Family Systems Therapists in Kirkland, WA
![Photo of Amy A. Rinde, MA, LMFT, CMHS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c696106-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a theoretical orientation, Amy utilizes an integrative, person-centered, & psychodynamic approach to create a framework of attachment theory, family systems, expressive-arts, creative parenting, mindfulness (meditation, visualization, breathwork, & intuition), parts work, psychoeducation, & emotion regulation tools from DBT (self-soothing & co-soothing).
With compassion, an open heart, & inclusivity, Amy helps people expand their potential by creating a personal roadmap to their emotional health & wellbeing. Listening, acknowledgement, & building trust are key ingredients to her approach. Amy tunes into the client in each moment of every session to understand what they are experiencing to help them get their needs met. Attachment wounding can be a part of many people's childhoods and those experiences often present now. Many times, reparenting occurs through the therapy process and results in a corrective experience, bringing peacefulness & healing...to feel whole again.
As a theoretical orientation, Amy utilizes an integrative, person-centered, & psychodynamic approach to create a framework of attachment theory, family systems, expressive-arts, creative parenting, mindfulness (meditation, visualization, breathwork, & intuition), parts work, psychoeducation, & emotion regulation tools from DBT (self-soothing & co-soothing).
With compassion, an open heart, & inclusivity, Amy helps people expand their potential by creating a personal roadmap to their emotional health & wellbeing. Listening, acknowledgement, & building trust are key ingredients to her approach. Amy tunes into the client in each moment of every session to understand what they are experiencing to help them get their needs met. Attachment wounding can be a part of many people's childhoods and those experiences often present now. Many times, reparenting occurs through the therapy process and results in a corrective experience, bringing peacefulness & healing...to feel whole again.
![Photo of Christian St Jacques, LMHCA, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47f9576e-1300-4a5c-9657-7939753cd049/3/320x400.jpeg)
Christian St. Jacques is a licensed mental health care associate (LMHCA) in Washington State who received his Masters in Counseling and Mental Health at Northwest University. He specializes in working with teens, young and older adult males, and couples. Christian draws from a variety of evidence-based approaches including Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Attachment, Family Systems model, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy.
Christian St. Jacques is a licensed mental health care associate (LMHCA) in Washington State who received his Masters in Counseling and Mental Health at Northwest University. He specializes in working with teens, young and older adult males, and couples. Christian draws from a variety of evidence-based approaches including Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT), Attachment, Family Systems model, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Therapy.
![Photo of Pacwest Counseling Pllc, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3366ec84-8da5-441a-8bd3-b2a85caa703e/1/320x400.png)
Anxiety/depression, PTSD/trauma, peri-post partum issues, fertility struggles, life/work transitions, relationship challenges, and grief counseling are my primary areas of work. I use Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and Lifespan Integration to help resolve trauma and painful memories causing your anxiety and depression. I utilize Gottman andEmotionally Focused Therapy in my work with couples.
Anxiety/depression, PTSD/trauma, peri-post partum issues, fertility struggles, life/work transitions, relationship challenges, and grief counseling are my primary areas of work. I use Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and Lifespan Integration to help resolve trauma and painful memories causing your anxiety and depression. I utilize Gottman andEmotionally Focused Therapy in my work with couples.
![Photo of France Dutra, MA, LMHC, CEDS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e947baa9-dcb7-4c2a-bd6d-387c8c8e36e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Additional approaches include Internal Family Systems, family/attachment systems, solution-focused and person-centered, to create a unique approach that will fit your needs.
Begin your healing journey! It takes courage to seek help. You have taken the first step. As licensed mental health counselor and eating disorder specialist with over 12 years of experience, I am here to listen to your unique story and understand your specific needs to overcome fears and shame, while guiding you to uncover the very best in you - The real you! With personalized care providing support and understanding, allowing a safe space where your voice is heard and valued. Holistic approach, integrating mind, body, and spirit in the healing journey. Faith integration for those interested, offering a Christian perspective.
Additional approaches include Internal Family Systems, family/attachment systems, solution-focused and person-centered, to create a unique approach that will fit your needs.
Begin your healing journey! It takes courage to seek help. You have taken the first step. As licensed mental health counselor and eating disorder specialist with over 12 years of experience, I am here to listen to your unique story and understand your specific needs to overcome fears and shame, while guiding you to uncover the very best in you - The real you! With personalized care providing support and understanding, allowing a safe space where your voice is heard and valued. Holistic approach, integrating mind, body, and spirit in the healing journey. Faith integration for those interested, offering a Christian perspective.
