Definition extracted with permission from Simon, Fritz, et al, Family Process, Inc.: Language of Family Therapy: A Systemic Vocabulary and Source Book (Family Process Press Series)
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systemic therapy
This term systemic therapy often is used to refer to the Milan model of family therapy, but also is frequently used with a much wider meaning - interchangeably with the term "systems therapy" - by family therapists who apply principles of systems theory in their work. The Milan model of family therapy consistently uses a cybernetic concept regarding family relationships. A special interview technique, circular questioning, allows the formation and verification/falsification of dynamic hypotheses about the interactional bases and functions of family problems. The therapist assumes a metaposition vis-à-vis the family system by maintaining an attitude of neutrality.