My Odyssey in Bowen Theory

My introduction to Bowen theory happened around 1996 at the University of Wisconsin’s Madison campus. I attended an all-day seminar exploring emotional process, triangles and anxiety. Initially, I was uncertain of what to make of triangles and emotional processes. But I intuitively understood anxiety and how it travels between people. For twelve years I tried to rise above the anxiety around me. I focused primarily on being non-anxious, achieving limited success. I then worked at defining a self to my family and I watched my level of functioning and confidence rise.

There is no secret sauce or master receipt for differentiation of self. It does include key ingredients: a determination and motivation to understand the world through science, a coach who appropriately challenges one to step up, and Bowen theory – a framework for understanding human behavior. The Center for Family Consultation integrates all three.

As I step into the role of executive director I have three primary objects. The first objective is to build upon the theoretical rigor and teaching legacy of our founding members and current executive board: Stephanie Ferrara, Leslie Fox, Carol Moran, Sydney Reed, and Bob Noone who have led the organization for over 40 years. I’m grateful to Bob for his efforts to facilitate a successful transition and for his desire to see me and the organization flourish.

The second objective is to promote Bowen theory as an asset to both families and communities. I plan to meet with mental health clinics, universities, community centers, and businesses to better understand how Bowen theory and CFC might be a resource. I’m interested in learning where Bowen theory is being taught and used in Chicagoland, how CFC can be a resource to families, community organizations and businesses, and where there might be new opportunities to teach Bowen theory and its application.

The final objective is to work collaboratively with the vibrant international network of Bowen centers. Most have a virtual online learning component. What does online collaboration look like in the 21st century and post-pandemic? How might CFC partner with other centers to influence the evolutionary trajectory of human beings towards thinking systems?

The Center for Family Consultation consists of talented, thoughtful and motivated individuals dedicated to advancing Bowen theory in the world. Our success as an organization is based on their efforts. In addition to the executive board I’m grateful to our faculty members Lisa Friedstein, Cecilia Guzman, Jennifer Howe, Kelly Matthews-Pluta, Lisa Moss, Terri Pilarski, and Patty Sheridan. I’m honored to be the executive director and to collaborate with these individuals.

I look forward to discovering how CFC and Bowen theory can be a resource to you.

John Bell