CNL 521 Counseling Couples and Families Entire Course
Topic 1: Foundations, Evolution, Techniques, and Ethics of Family Therapy
CNL 521 Topic 1 DQ 1 (Obj. 1.1 and 1.3)
Describe how individually-focused group therapy influenced family therapy and how family therapy has morphed into a relational and systemic approach.
This discussion question is informed by the following CACREP Standard: 5.F.2.p. Record keeping, third party reimbursement, and other practice and management considerations in marriage, couple, and family counseling.
CNL 521 Topic 1 DQ 2 (Obj. 1.3)
Given the commonality of blended families, how do you decide who should be included in family therapy? What ethical considerations need to be made when determining who to involve in therapy? What are some ways in which confidentiality and third-party reimbursement challenges may be navigated?
This discussion question is informed by the following CACREP Standard: 5.F.2.p. Record keeping, third party reimbursement, and other practice and management considerations in marriage, couple, and family counseling
CNL 521 Topic 1 Code of Ethics Worksheet (Obj. 1.3)
Review the AAMFT Code of Ethics. Complete the “Code of Ethics” Worksheet.
You are not required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite.
CNL 521 Topic 1 Vargas Family Case Study: Meet the Family (Obj. 1.2)
Read “Topic 1: Vargas Case Study” and imagine that you are going to conduct a first interview with this family. Write a 700-1,050-word paper that addresses the following:
Discuss how you would build alliance with this family.
Develop some hypothesis about the family patterns that you believe are maintaining the problem.
Conclude by outlining your expectations for each phase of treatment (rapport building, assessment and intervention, and closure).
While APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and documentation of sources should be presented using APA formatting guidelines, which can be found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.
This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. Refer to the LopesWrite Technical Support articles for Helpance.
Topic 2: Fundamental Concepts, Psychoanalytic, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
CNL 521 Topic 2 DQ 1 (Obj. 2.1 and 2.3)
What are the pros and cons of insisting that the entire family attend the initial consultation? What would you do if you learned that some of the family members refused to engage in therapy stating that the presenting problem, a recent traumatic event, did not negatively impact them?
This discussion question is informed by the following CACREP Standard: 5.F.2.g. Impact of crisis and trauma on marriages, couples, and families.
CNL 521 Topic 2 DQ 2 (Obj. 2.1)
Create a list of suggestions for cutting down on the no-show and cancellation rates of families scheduled for therapy. Which items on your list would you be comfortable instituting and why?
CNL 521 Topic 2 Vargas Family Case Study: Second Session (Obj. 2.2)
Review the Topic 2: Vargas Family Case Study. Write a 750-1,000-word paper in which you demonstrate how therapists apply psychoanalytic and cognitive-behavioral theories to analyze the presenting problem(s) and choose appropriate interventions.
Be sure to answer the following questions in your paper:
What are the two main presenting problems for the Vargas family?
How are the problems maintained?
From the psychoanalytic perspective
From the cognitive-behavioral perspective
What interventions would you plan to use in your next session?
From the psychoanalytic perspective (identify and describe your plan for two interventions)
From the cognitive-behavioral perspective (identify and describe your plan for two interventions)
What is the role of the counselor in the change process?
From the psychoanalytic perspective
From the cognitive-behavioral perspective
Cite at least three academic sources (peer-reviewed journal articles, books, etc.).
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required.
This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. Refer to the LopesWrite Technical Support articles for Helpance.
CNL 521 Topic 2 Vargas Family Cultural Formulation Interview and Reflection (Obj. 2.1)
Part One: Cultural Formulation Interview
Read “Topic 2: Vargas Case Study.” Select one of the Vargas family members and complete a Cultural Formulation Interview based on the “Cultural Formulation” section in the DSM-5 and based on the new information learned in session two of the Vargas case study. Refer to the attached CFI form for guidance and complete the CFI template.
Part Two: Cultural Diversity Reflection
Write a 200 to 250-word response about how in a counseling session with the Vargas family you can attend to multiculturalism and diversity. Please refer to the cultural diversity section of the counselor dispositional expectations document for guidance.
APA format is not required, but solid academic writing is expected.
This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
You are not required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite.
