Tapping into Strengths - Page 5


In the subsequent sessions, the family focused more on themes of belonging and understanding. They noted behavior problems and briefly discussed how they should be handled. As problem behaviors gradually diminished, the therapist pointed out how positive that was. In the final month of treatment, Daniel's behavior didn't come up at all, having given way to discussions of his adjustment to school, family goals, and how to have lighter parent–child conversations.

Our strength as clinicians is that, as outsiders, we can see what the family doesn't see. It's the awakening of a vision in our clients, rather than any concrete recommendations or techniques, that constitutes the true core of resilience-based therapy.

Michael Graziano, M.Ed., L.M.F.T., is a clinical member and approved supervisor with the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy. He's the division director of the Family First Program at Child Guidance Resource Centers in Havertown, Pennsylvania, and a senior faculty member at the Philadelphia Child and Family Therapy Training Center. Contact: mgraziano@cgrc.org. Letters to the Editor about this department may be e-mailed to letters@psychnetworker.org.

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