Refining a Single Session Thinking Approach for Trauma-Affected Families: A Delphi Study

Family roles in trauma recovery are increasingly recognised, yet systemic approaches remain underdeveloped because of limited models and engagement barriers. Single Session Thinking (SST) offers potential for trauma-related family work. This study identified how specialist family therapists were applying the SST approach when working with families affected by a traumatic event/s, and suggests corresponding adaptations to the existing SST session map. Sixteen specialist family therapists experienced in SST and trauma treatment completed a three-round Delphi study, producing practice guidelines and an adapted SST session map tailored to these families. Consensus was established on the foundation of family trauma treatment utilising an SST approach. Practice guidelines and adaptations to the SST session map emphasised containment, collaboration, and trauma-sensitive systemic practice. The adapted SST framework supports attuned, collaborative family engagement in high-demand, brief-intervention settings. Future research should incorporate family perspectives to further validate and refine the model alongside other trauma recovery approaches.