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Philadelphia Child and Family Therapy Training Center

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Jennifer Benjamin

Resistance from clients can be frustrating. But what does it really mean is happening?

July 22, 2024 by Jennifer Benjamin 4 Comments

Resistance from clients in systemic family therapy can be particularly frustrating for therapists, but it often signals deeper underlying issues that need to be addressed. Resistance is not simply a refusal to participate or engage; it represents a complex interaction of emotions, beliefs, and dynamics within the family system.

When clients resist, it typically means that there is a significant level of discomfort or fear regarding the changes therapy might bring. For some family members, the established patterns, even if dysfunctional, offer a sense of predictability and security. Change can threaten this stability, leading to resistance. Additionally, resistance can indicate a lack of trust in the therapist or the therapeutic process. Clients may have had negative past experiences with therapy or may not yet feel safe enough to open up and be vulnerable.

Resistance also highlights the presence of conflicting motivations within the family. Each member may have different levels of willingness to change, varying degrees of insight into the issues, and diverse perceptions of the problem. This can result in some members pushing back against the process, either overtly or subtly, to protect their own viewpoints or roles within the family.

For therapists, understanding and working through resistance involves creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood. It requires patience, empathy, and the ability to navigate the complex web of relationships and emotions that contribute to resistance. By addressing the root causes of resistance, therapists can help clients move past their fears and engage more fully in the therapeutic process, ultimately leading to more effective and lasting change.

Joining therapeutically is a crucial technique in systemic family therapy that can significantly help with resistance to change. The process involves the therapist actively engaging with the family system in a manner that fosters trust, rapport, and a sense of alliance. Here’s how it aids in overcoming resistance: SEE NEXT BLOG INSTALLMENT FOR JOINING!

Filed Under: Resource

Protected: Dr. Jennifer Benjamin talks 4 FAMILY TYPES and ESFT

July 19, 2024 by Jennifer Benjamin Leave a Comment

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Filed Under: Subscribers ONLY

Enmeshed Family Systems

July 19, 2024 by Jennifer Benjamin Leave a Comment

Enmeshment refers to family dynamics where boundaries are unclear, leading to confusion in roles and expectations. In such situations, parents may excessively depend on their children for support, hindering the children from achieving emotional independence and separation from their parents.

Children raised in enmeshed families often struggle with low self-esteem and a lack of personal identity. They may find it difficult to establish and maintain healthy relationships outside the family, as they have never learned how to set appropriate boundaries or advocate for their own needs.

As adults, they might continue to feel responsible for their parents’ happiness, leading to feelings of guilt and anxiety whenever they prioritize their own needs. This can manifest in various ways, including difficulty making decisions independently, a tendency to seek constant validation from others, and an overwhelming fear of rejection or abandonment.

Healing from enmeshment involves learning to set and maintain healthy boundaries. This can be a challenging process, but it’s essential for developing a strong sense of self and building healthier relationships. Here are some steps that can help:

  1. Recognize the problem: The first step towards healing is acknowledging that enmeshment exists and understanding its impact on your life.
  2. Seek professional help: A therapist can provide valuable guidance and support as you work through the complexities of your family dynamics and develop healthier patterns.
  3. Establish boundaries: Start by identifying areas where boundaries are needed and practice setting them. This might involve limiting the amount of personal information you share with your parents or asserting your need for independence.
  4. Focus on self-care: Prioritize activities and relationships that support your well-being and personal growth. This could include pursuing hobbies, spending time with supportive friends, or engaging in self-reflection.
  5. Develop a sense of identity: Explore your interests, values, and goals separate from your family’s expectations. This can help you build a stronger sense of who you are and what you want out of life.
  6. Practice saying no: Learning to say no without feeling guilty is crucial for maintaining healthy boundaries. Remember that it’s okay to prioritize your own needs and well-being.
  7. Build a support network: Surround yourself with people who respect your boundaries and support your journey towards independence.

Remember, healing from enmeshment is a gradual process that requires patience and persistence. By taking these steps, you can begin to reclaim your sense of self and create a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Resource: https://psychcentral.com/blog/imperfect/2019/05/the-enmeshed-family-system-what-it-is-and-how-to-break-free#Common-signs-and-symptoms-of-enmeshment

Filed Under: Resource

Join BuildaBridge and a world-class cadre of drummers and shake loose the summer’s heat.

