Specialist Post Graduate Certificate in Bowen Family Systems Theory (BFST)
(Non-SSG)
About the Course
Bowen’s theory, developed through extensive research by psychiatrist Murray Bowen and his team, provides a framework for understanding human functioning across all life spheres. It views the family as an emotional unit, highlighting how natural emotional processes influence each member’s thoughts and behaviours. This knowledge aids in addressing relational and behavioural challenges.
The approach emphasizes personal responsibility and self-growth. Participants gain in-depth knowledge of Bowen’s theory, which they can apply to their personal and professional development through family-of-origin work. The course includes lectures, discussions, readings, presentations, clinical consultations, and individual coaching to support personal development and differentiation of self.
Specialist Post Graduate Certificate in Bowen Family Systems Theory consists of TWO parts:
- Part A – Introduction to Bowen Family Systems Theory
- Part B – Integrating and Applications in Bowen Family Systems Theory
Course Duration for Part A
28 Hours (4 days)Date of Commencement
10 March 2026Date of Completion
31 March 2026Course Duration for Part B
13 Hours (including 2 group consultations of 3 hours each, 7 hours of training)Date of Commencement
April 2026Date of Completion
September 2026Understand the development of the Bowen Family Systems theory and its link to current scientific knowledge of natural systems.
Learn the eight core interlocking concepts of Bowen’s Family System theory. Learn to understand one’s own functioning and the functioning of one’s family-of-origin.
Learn to apply the theory in one’s clinical work through case studies.
Learn to improve the management of self in the family and in counseling sessions.
Applicant Requirements
The course is relevant for:
- Counsellors
- Social Workers
- Psychologists
- Professionals who are interested in understanding and applying Bowen Family Systems Theory in their clinical work
Course Fees
Part A
$1,308.00 (w/ GST)
Eligible NCSS/MSF funded SSAs only
Pre-approved PCG subsidy to be confirmed
Part B
$3,270.00 (w/ GST)
Eligible NCSS/MSF funded SSAs only
Pending PCG Subsidies
Limited vacancies for PCG subsidy
Part A+B
$4,360.00 (w/ GST)
No PCG Subsidy
Course Structure
The course will be conducted as shown below.
| Course Sessions | Training |
|---|---|
1. Part A: Introduction to Bowen Family Systems Theory
|
Gracia Wiarda |
2. Part B: Integrating and Applications in Bowen Family Systems Theory
|
Gracia Wiarda |
5 Additional individual consultation sessions will be scheduled in April 2026.
Teaching and Learning Strategies
Trainees will be engaged in the learning process with lectures, small group discussions led by an experienced team of Therapists and Associate Therapists from CCC, and experiential exercises.
We are planning for the course to be conducted in our premises. However, in the event that the pandemic worsens and that we are unable to, we will conduct the training online via the zoom platform. We will make these arrangements as soon as there is clarity about what is safe.
Requirements for Completion
BFST does not have an assignment component. However, to be awarded the Certificate in Specialist Post Graduate Certificate in Bowen Family Systems Theory, the Trainees must attain at least 80% of attendance of the total course hours (54 Hours).
To obtain the Specialist Post Graduate Certificate, Part A & Part B are to be completed within a 2-year period
Enquiries
For further information, please email Ms. Hazel Lim at training@counsel.org.sg or Mr. Soh Chang Ci at chang@counsel.org.sg.
Alternatively, you may submit your enquiries using the CONTACT US form. Please remember to select ‘Certificate in Specialist Post Graduate Certificate in Bowen Family Systems Theory’ from the dropdown menu.
How to Apply
Please submit your application in the online form when the applications open.
| Intake | Date of commencement | Date of completion | Dates of Training |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 2026 (Part A) | 10 Mar 2025 | 31 Mar 2025 | 10, 17, 24, & 31 Mar 2026 |
| April 2026 (Part B) | Apr 2026 | Sep 2025 | Group Consultations: 10 Jul, 14 Aug 2026 Consolidation: 17 Sep 2026 |
Note
- Applicants will be notified via email within 7 days from the closing date of application if they have been accepted into the course.
Apply for March 2026 Intake Now!
Closing date for the March 2026 intake is 23 February 2026. Limited spaces for PCG subsidy.
Equip Yourself to Enhance Your Quality of Care
Closing Date for March 2026 Intake is on 23 February 2025. PCG Subsidies pending
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