Applying the Behavioural Family Therapy Model in Complex Family Situations

Rubina Jhadray,Martin Atchison,Gráinne Fadden,Chris Mansell,Julia Danks,Paula Conneely,Alison Lee

doi:10.3390/socsci4020459

Abstract

Behavioural Family Therapy (BFT) is a skills based intervention that aims to support families where a member is experiencing a mental health problem. The Meriden Family Programme has extensive experience in supporting families who have complex needs. The programme delivers training in the approach and works with families with the aim of providing information, education and reducing stress within the family environment. Training has recently taken place within various mental health services to equip staff with the skills to work collaboratively with families and to understand and support their needs.

Highlights

The Meriden Family Programme has been delivering training in Behavioural Family Therapy (BFT)and working with families since 1998
The Meriden Programme offers ongoing supervision to organisations that are delivering family work to ensure that implementation within their services is supported
The programme offers an array of specialist training packages which are available to professionals, family members and service users

Summary

Introduction

The Meriden Family Programme has been delivering training in Behavioural Family Therapy (BFT). BFT aims to promote positive communication within families through skills training, and looks at skills such as “expressing pleasant feelings” and “active listening”; with the aim of creating a more supportive and stress-free environment for everyone involved This type of evidence based family approach has been shown to reduce relapse rates, stress and hospitalisation, improving the quality of life for individuals suffering from mental health difficulties and their families [4,5]. There may be some variation in their need for support and information depending on the nature of the problem and on what they are offered by services It is important for professionals working in different settings to be aware and equipped to help families and keep them involved. The detail of some of these is outlined below and highlights how family work can be beneficial in understanding and supporting families with complex needs in mental health services

BFT in a Mother and Baby Unit

BFT in an Eating Disorders Service

BFT and the Troubled Families Team

Findings

Conclusions