July 18, 2024 by Jennifer Benjamin Leave a Comment

Ubuntu Fine Art Gallery: 5423 Germantown Ave Philadelphia, PA 19144

RSVP HERE: July 25, 2024 @ 5:00PM — 7:00PM

Join BuildaBridge and a world-class cadre of drummers and shake loose the summer’s heat. For two hours, you’ll learn and experience the power of drumming. Expect to join as an individual and leave as a valued member of a drumming community (and much more).

The session will be facilitated by:

Robert Kenyatta
Bobby Conga
Omomola Iyabunmi
Sam Zolten

Whether you’re a seasoned percussionist or a complete novice, our sessions are designed to be inclusive and welcoming for everyone. Our instructors bring a wealth of experience and passion, ensuring that each beat resonates with joy and connection. The rhythms we create together will not only invigorate your spirit but also foster a sense of unity and belonging.

As you immerse yourself in the pulsating beats, you’ll discover new rhythms within yourself and build lasting friendships with fellow drummers. The communal aspect of drumming has been shown to reduce stress and enhance well-being, making it a perfect way to unwind and connect with others.

So, mark your calendars and join us for an unforgettable drumming experience. Let the rhythm guide you, let the music heal you, and let the community embrace you. We look forward to welcoming you to our circle and creating beautiful music together.

Filed Under: Resource

Authoritarian Family Systems

July 11, 2024 by Jennifer Benjamin Leave a Comment

Authoritarian parenting is a strict approach that sets high standards for children. Parents following this style establish inflexible rules without explanation, expecting unquestioning obedience or facing harsh consequences. Children comply due to the fear of repercussions for non-compliance.

Authoritarian parents lack nurturing and flexibility, viewing obedience as a form of affection. Communication tends to be one-sided, discouraging children from expressing themselves and prohibiting any form of backtalk.

While setting boundaries is beneficial, research indicates that authoritarian parenting can have adverse effects on children, such as:

  • Emotional and behavioral issues
  • Poor social and decision-making skills
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Aggression
  • A strong sense of failure
  • Low self-esteem
  • Increased susceptibility to suicide compared to other children.

In contrast, authoritative parenting, which combines high expectations with support and open communication, promotes healthier emotional and social growth in children. Authoritative parents establish clear rules while providing explanations, encouraging children to inquire and share their opinions. This balanced approach fosters a sense of responsibility and self-discipline, as well as feelings of appreciation and comprehension.

Children raised by authoritative parents demonstrate enhanced self-esteem, improved social abilities, and better academic performance. They learn to tackle challenges confidently and are more likely to mature into well-adjusted adults. The nurturing environment created by authoritative parenting cultivates resilience and a solid sense of self, equipping children with the skills necessary to excel in various aspects of life.

Ultimately, while boundaries and expectations are crucial, the manner in which they are conveyed and upheld significantly impacts a child’s development. By cultivating an environment of mutual respect and understanding, parents can assist their children in evolving into self-assured, competent, and emotionally stable individuals.

Resource: https://www.webmd.com/parenting/authoritarian-parenting-what-is-it

Filed Under: Resource

Dr. Steve Simms & Dr. Tom Todd Talk All Things Philadelphia Child Guidance Clinic

July 10, 2024 by Jennifer Benjamin Leave a Comment

Dr. Tom Thomas found a deep interest in a new care approach, “Family Therapy,” and was drawn to explore it further in Philadelphia. He attended training sessions conducted by Salvador Minuchin. At The Child Guidance Clinic in Philadelphia, he studied families and took part in a project evaluating the effectiveness of structural family therapy for adolescent girls and their families dealing with anorexia nervosa. During his internship, he also learned from Dr. Lester Lubrosky, a prominent psychiatrist at the University of Pennsylvania renowned for his research on the dodo bird effect, which compares the impact of different clinical models. Dr. Lubrosky stressed the importance of the therapeutic relationship, motivating Dr. Todd to enhance his relationship-building skills under the mentorship of Harry Aponte. By the third session, Dr. Todd consistently noticed positive changes in the families he worked with.