![Photo of Meagan McKee - Meagan McKee Counseling, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c59879c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I endeavor to walk with my clients - to provide clarity and insight as they navigate the waters of their journey....be it loss of a loved one, conflict or codependency in valued relationships, anxiety and depression, trauma or abuse, or major shifts in family systems. Whatever your challenges may be, I’m here to support you.
I endeavor to walk with my clients - to provide clarity and insight as they navigate the waters of their journey....be it loss of a loved one, conflict or codependency in valued relationships, anxiety and depression, trauma or abuse, or major shifts in family systems. Whatever your challenges may be, I’m here to support you.
![Photo of Hannah Abbott, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b1121c2-38e9-44ca-9e9b-60f860716e02/2/320x400.jpeg)
Has life left you disappointed? My desire is to empower you to live the present and content life you dream of. I employ a warm, empathetic, & holistic approach with my clients. My counseling methods include Family Systems Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in order to equip you to live a life that aligns with your values & compassionately work with what is outside of your control. I want to help you feel equipped to bravely face life's inevitable disappointments. My general practice areas include working with women, students, and couples. I specialize in relationship issues, grief, self-esteem, anxiety, and sexual abuse.
Has life left you disappointed? My desire is to empower you to live the present and content life you dream of. I employ a warm, empathetic, & holistic approach with my clients. My counseling methods include Family Systems Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy in order to equip you to live a life that aligns with your values & compassionately work with what is outside of your control. I want to help you feel equipped to bravely face life's inevitable disappointments. My general practice areas include working with women, students, and couples. I specialize in relationship issues, grief, self-esteem, anxiety, and sexual abuse.
![Photo of Pamela Bryan, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c955629-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Pam is also an Internal Family Systems informed therapist, (IFS Circle).
Pamela Bryan is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State and a Qualified Alcoholism Counselor. She graduated from Seattle Pacific University in 1989, with a Master's of Science in Counseling. Pam is a seasoned therapist, having worked with trauma survivors for over 25 years.
Pam is also an Internal Family Systems informed therapist, (IFS Circle).
Pamela Bryan is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington State and a Qualified Alcoholism Counselor. She graduated from Seattle Pacific University in 1989, with a Master's of Science in Counseling. Pam is a seasoned therapist, having worked with trauma survivors for over 25 years.
![Photo of Shauna Fithian, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/182b81aa-dd1f-4931-873e-4e2197ec0040/3/320x400.png)
Welcome to the first step on your path to healing—whether it's for yourself, your child, or your family. As a licensed psychotherapist with specialized training in trauma, I am dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment to explore the complexities of your life and relationships. My approach integrates the empowering principles of cognitive behavior therapy, family systems therapy, and attachment theory, all from a strengths-based perspective.
Welcome to the first step on your path to healing—whether it's for yourself, your child, or your family. As a licensed psychotherapist with specialized training in trauma, I am dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment to explore the complexities of your life and relationships. My approach integrates the empowering principles of cognitive behavior therapy, family systems therapy, and attachment theory, all from a strengths-based perspective.
![Photo of Catherine Garrow, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ab715b1a-dad2-4cd6-8c4a-11fe0eafc485/3/320x400.jpeg)
Catherine Garrow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I work from various perspectives, including CBT, TF-CBT, Psychodynamic, Family Systems, Strength-Based, and Person-Centered Therapy.
Changes and transitions in our lives can provide opportunities for growth and insight. My approach is tailored to each client's need- whether you have a specific goal or need a supportive space. Everyone has inherent strength that can be drawn upon. Our work together will center around diminishing your struggles and increasing your enjoyment of life.
I work from various perspectives, including CBT, TF-CBT, Psychodynamic, Family Systems, Strength-Based, and Person-Centered Therapy.
Changes and transitions in our lives can provide opportunities for growth and insight. My approach is tailored to each client's need- whether you have a specific goal or need a supportive space. Everyone has inherent strength that can be drawn upon. Our work together will center around diminishing your struggles and increasing your enjoyment of life.
