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Connection and Social Healing

Our Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation: U. S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social and Community

Letter from the Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy, 19th and 21st Surgeon General of the United States:

In 2014, I became Surgeon General. That was before I embarked on a cross-country listening tour. I heard stories from fellow Americans that surprised me.

People began to tell me they felt isolated, invisible, and insignificant. The pattern showed a lack of connection across ages and backgrounds. Even when they couldn’t name loneliness, many spoke of burdens carried alone. They would say, “if I disappear tomorrow, no one will even notice”. It was a lightbulb moment for me: social disconnection was far more common than I had realized.

In the scientific literature, I found confirmation of what I was hearing. In recent years, about one in two adults in America reported experiencing loneliness. And that was before the COVID-19 pandemic cut off so many of us from friends, loved ones, and support systems, exacerbating loneliness and isolation.

Loneliness is far more than a bad feeling. It harms both individual and societal health. It is associated with a greater risk of cardiovascular disease, dementia, stroke, depression, anxiety, and premature death.

The mortality impact of being socially disconnected is similar to smoking up to 15 cigarettes a day. It is greater than that associated with obesity and physical inactivity. A strong connection improves health and well-being across communities.

Given the great consequences of loneliness and isolation, we have an opportunity and an obligation. We must make the same investments in addressing social connection. We have made these investments in addressing tobacco use, obesity, and the addiction crisis.

If we fail to do so, we will pay an ever-growing price in our health and well-being. We will continue to splinter and divide until we cannot stand as a community or a country. Instead of coming together to take on great challenges, we will retreat to our corners—angry, sick, and alone.

We are called to build a movement to mend the social fabric of our nation. It will take all of us— individuals and families, schools and workplaces, health care and public health systems, technology companies, governments, faith organizations, and communities— working together to destigmatize loneliness and change our cultural and policy response to it. It will require reimagining the structures, policies, and programs that shape a community to best support the development of healthy relationships.

Each of us can start now in our own lives by strengthening our connections and relationships.

Additionally, our individual relationships are an untapped resource, a source of healing hiding in plain sight.

They can help us live healthier, more productive, and more fulfilled lives.

Answer that phone call from a friend.

Make time to share a meal.

Listen without the distraction of your phone.

Perform an act of service.

Express yourself authentically.

The keys to human connection are simple, but extraordinarily powerful.

Each of us can start now, in our own lives, by strengthening our connections and relationships.

Loneliness and isolation represent profound threats to our health and well-being. But we have the power to respond. By taking small steps every day to strengthen our relationships, and by supporting community efforts to rebuild social connection, we can rise to meet this moment together. We can build lives and communities that are healthier and happier. And we can ensure our country and the world are better poised than ever to take on the challenges that lay ahead.

Our future depends on what we do today.

Vivek H. Murthy, KD, MRA.
19th and 21st Surgeon General Of the United States
Vice Admiral, United States Public Health Service

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Dear Alliance Members,

The exciting updates continue this month as we approach the count down to the book release. 

Meet the Authors- Get to know the talented authors and learn more about the experiences and expertise that inspired the book. 

Blog Series: Part 3- The latest installment of our blog series is now available. If you’ve been following along, don’t miss Part 3 as we continue exploring family assessment tools and working with LGBTQ+ youth and their families. 

Last Call for Admissions- Time is running out! If you or someone you know is interested in joining one of our certification program, the admissions deadline is approaching.

Exclusive Access: Bonus Chapter– we’re excited to provide exclusive access to a bonus chapter. Be sure to check it out and enjoy this additional resource.

Thank you for being part of the Alliance. We appreciate your continued support and look forward to sharing more exciting updates with you soon!

Sincerely,

PCFTTC Leadership

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One of the foundational assumptions of Ecosystemic Structural Family Therapy (ESFT) is that people do not heal in isolation. Children, adolescents, and adults are embedded within multiple layers of their system – families, schools, communities, faith traditions, peer groups, etc. that shape how they understand and respond to others.

When working with LGBTQ+ youth and their families, an Ecomap can be a powerful family assessment tools to assist the professional in understand how dislocation shows up in the ecosystem and who, what and where is for the youth and family.

Often professional can get stuck in a back and forth with caregivers to increase supportiveness or draw attention to what is not supportive of a child’s gender identity or sexual orientation. While this information is important, it isn’t addressing “how they got here.” An Ecomap allows clinicians and families to step back and examine the broader ecosystem influencing the family’s beliefs, rules, traditions and experiences in real time.

For example, a caregiver may be highly supportive of their child while simultaneously feeling isolated within their church, neighborhood, or extended family. A youth may experience acceptance at home but encounter rejection at school. Another family may identify their faith as a major source of strength but struggle to find a religious community that affirms their child’s identity.

