Bowen Family Theory

I work with clients from the Bowen family systems theory. This theory provides a framework for understanding the emotional process in the family and one’s part in it. This is useful to people experiencing symptoms, such as relationship issues, marriage difficulties, divorce, parent/ child problems, and family crisis and associated problems like anxiety, depression and related issues.

Families have patterns like the brain has patterns. These patterns are part of the emotional process operate outside of our awareness. Through learning about these patterns and the part the individual plays in these patterns, one can learn how to adjust their reactions.

Bowen theory explains the patterns of emotional behavior that operates within in all families, viewing the patterns of relationships as a system. The family is viewed as an emotional unit.

When one is able to focus on self and see their own reactivity and relationship patterns in their family one can take positive steps to change these patterns. Bowen family systems therapy is a type of therapy where one learns about these patterns and then takes action steps to make necessary changes.

The reason one would want to use this approach in working with a therapist is although these patterns seem simple, when facing the emotional process in one's own family, taking these steps is difficult and takes courage. A therapist can help with the objectivity needed to change the established patterns of behavior.

More information about Bowen family theory can be found at The Bowen Center's website: www.thebowencenter.org/