Using appreciative inquiry to support the development of a family clinic in a paediatric psychology setting

Abstract

PHOTO CREDIT: Anima visualThis paper discusses the development of a systemic family clinic in a Paediatric Health Psychology setting. Appreciative Inquiry (AI) was used in the development of the clinic and to consider future plans. Reviewing the development of the clinic a year on from the AI session we identified the benefits of embedding systemic family work and training strategy within the department. This was enabled by a willingness to lean into uncertainty, clear boundaries, structure and protected time. AI also helped us to look towards growth in the future. We reflect on the process and offer some key learning points that we hope will inspire others in their own service development.