| Abstract: | While the structural and strategic family approaches have many similarities, their espoused differences have sometimes left therapists in a position of having to choose between them. However, they may be more compatible than has commonly been believed. This paper reviews their basic concepts and operations and presents a model for integrating both approaches in a concurrent and contrapuntal fashion, drawing on the best and most appropriate features of each. Case examples are used to clarify points. Special attention is given to the technique of "strategic disengagement." A set of rules is provided for decision-making as to when one approach or the other might be applied. |
