The Relationship Of Family Theory To Family Therapy*

This paper deals with the knowledge and thinking of the therapist, who is the link between theory and therapy. Based on the self-analysis of a single family consultation interview, the various theories employed and the decision points are described. It is suggested that therapists can espouse many theories or single ones, but are always confronted with difficult decisions. Some features of the field of family therapy which foster an overevaluation of science and certitude are discussed.