A Simple Structural structural Family Therapy Intervention I Use All The Time

As a Clinical Director, Supervisor, and Family Systems Therapist,my career has been all about helping parents and teens nurture strong relationships. I also find immense joy in sharing my knowledge with fellow therapists. Today, I want to introduce you to a powerful intervention rooted in Structural Family Systems theory: the "House Meeting."

The Family as a Band

Imagine the family you're working with as a band, with each member playing a distinct instrument. How harmonious is their music? Are they in sync, or is there discord? Would they make it to "America's Got Talent," or do they need a new direction?

The House Meeting: A Structural Family Systems Intervention

Drawing from the band metaphor, consider a band that hasn't practiced before a performance. The outcome is predictable: a lack of cohesion and harmony. Similarly, families benefit from regular "rehearsals" or meetings to ensure they function optimally. This is the essence of the "House Meeting."

Goals of Structural Family Systems Therapy

1. Increase Flexible Transactions (Communication): Promote open dialogue among family members.
2. Modify the Role of the Identified Patient (IP): Shift the focus from the IP's issues to their strengths.
3. Clarify Boundaries: Establish clear roles and responsibilities within the family.

The Origin of the House Meeting As An Intervention

The concept of the House Meeting was inspired by my experience running Residential Treatment Centers. In these settings, it's crucial for clients to feel seen and heard. Weekly house meetings provided a platform for open communication, building trust, and fostering a sense of community.

The House Meeting in Practice

The House Meeting is a structured, formatted gathering that promotes engagement, addresses concerns, celebrates progress, and provides a safe space for expression. It sends a powerful message to children: "Your voice matters."

Key Components:

1. Organization: Structural Family Systems emphasizes a clear family hierarchy. The House Meeting reinforces the parents' leadership role, helping to reorganize the family structure.
2. Communication: The meeting revolves around open dialogue. Members discuss what worked, what didn't, and their aspirations for the upcoming week.
3. Boundaries: The House Meeting establishes clear boundaries, teaching children the importance of timing and appropriateness when making requests.
4. Hierarchy: Parents use the meeting to remind children of house rules, reinforcing their position at the top of the family hierarchy.

The Role of the Identified Patient (IP)

One of the primary goals of family systems therapy is to shift the perception of the IP. Instead of focusing solely on their challenges, the House Meeting encourages the celebration of their achievements. This reframing is crucial for the overall well-being of the IP and the family as a whol

The House Meeting is a potent intervention that aligns with the core goals of Structural Family Systems therapy. It promotes communication, clarifies boundaries, and modifies the role of the IP. By implementing this strategy, therapists can guide families towards harmony, understanding, and growth.