The Child Guidance Clinic, situated in South Philadelphia next to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), relocated to a new facility in the University of Pennsylvania Medical complex in 1974. The period of seven years from Minuchin’s arrival in Philadelphia to the Clinic’s relocation marked significant progress in developing the theories, practice, and research of Structural Family Therapy. The following seven years post-relocation allowed for further development and, notably, the dissemination of these ideas and practices.

The innovative rich tradition of systemic thinking inherited from the original Family Therapy Training Center established by Dr. Salvador Minuchin is still practiced at PCFTTC.com. Join the alliance as a lifelong member and equip yourself to adopt a strength-based approach that is relational, contextual, developmental, and trauma-informed when assisting children, youth, adults, and families in need of care across the continuum of services.

Filed Under: Shared News

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    Creating Competence From Chaos: A Comprehensive Guide To Home-Based Services (1998) by Marion Lindblad-Goldberg, Martha Dore and Lenora Stern, W.W. Norton, New York.

    Creating Competence from Chaos

    Buy On Amazon

    Children with emotional and behavioral disorders are often adrift in our society, lacking adequate mental health care or caught between several child-serving systems, such as child welfare, juvenile justice, and the schools.

    In Pennsylvania, a commitment has been made, on a statewide basis, to serve these children and strengthen their vulnerable families through a home-based approach grounded in ecosystemic thinking and practice. This book tells the story of Pennsylvania’s evolving treatment program, providing a model for other professionals who believe that a family’s needs are best met through individually tailored, family-centered, community-based, culturally competent, and outcome-oriented services.

    This is a complete, comprehensive guide, covering everything from planning and development of home-based services through supervision and training of home-based practitioners and evaluation of treatment outcomes. Particular attention is given to the clinical challenges faced by home-based therapists working with families where children are depressed and perhaps suicidal, oppositional and defiant, out-of-control and aggressive, or hyperactive/impulsive. These families commonly have multiple problems, complex histories, and a negative view of outside “helpers.”

    Delivered in the family’s home and involving parents as partners, the services described here work to improve child and family functioning through family therapy, creation of collaborative links between appropriate community and family resources, and provision of family support funds for concrete services such as transportation, respite care, and emergencies. Home-based treatment serves both children at risk for out-of-home placement due to a diagnosis of severe mental illness or behavioral disorders and children being discharged from inpatient hospitals and psychiatric residential placements.

    The authors, active at every level of program conceptualization and implementation, share their wealth of experience with readers. Their advice and case studies move from the big picture to the small details of where to sit in a family’s home, what to say, and how to think about a problematic situation. Several appendices of forms used for assessment, evaluation, and training add to the book’s practical value. Theoretically sound and fully practical, this guide to home-based services will encourage all professionals serving children to involve their families and communities-and to meet them where they live.


    Quotations from Professional Reviews

    “This book provides the blueprint for this groundbreaking care system, with practical guidelines for starting a home-based system on the right foot; maximizing collaboration…with agencies; and, most important, delivering hands-on help to at-risk children and vulnerable families. Therapy chapters run the gamut of skills needed for providing home-based care…Case examples…illustrate systemic intervention used in a variety of family situations.”
    Behavioral Science

    “This book lives up to its…promise of being a ‘comprehensive guide to home-based services.’ Clearly written with many case examples, it fills a hole in the family therapy literature.”
    Eric McCollum, The Family Therapy Networker

    “This wonderful volume takes a huge step towards specifying competence in a field that has tremendous potential. I highly recommend this pragmatic and insightful text to practitioners and administrators alike.”
    Scott W. Henggeler, Ph.D.

    “This book about home-based services is written from the perspective of three disciplines-policy making, clinical services, and research. Reading this book is like opening one of those fertile Russian nesting dolls… Even when we get to the smallest details about the training of home-based staff and the supervision and organization of treatment, we understand how they are interconnected and fit within the big picture.”
    Salvador Minuchin, MD.

    “This richly illustrated book is an excellent resource. It should be a reference for all professionals who work with children and an essential text for those who provide home-based care.”
    Lee Combrinck-Graham, MD.