Overcoming blocks to creativity in family treatment*

Abstract

This paper arises from a didactic and experiential workshop where the participants examined their 'problem' families and the characteristics the families possessed which the therapists did not like. These characteristics were explored and the participants came to an understanding of these 'problem' families. Blocks to creativity were discussed and the participants claimed their own 'blocks'. Style and presence of the therapist as a creative change agent was explored.

‘Oh no! Not the Smiths again!’ An exploration of how to identify and overcome ‘stuckness’ in family therapy

“…Our experience is in line with that of Pascoe (1980) in that an honest statement that we do not know what is going on or what we should do, can frequently produce the most creative developments in therapy. Typically this allows the family to take back their share of the responsibility for change.…”