These are the primary goals of [[Symbolic-Experiential Therapy]]. **Therapy as a Series of “Battles”** - Therapy is like a tug-of-war: families often want the therapist to “fix” things, but the therapist’s role is to push them to take responsibility and grow. - The focus is more on the _process_ of therapy (what happens during it) rather than just the _results_. **Main Goals:** - **Growth** - Help individuals expand how they experience life. - Encourage new ways for family members to interact. - Get everyone more involved and emotionally present. - The goal isn’t just to create stability—it’s to help the family complete the developmental challenges (aka developmental tasks) they’re currently facing. - The developmental tasks are different for a family than they are for an individual. - **Symptom Relief** - The therapist might purposely introduce stress to shake up stuck patterns and spark change. - **Cohesion** - Build a stronger sense of belonging and connection within the family. - Support healthy interactions—like flexible roles, clear boundaries, and balanced alliances between family members.