CNL 521 Topic 3 DQ 1 (Obj. 3.2)
Provide examples of how you would use a genogram and when in the course in treatment it may be most effective.
CNL 521 Topic 3 DQ 2 (Obj. 3.1)
Each family has unique ways of interacting, many of which you, as a therapist, might find uncomfortable. What patterns of family interactions would you find most challenging and how would you appropriately manage these biases?
CNL 521 Topic 3 Personal Family Interview (Obj. 3.1 and 3.2)
Conduct an interview with one or both of your parents about your family history. If this is not possible, consider interviewing your spouse’s parents or another older family member such as grandparents, uncles, aunts, etc. If family is not available to interview, please see your instructor for suggestions.
Note key family dynamics, relationship triangles, and relationship processes (instances of emotional fusion or reactive distancing, general level of differentiation in the family, etc.). Be sure to ask couples how they met and about their courtship.
Present your findings in an informal paper of 500-750 words.
Conclude by reflecting on your experience. Did the Bowen structure shed light on any family structures previously unknown?
APA format is not required, but solid academic writing is expected.
This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. Refer to the LopesWrite Technical Support articles for Helpance.
CNL 521 Topic 3 Vargas Family Case Study: Genogram (Obj. 3.2)
Read “Topic 3: Vargas Family Case Study.” Based on the information gathered in the first three sessions, create a genogram for the Vargas family.
The genogram can be handwritten and scanned, completed as a PDF, or completed using Word tools to ensure it can uploaded to LoudCloud. Include the following in your genogram:
All family members referenced in the full case study
Include ages (if known), marriages, divorces, and deaths
Substance use identified
Mental illness identified
All relationship dynamics
You are not required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite.
CNL 521 Topic 4 DQ 1 (Obj. 4.1 and 4.2)
What types of client problems are best suited for structural family therapy? Explain.
CNL 521 Topic 4 DQ 2 (Obj. 4.1 and 4.2)
Traditionally, fathers have been seen as disengaged and mothers enmeshed. What cultural and societal factors can you identify that challenge this traditional perception?
CNL 521 Topic 4 Vargas Family Case Study: Fourth Session (Obj. 4.2)
Read “Topic 4: Vargas Family Case Study.” Write a 750-1,000-word paper in which you demonstrate how therapists apply structural family therapy theory to analyze the presenting problems and choose appropriate interventions.
Be sure to answer the following questions in your paper:
What are two current presenting problems for the Vargas family?
How are the problems maintained according to the structural family therapy perspective?
What structural interventions would you plan to use in your next session? (identify and describe your plan for two interventions)
What is the role of the counselor in the change process according to the structural family therapy perspective?
Cite at least three academic sources (peer-reviewed journal articles, books, etc.).
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required.
This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. Refer to the LopesWrite Technical Support articles for Helpance.
CNL 521 Topic 5 DQ 1 (Obj. 5.1)
Discuss the role of the therapist and perceptions of the therapist’s responsibility for change when using a strategic family therapy model; consider the therapist’s role in MRI, Milan, Strategic-Haley, and Strategic-Madanes.
—– CNL 521 Topic 5 DQ 1 (Obj. 5.1)
Strategic family therapy models focus on achieving change in the family system through targeted interventions. In this approach, the therapist’s role is to identify patterns of communication and behavior that contribute to the presenting problem and to use strategic interventions to shift those patterns.
In the MRI (Mental Research Institute) model, the therapist is seen as an active agent of change who collaborates with the family to create therapeutic solutions. The therapist uses reframing to help family members see their problems in a new light and may prescribe tasks to help them break out of unproductive patterns.
In the Milan model, the therapist is seen as a neutral observer who maintains a systemic perspective and avoids taking sides in conflicts. The therapist uses circular questioning to explore the family’s beliefs and assumptions about the problem and to encourage them to consider alternative perspectives.
In the Strategic-Haley model, the therapist is seen as a strategic problem-solver who creates interventions that challenge family members to change their behavior. The therapist uses directives to shift the family’s patterns of interaction and may also use paradoxical interventions to disrupt the problem cycle.
In the Strategic-Madanes model, the therapist is seen as an expert who provides a roadmap for change. The therapist uses a range of interventions, including reframing, directives, and paradoxical interventions, to help the family achieve their goals.
