1st Edition

Understanding Postmodern Family Therapy Interweaving Theory and Applying Models in Context

By Kelsey Railsback Copyright 2025
224 Pages 9 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

224 Pages 9 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

224 Pages 9 B/W Illustrations
by Routledge

This accessible textbook provides therapy students and practitioners with an understanding of postmodern theories, founders, and practical applications to family therapy. It introduces complex concepts in bite-sized pieces so readers can cultivate and master competent real-world applications of postmodern philosophy in therapy. Relying predominantly on primary sources, Kelsey Railsback shows... Read more

Part 1: Introduction  Part 2: Collaborative-Dialogic Practice (Formerly Collaborative Therapy)  1. An Introduction to Collaborative-Dialogic Practice Philosophers  2. Kenneth (Ken) Gergen  3. What Ideas from Gergen Resonated with Harlene Anderson?  Part 3: Narrative Therapy  4. An Introduction to Narrative Therapy  5. Michel Foucault  6. What Ideas from Foucault Resonated with Michael White? The Path to Externalization  Part 4: Solution Focused Brief Therapy  7. An Introduction to Solution Focused Brief Therapy  8. Ludwig Wittgenstein  9. What Ideas from Wittgenstein Resonated with Steve de Shazer and Insoo Kim Berg? The Path to Solution Talk  Part 5: Conclusion  10. Interweaving Theory and Practice

Biography

Kelsey Railsback, Ph.D., LMFT, is an AAMFT Approved Supervisor and a core faculty member at Touro University Worldwide. She provides classroom instruction and oversees clinical supervision of master’s and doctoral students in Marriage and Family Therapy.

"This book is a game-changer for graduate students delving into systemic family therapy. It transcends typical textbooks, offering accessibility, practicality, and a thorough exploration beyond the basics. Through clear language and real-world examples, it uncovers the philosophical and political roots of postmodern therapeutic practices. As you journey through its pages, you will embark on a captivating exploration of the rich history and philosophical underpinnings of family therapy, engaging with postmodern paradigms. By exploring the epistemological language of postmodern therapies, it sheds light on often misunderstood theoretical influences, empowering therapists to gain a deeper understanding of relational therapy practices."

Limor Ast DMFT, LMFT, AAMFT Approved Supervisor; Assistant Professor at Nova Southeastern University.

"This text epitomizes the masterful melding of research, practice, and passion. Kelsey Railsback
proficiently consolidated philosophy, history, and family therapy into this rich, informative text for
those seeking to gain a broader understanding of postmodernism."

Dorcas Matowe, Ph.D., LMFT; Africulture Counseling Center PLLC; The Family Institute.

"As a therapist and professor, I wholeheartedly endorse this enlightening exploration of postmodern therapeutic approaches. It masterfully navigates the complexities of postmodern paradigms, offering invaluable insights into the transformative power of dialogue in therapy. A must-read for professionals seeking to deepen their understanding and enhance their practice through a nuanced appreciation of narrative and client empowerment, this book is a pivotal resource for fostering a systemic understanding of combining theory and practice."

Paula Boros, Ph.D., LMFT, AAMFT Approved Supervisor; Moving Forward Therapy and Beyond; Capella University.

"Through an in-depth analysis and thought-provoking questions, Dr. Kelsey Railsback encourages readers to dive into different schools of thought surrounding postmodern MFT theories."
-Breanne Taylor, PsyS, NCSP