Brief Strategic Family Therapy
A structured, short-term family therapy for adolescent behavioral and substance use problems that targets specific family interaction patterns.
What Is Brief Strategic Family Therapy?
Brief strategic family therapy is a structured, short-term family therapy model developed for adolescent behavioral and substance use problems, focusing on identifying and changing specific, repetitive family interaction patterns believed to maintain the adolescent’s difficulties.
How It Works
This approach is based on the view that adolescent problem behavior is connected to specific, identifiable patterns of family interaction, and that strategically targeting these patterns can produce meaningful change in a relatively brief time frame. This description uses original explanatory language.
What Happens During Therapy?
Sessions involve the therapist joining with the family, observing interaction patterns, and using specific strategic interventions to interrupt unhelpful patterns and promote more effective family functioning.
Evidence and Effectiveness
Research supports brief strategic family therapy for reducing adolescent behavioral problems and substance use, with evidence from randomized controlled trials, including multi-site studies.
Who May Benefit?
Brief strategic family therapy may be considered for families of adolescents with behavioral or substance use difficulties, particularly when a brief, structured intervention is preferred.
Limitations and Considerations
This approach requires family engagement across sessions, and its effectiveness depends on family willingness to examine and change interaction patterns.
Finding a Qualified Therapist
Brief strategic family therapy is delivered by licensed marriage and family therapists, psychologists, and other professionals with specific training in this model.
How Long Does Therapy Take?
Brief strategic family therapy is typically delivered over approximately 12 to 16 sessions, reflecting its brief, structured design.
Therapy vs. Medication
Brief strategic family therapy is a family-based behavioral intervention; medication may be considered for co-occurring conditions in consultation with a qualified prescribing healthcare professional.
What Conditions Is It Used For?
Related Therapy Types
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Evidence-Based Practices Resource Center.
- National Institute on Drug Abuse. Principles of Drug Addiction Treatment.
- American Psychological Association. Clinical Practice Guidelines.