In this Subplenary I will present the main principles of Stabilizing Couple and Family Therapy and based on them, the Focused Model of Stabilizing Couple and Family Therapy. 

Stabilizing Couple- and Family Therapy means body-mind-oriented work with the past, present and future of the family or the couple, with the emotional and stress regulation systems. 

The model is integrative and is based on the theories and practices of family therapy, couple therapy, trauma therapy, sensorimotor therapy, attachment therapy and breathing therapy. It has been developed over the last nine years by three finnish family therapists, and already 130 family therapists have been trained to put the model into practice in Finland.  The feedback has been encouraging, and development continues together with clients and colleagues.

In Stabilizing Family Therapy traumatized family members are offered tools to identify and regulate neural activation in their bodies. When skills to regulate body and mind develop, the ability to self-compassion, empathy and psychological work also increase.  

The feeling of safety and regulated are at the core of stabilization. The central principle of stabilizing family therapy is to help family members to adjust the progress of the therapy-discussion in a way that everyone can feel safe.  

The Focused Model of Stabilizing Couple and Family Therapy consists of 6-16 sessions. The Model is based on body-oriented need adapted practices for example exercises of breathing or moving. The aim is to increase regulated interaction between family members and spouses.