Chapter 11: The
Strategic Approach
David Asch
Problem Solving and
Systemic Therapy
Key Contributors:
•
Milton Erickson, Jay
Haley, John Weakland,
Paul Watzlawick, Mara
Palazzoli, Luigi Boscolo,
etc.
Evolved from
Communications
Theory and General
Systems Theory
Being Comfortable being
uncomfortable

Manipulation is unavoidable

Paradox

There are no relationships devoid of
hidden agendas, and there are no
relationships devoid of manipulation.
Basic Concepts/Theoretical
Constructs
Challenge the way we think about
people and problems
 Conceptual Framework
 Goal is not to provide helpful
strategies, but rather awareness
 Reframing

SYMPTOMS
Health/Normalcy

All families are healthy!

Another paradox

“Given the strategic theorist’s view of families as
uniquely normal within themselves, therapy is not a
logical role.” (p.214)
Therapeutic
Strategies/Interventions

What vs. Why

Stuck vs. Sick


Paradoxical Injunctions
Restraining

Positioning

Directives
JAY HALEY
“Once we begin to think
systemically, we have an
ethical obligation not only
to our clients, but also to
all those who might be
affected by the outcome of
therapy.” (p.216)
Group Discussion

Could you view yourself as a strategic
therapist? Why or why not?

What are some of the concepts of
strategic therapy that are difficult
grasp?
References
Ph.D., B. D., & Ph.D., B. R. (2012).
Family Therapy: A Systemic Integration
(Mysearchlab) (8th ed.). Pearson.