Through an ESFT lens, these observations are not simply background information—they are opportunities for intervention. The Ecomap helps therapists identify existing strengths that can be anchored and expanded. It also highlights gaps in support that may be contributing to stress, isolation, and conflict. For example, a family disconnected from affirming faith communities may benefit from connection to an LGBTQ+-affirming congregation. A youth who feels isolated at school may benefit from participation in a Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) or local LGBTQ+ youth organization. A parent struggling alone may find support and validation through parent groups made up of other caregivers navigating similar experiences.

The goal is not merely to reduce life threatening/life altering behaviors. The goal is to strengthen the family’s use and access of their ecosystem and disrupt dislocation. When support broadens, relational challenges can become more solvable. Families gain access to new perspectives, additional resources, and opportunities for connection. Youth and caregivers can experience new opportunities for belonging. Lasting change occurs when families are connected to people, places, and communities that reinforce safety, acceptance, and hope.

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Earlier this morning the Philadelphia Child and Family Therapy Training Center announced the recipients of the 2026 Marion Lindblad-Goldberg (MLG) Award: Cassie Chase (Staff), Becca Bowman (Supervisor), and Zack Elisio (Trainer).

Named in honor of Dr. Marion Lindblad-Goldberg, creator of Ecosystemic Structural Family Therapy (ESFT), the MLG Award recognizes individuals who embody the values, principles, and spirit of the model through their commitment to systemic thinking, relational healing, professional growth, and strengthening families and communities.

This year’s recipients represent the very best of ESFT in action. Through their leadership, compassion, and unwavering dedication to growth and development, they have left a lasting impact on families, clinicians, supervisors, and systems.

Cassie Chase – Staff Recipient

Cassie Chase has become a powerful example of what it means to embrace the learning process with courage, humility, and determination. Throughout her training journey, she has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to growth, consistently challenging herself to deepen her understanding of the ESFT model and strengthen her clinical practice.

Cassie is known for her ability to see the strengths and potential in everyone around her. Whether working with families, collaborating with peers, or participating in training, she brings warmth, authenticity, and encouragement that inspires others to stretch beyond their comfort zones. Her dedication to deliberate practice, curiosity, and systemic thinking has made her a leader within her cohort and a trusted voice in the training room.

Most importantly, Cassie embodies the belief that meaningful change happens through relationships. Her work reflects a deep respect for families, a commitment to collaboration, and a belief in the capacity of people to grow and heal. Through her presence, she has strengthened not only the families she serves but also the clinicians who learn alongside her.

Becca Bowman – Supervisor Recipient

As a supervisor, Becca Bowman exemplifies the balance of support, accountability, and authenticity that lies at the heart of effective systemic leadership. She consistently creates environments where clinicians feel visible, valued, and worthy while simultaneously challenging them to recognize strengths and capabilities they may not yet see in themselves.

Becca approaches supervision through a systemic lens, helping clinicians maintain awareness of the larger ecosystem while thoughtfully addressing the developmental needs of individuals and teams. Her leadership is grounded in relationship, yet always focused on promoting competence, confidence, and meaningful professional growth.

Through her deliberate authenticity and unwavering commitment to the ESFT model, Becca fosters spaces where learning thrives. She transforms moments of uncertainty and intensity into opportunities for reflection, growth, and second-order change. Her ability to assess complex situations while communicating with clarity and simplicity has had a profound impact on the clinicians she supervises and, ultimately, the families they serve.

Zack Elisio – Trainer Recipient

Zack Elisio has dedicated himself to advancing the field of family therapy through exceptional training, mentorship, and leadership. He possesses a remarkable ability to help others think systemically, understand relational patterns, and make meaningful connections across training, supervision, and clinical practice.

Throughout every training experience, Zack creates an atmosphere of safety, challenge, and collaboration. He skillfully balances validation with accountability, encouraging clinicians and supervisors to engage in self-reflection while remaining grounded in the principles of ESFT. His commitment to cultivating growth extends beyond teaching concepts—he helps others integrate systemic thinking into the way they understand themselves, their work, and the systems they serve.

Zack’s influence can be felt across countless clinicians, supervisors, and organizations. His ability to distill complex concepts into accessible and practical applications has empowered many to deepen their practice and strengthen outcomes for families. His leadership reflects a deep commitment to learning, connection, and the belief that transformation occurs through relationships.

Honoring a Legacy

The Marion Lindblad-Goldberg Award celebrates individuals who carry forward Dr. Lindblad-Goldberg’s vision of strengthening families through systemic, relational, and trauma-informed practice. Cassie Chase, Becca Bowman, and Zack Elisio each embody this vision in unique and meaningful ways.

