The application of dialectical behavioural therapy and eco-systemic structural family therapy with children, youth, and families

Abstract

Kingston Health Sciences Centre is committed to using three family therapy modalities with their clients at the Child and Youth Mental Health Clinic. Ecosystemic Structural Family Therapy, Emotion Focused Family Therapy, and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy are evidenced-based interventions, sometimes used as the sole method of therapy, but often times as an adjunct to other techniques for children and youth afflicted with mental health challenges. This thesis is an analysis of the three methods, using the literature review to provide context, and eliciting examples from three families, that were counseled throughout a five-month period.