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Towards the Development of Educational Core Competencies for Couple and Family Therapy Technology Practices

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Abstract

Rises in technology have created change in the family therapy field. The ethics code and regulatory boards now include areas on technology in family therapy practices. These additions require competency in the area of couple and family therapy technology practices. Previous researchers suggest there is a gap between these competencies needed and the training provided, as well as the research available. Thus, the purpose of this mixed-data survey study was to gain information regarding family therapists’ experiences and perceptions of education regarding online family therapy practices. To do this, we administered a survey to family therapists across the United States. Reported, are both quantitative, as well as qualitative findings. The majority of the sample reported that they did not learn about online technologies in clinical practice; however the majority of the participants would like to learn more about couple and family therapy technology practices. The most direct implication of the findings from our study is the need to offer specific education around couple and family therapy technology practices. Suggested core competency areas to cover include theory, research, and practice around technology.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Human Development and Family Studies, University of Wisconsin-Stout, VOCR 342A, 221 10th Ave E., Menomonie, WI, 54751, USA

    Markie L. C. Blumer & Megan L. VandenBosch

  2. Certificate in Sex Therapy Program, University of Wisconsin-Stout, VOCR 342A, 221 10th Ave E., Menomonie, WI, 54751, USA

    Markie L. C. Blumer

  3. Marriage and Family Therapy Program, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, NV, USA

    Katherine M. Hertlein

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  1. Markie L. C. Blumer
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  2. Katherine M. Hertlein
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  3. Megan L. VandenBosch
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Correspondence to Markie L. C. Blumer.

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Blumer, M.L.C., Hertlein, K.M. & VandenBosch, M.L. Towards the Development of Educational Core Competencies for Couple and Family Therapy Technology Practices. Contemp Fam Ther 37, 113–121 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10591-015-9330-1

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