Counseling Individuals Through the Lens of Family Systems Theory

This is a hybrid event. The event will be hosted at Grace Community Church (8200 Old Columbia Rd., Fulton, MD, 20759) and broadcast online with a link provided upon purchase of admission. If you have purchased a ticket to access the recording of the session, access to the recording will be provided after the session has concluded and the recording has been edited.

Description:

Learning about Family Systems Theory is crucial because it provides valuable insights and tools for understanding how individuals function within their relational and social contexts. This theory emphasizes that individuals are deeply influenced by the dynamics, roles, and patterns present in their family of origin, which can shape their behaviors, emotions, and interactions throughout life. By understanding family systems, counselors can identify the interconnectedness of relationships and how issues in one part of the system may affect the whole. Even in individual counseling, Family Systems Theory can be instrumental in uncovering the root causes of a client’s challenges, such as unresolved family conflicts, communication patterns, or generational cycles of behavior. Concepts like differentiation of self, family roles, and boundaries can help counselors address individual problems with a broader perspective, enabling clients to make meaningful changes not only in their own lives but also in their relationships. This holistic approach fosters deeper understanding, growth, and more sustainable therapeutic outcomes.

Learning Objectives:

1. Highlight the significance of Family Systems Theory in human development.

2. Investigate family counseling theories that influence individual counseling.

3. Analyze key concepts of Family Systems Therapy relevant to working with individuals.

4. Develop an understanding of the role of spirituality in individual well-being within the context of a family system.

Speaker Bio:

Cristina Emrich is a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in the State of Maryland and the District of Columbia. She works as a professional counselor for CentrePointe Counseling. She has been serving children, adults, couples, and families on a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life transitions, parenting, relationship issues, and anger management. Cristina earned a bachelor’s degree in educational psychology in Romania, a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy at Liberty University, and a Doctoral of Education in Community Care & Counseling: Marriage and Family at Liberty University She is a member of the Christian Association for Psychological Studies.

Event Timeline:

9:00-9:15 Introductions and Objectives

9:15-9:30 System theory and history of family systems theory

9:30-10:30 Family counseling theories

10:30-10:40 Break

10:40-11:05 Empowering growth: Psychoeducation and actionable methods

11:05-11:15 Case study – Application of systemic family therapy concepts

11:15-11:40 Practical applications for improving relationships

11:40-12:00 Role of spirituality in building healthy relationships

12:00-12:15 Q and A