This program offers an in-depth study and application of Bowen Family Systems theory for those already familiar with its core concepts. Faculty from the Center for Family Consultation (CFC) cover the eight concepts, relevant research, and applications in various systems. Participants deepen their understanding of differentiation of self through personal and professional application.
What Makes Bowen Theory Unique?
Dr. Murray Bowen developed a theory of human behavior in the 1960’s. Bowen theory is not a flavor of the month, a passing fad, or a quick fix. It is a framework for understanding how families and other social groups operate at the emotional level, and how the emotional system informs the thinking system, and vice versa. The ability to define a self involves the integration of the emotional, feeling, and thinking systems.
Bowen theory is unique because it is grounded in biology, evolution, and neuroscience, supported by a significant amount of research and practice conducted over the last 70 years. It offers a different way to observe and think about human relationships. Bowen theory demonstrates an important move from individual, cause and effect thinking to systems thinking. Learning systems thinking can propel one’s ongoing development, not only as a professional but also as an individual who is part of a family in addition to many other social groups.
Another important distinction between Bowen theory and other theories of human behavior is that it is the only theory that addresses the human family as the basic unit of emotional functioning. Recognizing how members of families are mutually interdependent offers an important broader and deeper perspective, one that encompasses more than the individual, more than the current nuclear family, and includes the multigenerational family. It leads one to a better understanding of the importance of context and process. It captures and examines the multigenerational emotional process that is playing out today, and will continue into subsequent generations. With a wider field of vision and a framework for understanding the facts as they come to light, the insights into one’s life today, one’s family history, and one’s work systems can come forth in a transformational way. Such efforts help one get better at modifying their anxiety. Many of the symptoms of anxiety may be relieved, and one becomes a more valuable resource to others at home and beyond.
Navigating Current Challenges
In today’s complex world, marked by political uncertainty, climate change, and social unrest, Bowen theory provides a lens to help individuals improve their functioning. By approaching challenges with questions and curiosity one can effectively address heightened levels of anxiety in families, schools, businesses, faith communities, and organizations. How does one become more mature and confident during challenging times? How does one use this time as an opportunity for personal growth? How does one work towards being calm in the midst of the storm? How does one prepare for the next one? One way to do that is by studying with Bowen theory experts who have made it their life’s work to keep increasing their knowledge and understanding of human behavior from a natural systems perspective.
A Plan for Self
Learning is an individual process that develops as one thoughtfully applies a theoretical framework and understanding to one’s objective observations of human functioning. It is an ongoing process of observation, thinking systems, research, and application. The development of individual goals and learning objectives are key to effective and efficient integration of Bowen theory.
Program Goals and Description
Goals
- Understand the eight concepts of Bowen Theory.
- Apply theory in practice through case studies and consultation.
- Stay current with natural systems research.
- Explore one’s family of origin with expert guidance.
Description
- A continuous, immersive program from September 2025 to June 2026.
- Monthly sessions (first Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Central Time) via Zoom.
- Includes lectures, videos, discussions, case studies, and family of origin consultations.
- Monthly reading, video, and writing assignments.
- Second-year students present a final paper.
- Two hybrid conferences and one in-person conference in Evanston, IL (fees included in tuition)
- Fall Conference: Research, science, and Bowen Theory.
- Winter Conference: Clinical Applications of Bowen Theory with Keynote, Dr. Bowen’s video, and application workshops.
- Spring Conference: Midwest Symposium with Keynotes by a Bowen Theory scholar (Daniel Papero, PhD) and a guest scientist (Patrick McGowan for 2025).
Testimonials
“The CFC training program has been one of the most important decisions I’ve made in my post- graduate education. The opportunity to study and learn Bowen theory with the faculty has accelerated my competencies as a mental health professional and has had an immeasurable healing impact on me personally. The CFC training program has revolutionized how I see mental health and addiction challenges in individuals, the effectiveness of my work with clients and families, and has certainly brought great interpersonal peace in my own life.”
-Alana C. Smith, LCSW, LCDC
Before I knew much about Bowen theory, I knew intuitively from my first introduction that it held a level of knowledge of families that would be different from anything I had learned before. For many who discover this theory, the first thing that captures interest is how well the theory describes one’s own family experience. How could Bowen know that much about my family when he has never met them?
-Stephanie Ferrera, MSW Faculty
Faculty bring diverse expertise (therapy, research, leadership) and integrate current science with practical experience. Many present internationally and contribute to publications and research. See faculty biographies on the CFC website.
Tuition and Registration
- Tuition: $2400 (2025-2026).
- Application fee: $50 (non-refundable).
- Payment is due in full upon acceptance or via a two payment plan.
- Apply March 20 – August 1, 2025.
Contact John Bell for application and interview. - Limited space.
Continuing Education
- 72 CEUs upon completion of a full year.
- Certificate of completion after two years of full attendance and completed assignments.
For further information contact John Bell at revjohnbell@gmail.com