In all of these models, the therapist is seen as an active agent of change who collaborates with the family to identify and address the problem. The therapist’s responsibility for change is to help the family recognize and shift their patterns of interaction in a way that promotes positive change.
CNL 521Topic 5 DQ 2 (Obj. 5.2)
Choose two strategic interventions, such as paradoxical interventions, you may consider to address issues when working with a family. What are some considerations to be made from the therapist’s point of view? Describe the process of considering these interventions. Discuss and explain.
—–
NL 521 Topic 5 DQ 2 (Obj. 5.2)
Paradoxical interventions are a type of strategic family therapy intervention that involves prescribing the symptom or problem behavior as a way of promoting change. Two examples of paradoxical interventions are symptom prescription and restraining.
When considering these interventions, the therapist must first determine if they are appropriate for the family’s situation. The therapist must also consider the family’s readiness for change, the potential consequences of the intervention, and the ethical implications of prescribing a problematic behavior.
In symptom prescription, the therapist encourages the family to continue with the problematic behavior or symptom in a way that is exaggerated or in a new context. This intervention is designed to make the behavior less appealing or to highlight its negative consequences.
In restraining, the therapist asks family members to intentionally engage in the problem behavior in a controlled environment or with specific rules. This intervention is designed to increase awareness of the behavior and to give family members a sense of control over it.
The therapist must carefully consider the potential consequences of these interventions, as they may exacerbate the problem or cause unintended harm. Additionally, the therapist must ensure that the intervention is consistent with their ethical responsibilities and aligns with the best interests of the family.
++++
CNL 521 Topic 5 Vargas Family Case Study: Fifth Session (Obj. 5.1 and 5.2)
Read “Topic 5: Vargas Family Case Study.” Write a 750-1,000-word paper in which you demonstrate how therapists apply Strategic Family Therapy theories to analyze the presenting problems and choose appropriate interventions.
Be sure to answer the following questions in your paper:
How would Jay Haley or Chloe Madanes approach the current presenting problem? Identify and describe two interventions that he/she may use and why.
How would an MRI-style therapist approach the current presenting problem? Identify and describe two interventions that would be used and why.
How would a Milan-style therapist approach the current presenting problem? Identify and describe two interventions that would be used and why.
Cite at least three academic sources (peer-reviewed journal articles, books, etc.).
Prepare this assignment according to the guidelines found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center. An abstract is not required.
This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. Refer to the LopesWrite Technical Support articles for Helpance.
CNL 521 Topic 6 DQ 1 (Obj. 6.1 and 6.2)
What are benefits and challenges of using experiential interventions with families?
CNL 521 Topic 6 DQ 2 (Obj. 6.2)
Research experiential modalities such as sand tray, play, equine, and art therapies. Discuss the modern applications of three of the experiential approaches you researched.
CNL 521 Topic 6 Vargas Family Case Study: Sixth Session (Obj. 6.1 and 6.2)
Read “Topic 6: Vargas Family Case Study.” Develop three experiential interventions that you would use with the Vargas family.
It’s time to get creative! You have noticed that the Vargas family struggles with emotional expression, particularly with congruent emotional expression (i.e., words, actions, and body language being congruent). Using the Experiential Interventions Template, create three unique experiential interventions that you would use with the family and describe how they would be helpful to the family. It may be helpful to refer to the library articles for ideas and inspiration, but do not copy existing interventions. Be sure to fully address each section in the template for each of the three interventions in your paper:
Title of your Intervention
General Goals
Materials Needed
Advance Preparation Needed
Description of the Intervention with the Vargas family
Discussion of the Benefits of the Intervention to the Vargas Family
References (if any)
While APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and documentation of sources should be presented using APA formatting guidelines, which can be found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.
This assignment uses a scoring guide. Please review the scoring guide prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. Refer to the LopesWrite Technical Support articles for Helpance.
CNL 521 Topic 7 DQ 1 (Obj. 7.2)
What are some examples of how narrative techniques could be effectively incorporated into the practice of other types of therapy?
CNL 521 Topic 7 DQ 2 (Obj. 7.1)
What are the types of clients and client problems you think are best suited for solution-focused therapy? Is this approach effective only with high functioning clients, or can it be used effectively to treat more serious problems (e.g., substance abuse, sexual abuse, personality disorders, or severe mental illness)?
