Abstract
This research paper focuses on family counseling approaches to help ensure that family members remain connected and relate to one another more positively. It explores two approaches: solution-based therapy and collaborative therapy models, delving deep into their key concepts, leading figures, historical development, techniques utilized, and the existing similarities and differences.
In the second part, the research paper explores the role of a person’s faith in patient care, examining how it can be effectively integrated through solution-based and collaborative therapy models. This part highlights how the models align with personal faith and sensitize three key aspects: the need to utilize spiritual resources, explore values, and pray regularly in a marriage. In the final part, the paper examines the effectiveness of the SYMBIS Assessment report in relation to the two models and faith integration. In conclusion, understanding and applying specific family counseling approaches would help keep family members connected.
Introduction
Family plays an essential role in every child’s growth and development. While it can be a place of refuge and security for some, others often find it a source of pain and disappointment. Today, families face numerous pressures and stresses from the external world that can be overwhelming. For instance, personal issues, especially in an adolescent family member, can be too much and affect everyone’s well-being and how they relate. At other times, changes within the family can leave other members feeling hurt, confused, or angry. Therefore, for the family to continue being every member’s safe place, there is a need to introduce family therapy when the problems get out of hand.
Family therapy is a “structured form of psychotherapy that seeks to reduce distress and conflict by improving the systems of interactions between family members” (Varghese, Kirpekar, & Loganathan, 2020, p. 192). It is an ideal approach designed to help family members adjust to changes within the family and maintain positive relationships. This paper focuses on solution-based and collaborative therapy models, offering personal integration and reflection on the SYMBIS assessment.
Solution-Focused Therapy and Collaborative Therapy Models
Leading Figures
One approach used in family counseling is solution-focused therapy. The key figures in solution-focused therapy are Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg (Neipp & Beyebach, 2022). These two individuals collaborated with other colleagues from the Milwaukee Brief Family Therapy Center in Wisconsin and developed this family counseling approach in the 1980s (Neipp & Beyebach, 2022). Steve de Shazer is a psychotherapist and co-founder of the Solution-Focused Brief Therapy Center, playing a significant role in the development of solution-focused therapy. His work centered on creating positive change in clients through his expertise and resources.
The other approach used in family counseling is collaborative therapy. Harlene Anderson is crucial to the development of the collaborative therapy approach (Cuncic, 2022). Harlene Anderson, born in 1942, along with Harold Goolishian, developed a new approach to client interaction through collaboration and language (Cuncic, 2022). Harlene Anderson is a licensed professional counselor and marriage and family therapist (Cuncic, 2022). She has always worked to improve her work and obtain favorable client outcomes.
Development of Theory/Historical Events
The development of solution-focused therapy introduced a new approach that emphasizes solutions rather than problems. Neipp and Beyebach (2022) note that solution-focused therapy emerged from the strategic brief family therapy tradition to enhance interventions addressing interactional problem patterns (p. 2). However, this approach evolved into a radical system that shifted its focus from strengths, problems, improvement, and goals to solutions (Neipp & Beyebach, 2022). Insoo Kim Berg and Steve de Shazer, together with other professionals at the Milwaukee Brief Family Therapy Center, conducted comprehensive research and practice to refine the approach’s techniques and principles.
The development of the collaborative therapy approach aimed to introduce a new model for understanding the effects of counseling on clients. Harlene Anderson developed the collaborative therapy approach to facilitate her work with clients experiencing family issues. She was interested in understanding why family therapy was effective for some people but not for others (Cuncic, 2022). She sought to identify the factors that facilitated the transformation process in counseling and in the therapist’s conversations with clients to foster hope.
Basic Assumptions and Key Philosophy
Solution-Focused Therapy
Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg employed a solution-focused approach, grounded in different assumptions and a strength-based philosophy. A fundamental assumption is that clients possess the necessary expertise and resources to complete the change process successfully (Takagi et al., 2022). Therefore, this makes it clear that this approach is based on the philosophy that these client resources and expertise influence positive outcomes. Another key philosophy in this model is to focus on finding and amplifying solutions within a client, rather than addressing the problem and identifying the root cause (Takagi et al., 2022). These basic assumptions and philosophies are the key foundation for developing solution-focused therapy.
Collaborative Therapy
The development of the collaborative therapy model is also based on different fundamental assumptions and critical philosophy. The basic premise of this approach is that clients are experts in their own lives, and each has the relevant strengths and knowledge to address any family issue that arises (Ripley & Worthington Jr., 2014). This means the approach aims to leverage the client’s wisdom and strength to achieve favorable outcomes. The therapy is also based on the key philosophy of creating and maintaining a collaborative relationship between the therapist and clients (Cuncic, 2022). In this therapist-client relationship, there should be shared decision-making and mutual respect.
