Induction into Browning’s Strategy: Suggestions for Family Therapy

Abstract

The authors attempted to operationalize the clinical work of strategic theorist and expert family therapist, Scott Browning. Strategic therapy takes the position that a client is stuck, not necessarily sick. This focus encourages the clinician to create alternative perspectives such that a client learns to consider a problem from a new lens. Milton Erickson, a progenitor of strategic thinking, used hypnosis and paradox to nudge clients toward a useful alternative perspective [1]. The present article examined three interventions that have strategic roots. The specific application of these three interventions, demonstrated through the work of Browning’s therapy, provide unique application of strategic ideas. First, the authors compare and contrast Browning and Erickson’s [1] application of directional and non-directional paradox. Second, the well-established technique of systemic reframe is explored, along with application of acceptance. Next, empathy is discussed in the context of the common factor of therapeutic alliance [2] and Browning’s understanding of empathy. Finally, the importance of language in psychotherapy is particularly powerful in the context of hypnosis [1]. Browning’s semantic thoroughness and the concept of non-blaming precision in clinical work was discussed.