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Welcome to "Systemic Insights," the official blog of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT) here on Psychology Today. I am Chris Michaels, the CEO of AAMFT, and I’m excited to introduce you to this space where we will explore the depth and breadth of systemic approaches in mental health. Through this blog, we aim to provide valuable insights, discuss contemporary issues, and showcase the work and impact of marriage and family therapists (MFTs).
Who We Are and What We Do
AAMFT is the leading professional organization for the field of marriage and family therapy, committed to the advancement of the MFT profession. Our mission is to support our members in providing effective and ethical family therapy, enhancing individual and family resilience, and fostering healthy relationships in diverse contexts. We represent the professional interests of more than 72,000 marriage and family therapists and champion the systemic approach to therapy that views individuals within the context of their relationships and larger social systems.
Our work encompasses a wide array of issues, ranging from addressing LGBTQIA+ mental health to exploring racial disparities in therapy access, supporting military families, improving mental health support for children and more. We strive to be at the forefront of evolving therapeutic practices and advocacy, ensuring that our members are equipped to meet the diverse needs of their clients in a rapidly changing world.
Recent Highlights
Earlier this year, we published the 2024 Systemic Ethics Textbook, a pivotal resource for clinicians navigating the complexities of modern family therapy. This comprehensive guide addresses a wide range of ethical considerations, including confidentiality, cultural competence, dual relationships, and the use of technology in therapy. Developed collaboratively by experts within the AAMFT community, this textbook represents a collective effort to support ethical practice and enhance the effectiveness of family therapy. Covering diverse topics such as working with interpreters, ethical dilemmas in military families, and navigating systemic biases, it highlights our shared dedication to advancing the profession and provides a valuable tool for clinicians striving to meet the highest standards of ethical care.
We are also gearing up for our upcoming Systemic Family Therapy Conference (SFTC) in Orlando this November, a cornerstone event that fosters personal and professional growth among systemic family therapists. The conference focuses on three key areas: enhancing the systemic thinker as an individual, developing cutting-edge clinical skills and integrating into community and institutional systems that shape our global society.
Another exciting initiative we're proud to showcase is our Jobs of Tomorrow series, a six-part exploration into the evolving role of MFTs in the future of behavioral health care. This series delves into crucial topics such as how family dynamics influence mental health, the power of healing together, and the role of technology in transforming MFT practices. Other episodes focus on fostering healing conversations, finding community in crisis and navigating therapeutic decisions with an ethical compass. Each installment offers insightful perspectives on the challenges and opportunities that will shape the practice of MFTs in the years to come. We encourage you to check out these engaging episodes and learn more about the future of our profession here.
We are also actively advancing our portability efforts, aiming to ensure that licensure and practice rights for MFTs are recognized and transferable across state lines. This initiative is crucial for expanding the reach and impact of family therapists nationwide, allowing them to serve diverse communities without barriers. To learn more, click here.
What to Expect from This Page
Through "Systemic Insights," we will explore a diverse range of topics reflecting the multifaceted nature of mental health and systemic therapy. You can expect thought-provoking posts on everything from burnout and PTSD to complex family dynamics and working with special populations. We aim to cover not only clinical practices but also the broader societal issues impacting mental health and therapy.
Esteemed members and researchers from AAMFT will contribute their expertise, offering perspectives on the latest trends, emerging research, and practical applications in the field of family therapy. Our goal is to foster meaningful conversations and provide resources that enrich both personal and professional development for therapists and those interested in systemic approaches to mental health.
We invite you to join us on this journey, engaging with our posts and sharing your insights. Whether you are a seasoned therapist, a student or simply passionate about mental health, this blog is designed to be a dynamic and inclusive space for exploration and learning. Together, let’s advance the field of systemic family therapy and create a world where all individuals and families can thrive.
Warm regards,
Chris Michaels, CEO, American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy
Chris Michaels, with nearly 35 years of dedicated leadership at AAMFT, currently directs the association as its CEO, overseeing strategy, operations and member engagement for over 72,000 marriage and family therapists throughout the United States, Canada and abroad. She is instrumental in advancing AAMFT's mission through her leadership in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and fostering a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion.