![Photo of Galit Arad-Trutner, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c38a7c9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Galit Arad-Trutner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033
Not accepting new clients
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Do relationships in your life feel challenging? We all need a little help sometimes with what life serves us. sometimes parts of us are working really hard to keep going, while other parts seem to be in the way. All parts of you are truly welcomed here, and through the lens of IFS (Internal Family Systems) and its tools you will get a chance to get to know and love yourself from the inside out. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment as we explore these parts of you, and find a path to your goals and a happier more fulfilling life.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression? Do relationships in your life feel challenging? We all need a little help sometimes with what life serves us. sometimes parts of us are working really hard to keep going, while other parts seem to be in the way. All parts of you are truly welcomed here, and through the lens of IFS (Internal Family Systems) and its tools you will get a chance to get to know and love yourself from the inside out. My goal is to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment as we explore these parts of you, and find a path to your goals and a happier more fulfilling life.
![Photo of Christie Driskell, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dceb768-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Christie Driskell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033 (Online Only)
I use CBT, Feminist Therapy, Family Systems, Group Psychotherapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Positive Psychology.
I have 30 years of experience helping clients to identify and heal the sources of discomfort that bring them to counseling. Whether their concerning issues are situational, biochemical, or a long standing pattern of behavior, my approach is to always start with where the client is and what they are wanting out of counseling. I have extensive experience working with late teens and adults, both men and women. My practice includes individuals and couples work which also includes the LGBTQ community.
I use CBT, Feminist Therapy, Family Systems, Group Psychotherapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Positive Psychology.
I have 30 years of experience helping clients to identify and heal the sources of discomfort that bring them to counseling. Whether their concerning issues are situational, biochemical, or a long standing pattern of behavior, my approach is to always start with where the client is and what they are wanting out of counseling. I have extensive experience working with late teens and adults, both men and women. My practice includes individuals and couples work which also includes the LGBTQ community.
15 Second Videos
Lucinda Bennewith-Davis
Amy O'Neill
Novo Life Counseling
Kaleb D Sinclair
Orliyah Finnegan Licensed Mft-Art Therapist
Liliana Tackett
Traverse Therapy Services
Hope and Pearl Counseling - Jessica Dacus
Shar Kunovsky
Jen Reisinger
Daniel McKenzie
Jenna Rumberger
Kate Schroeder
Mateja Jagodic
Sara Chandler
Machelle Miller
Stephanie Diltz
Justin Ibrahim
![Photo of Rena Chinn, MACP, MBA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47ac42bb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
For trauma processing, I also offer EMDR, Internal Family Systems and somatic work.
I am available to help you heal, navigate relationships and transitions, and discover why you may face the same challenges again and again. If you feel trapped, uneasy or stalled in making decisions, I can help. The stresses of life squeeze our ability to think clearly and feel at the same time. As a result, our emotions rule us, resulting in depression, anxiety, anger, and relationship difficulties. I use evidence based practices, such as ACT and DBT to help clients regulate their emotions and reach their goals.
For trauma processing, I also offer EMDR, Internal Family Systems and somatic work.
I am available to help you heal, navigate relationships and transitions, and discover why you may face the same challenges again and again. If you feel trapped, uneasy or stalled in making decisions, I can help. The stresses of life squeeze our ability to think clearly and feel at the same time. As a result, our emotions rule us, resulting in depression, anxiety, anger, and relationship difficulties. I use evidence based practices, such as ACT and DBT to help clients regulate their emotions and reach their goals.
![Photo of Madeline Berry, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b27ee67-6bcb-4d7c-bd0d-825e5892ac09/3/320x400.jpeg)
Evidence-based modalities of treatment are foundational to my work and I draw upon theories such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Theory and Narrative Therapy.
You may feel overwhelmed by anxious thoughts, or wondering if your relationship with food is healthy. You may be feeling disconnected from your partner, or even from yourself. I offer a space to explore and process these experiences, to learn skills to help you cope, and to have a partner alongside you as you figure it out. I believe the relationship I build with my clients is important, because making sure you feel accepted, safe and heard matters.
Evidence-based modalities of treatment are foundational to my work and I draw upon theories such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical-Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Family Systems Theory and Narrative Therapy.
You may feel overwhelmed by anxious thoughts, or wondering if your relationship with food is healthy. You may be feeling disconnected from your partner, or even from yourself. I offer a space to explore and process these experiences, to learn skills to help you cope, and to have a partner alongside you as you figure it out. I believe the relationship I build with my clients is important, because making sure you feel accepted, safe and heard matters.
