Relational Family Therapy: The Systemic, Interpersonal, and Intrapsychic Experience

by Christian Gostečnik (Author)

Relational Family Therapy introduces a cutting-edge family and couple therapy model that synthesizes relational theories and integrates object relations theory with interpersonal psychoanalysis and self psychology. The model holds that individuals deal with conflicts rooted in the frustrated and threatening environment they grew up in by later forming intimate relationships that are comparable to the core experiences from their primary family systems. The book outlines the three levels of experience―systemic, interpersonal, and intrapsychic―and provide concrete ways for the therapist to address client problems and promote affect regulation. Chapters include transcripts of actual family therapy sessions as well as genograms so readers can see the model in action.

About the Author
Christian Gostečnik, OFM, PhD, is a professor in the Family Studies and Marriage and Family Therapy programs at the University of Ljubljana. He is also a Franciscan priest, clinical psychologist, and practicing marriage and family therapist.

Review
The author has succeded in creating an innovative therapeutic approach for treating families and partners. Relational Family Therapy provides a wide paradigmatical frame that captures the wholeness of the individual's existence in the context of family and marital relationships, as well as specific psychotherapeutic techniques and interventions for clinical use. This is an innovative breakthrough in marriage and family therapy, and I recommend this book to all therapists who want to more deeply understand their client's experience. Robert Cvetek, PhD, specialist, marital and family therapy; associate professor, faculty of theology, head of department of martial and family therapy, Univerza of Ljubljana, Slovenia

Professor Gostecnik translates theory straight into clinical practice, amply illustrating with clinical cases from his daily routine. The present book will serve students as well as clinical practitioners, counselors, and psychotherapists in their everyday routine. This book is a must for every professional interested in contemporary clinical psychology as well as for all striving for cutting-edge scientific information on relationships. Tadej Battelino, MD, PhD, professor of pediatrics, UMC University Children's Hospital, Ljubljana, Slovenia.