Presents a brief introduction to Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), followed by case examples which illustrate some of the substantive gains which NLP techniques have provided in work with couples and families. NLP's major contributions involve understanding new models of human experience. (WAS)

Describes the operation of a 10-session brief therapy unit for families who have failed in more traditional treatment modalities. Case material is presented to exemplify five different treatment strategies: symptom prescription, reframing, illusion of alternatives, role play, and strategic alliances. Advantages and limitations are discussed.…

This article discusses a technique the authors have designated Family Photo Reconnaisance. They describe the rationale for and process of utilizatizing family photographs and movies in family therapy sessions to evoke past events and memories and to uncover feelings about these occurrences and the people involved in them. (Author)

Within diverse sets of nonmarital relationships it is postulated that similar developmental stages emerge. Delineation of these stages provides a framework for understanding the many complexities of nonmarital interacting systems. Five hypothetical developmental stages are presented and applied to two types of nonmarital dyads. (Author)

Presents an approach to family therapy where a group of observers becomes part of a therapeutic team by introducing strategic messages into the sessions. Messages are described in terms of five components: function, target, timing, content, and delivery. Suggests guidelines for effective team functioning and discusses implications for training.…

Family treatment can be staged in a way that permits the family to deal with their anxiety about treatment and plan changes in the problem solving mechanism of the family system. (Author)

Uses a case study to illustrate effective use of written contracts in family therapy. The contract provides short term benefits that form the basis for more complex and time consuming therapy. By offering tangible evidence of change, the contract facilitates additional intervention by conceptualizing problems. (Author/JAC)

Suggests that behavioral problems that frequently occur in pediatric cancer treatment settings, such as food refusal and the resistance to treatment, can be successfully treated utilizing family therapy techniques. Presents the theoretical background that supports this mode of intervention and several case studies. (Author/WAS)

Describes how imagery can lead couples to more constructive perspectives on their Interactions, e.g., when progress in therapy sessions focused on a couple's (family's) communication slows down, therapists can encourage couples to try imagery to understand interactional patterns within their own developmental periods. Provides examples of…

Describes Custody Resolution Counseling (CRC), an alternative to the traditional custody study intervention, developed by the Hennepin County Minnesota Domestic Relations Division. Discusses the CRC process which helps families make their own custody decisions as opposed to court-imposed decisions, and presents a case illustration. (Author/JAC)

Described is an adoption agency for difficult to place handicapped and older children (infancy through 16 years-old). The process involves initial assessment of the child's functioning and of the family's parenting capabilities, and continued support after placement. Placement histories of two handicapped children are presented. Reviewed are the…

Describes a group drawing technique, synallatic collective image therapy, that can be used with families. Discusses the process of family drawing, and illustrates with clinical examples. (Author)

Describes a structured group designed for families that include adolescents. The workshop, "Improving Familytalk": (1) assesses communication skills and weaknesses in families, (2) teaches improved communication skills, (3) applies skills by talking about problems and expectations, and (4) teaches how to build positive aspects of family life. (JAC)

Describes an expanded role for counselors in urban school settings that can improve linkages among families, schools, and communities. Discusses school-based family counseling's (SBFC) role, its specific components, the development of SBFC positions, and practical applications. Provides a case study of SBFC intervention and outlines implications…

Describes ways in which a family-oriented psychologist contributed to a reconceptualization of the appropriate role for the physical therapist in patient care. A primary shift involved changing focus to the patient in the context of his/her family. Briefly describes appropriate psychological training for physical therapists. (Author/JAC)