In family therapy, the client is often viewed as a part of which unit?

In family therapy, the client is viewed as part of the therapeutic unit of the whole family, which is essential for understanding and addressing the dynamics that affect the individual's issues. This approach emphasizes that individual problems cannot be fully understood without considering the interplay between family members and their relationships.

By involving the entire family in the therapeutic process, therapists can facilitate communication, identify patterns of behavior, and promote empathy among family members. This holistic view ensures that the treatment addresses not only the symptoms of the individual but also the relational context in which those symptoms occur. It helps to create a supportive environment where all members can participate in the healing process.

This approach contrasts with a focus solely on the nuclear family or extended family network, which may overlook important aspects of relational dynamics. Additionally, considering the individual's immediate circle of friends does not capture the importance of family relationships in the therapeutic context. By leveraging the strengths and challenges within the family as a whole, therapy can be more effective in promoting lasting change.