Systems Scholars
Program Overview
The Systems Scholars program offers serious students of Bowen Family Systems Theory an intentional, structured pathway to deepen their understanding and enhance practical application of core concepts. Through expert-led lectures and personalized coaching, this nine-month program bridges foundational knowledge with advanced practice, equipping participants with the theoretical depth and clinical skills needed to work effectively with complex family relationship systems.
Who Should Participate
This program serves mental health professionals, organizational leaders, and committed learners seeking to strengthen their foundational knowledge of Bowen Family Systems Theory and develop greater effectiveness in their work with families and relationship systems. Participants benefit from having basic familiarity with systems thinking and a genuine commitment to applying these concepts in their professional and personal relationships.
Systems Scholars is the recommended next level for those who have completed CFST’s Foundations Fellowship program.
Program Value & Experience
Participants will receive expert-led monthly lectures covering essential Bowen theory concepts, delivered by Amie Post and distinguished guest lecturers from around the world who bring extensive study experience and practical expertise. The program includes real-world application through clinical case presentations and group discussions, monthly one-on-one coaching sessions for personal integration, and systematic exploration of core concepts including differentiation of self, nuclear family emotional processes, triangles, multigenerational transmission, and societal emotional process.
Scholars join a cohort of like-minded professionals committed to family systems approaches and ongoing professional development. Participants develop enhanced capacity to understand family relationship dynamics across generations, strengthen professional skills while maintaining appropriate boundaries, maintain personal clarity and reduce reactivity in challenging relationships, apply systems thinking to recognize and interrupt problematic patterns, and enhance leadership capacity as differentiated leaders in both professional and personal contexts. The program is grounded in the understanding that meaningful change in relationship systems begins with the self-development of the professional.
Eligibility Requirements
This program is designed for committed individuals ready to advance their understanding and application of Bowen Family Systems Theory. Applicants must:
- Have basic familiarity with systems thinking
- Demonstrate genuine commitment to applying concepts in professional and personal relationships
- Be prepared to participate in all group sessions and monthly coaching sessions
- Be willing to engage in clinical case presentations and group discussions
Investment & Scholarship Opportunities
Program Cost: $2,500 per participant
Needs-based scholarships are possible and are considered on a case-by-case basis
Please contact Amie Post at amie@cfstwny.org with questions.
Program Logistics
In person gatherings on Tuesdays, 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. in Buffalo, NY
2026-2027 Curriculum
- September 22, 2026: The Family Unit and Nuclear Family Emotional Processes
- December 1, 2026: Triangles as Basic Patterns in All Relationship Systems
- January 12, 2027: Sibling Position and the Family Projection Process
- February 9, 2027: Multigenerational Transmission Process
- March 9, 2027: Cut-off
- April 13, 2027: Differentiation of Self
- May 11, 2027: Societal Emotional Process | Tuesday, 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
- June 8, 2027: Closing Program
Selection Process
Qualified applicants will undergo an application process to ensure the best fit for this program. Selection evaluates systems thinking background, commitment to applying family systems theory, and readiness for advanced study.
Application Timeline
Applications for our 2026/2027 program are closed and will reopen in the Summer of 2027. Subscribe to our email list to be notified when applications open.
