Integrative Systemic Therapy for Families with Children and Adolescents A Clinician's Handbook

Part I  1. Introduction  2. Family Systems Theory  3. Core Concepts Of IST  4. Conversing With Children And Adolescents: Alliance As The Foundation In Therapy  5. The Hypothesizing Metaframeworks As They Relate To Children And Adolescents  6. The Hypothesis And Planning Matrix  Part II  7. First Contact And Defining The Problem  8. Case Formulation And The Process Of Gathering Information  9. Strategies For Locating A Problem In A Problem Sequence  10. Identifying And Implementing A Solution Sequence  11. Identifying And Addressing Constraints  12. Use Of Feedback Tools In Family Therapy With Children And Adolescents  13. Evaluating And Concluding Therapy  14. Concluding Comments

Biography

Kristoffer J. Whittaker, PhD, is a clinical psychologist practicing in the Norwegian Family Counselling Offices, a senior researcher at Modum Bad Psychiatric Center and Research Institute, and a lecturer in the Department of Psychology at the University of Oslo, Norway.

Lennart Lorås, D.Sys.Psych, MA, is a professor at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences and professor II at VID Specialized University, Norway. He is an internationally recognized leader in the field of Integrative Systemic Therapy, with many years of research and clinical experience in child and adolescent mental health.

“Whittaker and Lorås’ book is a pathbreaking extension of Integrative Systemic Therapy into the domain of child and adolescent problems. This domain has been touched upon in previous IST writings from a high-altitude perspective. Whittaker and Loras bring that perspective down to 50 feet, where the reader can see and feel the pain and joy of these children and their families as they struggle to address and resolve their problems. In this incredibly thoughtful and practical book, the authors offer systemically oriented therapists a detailed map of the child and adolescent terrain, with specific guidelines and deep wisdom for helping these children and their families.”

William Pinsof, Ph.D., LMFT, ABBP, Pinsof Family Systems

 

“This book is a gem. Whittaker and Lorås show how IST distills insights from many schools of family therapy and relevant research into principles that are exceptionally practical in guiding clinical work with complex, child-focused family problems. This is a cutting-edge guide on how to practice contemporary family therapy. A book that must be read by both therapists in training and experienced clinicians.”

Alan Carr, PhD, professor of Clinical Psychology, University College Dublin

 

“This book is an essential read for clinicians working with families. Accessible IST tools lay the groundwork for theoretical integration, and rich vignettes bring theory to life. It shifts the focus from individual symptoms to layered family dynamics shaped by cultural contexts. It helps therapists navigate the nuances of clinical decision-making.”

Yaliu He, PhD, LMFT, associate professor, Iona University, Marriage and Family Therapy Department

“The book emphasizes the research foundation of the coherent IST model and presents it as a source of reassurance for a resilient future within a systemic perspective on psychotherapy. Here you are introduced to the relational and dialogical core of the model in systemic work, while ensuring that practice remains transparent, reflexive, and responsive to diversity. Working alliances with all family members are highlighted as key tasks, especially with children and young people. The book is highly recommended reading.”

Johan Sundelin, DMSc, certified pyschologist, certified psychotherapist