Their dedication to fostering competence, cultivating belonging, and creating opportunities for growth reminds us that lasting change occurs when people are seen, supported, and challenged within the context of meaningful relationships.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to this year’s recipients and our gratitude for the impact they continue to have on families, communities, and the field of systemic family therapy.

Congratulations, Cassie, Becca, and Zack, on this well-deserved recognition.

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The Philadelphia Child and Family Therapy Training Center is proud to recognize Christi Taylor as a nominee for the 2026 Marion Lindblad-Goldberg (MLG) Award. Christi’s work reflects the heart of Ecosystemic Structural Family Therapy (ESFT) through her compassionate, family-centered, and relational approach to healing and growth.

Building Trust Through Relationships

Christi consistently demonstrates the core principles of the ESFT model in every aspect of her work. She understands that meaningful change begins with connection, and she intentionally creates strong, trusting relationships with the families she serves.

By honoring each family’s values, cultural context, and lived experiences, Christi ensures that every voice within the system feels heard, respected, and valued. Her ability to join with families authentically creates spaces where caregivers and youth feel safe enough to engage in difficult conversations, strengthen relationships, and work toward lasting change.

Empowering Families Through Trauma-Informed Care

One of Christi’s greatest strengths is her ability to support families through trauma-informed and collaborative interventions. She skillfully strengthens protective factors within the family system while empowering caregivers to recognize their own leadership, resilience, and capacity for growth.

Christi approaches her work with empathy, patience, and intentionality, helping families move beyond immediate challenges toward deeper healing and stronger relational patterns. Her calm and grounded presence allows her to navigate even the most complex family dynamics with compassion and clinical insight.

A Commitment to Lasting Change

Christi’s unwavering dedication to family-centered care is evident in the meaningful progress families experience through her work. She remains committed to helping families identify strengths, build connection, and create sustainable changes that support long-term well-being.

Her leadership, professionalism, and commitment to relational healing reflect the true spirit of the ESFT model. Christi’s work continues to make a lasting impact on the individuals, families, and systems she serves.

A Well-Deserved Recognition

For her exceptional dedication, systemic thinking, and compassionate leadership, we are honored to celebrate Christi Taylor as a nominee for the 2026 Marion Lindblad-Goldberg Award.

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The Philadelphia Child and Family Therapy Training Center is proud to recognize Cory Wolff as a nominee for the 2026 Marion Lindblad-Goldberg (MLG) Award. Cory exemplifies the heart of Ecosystemic Structural Family Therapy (ESFT) through his compassionate, relationship-centered, and trauma-informed work with families.

A Relational and Systemic Approach

Cory consistently demonstrates the principles of the ESFT model by approaching every family with cultural humility, empathy, and deep respect for their lived experiences. He understands that meaningful change happens through relationships, and he works intentionally to create safe and trusting spaces where caregivers and youth feel supported, valued, and empowered.

His ability to join with families in authentic ways allows them to feel seen beyond their struggles. Cory approaches challenges through a systemic lens, helping families recognize patterns, strengths, and opportunities for growth within the larger family and community context.

Strengthening Families Through Compassion and Competence

One of Cory’s greatest strengths is his ability to strengthen caregiver capacity while honoring the resilience already present within the family system. Through trauma-informed and relational interventions, he helps families build confidence, improve communication, and create healthier interactional patterns that support long-term healing and stability.

Cory’s calm and grounded presence during moments of intensity allows families to feel safe even in difficult situations. He navigates complex family dynamics with patience, thoughtfulness, and clinical insight, helping families move beyond crisis and toward meaningful, sustainable change.

Commitment to Growth and Healing

In addition to his dedication to families, Cory demonstrates a strong commitment to professional growth and reflective practice. His thoughtful engagement with colleagues and his ongoing investment in learning reflect his dedication to providing high-quality, family-centered care rooted in the ESFT model.

Those who work alongside Cory recognize not only his professionalism and clinical skill, but also his unwavering belief in the potential of the families he serves. He consistently communicates hope, possibility, and respect, helping families recognize their own strengths and capacity for change.

A Well-Deserved Recognition

Cory Wolff’s work embodies the spirit of Dr. Marion Lindblad-Goldberg. Through his compassion, systemic thinking, and commitment to relational healing, he continues to make a meaningful impact on families, teams, and communities.

We are honored to celebrate Cory’s nomination for the 2026 MLG Award and grateful for the care, dedication, and leadership he brings to the field every day.

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We’re excited to welcome you into a new year with our January PCFTTC Newsletter, filled with moments of celebration, growth, and opportunities to stay connected to our learning community.

