In this textbook for students and instructors of marriage and family therapy, Bethany C. Suppes offers a refreshed perspective of family systems therapy (FST), focusing on the importance of understanding its concepts and demonstrating how models of marriage and family therapy can appear practically in counseling.

In Part I, Suppes begins with a theoretical overview of FST, including the history of development, key theorists, and defining core concepts. In Part II, she focuses on application and explores nine key components of FST, identifying how various systemic therapy models apply these concepts. The book also covers the professional responsibilities of the systemic therapist and cultural considerations for those using the theory professionally.

Primarily written for those having their first exposure to the ideas of FST, it explains concepts in a language and structure that is more comprehensive and culturally aware than existing literature, aiming to improve the therapeutic process for both therapist and client.