Utilizing Bowen Family Systems Theory as a Medical Family Therapist to Promote Biopsychosocial-Spiritual Health Across Clinical Settings

Integrated behavioral health care (IBHC) requires theoretical foundations that translate family systems thinking into day-to-day medical settings. Bowen family systems theory (BFST) provides such a foundation by adding a multigenerational roadmap for practice. This paper delineates how BFST can guide clinicians in IBHC to foster patient and family resilience while supporting interprofessional collaboration. We describe stage-based applications—joining and assessment, goal formulation, and intervention—using genograms, process questions, tracking and detriangulating triangles, and coaching of an “I-position.” These practices aim to increase differentiation of self, clarify role boundaries, and help patients and caregivers balance caregiving with autonomy across episodes of care.