Structural Family Therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder (SFT for ASD)
Structural Family Therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder (SFT for ASD) is an augmented therapeutic model developed by Dr. Anthony Pennant that integrates the foundational principles of Structural Family Therapy, Critical Disability Justice and strategies uniquely tailored to support autistic children and their families. This model emphasizes promoting autonomy, addressing bias within "disability) and restructuring family dynamics to enhance functionality, communication, and connection while addressing the specific needs and challenges associated with ASD.
SFT for ASD By addressing the systemic and relational dimensions of Autism, this model offers a holistic framework for meaningful and sustainable change. The name 'SFT for ASD' was created prior to the change of autism spectrum disorder to autism spectrum condition, the latter of which reflects the nature of the model (removing stigma inherent in disability)
The preliminary research shows
-
Increase flexibility in families, allowing individuals to have tangible skills with issues like transitions.
-
Increase connectedness of families and create positive family dynamics.
-
Decrease rigid rules and roles which often limit how families deal with issues or in understanding their children as they grow.
-
Enhance communication skills between family members.
-
Provide family based (systemic) treatment for autistic children and their families.
-
Change the narrative regarding how we label disability and support independence and autonomy in all persons.
A link to the scholarly paper can be found below. It is an open access paper free to everyone to view.
Interested in learning more?
Head over to our Workshop Offerings and take the SFT for ASD: Primer. It offers 1.5 CEs and will give you an overview of the model.
Interested in more exposure to the model? Then sign up for the intensive four hour workshop designed to support intermediate level therapists working with autistic children and their families. This course gives you 4 CEs and is available as a live training.