Challenges and Changes to Family Therapy Practice in South Africa

Abstract

Family therapy in South Africa seriously challenges traditional theoretical paradigms as we stmggle with horrific crime and violence at family and political levels. This paper examines published work modifying family therapy practice in South Africa since 1988. Whilst undertaking this exercise, it was interesting to observe the allegiance South African clinicians had to their international counterparts by using international models, language, and theory to understand, articulate, and test modifications. We propose in this paper that we need not confine ourselves to this mold and should be bold in charting new territories in family therapy. We must confidently embrace our own forms of theory and intervention. This paper addresses challenges facing South African family therapists and resulting changes, which have enlivened and shaped family therapy for local and perhaps international consumption. Central to our work are innovations in several areas: (a) how our practice accommodates "difference"; (b) how we embrace "community"; and (c) how we use nature, drama, and the arts to creatively engage with families. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)