International Perspectives of Family Therapy: A Phenomenological Approach

Abstract

Although a number of studies have examined the history and evolution of family therapy outside of the United States, few studies have relied on qualitative or quantitative methods to understand international perspectives of family therapy. In addition, family therapy literature has continued to call for more research that increases awareness of global views and trends of family therapy. To increase our understanding of international perspectives of family therapy, 22 family therapy professionals from various countries were interviewed using a phenomenological approach. Semistructured interviews were used to understand family therapy professionals' experiences of family therapy as a profession and as a discipline. Implications are made in regards to the current and future status of family therapy as a global movement.