Experiencing Multiconsciousness

Our work as feminist family therapists has been strongly influenced by Harris' (1991) ideas related to multiple consciousness. In attempting to help clients see the complexity of their identity and their relationships, we have integrated a model using feminist ideas and themes, the metaphor of “parts” (Schwartz, 1992), and Narrative therapy techniques (White & Epston, 1990). In this model, the therapist's goals are to help clients examine the societal and familial influences on the different “parts” of their identities, to empower clients to reconstruct and expand their identities, and to encourage them to develop a strong sense of who they are and who they want to be in relation to others. Case examples with individuals and a couple are provided to illustrate the model.