Understanding Family Systems Theory and How this Can Affect System Involved Youth

Brooke Hailey, PhD

Training Description

This training will help participants understand the theory of family systems, especially as it applies to system involved youth (SIY). They will learn to see a SIY’s dynamics within the context of their familial background.  They will learn how strategies can be implemented which support SIY in having healthier relationships and a healthier view of themselves.

Learning Objectives

• Identify and explain three principles of Family Systems Theory.
• Identify three benefits of utilizing family systems theory with System Involved Youth.
• Identify and explain three specific strategies that can be used to change family dynamics and/or to change how a child views themselves within the family system.

Agenda

9:00-9:45AM  Introduction

• My experience with Family Systems theory
• Brief overview of the presentation agenda
• Why Family Systems Theory is important to understand

9:45-10:30AM  Explanation of Family Systems Theory

• Systems thinking/Interconnectedness of family members
• Structural/Strategic and Intergenerational
• Patterns of communication/Rules and Roles within family

10:30-11:00AM  Video Presentation

• Introduction to video
• Animated explanation of systems theory

11:00-11:30AM  Lunch Break (CE hours will not be offered for this time)

11:30 AM-11:45AM  Key Principle #1: Differentiation of Self

• Definition and importance of individuality within the family context
• Balancing autonomy and connection

11:45AM-12:00PM  Key Principle #2: Triangles

• Explanation of triangulation in family relationships
• Impact on family dynamics

12:00-12:15PM  Key Principle #3: Family Life Cycle

• Stages of family development (e.g., forming, storming, norming, performing)
• Transitions and challenges in each stage

12:15-12:30PM  Examine more closely how above principles specifically affect system involved youth

12:30-1:30PM  Application of Family Systems Theory

• ApplicationtTechniques and strategies
• Strategies that can be used with SIY and their Caregivers
• Case studies illustrating Family Systems Theory in action
• Success stories or insights gained through the theory's application

1:30-1:45pm  Break (CE hours will not be offered for this time)

1:45-2:30PM  Interactive Exercise

• Share Vignettes of Dysfunctional Family Dynamics
• Participants will go into breakout rooms and discussed their vignettes
• Participants will discuss dynamics observed in vignettes & strategies to help these families

2:30-3:00PM  Questions & Answers, Summary, & Wrap-up

Meet Our Trainer

Brooke Hailey, PhD is a licensed marriage and family therapist. She completed her undergraduate work at New York University and then received her masters from Antioch University and her PhD from Pacifica Graduate Institute. She has been in private practice in Los Angeles for more than twenty years. She is also the owner and clinical director of New Directions, an intensive outpatient program for eating disorders. Brooke works with adults, adolescents, couples and families. Though she specializes in the treatment of eating disorders, Brooke works with clients who have a variety of issues from depression, anxiety and addiction to relationship issues.

This course meets the qualifications for (5.25) BBS CE hours for LCSWs, LMFTs, LPCCs, and LEPs as required by the California Board of Behavioral Sciences & is provided by Fred Finch Youth Center, CAMFT Provider #045295.