In which phase of therapy does the therapist assess family dynamics?

The assessment phase is critical in therapy as it is during this stage that the therapist gathers essential information about family dynamics. This involves understanding how family members interact, the roles they play within the family system, and the communication patterns that may influence their functioning. By assessing these dynamics, the therapist is able to identify strengths and weaknesses within the family system, which informs the treatment plan moving forward.

In this phase, the therapist may conduct interviews, use standardized assessments, and observe interactions among family members to create a comprehensive picture. This foundational understanding is important for successful interventions in the subsequent phases of therapy, as it ensures that the interventions are tailored to address the specific needs and issues identified during the assessment.