Staging Reciprocal Metaphors in a Couples Group

This paper describes an approach to couples therapy based on defining the reciprocal positions of each spouse in relation to a central theme. These positions and the theme around which they are organized are crystallized into visible forms through staged metaphors. When studied in relation to one another, the metaphors provide a holistic view of the relationship and are used as an artifice for change.     

Family Themes: Transmission and Transformation

This article describes a method for doing therapy that uses multisystemic themes that combine meaning and action to facilitate therapeutic change. By identifying central themes that operate at the individual, dyadic, triadic, whole family, inter-generational, and sociocultural levels, the therapist is able to develop effective interview questions and design useful interventions. In this method, behavioral symptoms are framed as a current manifestation of an overarching theme. This orientation enables family and therapist to de-pathologize symptoms and work collaboratively toward change. Case examples from a wide variety of families with differing presenting problems, interactional patterns, three-generational histories, and cultural backgrounds, illustrate the efficacy of the method.     

Measured Effects of Primary Prevention Strategies

A meta-analysis of 40 primary prevention studies provided an encouraging assessment of past efforts and clear challenges for the future.