CNL 521 Topic 7 Vargas Family Case Study: Narrative Therapy (Obj. 7.1 and 7.2)
Read “Topic 7: Vargas Family Case Study.”
Identify one member of the Vargas family whose dominant story could use some rewriting. Read the workshop notes on Reauthoring Conversations. https://dulwichcentre.com.au/michael-white-workshop-notes.pdf
Part 1: In 250-300 words, write a counseling note for the client’s file. In this note, describe any exceptions to the problem that you have identified and develop scaffolding questions to ask the client in your next session, one in their landscape of action and one in their landscape of identity.
Part 2: Put yourself in the client’s shoes and, as the client, write a reauthoring version of their story that is 500-750 words in length. It should incorporate the exceptions and responses to the scaffolding questions from Part 1. Use narrative language when applying this reauthoring technique.
While APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and documentation of sources should be presented using APA formatting guidelines, which can be found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.
This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
You are required to submit this assignment to LopesWrite. Refer to the LopesWrite Technical Support articles for Helpance.
—- Counseling Note:
Client Name: Mr. Vargas
Presenting Problem: Mr. Vargas reported that he is struggling to provide for his family financially and feels a sense of shame and failure. He has been experiencing anxiety and stress due to the financial strain.
Exceptions to the Problem: During the session, Mr. Vargas reported that he has been able to manage his stress by spending time with his family and engaging in activities that he enjoys. He also mentioned that his children are doing well in school and that he has a good relationship with his wife.
Scaffolding Questions:
Landscape of Action: Can you describe a time when you were able to overcome a financial obstacle in the past? What did you do to manage the situation, and what skills did you use?
Landscape of Identity: Can you tell me about a time when you felt proud of yourself, despite facing a difficult situation? How did you overcome that challenge, and what strengths did you use?
Reauthoring Version:
My name is Mr. Vargas, and I have been going through a difficult time providing for my family financially. I have been feeling ashamed and like a failure because of this, but during my counseling session, I realized that there are some exceptions to this problem. For example, spending time with my family and engaging in activities that I enjoy has helped me manage my stress. Additionally, my children are doing well in school, and I have a good relationship with my wife.
The therapist asked me some helpful questions to reframe my story. In thinking about my past, I remembered a time when I was able to overcome a financial obstacle by budgeting my expenses and being creative with my resources. This reminded me that I have skills and strengths that I can use to manage my current situation.
When the therapist asked me to think about a time when I felt proud of myself, I remembered a time when I completed a project at work that I thought was impossible. Despite feeling overwhelmed, I was able to break the task down into smaller steps and use my determination to finish it. This showed me that I am capable of overcoming challenges and that I have strengths that I can draw on.
As such, I am beginning to see that my dominant story of feeling like a failure and being unable to provide for my family is not the whole truth. There are exceptions to this problem, and I have strengths and skills that I can use to manage my situation. I feel more hopeful about the future and am looking forward to exploring this further in future counseling sessions.
++++++
CNL 521 Topic 8 DQ 1 (Obj. 8.1 and 8.2)
Research emotionally focused therapy (EFT) and identify two traditional family therapy models from which it was developed. Discuss ways to integrate this modality, typically a couple’s treatment, into a family system. How might the implementation and/or efficacy of this model impact those in same-sex relationships, and why?
This discussion question is informed by the following CACREP Standard: 5.F.2.e. Human sexuality and its effect on couple and family functioning.
CNl 521 Topic 8 DQ 2 (Obj. 8.2)
Based on your research and textbook readings, what three trends do you believe are evolving the practice of family therapy and why? How does culture impact these trends?
CNL 521 Topic 8 Current Trends and Integrative Models of Family Therapy (Obj. 8.2)
Review the provided literature regarding current trends and integrative models of family therapy. Research two evidence-based or integrative models of couples or family therapy and compose a 6-12-slide PowerPoint presentation to be shared with your class. Be sure to include the following elements for each of the two models:
A brief overview of the model
The target demographic and presenting concerns the model addresses
The research supporting the model
Please note: Online students need to include detailed speaker notes of what would be said if giving the presentation in person.
