Systemic Treatment of Trauma-Impacted Families A Clinician's Guide to Assessment, Formulation, and Intervention

by Riggs, Shelley A.; Captari, Laura E.

• ISBN13: 9781433839382
• ISBN10: 1433839385
• eBook ISBN(s): 9781433839399
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2026-04-21
• Publisher: American Psychological Association
• More Book Details
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Summary

This book provides a holistic and nuanced metatheoretical perspective to working with trauma in the family system.

The authors use a systemic lens, conceptualizing mental health as inextricably intertwined with the dynamics of family relationships, environment, and social context. Here, the authors explore how these interactions can both contribute to trauma and be a vital source of healing. Drawing from almost 40 years of combined clinical work, research, teaching, and theorizing, the authors synthesize key systemic principles and practices relevant to clinical practice with children, couples, and families. Therapists and trainees will find practical guidance for conceptualizing and addressing relational patterns and family system processes to promote healing after trauma. Each chapter begins with a brief illustrative vignette that sets the stage for relevant theory and research, with a focus throughout the book on practical application to real‑world clinical practice. The authors emphasize the mechanisms of change underlying diverse treatment approaches, and personalizing treatment in consideration of each client or family’s culture and preferences. To enhance understanding and application of systemic concepts and strategies, they integrate a case study in detail across several chapters to show how systemic assessment, case formulation, treatment, and consultation might look in practice, inviting readers to consider how to creatively apply systemic principles and concepts in their own work.
 
Whether you primarily interact with a single member of a family, family subgroups, an entire family, or a larger milieu, gaining a comprehensive understanding of trauma and systems can elucidate important details that deepen understanding and change your approach to trauma intervention.

Author Biography

Shelley A. Riggs, PhD, LP, is a professor at Sam Houston State University, where she is director of clinical training for the master’s program in clinical psychology. Dr. Riggs also provides therapeutic services and is a clinical trainer. Her research focuses on the roles of family systems, attachment relationships, and trauma in psychological functioning. She has authored numerous scholarly publications and serves on the two journal editorial boards. Dr. Riggs is the recipient of several awards for teaching excellence and contributions to the field and is active in the American Psychological Association’s Society for Couple and Family Psychology (Division 43).

Laura E. Captari, PhD, LP, is a staff psychologist and academic researcher at The Albert and Jessie Danielsen Institute at Boston University and has served as adjunct faculty at multiple universities. She brings a holistic, depth-oriented, and systemic perspective to her roles as a psychotherapist, researcher, supervisor, and teacher. Dr. Captari’s research explores developmental and relational impacts of trauma, disaster, and loss across the lifespan and family system. Her work also explores approaches to address clinicians’ risks for vicarious trauma and build professional longevity. Dr. Captari has authored over 40 professional articles and chapters and serves on multiple editorial boards.

 

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements
Dedications
Series Preface
Foreword
Marianne Celano

Introduction: A Systemic Lens as Vital for Trauma Treatment
Chapter 1. Families and Systemic Contexts
Chapter 2. The Multi-Dimensional Nature of Trauma: An Intersubjective, Systemic Approach to Clinical Competencies
Chapter 3. Dyadic and Family-Based Approaches for Treating Trauma: Integrating Multiple Frameworks as Part of Evidence-Based Systemic Practice
Chapter 4. Systemic Assessment of Family Trauma: Uncovering Underlying Patterns and Processes
Chapter 5. Systemic Formulation, Treatment Planning, and Intervention: Facilitating Second-Order Changes as Part of Trauma Healing
Chapter 6. Beyond the Family: Consultation, Advocacy, and Creating Change in Larger Systems
Chapter 7. Challenges and Possibilities as a Family Trauma Therapist: A Communal Approach to Cultivating Resilience and Sustainability
Conclusion: A Shift in Trauma-Informed Care that Holds the Family in Mind
References
Index
About the Authors