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The Family Journal
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Communication on Both Sides of the Mirror: Helping a Family Cope With a Traumatic Brain Injury

Brian D. Johnson

Susan C. M. Crane

Lawrence Tatekawa

University of Northern Colorado

This case describes a family’s struggle with a child’s traumatic brain injury (TBI). The family had difficulty discussing how the injury had changed their lives. Emotions were often expressed as explosive outbursts. Initially, the father refused to participate in counseling.Various treatments were tried, but family therapy was needed. Because of the father’s resistance, family sessions initially involved only the siblings. Aspects of filial play therapy were also introduced. Specifically, the parents viewed portions of their children’s sessions from behind a one-way mirror. While behind the mirror, the parents consulted with another therapist about what was going on, how they could generalize treatment, and how TBIs affect children’s social/ emotional functioning. The effects of TBIs on families were also discussed, and the parents’ began to openly discuss their concerns. Eventually, family therapy included everyone. Throughout treatment, it was clear that important changes had occurred on both sides of the mirror.

Key Words: traumatic brain injury • family therapy • resistance to treatment • filial therapy

The Family Journal, Vol. 12, No. 2, 178-183 (2004)
DOI: 10.1177/1066480704122012
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