Feminist Systemic Therapy
Feminist therapy is a value system rather than a prescribed set of core psychological theories or therapeutic techniques(1). Feminist values emphasize diversity and therapeutic relationships based on egalitarian dynamics; that is, the belief that all people are equal and deserve the same life opportunities. Along this continuum, some feminists believe that the ultimate goal of feminist therapy is social activism and institutional change(2). This means that when all voices are heard, including those from marginalized or minority groups, the gains achieved by individuals will complement the collective social achievements shared by all members of society.
Counsellors that apply feminist theory and practice generally also identify as such, e.g., feminist, pro-feminist, or anti-sexist counsellor. The central ideas of feminist theory include “the personal is political” (politics impact individuals and vice versa); privileging, valuing, and listening to marginalized voices, as well as challenging patriarchal gender roles through the equitable redistribution of power. In other words, social structures and systems that have been developed with male dominated values impact individuals, families, and groups, and create access (empowerment) or barriers (disempowerment or marginalization) to education, employment, economic systems, and other social realities. Yet, it is also understood that men, too, can be oppressed or feel disempowered.
In terms of counselling approaches, feminist therapy is based on mutual empowerment, respect, and desire for social change rather than deficits or pathology (e.g., illness). The feminist counsellor is aware of the traditional dynamic of the 'counsellor as expert’ and works to disrupt this notion of power imbalance. As an integrative model, feminist therapy draws on techniques that involve reflection, the acknowledgment of oppressive experiences, and the re-authoring of historical events from an empowered stance(3).
The Feminist Approach
A discursive framework (moving from to topic, based on the client's needs) rather than a theoretical approach alone may be more inclusive, as this provides a way to make space for multiple worldviews and perspectives. Also, a feminist anti-colonial stance, where agency is respected and women-centered or person-centred values are nurtured, may be more effective than traditional feminist applications.
How it Works: The Objectives of Feminist Counselling
The objectives of feminist therapy(3) are to:
1. Provide space for the client to come out of the silence and voice their experiences.
2. Promote connectedness; e.g., identity exploration and holistic self-development.
3. Provide space for insight regarding the influence of multi-systemic influences.
4. Empower clients by conceptualizing through a frame of resilience and resistance.
5. Increase self-esteem, gender-role fluidity, social action, and awareness of oppressive societal forces through various and multiple techniques such as expressive arts activities.
For more information, please view the Feminist Therapy and Psychotherapy Approaches video on Youtube by Dr. Diane Gehart, a family therapist.
References
1. Brown, L. S. (2018). Feminist therapy (2nd ed.). Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.
2. Howard, D. (Ed.). (1987). A guide to the dynamics of feminist therapy. Harrington Park Press: New York, NY.
3. Otting, T., & Prosek, E. (2016). Integrating feminist therapy and expressive arts with adolescent clients. Journal of Creativity in Mental Health, 11(1), 78–89.
Images: Zazzle.ca
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