Systemic training for healthcare professionals: the Chicago Center For Family Health approach

There has been increasing interest in family-centered, collaborative, biopsychosocial models of care by health and mental health professionals and consumers. This trend has led to growing demand and development of specialized training in family systems approaches to health care. This article describes the Families, Illness, and Collaborative Healthcare programs developed at the University of Chicago affiliate, the Chicago Center for Family Health. The program philosophy is guided by the following principles: a systems orientation focused on the family, a Family Systems Illness Model, a family resilience framework, a family-centered collaborative model of health care, and a social justice and advocacy orientation. Specific training components that implement these principles are described, including intensive certificate and fellowships; workshops, conferences, and institutes; and consultation and training services for community-based organizations. Discussion includes professional networking opportunities, funding challenges, and policy recommendations.