What is the primary difference between short-term and long-term therapy models in MFT?

The distinction between short-term and long-term therapy models in marriage and family therapy (MFT) is grounded in their goals and approaches. Short-term therapy typically focuses on addressing specific issues or problems that are immediate and presenting challenges within the family or couple dynamics. This could involve strategies like solution-focused therapy or cognitive-behavioral techniques that aim to resolve surface-level conflicts quickly.

In contrast, long-term therapy aims to delve deeper into the relational patterns, dynamics, and histories that contribute to ongoing issues. It takes a more extensive approach, allowing for the exploration of underlying themes, unresolved issues, and the broader context of relationships over a longer period. This deeper examination can lead to lasting change by fostering a better understanding of how past experiences shape current interactions.

Thus, the primary difference lies in the focus of treatment: short-term therapy is more targeted and issue-specific, while long-term therapy seeks to uncover and address deeper relational dynamics.