![Photo of Whitnee Chavez, MA, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c44f914-e1e2-4159-b552-92478e1187c7/3/320x400.jpeg)
Whitnee Chavez
Licensed Mental Health Counselor , MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98033 (Online Only)
I approach all clients from a person-centered, multi-cultural, trauma-focused, and family systems perspective.
Changing your life for the better is rewarding and possible! You most likely came here looking for emotional and practical support and tools. I am here to work with you. Together, we can work on your individual wants and needs, life transitions, and social dynamics. I work with adults, teens 15+, and diverse and fluid families. My focus is mainly life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar 1 & 2, ADHD, and PTSD/ trauma.
I approach all clients from a person-centered, multi-cultural, trauma-focused, and family systems perspective.
Changing your life for the better is rewarding and possible! You most likely came here looking for emotional and practical support and tools. I am here to work with you. Together, we can work on your individual wants and needs, life transitions, and social dynamics. I work with adults, teens 15+, and diverse and fluid families. My focus is mainly life transitions, anxiety, depression, bipolar 1 & 2, ADHD, and PTSD/ trauma.
![Photo of Maria Costello (Individual And Couples Therapist), LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a657703-01b5-4134-afde-ac47bf7689dc/2/320x400.jpeg)
Maria Costello (Individual And Couples Therapist)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98034 (Online Only)
I use therapeutic interventions drawn from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and Somatic Experiencing.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples struggling with trauma, codependency, and alcohol and substance use. I understand the interconnected nature of these challenges and the profound impact they can have on one's life and ability to cope with day to day stressors. I work collaboratively with clients to navigate through their struggles and cultivate resilience, self-awareness, and empowerment. Whether you're seeking support in breaking free from addictive patterns, unraveling the dynamics of codependency, or healing from past traumas, I'm here to provide a safe and compassionate space for your journey towards healing.
I use therapeutic interventions drawn from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and Somatic Experiencing.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples struggling with trauma, codependency, and alcohol and substance use. I understand the interconnected nature of these challenges and the profound impact they can have on one's life and ability to cope with day to day stressors. I work collaboratively with clients to navigate through their struggles and cultivate resilience, self-awareness, and empowerment. Whether you're seeking support in breaking free from addictive patterns, unraveling the dynamics of codependency, or healing from past traumas, I'm here to provide a safe and compassionate space for your journey towards healing.
![Photo of Lindsay Regan, MA, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8dd18965-f7e8-468d-9209-c387d67bb74d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use a relational and trauma-informed approach, drawing upon evidence-based models such as attachment theory, emotion focused therapy, and family systems theory.
We all experience suffering, distress, or relational difficulty at different times in our lives. I work from a Christian worldview and believe that healing and growth take place within supportive relationships. Thus, I seek to offer you a safe and trusted space to process the vulnerable parts of your story. We will collaboratively explore relationships and patterns that have influenced current behaviors, thoughts, beliefs, and feelings. The goal will be to uncover the root causes of your concerns and address past wounds that keep you stuck and hold you back from the flourishing and wholeness you were created for.
I use a relational and trauma-informed approach, drawing upon evidence-based models such as attachment theory, emotion focused therapy, and family systems theory.
We all experience suffering, distress, or relational difficulty at different times in our lives. I work from a Christian worldview and believe that healing and growth take place within supportive relationships. Thus, I seek to offer you a safe and trusted space to process the vulnerable parts of your story. We will collaboratively explore relationships and patterns that have influenced current behaviors, thoughts, beliefs, and feelings. The goal will be to uncover the root causes of your concerns and address past wounds that keep you stuck and hold you back from the flourishing and wholeness you were created for.
![Photo of Angela R. Schellenberg, LMHC, EMDR, K-8 cer, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c606db55-1721-4aff-95be-c9f8cc0cf21a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angela R. Schellenberg
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR, K-8 cer
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kirkland, WA 98033 (Online Only)
My approach to counseling is holistic, humanistic and client-centered. I am trained in EMDR and trauma. I work with you and together we create an individualized approach to counseling that supports your goals. My professional background is in Trauma, PTSD, Grief, Loss, Early Parent loss. Anxiety, Depression. CBT, Family Systems Counseling, Narrative Therapy, Restorative Retelling, EFT, Matrix Reprinting, Multicultural Cultural Counseling, Feminist, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Since 2000, I have had the experience of living abroad as an elementary K-8 Certified teacher in Shanghai, China, Chiangmai, and Saudi Arabia.