While APA style is not required for the body of this assignment, solid academic writing is expected, and documentation of sources should be presented using APA formatting guidelines, which can be found in the APA Style Guide, located in the Student Success Center.
This assignment uses a rubric. Please review the rubric prior to beginning the assignment to become familiar with the expectations for successful completion.
++++
Study Notes:
Topic 1: Foundations, Evolution, Techniques, and Ethics of Family Therapy
CNL 521 Topic 1 DQ 1 (Obj. 1.1 and 1.3)
Group therapy for individuals is credited with influencing the development of family therapy, as it facilitated the understanding that an individual’s behavior was influenced by their interactions within their larger social context. The shift to a relational and systemic approach in family therapy was driven by the recognition that the family is an interdependent system in which change in one member affects the whole. Systemic family therapy views the family as a unit of interaction and seeks to address problems as they present themselves in the context of the larger family system. This approach recognizes that family problems are not individual problems, but rather the result of patterns of interactions within the family.
CNL 521 Topic 1 DQ 2 (Obj. 1.3)
When working with blended families, it is essential to involve all members in therapy, including those from previous relationships, to facilitate the creation of a cohesive unit. However, ethical considerations must be made when determining who to involve in therapy. Clinicians must ensure that they are not perpetuating any abuse or neglect within the family system, and that their involvement is not harmful. Confidentiality is also an essential factor to consider, as it is crucial to maintain the privacy and trust of each family member. Third-party reimbursement challenges may be navigated by obtaining informed consent from all involved parties and ensuring that each member understands the implications of their involvement in therapy.
CNL 521 Topic 1 Code of Ethics Worksheet (Obj. 1.3)
The AAMFT Code of Ethics is designed to provide guidance to marriage and family therapists in their professional conduct. The Code includes ethical standards related to confidentiality, informed consent, professional competence, and ethical decision making. The Code also highlights the importance of cultural competence and sensitivity to the diverse backgrounds of clients. Completing the Code of Ethics Worksheet can help therapists gain a deeper understanding of their ethical responsibilities and promote ethical practice.
CNL 521 Topic 1 Vargas Family Case Study: Meet the Family (Obj. 1.2)
To build an alliance with the Vargas family, I would start by creating a safe and non-judgmental environment where family members can express their thoughts and feelings freely. I would also seek to understand the family’s unique cultural and social background, as well as their history and previous experiences with therapy. By developing a collaborative relationship with the family, I can help them feel empowered to create positive changes within their family system.
Based on the information provided in the case study, my hypothesis is that the Vargas family’s problems are maintained by communication difficulties, a lack of boundaries, and a power struggle between the parents. In the rapport-building phase, I would work to establish trust and build a strong working relationship with the family. During the assessment and intervention phase, I would seek to help the family improve their communication, set healthy boundaries, and work towards a more egalitarian family structure. Finally, in the closure phase, I would work with the family to consolidate the gains made in therapy and plan for future maintenance of their progress.
Topic 2: Fundamental Concepts, Psychoanalytic, and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
CNL 521 Topic 2 DQ 1 (Obj. 2.1 and 2.3)
Insisting that the entire family attend the initial consultation can be beneficial, as it can help the therapist gain an understanding of the family’s dynamics and identify areas of concern. However, if some family members refuse to participate, the therapist must respect their decision while still working to engage them in therapy. If family members refuse to engage due to the belief that the presenting problem does not negatively impact them, the therapist can off by exploring the potential impact of the presenting problem on the entire family. The therapist can discuss how the problem may be affecting family relationships and functioning, and encourage the non-participating family members to consider the impact on their own lives.
It is also important for the therapist to explore any barriers that may be preventing certain family members from participating in therapy, such as fear, stigma, or past negative experiences with therapy. By addressing these barriers, the therapist can work to create a safe and supportive environment that encourages participation.
Additionally, the therapist may consider using alternative approaches to engage non-participating family members, such as individual sessions or phone consultations. These approaches can help build rapport and trust with non-participating family members, and may eventually lead to their participation in family therapy sessions.
With that, while insisting on the participation of all family members can be ideal, the therapist must also be flexible and adapt to the unique circumstances of each family. By taking a collaborative and empathetic approach, the therapist can work to engage all family members and promote positive change.
