Introduction
摘要
In this introductory chapter, we describe the development of family and systemic psychotherapy for people with medical conditions in relation to what is known as Medical Family Therapy in the United States. We discuss how these ideas have been applied and transformed to working in the National Health Service (NHS), the private sector and residential settings in the UK across the age range. Drawing on the work described in this book, we provide initial reflections on the ways in which systemic techniques and principles are being and can be applied in supporting individuals, families and healthcare professionals through what is often a harrowing journey. This includes highlighting core themes arising from this work, including the identity shifts illness tends to pose, sustaining relationships in situations of ongoing loss, trauma, uncertainty and balancing loss, sadness and trauma with hope and resilience. Emphasis is placed on embodied experiences and the importance of addressing discrimination and diversity within healthcare. We then offer a brief introduction to each of the chapters.