Strategic therapy and systemic therapy

This article explores the intersection between strategic therapy and systemic therapy, emphasizing how both approaches share a common origin in complexity theory. The authors argue that these therapeutic modalities, which emerged from the study of cybernetics and systems theory, are fundamentally connected. By integrating systemic thinking, which views behavior as emergent properties of complex systems, with the directive nature of strategic therapy, therapists can more effectively address and resolve psychological issues. The article illustrates this approach through a clinical case study, demonstrating how a strategic therapy framework, informed by systemic principles, can guide clients towards self-organization, empower them to navigate their challenges, and facilitate long-lasting change within their relational systems.

  • Understand the historical and theoretical connections between strategic therapy and systemic therapy.

  • Identify how complexity theory underpins both systemic and strategic therapeutic approaches.

  • Explore the role of cybernetics and systems theory in the development of strategic therapy.

  • Analyze the concept of emergent properties in complex systems and their relevance to therapeutic practice.

  • Apply systemic thinking and strategic therapy techniques to clinical cases to promote self-organization and behavioral change.

  • Evaluate the effectiveness of integrating systemic perspectives within strategic therapy for resolving psychological and relational issues.

Become a Member