Understanding Stepfamilies: A practical guide for professionals working with blended families

Despite the growing number of stepfamilies, and the recognition that they experience unique difficulties related to their complex family dynamics, there is very little support available to them. In this practical, evidence-based guide Lisa Doodson offers a valuable resource for professionals working with stepfamilies, giving insight into their unique nature and guidance on how to provide more effective support and advice. In addition to the wealth of research and knowledge that the book shares, there are a range of case studies which illustrate issues that the different types of stepfamilies frequently face. Each chapter also contains practical tools and exercises that professionals can use with their clients to help facilitate change in the family unit, as well as interventions including mediation and group workshops, and more traditional counselling techniques. Understanding Stepfamilies is a must have resource for counsellors and therapists, social workers, local authorities, charities and teaching professionals working with stepfamilies. "In the ever increasing world of step, or blended, families, there is nevertheless an under-resourced field of tailored therapeutic support available. This book provides a comprehensive and solutions focused guide for all professionals seeking to understand the complexities and requirements of working with stepfamilies ... This book is without doubt an invaluable, well researched and authoritative 'how to' guide to working with stepfamilies in a therapeutic setting."Journal of Psychotherapy and Counselling Psychology Reflections, January 2017 issue