Key Concepts
Solution-Focused Therapy
Solution-focused therapy emphasizes the client’s resources and strengths to achieve positive outcomes. This approach incorporates several key concepts when interacting with the client. The first key concept in this solution-focused approach is the focus on the present and the future. Unlike many family counseling approaches, solution-focused counseling emphasizes the client’s present and future, rather than the past (Takagi et al., 2022). It aims to focus on the client’s current capabilities and leverage them to create positive change.
The second key concept of this model is goal setting. According to Neipp & Beyebach (2022), in solution-focused therapy, the therapist and client collaborate to develop clear, specific goals tailored to the problem being addressed. These goals serve as a guide for the entire therapy process, keeping the client focused and on track. Other key concepts in this family counseling approach include solution-focused questions, exception finding, scaling questions, brief, time-limited interventions, and more.
Collaborative Therapy
In dealing with clients, the collaborative therapy model employs several key concepts. The first key concept of this approach is collaboration and partnership. This family counseling approach emphasizes the importance of the therapist and client working together and collaborating (Sharma, 2022). Throughout the process, the client and the therapist work together as partners, sharing ideas, responsibilities, and decision-making.
The second key concept is client expertise and resources, which assume they are experts in their own lives (Cuncic, 2022). During therapy sessions, the therapist respects and values the client’s experiences, knowledge, and strengths, and involves them in finding a solution to their problem.
The third concept in the collaborative therapy model is externalizing issues. Sharma (2022) notes that the collaborative approach helps clients distance themselves from the challenge they face and view it as an external influence rather than an inherent part of themselves. Other vital concepts include narrative therapy, multiple perspectives, strengths-based approaches, and empowerment.
Techniques
Solution-Focused Therapy
The solution-focused therapy approach utilizes various techniques to achieve favorable outcomes for the client. Miracle questions are the first technique in the solution-focused therapy approach, which involves encouraging clients to envision the future they anticipate after successful change (Franklin et al., 2023). According to Neipp & Beyebach (2022), this technique helps clients identify their goals and create manageable steps to achieve them.
Another technique employed in therapy is the use of scaling questions, which employ scales to measure a client’s progress and identify the necessary steps to achieve goals (Neipp & Beyebach, 2022). The last one is the exception, focusing on instances when a challenge could have occurred but did not. This can help the client stay focused on the solution or challenge at hand. All these are focused on the client’s strengths and resources.
Collaborative Therapy
The collaborative therapy model also incorporates many techniques to attain positive results. First, the therapist in this approach must practice reflective listening throughout the process. In this technique, the counselor listens to the client and reflects upon words, experiences, and feelings (Cuncic, 2022). This helps the client feel more involved and engaged during the sessions. In the collaborative therapy model, therapists can also use open-ended questions to help clients explore their experiences, emotions, and thoughts (Cuncic, 2022). Other techniques include externalizing language, scaling questions, mapping relationships, and much more.
Similarities and Dissimilarities
The solution-focused and collaborative therapy models are significantly different from other leadership theories. The first similarity among the collaborative therapy model, solution-focused therapy, and other leading theories is the emphasis on clients’ strengths and resources (Spencer et al., 2019). This aligns with humanistic and psychological theories and approaches, which focus on individuals and their experiences (Varghese et al., 2020). The second similarity between these two models and other leading theories, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, is their focus on change and solution (Goldenberg & Goldenberg, 2017).
However, in terms of differences, solution-focused therapy differs from the psychodynamic model, which targets an individual’s unconscious processes and experiences from early life. Secondly, collaborative treatment differs from other leading theories, such as Bowen’s Family System therapy, which emphasizes systematic dynamics (Varghese et al., 2020). However, they are focused on improving relations among family members.
Knowledge Acquired
Completing this assignment has enabled me to gain a deeper understanding of family therapy. First, I have learned that when dealing with clients in family therapy, it is essential to focus on their strengths and resources. It is clear from the discussion above that both collaborative and solution-focused treatments focus more on clients’ capabilities and their role in attaining positive outcomes. Secondly, I have learned that collaboration between therapists and clients in family counseling is vital to the success of the process. These lessons have given me an idea of what to focus on and how to address family issues.
Personal Integration
Integration of Faith and Solution-Focused Approach
As a Christian, I believe that every person on earth is created uniquely and has inherent worth and value. This belief aligns with the solution-focused therapy approach, which holds that a client’s strengths and expertise are crucial to achieving positive outcomes (Takagi et al., 2022). Believing in the client’s capabilities significantly increases the chances of meeting set goals. From a faith perspective, therapy is an opportunity to introduce a client to a journey that will make them whole and restored.
Since I believe that God is actively involved in these people’s lives, my role as a therapist, when using the solution-focused approach, is to facilitate the restoration process by leveraging the capabilities He has given them (Jerome et al., 2023). Additionally, the solution-focused approach emphasizes hope and a future orientation, which align with my Christian faith. Therefore, as a Christian, using the solution-focused approach effectively brings family members together and guides them on a journey to find solutions to their problems.
