KIDS ON THE COUCH

Family therapy was not mentioned in “Kids on the Couch.” The family therapist attempts to draw upon the strengths (which are often unacknowledged) of each family member and redirect the family’s energy to avoid the labeling of an “identified patient.” When a child of any age learns to bear such a label and incorporates it into his or her self-image, he or she may carry the stigma and effects of the label for many years. Family therapy reinforces the family unit by allowing each member to share in the challenge of change and in the support of each other during this process. If one family member is suffering, certainly other family members are also suffering.

MARSHA JACOBS

FAMILY COORDINATOR, SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA COUNSELING CENTER

Los Angeles