Inside this issue, you’ll find the launch date for the 3rd Annual MLG Awards, honoring excellence, leadership, and meaningful contributions across our systemic family therapy community. We’re also celebrating a Wickedly Systemic Win showcasing creative and clinically grounded work that brings context to Elphaba’s relationships with her family.

We’re pleased to introduce our new Research Intern, whose work will support PCFTTC’s continued commitment to advancing evidence-informed systemic practice.

You’ll also learn more about The Bridge Program, designed for former trainees who are ready to reconnect and complete their certification journey, the bridge back is open.

Finally, be sure to check out details for our upcoming Free CE Programs on March 11, 2026 & April 22, 2026—an opportunity to growing alongside colleagues in our community.

Thank you for being part of the PCFTTC Alliance. We look forward to another year of collaboration.

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Email Jennifer Benjamin with questions, training@pcfttc.com

Yale offers LGBTQ-affirmative CBT training. Great opportunity for psychotherapy integration with ESFT.

https://medicine.yale.edu/lgbtqmentalhealth/centerlink-training-program

About

Since 2019, CenterLink (the Community of LGBT Centers) and the Yale LGBTQ Mental Health Initiative have been offering comprehensive trainings in LGBTQ-affirmative cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for mental health providers serving LGBTQ clients.

Developed, tested, and refined over more than a decade by Yale researchers, LGBTQ-affirmative CBT is the first treatment shown across large-scale clinical trials to reduce depression, anxiety, substance use, and sexual risk among diverse LGBTQ community members. The treatment improves mental health and builds resilience by targeting the specific internal and psychosocial vulnerabilities that research shows are elevated among LGBTQ people due to early and ongoing exposure to LGBTQ-related stress.

Those who participate in one or more offerings of the Yale-Centerlink Training Program will gain the knowledge, hands-on skills, and confidence to implement LGBTQ-affirmative CBT. Most training offerings are open to professionals and trainees, including individuals for whom CBT is not their primary therapeutic modality.

Learn more about our upcoming training programs here.

Our Mission

The Yale LGBTQ Mental Health Initiative provides a home for scholars and scholarship devoted to understanding and improving the mental health of LGBTQ populations in the US and around the world.

LGBTQ individuals experience substantial disparities in mental health problems, from suicide to substance use. The Initiative applies Yale’s strengths in mental health, LGBTQ studies, and global health to solving this pressing public health challenge.

We achieve this mission through fostering highly collaborative research across schools and departments; sponsoring academic events meant to spark innovation in this field; and training and educating diverse future leaders in LGBTQ mental health research.

Our Initiative

The Initiative is housed within the Yale School of Public Health and Yale School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, and draws upon Yale’s interdisciplinary expertise to advance its mission.

In her 1985 article in PsycCRITIQUES, “Reaching Inward: A Way of Training in Human Systems Thinking,” Marion Lindblad-Goldberg presented a method for training people to think systemically about human behavior. The core of her work relates to family therapy and ecosystemic structural family therapy (ESFT), a model that considers how family members and their broader social context are interconnected. 

Key concepts of the article

• Training in systems thinking: The article discusses a training program designed to help individuals move beyond a linear, cause-and-effect understanding of behavior. Systems thinking involves seeing individuals and their actions as part of a larger, dynamic network of relationships and patterns.
• Focus on internal context: The training emphasizes self-reflection and an examination of one’s own role within a system. This contrasts with a “system-as-effect” perspective, which blames external forces for a system’s behavior.
• Emphasis on family systems: The article focuses on applying systems thinking to family relationships. Her later work emphasizes that a family is its own best resource for change, suggesting her training method helped therapists see the innate strengths of families.
• A “way of being”: The training is not merely a set of tools but a fundamental shift in perception—a “way of being” that fosters curiosity, compassion, and courage.
• Focus on relationships: The article explored how to help trainees understand the patterns of interaction and structural relationships that define human systems, rather than just focusing on individual actions. 

The article is an early piece from Lindblad-Goldberg’s distinguished career, which heavily influenced the field of family therapy. 

• Pioneered ecosystemic structural family therapy (ESFT): Lindblad-Goldberg is credited with developing the ESFT model, which helps therapists work with families to identify dysfunctional patterns of interaction and connect families with community resources.
• Founding of a training center: She is currently the Director Emeritus of the Philadelphia Child and Family Therapy Training Center (PCFTTC), which trains therapists in the ESFT model.
• Informed later publications: Her exploration of systems thinking in this 1985 article provided a foundational basis for her later books and papers, such as Creating Competence from Chaos (1998) and Ecosystemic Structural Family Therapy: Theoretical and Clinical Foundations (2013).