Program Format

Live Monthly Learning Session

Third Thursday of Each Month | 8:00am–11:00 AM CST | Online via Zoom

Each session includes:

• Guest Faculty Presentation
• Guided Discussion with Faculty
• Bowen Theory Academy Webcast or Selected Educational Presentation
• Interactive Discussion and Clinical Application

Recorded Session Playback Option

Friday Morning | 9:00 AM–12:00 PM CST

For the 2026–2027 training year, participants may attend a recorded playback session featuring the full Thursday presentation followed by a live discussion with KC Center faculty. This option is ideal for international participants and professionals with scheduling conflicts.

Consultation and Coaching

Learning Bowen Family Systems Theory requires more than acquiring information—it involves applying systems thinking to one's family, professional relationships, and organizational environments.

Participants receive:

• Monthly small-group consultation
• Individual coaching and consultation with faculty
• Guidance in applying theory to family, clinical, educational, organizational, and workplace systems
• Support in developing a deeper understanding of their own family emotional process

Group consultation scheduling will be determined by cohort preferences, while individual consultations are arranged directly between participants and faculty.

Program Details

Program Dates: September through May

Format: Monthly Online Cohort via Zoom

Tuition: $2,200

Continuing Education: Up to 54 CEUs, including consultation hours

Eligibility:

• Professionals holding Master's or Doctoral degrees
• Advanced undergraduate students with a strong foundation in Bowen Family Systems Theory may be considered

What Makes This Program Unique?

The KC Center Education & Training Series is a concentrated course of study focused on the theory, research, and practical application of Bowen Family Systems Theory. Participants learn from an interdisciplinary faculty and nationally recognized guest presenters representing a broad range of professional backgrounds.

The program is open to mental health professionals, healthcare providers, educators, clergy, business leaders, organizational consultants, and other professionals interested in understanding human behavior through a systems perspective.

Distinguished Faculty and Guest Presenters

Participants benefit from presentations by respected scholars, clinicians, researchers, and educators, including prior presenters such as:

• Michael Kerr, MD
• Kathleen Kerr, MSN, MA, CNS
• Randall T. Frost, MDiv
• Carolyn Jacobs, PhD
• Cheryl Lester, PhD
• Stephanie Ferrara, MSW
• Margaret Otto, LSCSW
• Joan Jurkowski, MS, LCPC
• Barbara Laymon
• Amie Post
• Walter Howard Smith Jr.
• Laura Brooks
• Jim Edd Jones, PhD

Bowen Family Systems Theory: A Distinctive Framework

Bowen Family Systems Theory offers a fundamentally different way of understanding human behavior. Rather than focusing solely on individual symptoms and cause-and-effect explanations, Bowen theory examines the relationship patterns and emotional processes operating within families, organizations, and broader social systems.

The Family as an Emotional System

Developed by psychiatrist Murray Bowen, the theory views the family as an emotional unit whose patterns of interaction shape individual functioning throughout life. These relationship patterns influence how people think, feel, and respond under stress and become central to understanding both personal and professional challenges.

Systems Thinking Across Disciplines

Bowen Family Systems Theory is grounded in systems thinking and remains consistent with principles observed throughout natural systems. Participants are encouraged to explore theory critically, integrate current scientific knowledge, and apply systems concepts across clinical, educational, organizational, and family contexts.

Learning Objectives

Participants in the Education & Training Series will:

• Develop a deeper understanding of Bowen Family Systems Theory
• Strengthen systems thinking skills
• Explore their family of origin and multigenerational patterns
• Apply Bowen theory to family, workplace, and clinical challenges
• Participate in lecture discussions and consultation groups
• Complete assigned readings and theoretical reflections
• Prepare an end-of-year presentation and written paper
• Increase their ability to function thoughtfully and effectively under pressure

Application Process

Applicants submit an application that includes a Family of Origin Diagram, which may be emailed directly to the KC Center.

Once application requirements are met and the administrative fee is received, applicants will be invited to participate in a Zoom interview.

Accepted participants will receive a formal letter of acceptance and tuition payment instructions.

2026–2027 Program Dates: TBD

 

Join a Global Learning Community

The KC Center Education & Training Series provides a rigorous and supportive environment for professionals seeking advanced training in Bowen Family Systems Theory. Through lectures, consultation, supervision, and ongoing discussion, participants develop a deeper understanding of family systems, emotional process, and the practice of systems thinking in both personal and professional life.

For questions about the program or application process, contact the KC Center directly.