Systems Theory in Action: Applications to Individual, Couple, and Family Therapy

by Shelly Smith-Acuna

"Smith-Acuña illuminates the structural hierarchy, roles, and boundaries that give a system structure. The relationship between parts and wholes is both simple and profound, and particularly important in looking at systems structure. These morsels of wisdom are good examples of Smith-Acuña's grace as a systems theory tour guide: one moment she's digging deeper into the nuances among the theories, the next moment she's simplifying without dumbing down, but in a manner that is enormously liberating. We enjoy the fun, full, and informed journey with her." —Frank S. Pittman III, MD A practical presentation of systems theory as a fundamental model for clinical practice Valuable for seasoned mental health professionals as well as those in training, Systems Theory in Action presents systems theory—the unifying principles surrounding the organization and functioning of systems—as it applies to individual, couples, and family therapy. This innovative book explores systems theory as an effective model for general mental health practice. It examines the role systems theory can play, specifically in understanding clients' presenting problems in context, within the various systems and subsystems in which the problems are embedded. Filled with realistic clinical stories illustrating relevant concepts that tie theory to technique, Systems Theory in Action takes an in-depth look at: Systems Theory in Action is a unique contribution to the field, translating the technical terminology of general systems thinking into common, everyday language.

Genres: Psychology, Counselling, School, Grad School, Nonfiction

192 pages, Paperback

First published November 2, 2010

Reviews

[Morgan Blackledge · Rating 4 out of 5]

The (95%) good: the book achieves depth, span and brevity. It manages to bang through the major components of the systemic therapy approaches and gives decent lip service to other related psychotherapeutic models, repeat with case study examples, in a scant 150 pages. It's a tasty lil sampler platter of delicious theories and applications. Nice!

The (5%) bad: it's kind of expensive at 25.00 (e-book). I'm sick of expensive books for broke ass mental health clinicians (like myself). Also, it's just a little unclear at times. The constructs could have been more systematically and clearly explained and summarized at the end of the chapters. That's a really minor gripe however, for the most part the book is really well done.

All in all I consider this a real worthwhile read. And I have to say, it turned me on to some ideas I had been less receptive to prior (e.g. Postmodern and Psychodynamic).

[Erin Bossen · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’ve ever felt that therapy models speak different languages—or that your clients don’t fit neatly into any one box—this book is for you.

Shelly Smith-Acuña’s Systems Theory in Action is a refreshingly readable and surprisingly practical guide to understanding the patterns that shape human relationships. Instead of teaching a single model, she shows how systems thinking can bridge behavioral, emotional, and historical approaches to therapy. The result is a flexible, inclusive framework that works across individual, couple, and family contexts.

One of the book’s standout features is how it makes theory feel personal and relevant. Smith-Acuña offers real-life examples that make abstract ideas click—and ties each chapter back to a brilliant set of “full-circle questions” in the final chapter. These questions challenge you to look at problems not just as symptoms, but as dynamic parts of a larger system.

The book also ventures beyond the therapy room, showing how systems thinking can support research, supervision, and organizational change. It’s empowering without being preachy, insightful without being overwhelming.

Who should read this:

Therapy students wanting a clearer grasp of systems thinking

Practicing clinicians who blend models or work in complex settings

Supervisors and leaders seeking a grounded framework for growth

Why it matters:

Systems Theory in Action doesn’t just teach you what to think—it teaches you how to think systemically, relationally, and with cultural humility. It’s not just a book; it’s a mindset shift.

Essential for anyone in mental health who values context, connection, and collaboration.

[Marco · Rating 2 out of 5]

Man, what a shallow compilation of theories and examples. "Systems theory" is here used a synonym of critical thinking or context thinking, so the book presents nearly zero new insights into systems.

It is one of those books you keep waiting to start becoming interesting until you realize you're near the end and have only read the most cursory of reflections on nothing and everything.

This came as a special disappointment since I had just finished reading the wonderful and game-changing Family Evaluation.

Oh well, at least it was somewhat brief.

[Lauren Garcia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Engaging and insightful introduction to systems theory/perspective. Helpful for all clinicians rather than just family therapists. Due to the brevity of the book, the major tenants of systems theory were certainly addressed but still somewhat vague. Don’t expect a deep-dive into systems theory with this book, but it makes an excellent introduction and is highly readable with enlightening examples.

[Hannah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read for my masters. it's a good book. tho there are times where I understand the idea of what she's saying although the words isn't comprehending in my brain. The topic is also, what I believe, the most effective therapy that's healthy too. Although it would really take time and it's not an instant fix (which most important things can't be instantly fixed anyways..), it emphasizes the systems and removes blame and shame to only one person.

[Andrew Feist · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good introduction to systems theory.

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mft 541

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great application of systems theory to mostly modern theories in marriage and family therapy. It was an easy read, especially compared to other works out there addressing systems theory. She provides examples of clients she has worked with, provides a good overview of some modern models, and even touches on a few postmodern models at the end.