it is anticipated or unexpected change. As adults, we have many responsibilities to uphold. This can include career, relationships, and family, emotional and physical health.
(312) 598-0785 View (312) 598-0785
Photo of According To Sykes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
According To Sykes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60615
Here at According to Sykes, assistance and guidance is offered through individual, family and group therapy, couples therapy, as well as Professional Development and Training Opportunities. As a group of healing practitioners, we recognize and understand the complicated and complex ways that trauma influences all parts of someone’s life, body, and brain, and make treatment decisions based on that framework. We realize that most people have lived through some type of trauma because trauma is so common and understand treatment through that lens. View our therapist profiles at www.accordingtosykes.com.
Here at According to Sykes, assistance and guidance is offered through individual, family and group therapy, couples therapy, as well as Professional Development and Training Opportunities. As a group of healing practitioners, we recognize and understand the complicated and complex ways that trauma influences all parts of someone’s life, body, and brain, and make treatment decisions based on that framework. We realize that most people have lived through some type of trauma because trauma is so common and understand treatment through that lens. View our therapist profiles at www.accordingtosykes.com.
(773) 649-4122 View (773) 649-4122
Photo of Jasmine Jones, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jasmine Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Jasmine Jones is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Jasmine is an empathetic and dedicated clinical practitioner with extensive experience providing individual, relationship, and family therapy. She is committed to supporting clients in navigating their emotional challenges and fostering personal growth. Jasmine has worked with ages 0-65+. Jasmine specializes in trauma, challenging behaviors, depression, anxiety, and family and relationship issues.
Jasmine Jones is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Jasmine is an empathetic and dedicated clinical practitioner with extensive experience providing individual, relationship, and family therapy. She is committed to supporting clients in navigating their emotional challenges and fostering personal growth. Jasmine has worked with ages 0-65+. Jasmine specializes in trauma, challenging behaviors, depression, anxiety, and family and relationship issues.
(312) 487-3397 View (312) 487-3397
Photo of Susan Pelton, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Susan Pelton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604
The clients who come to me are having difficulty creating the lives that they want for themselves. Sometimes this is due to trauma in their background and other times it is due to other things that are blocking their personal goals such as grief or a break-up/divorce. Clients who work best with me are ones who want to build their internal resources so that they can knowingly move forward in whatever direction they choose.
The clients who come to me are having difficulty creating the lives that they want for themselves. Sometimes this is due to trauma in their background and other times it is due to other things that are blocking their personal goals such as grief or a break-up/divorce. Clients who work best with me are ones who want to build their internal resources so that they can knowingly move forward in whatever direction they choose.
(312) 436-0601 View (312) 436-0601
Family Systems Therapists
Family Systems therapists view problems within the family as the result not of particular members' behaviors, but of the family's group dynamic. The family is seen as a complex system having its own language, roles, rules, beliefs, needs and patterns. The therapist helps each individual member understand how their childhood family operated, their role in that system, and how that experience has shaped their role in the current family.