How to Coach Yourself and Others Coaching Families | Page 238

Appendix VII – Diagonistic Interview Outline
MULTIPLE FAMILY GROUP THERAPY
DIAGNOSTIC INTERVIEW OUTLINE
©1993 by Lewis N. Foster

I. Generally:
A. Work toward an active interpretation of content, but focus on process, and have fun;
B. Be as unbiased as possible in your observation of the families, don't be judgmental;
C. Establish the therapists' control --- a therapist must be in control because dysfunctional families are not in
control. The families will feel secure that the therapist can handle, and not be shocked by, what happens
in the multiple family group therapy session.
D. Where in the family life-cycle are the families, and at what stage of development are the family members?
II. Methods (see the Evaluation and Session Guide form):
A. Take the time to make the families as comfortable as possible. Treat them as though they are in your
living room.
B. Select out the important family themes. A theme(s) will emerge very early in the session. Help the
families to stick with the theme(s) instead of wandering. It is more gainful for both the families and the
therapist.
C. Once a theme is selected it should be discussed by each family member. Encourage interaction between
the families regarding the theme, taking the theme back to the therapist for clarification if the discussion
becomes punitive in nature.
D. Try to delineate areas of consensus among family members on problem issues. Point out commonalities
between families.
E. Summarize and reframe as needed.
F. Contract with the families for three sessions. It will be easier to get the families to agree to three sessions
than eight or ten, for example. Know that around the third or forth session each family will come to the
group in crisis. This will help you keep the family in treatment for another three sessions. Begin to think
about what the crisis may be about.
G. Establish as definitely as possible the conditions for treatment. Clarify the therapist's expectations (for
example, who is expected to attend) and maintain an orientation to the presenting problem(s).
H. Some education on Enhancing Intimacy, Managing Conflict, Parenting, Dependency, or other issues may
be needed.

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