
“Feelings of worth can flourish only in an atmosphere where individual differences are appreciated, mistakes are tolerated, communication is open, and rules are flexible - the kind of atmosphere that is found in a nurturing family.”-
Satir Transformational Systemic Therapy (STST) was pioneered by Virginia Satir around 1951. This form of therapy was created to enhance communication and relationships between family members by addressing the person’s dynamic within the family. Though it was made with family systems in mind, STST can also been applied to couples and individuals. The family unit is seen as a whole, instead of just as a sum of its parts and is treated based on the problems lying underneath the behaviours of each family member and how they impact all other members. STST has a strong spiritual component that focuses on change that brings people closer to a fulfilling life by reaching harmony, becoming whole, and increasing their responsibility. Attaining congruence, gaining responsibility, and increasing self-esteem are key goals in this form of therapy.
Focusing only on the presenting concern solves only the crust of the concern. Therefore, Satir therapists encourages individuals to understand the underlying unmet yearning that are acting as the root cause for these concerns. Therapist not only focuses on building the relationship between the partners but also helps them work through past trauma to develop a greater sense of harmony, oneness, and inner peace. When past events are dealt with properly, their current behaviour and attitude will change as a result, which can positively affect the relationships they have.
Theory
STST focuses on three therapeutic systems: (1) The Intrapsychic, (2) The Interactive and (3) The Family of Origin. Individuals can work towards change by focusing on the following:
The core beliefs of STST include:
Techniques
STST uses experimental techniques such as:
References
Banmen, J. & Maki-Banmen, K. (n.d.). Satir transformational systemic therapy (in brief). Retrieved from
Edwards, Blake Griffim (2019, August 31). Remembering Family Therapist Guru Virginia Satir.
Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/progress-notes/201908/remembering-family-therapist-guru-virginiasatir#:~:text=Satir%20utilized% 20experiential%20techniques% 20that, in% 20her%20work%20with%20families.
Satir Centre Singapore (n.d.). Satir Transformational Systemic Therapy. Retrieved from
https://satircentre.sg/satir-transformational-systemic-therapy/
Sinan Okur. (2020). Satir Transformational Systemic Therapy and Spirituality. Spiritual Psychology and
Counseling, 5(1), 45–64. https://doi.org/10.37898/spc.2020.5.1.094
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