Training Family Therapists to Work with Children: Competence,Relevance, and Interest Ratings in the Field of Family Therapy

The main purpose of this investigation was to conduct a preliminary needs assessment in the field of marriage and family therapy regarding perceived training needs for working with children in family therapy. Data for the needs assessment was collected using a survey methodology. The needs assessment gathered information on the level of competence, level of relevance, and level of training interest in the field of marriage and family therapy for specific child-related content areas. The implications of these findings on clinical practice and training programs are discussed. The limitations of the study and recommendations for future research are provided.