My approach to counseling is holistic, humanistic and client-centered. I am trained in EMDR and trauma. I work with you and together we create an individualized approach to counseling that supports your goals. My professional background is in Trauma, PTSD, Grief, Loss, Early Parent loss. Anxiety, Depression. CBT, Family Systems Counseling, Narrative Therapy, Restorative Retelling, EFT, Matrix Reprinting, Multicultural Cultural Counseling, Feminist, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Since 2000, I have had the experience of living abroad as an elementary K-8 Certified teacher in Shanghai, China, Chiangmai, and Saudi Arabia.
![Photo of Rosa Nicole Booker, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86fb155c-4307-4af7-92c4-052b98a58d13/2/320x400.png)
Rosa Nicole Booker
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MS
Verified Verified
Kirkland, WA 98034
Not accepting new clients
I use family systems theory, narrative therapy specifically, creating new narratives and personalized solutions.
You made it this far! I really love working with couples and families on communication and intimacy. I focus on strengths and building skills to produce healthy bonds that last. Together, we'll discover ways to improve understanding, interactions, and connectedness. I support families who want to function with more meaning and uncover hidden values. I come with Christian experience and enjoy helping families explore ways they can incorporate their personal belief systems. My commitment is making space for clients to identify personal and cultural sources of spiritual and natural encouragement to take part in the healing.
I use family systems theory, narrative therapy specifically, creating new narratives and personalized solutions.
You made it this far! I really love working with couples and families on communication and intimacy. I focus on strengths and building skills to produce healthy bonds that last. Together, we'll discover ways to improve understanding, interactions, and connectedness. I support families who want to function with more meaning and uncover hidden values. I come with Christian experience and enjoy helping families explore ways they can incorporate their personal belief systems. My commitment is making space for clients to identify personal and cultural sources of spiritual and natural encouragement to take part in the healing.
![Photo of Larisa P Whipple, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/452aa032-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe the that therapy is an opportunity to explore ones inner world, express feelings and concerns, heal from pain and suffering, and learn how to harness a more enriching and fulfilling life. I have worked with people from all backgrounds and walks of life and believe that we all have the possibility to improve our lives. Suffering is part of the shared human experience, but how we deal with our unique circumstances differentiates each one of us.
I believe the that therapy is an opportunity to explore ones inner world, express feelings and concerns, heal from pain and suffering, and learn how to harness a more enriching and fulfilling life. I have worked with people from all backgrounds and walks of life and believe that we all have the possibility to improve our lives. Suffering is part of the shared human experience, but how we deal with our unique circumstances differentiates each one of us.
![Photo of Hannah Rea, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78ae0cf1-a90c-4d42-9ee1-f22387720e7b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the Seattle area with over 10 years of experience. I provide evidence-based consultations, therapy, and assessments with a strength-based perspective to provide families and individuals with skills and support. I help caregivers and their children as they seek services, assessments, and new ways of interacting. I have a particularly strong background in working with families focused on neurodiversity (e.g., autism, ADHD), behavioral and emotional difficulties, anxiety, and genetic syndrome concerns. I currently have no waitlist for therapy or assessments.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the Seattle area with over 10 years of experience. I provide evidence-based consultations, therapy, and assessments with a strength-based perspective to provide families and individuals with skills and support. I help caregivers and their children as they seek services, assessments, and new ways of interacting. I have a particularly strong background in working with families focused on neurodiversity (e.g., autism, ADHD), behavioral and emotional difficulties, anxiety, and genetic syndrome concerns. I currently have no waitlist for therapy or assessments.
See more therapy options for Kirkland
Nearby Family Systems Therapists Searches for Kirkland
- Bellevue
- Bothell
- Kenmore
- Lake Forest Park
- Medina
- Mill Creek
- Mountlake Terrace
- Redmond
- Sammamish
- Seattle
- Shoreline
- Woodinville
Family Systems Therapists
Family Systems therapists view problems within the family as the result not of particular members' behaviors, but of the family's group dynamic. The family is seen as a complex system having its own language, roles, rules, beliefs, needs and patterns. The therapist helps each individual member understand how their childhood family operated, their role in that system, and how that experience has shaped their role in the current family.