The Satir Journal, Volume 1 No 2
ISSN - (print) 1718-2050
ISSN – (online) 1718-2069

“If Depression is the Solution, What are the Problems?”

Dr. John Banmen, R.Psych., RMFT
Director of Training,
Satir Institute of the Pacific

Abstract

Dr. John Banmen cites the growing pandemic of depression in the developed world to ask a provoking question - whether or not depression is used as a solution for a myriad of unresolved feelings on the part of the client. Concurring with the conclusions of medical doctor D.R. Klein, biologist Bruce Lipton and author J. Ruskan, he states that it has become evident that depression is not a particular feeling in itself, but emerges as a symptom of the suppression of feelings. Dr. Banmen offers a clinical profile of depression and uses a case example of his former client “Carl” - as one who has suffered from depression for over twenty years. It is seen that depression has become a form of avoiding one¹s negative feelings, one¹s negative perceptions, one¹s unmet expectations, and more basically avoiding the pain of not getting one¹s yearnings met.

The orientation of the Satir Model is presented and offered as an effective treatment in a few months of therapy. Dr. Banmen includes several components of Satir Transformational, Systemic Therapy (STST) that are utilized. This includes basic theoretical concepts of the model, the essential elements of change, and a significant guideline for therapists to use at the beginning of a clinical session. The therapist¹s own preparation will assist the client to access hope, patience and renewed feelings of love.

Chinese version of abstract (free)

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