Specialized Training in Bowen Family Systems Theory and Therapy

Get Specialized Training in Bowen Family Systems Theory

Specialized Training in Bowen Family Systems Theory Program Details

We are now accepting applications for this program for the 2026-2027 year. Please contact us info@livingsystems.ca with any questions or click here to apply – Program application. If you are interested in a practicum position, please email leila.howard@livingsystems.ca

Specialized Training in Bowen Family Systems Theory Program Description

This training provides a thorough introduction to Bowen family systems theory and therapy and contributes to students working on their differentiation of self. This will support individuals in becoming competent marriage and family therapists, counsellors, and social workers, if applicable. The program outline is here: Specialized Training Program in BFST outline.

Learning Objectives:

Provides the trainee with a thorough introduction to systems thinking from the perspective of Bowen Theory, its methods, and techniques
To apply the theory to efforts in one’s own family and, if applicable, to their clinical work and workplace
To relate Bowen Theory to knowledge from the natural sciences
Introduces Trainees to family and natural systems research

Admissions Requirements

Applicants have a master’s degree, are enrolled in a master’s degree in counselling, social sciences or related fields, or are a member in good standing with the BCACC, CAMFT or CPCA. However, applicants not pursuing a master’s degree may also apply. All applicants can demonstrate a combination of life and work experience that, in the faculty’s judgement, will enable them to function successfully in the program. Please refer to the program outline for the full admissions requirements.

The theory postulates that far more human activity is governed by man’s (sic) emotional system than he has been willing to admit, and there is far more similarity than dissimilarity between the “dance of life” in lower forms and the “dance of life” in human forms.

Murray Bowen, M.D.
from Family Therapy in Clinical Practice

You can read our Policy on Dispute Resolution here:

Dispute Resolution Policy for Student Complaints

You can read our policy on Sexual Misconduct here:

Policy on Sexual Misconduct

Faculty

Katie White, Leila Howard, Dixie Vandersluys, and Jennifer Hassard.

Meet the Faculty

Application Form

The program begins each year in September. We accept applications on May 1st of that year, and interviews will start in June. We accept final applications by August 1st, and interviews will be completed by early September. Enrollment opens in May 2026.

Applications will need the following items to complete the application form:

A Google account/email address
A copy of your CV or resume
A copy of your educational transcript (highest degree)
A Family Diagram / Genogram
Current criminal record check (optional at the time of submission)
A written request for duty to accommodate a disability, if relevant.

The application form is available here: Program application.

Contact Us

Email us using the form below.

Training Programs