Handbook of Family Therapy: The Science and Practice of Working with Families and Couples

THOMAS L.SEXTON, PHD

GERALD R.WEEKS, PHD

MICHAEL S.ROBBINS, PHD

Each of us has devoted our professional careers to furthering the science, theory, and practice of family and couple therapy. When the opportunity to participate in this project presented itself, we agreed with both anticipation and a sense of tremendous responsibility. We knew the volume would be a reflection of an entire field. In finishing the task, each of us has come to an even greater appreciation of our chosen profession. Couple and family therapy is a dynamic and evolving field with the potential to have an important and positive impact on the world around us. We are honored to have the opportunity to represent this important work in this volume. Our initial thanks go out to the field that has taught us, supported us, and challenged us to think differently.

A volume like this does not happen without the hard work and dedication of many. Tim Juliet, a former editor with Brunner-Routledge, had the vision for this volume and was relentless in helping us initiate this book. George Zimmar, the current editor, and the editorial staff at Brunner-Routledge, made the work come to fruition. Our advisory board helped guide our ideas and focus our vision. Our contributing authors provided the “real” substance about the current status of couple and family therapy. The external reviewers pushed us to explore areas we had not considered. However, we can't acknowledge enough the contribution of Lynn Gilman (Indiana University) for her dedication and hard work. She went far beyond the call of duty. Thanks to Elizabeth Alonso and Carla Mayorga for their assistance in reviewing and editing multiple drafts of chapters. Finally, each of us had help, assistance, and support from our own families. Sue, always patient, supportive, and understanding, and Jen, Michael, and Matt, who saw much more of the handbook than they ever wanted (TS). Mindy, for her patience and support during the many weekends and evenings that I shirked my familial roles to focus on tasks for the handbook (MR).

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