Solution-Focused Therapies, the Key for Building Stronger Stepfamilies
Pervasive cultural images of the "wicked stepmother" and the "angry ex" make it nearly impossible for individuals to enter blended family structures with a healthy outlook. Ensnared in a cycle of negative thought patterns that feed into destructive behaviors toward each other, stepfamilies desperately need therapists who can help them fight through these traps and build stronger relationships.

Using humor, and clinical and personal experiences, fused with solution-focused therapies, this webinar explores the specific needs and challenges of stepfamilies and teaches clinical interventions you can integrate immediately into your clinical work with them. Come learn about the revised definitions of stepfamilies and how to apply an evidence-based structured session approach for working with them.

Course Content

A. Understanding the Modern Stepfamily
  1. Major myths about blended families
  2. Common (and uncommon) stepfamily configurations
    a. Most difficult to adjust
    b. Statistically most likely to divorce
B. Tips For a Structured Session Approach
  1. Timing is crucial
  2. Using Genograms
  3. Addressing unrealistic beliefs
  4. Neutralizing the antagonistic ex
C. Therapeutic Interventions
  1. Theoretical basis
  2. Creative homework ideas
  3. Use of the DBT model
  4. Use of Solution-focused therapy
  5. Fusing DBT and Solution-focused therapy
D. Legal Issues and Management
  1. Custody changes
  2. Money matters in today’s economy
  3. Dealing with a subpoena
  4. Access to medical records
  5. Implications of legal testimony on treatment
  6. Ethical considerations