TREATING FAMILIES OF INDIVIDUALS WITH TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY FROM A FAMILY SYSTEMS PERSPECTIVE

Research and clinical experience continue to demonstrate the impact of a traumatic brain injury on the entire family system and the importan ce of incorporating the family in the treatment process. Many authors have advocated for family education and support; however, there is les s discussion of family therapy for families of individuals with trauma tic brain injury. As a result, it has been difficult to apply research findings and clinical impressions to family treatment strategies. Thi s article describes key treatment issues-specifically, power and autho rity-from a family systems perspective. Treatment recommendations are discussed that incorporate the special needs of families of individual s with traumatic brain injury within a family systems model.