Integration of Faith and Collaboration Therapy Approach
The approaches in the collaborative therapy model also align with my Christian beliefs. As discussed above, the collaborative therapy model considers the impact of cultural and social contexts on an individual’s happiness and well-being (Cuncic, 2022). Similarly, based on my faith, I believe that during creation God created human beings with the understanding that their surroundings would have a direct impact on their well-being (Entwistle, 2015). He therefore ensured that they were in a relationship with another person and with him. Hence, the collaborative therapy approach offers individuals a chance to evaluate and understand the impact of their relationships and how they can align them with their faith.
By integrating my Christian faith into the collaborative therapy approach, I recognize that people are responsible for creating and maintaining positive relationships with those around them. Additionally, these relationships can be platforms for individuals to experience love, grace, and redemption from God (Leite et al., 2020). The discussion above also indicates that the collaborative therapy approach emphasizes the need to co-create meaning as solutions are found to the client’s issues. This aligns with my Christian perspective, suggesting that therapists should seek God’s wisdom and guidance during counseling sessions (Leite et al., 2020). The client can relate their belief in God to their relationships and how it influences their well-being.
Key Aspects of Integrating Faith
The first key aspect of integrating my Christian faith and solution-based and collaborative therapy models is prayer and spiritual discernment. When I incorporate prayer and seek spiritual discernment while working with a client, I often receive guidance and wisdom (Leite et al., 2020). My Christian faith believes that incorporating prayer invites the Holy Spirit to guide the process.
The second key aspect is exploring the client’s values and beliefs. When I incorporate my faith into the counseling process, I will provide clients with a safe space to explore their beliefs and determine how they impact their relationships with others. The clients can align their choices and actions with their faith as they strive to find solutions to their issues (Leite et al., 2020). Utilizing spiritual resources is crucial to integrating faith with the two therapeutic approaches. When I incorporate my faith, I will need to utilize spiritual resources, such as sacred texts and the Bible, and follow God’s ways.
SYMBIS Assessment
Marriage Mindset
Based on the SYMBIS assessment report regarding my marriage mindset, I agree with its findings. The marriage mindset report suggests that I firmly believe in and am committed to the institution of marriage. It shows that I have the highest marriage motivation among many other categories. This report is accurate because I value positive relationships with people around me. Marriage is another level of commitment where you start a new life with someone, trust each other, and plan a future together. A divorce is never an option, and I always strive to ensure that my marriage lasts a long time and remains my source of happiness.
Five Issues in Real Relationships
The top issue that would spark tension in my relationship is chores. I fear that at some point, the division of responsibilities with my partner will result in conflict. My most significant insight is that couples should always be there for each other and share cores. The second issue from the report is that ineffective communication would cause conflict between my partner and me. Therefore, couples should always seek strategies to make their communication more effective.
Thirdly, money-related issues can also cause problems in my relationship, which is always a significant cause of disagreement. My greatest insight is that couples should always be faithful and transparent with one another, so they do not disagree over money. According to my assessment report, the fourth issue in authentic relationships is careers. As a couple, both partner must try to balance work time and their jobs.
Lastly, conflicts can arise in my relationship due to decisions about childbearing, parenting styles, and other issues. My most significant insight is that both couples should collaborate, communicate about children, and be on the same page.
Walking Together with God
Based on the information on page 15, I plan to prioritize spiritual connection first to ensure my eventual marriage is God-honoring. With my partner, I will always prioritize our connection with God as a couple. I will do this by regularly praying together, attending religious services, and engaging in other spiritual practices.
Next, I will seek religious guidance from a spiritual leader, such as a pastor (Leite et al., 2020). This will provide the support, wisdom, and guidance needed to make our marriage God-honoring. The last thing I will do is actively live out my faith by practicing different virtues with my partner, such as forgiveness, kindness, love, humility, and compassion (Leite et al., 2020). All these are successful if I have an open conversation with my partner and find better ways to integrate my fate.
Theory and Spiritual Integration
The SYMBIS Assessment is practical, given my family system’s theoretical approach and faith-based intervention choice. First, the SYMBIS Assessment is valuable in solution-based and collaborative therapy models because it examines changes and interactions between two people in a relationship. These two models also emphasize the importance of staying connected.
On the other hand, regarding faith integration, the SYMBIS Assessment can provide a deeper understanding of how the couple’s spiritual values and beliefs impact their relationship. It examines how faith influences communication between couples, decision-making, and overall well-being within the relationship.
Conclusion
Family counseling is essential in helping family members stay connected and relate to one another more positively. Family counseling often employs either solution-focused therapy or collaborative therapy models. These two approaches utilize the client’s strengths and resources to achieve the expected outcomes. Completing this assignment offers more insight into how each model is effective, how they align with personal Christian faith, and the dynamics of the relationship and personal growth. The knowledge presented in this paper enhances the ability to support families effectively in addressing a range of issues.
References
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