Currently Accepting Applications for 2025-2026
September 9–December 16, 2025; January 6–April 21, 2026
Tuesdays 5:00 – 8:00 pm EST
Online via Zoom platform
The Basic Seminar is a seven-month intensive program to study the core concepts of Bowen’s Family Systems theory and their application. The curriculum is designed both for those new to the theory and for those who have had prior exposure to the theory through coursework or consultation. The seminar’s focus is on the most fundamental aspects of emotional systems in humans and other living beings. Emphasis is given to understanding theoretical concepts and their application in personal and professional life.
Class time is divided between didactic presentations by faculty and consultation with students on the application of the various ideas to a given family or organizational system. Periodic writing assignments serve to clarify participants’ ideas and questions about the application of Bowen theory.
The Basic Seminar is designed as a multi-year program. Participants may enroll for additional years after completion of the first year. The program is appropriate for clinicians, clergy, organization and community leaders, and other individuals interested in expanding their knowledge about the predictability of human behavior and relationship systems.
Weekly classes consist of two sections, separated by a 15-minute break:
In consultation with the course organizer, students will select a personal research topic and write a summary of their exploration of the topic and their conclusions to be submitted to the course organizer. Students will present their research project to the seminar group and faculty at year’s end.
Tuition
$1600.00 per year – The tuition for this course includes registration to attend the WPFC Fall Symposium and Spring Conference. If students are interested in attending, they will be provided with a discount code that covers the cost of one ticket. CE’s are available for an administrative fee during the registration process. The tuition also includes a 1 year subscription to Family Systems: A Journal of Natural Systems Thinking in Psychiatry and the Sciences.
Note: Payment plans are available by contacting the WPFC Office Administrator, Rebecca Keller (info@wpfc.net).
Application Process
A non-refundable $100 application fee must be submitted with the seminar Application form. This fee will be applied toward tuition, with payment of the tuition balance arranged with the WPFC Office Administrator, Rebecca Keller (info@wpfc.net).
Prior to being accepted, all applicants will schedule an online meeting with the course organizer (Cynthia Larkby, PhD, ACSW).
Cancellation and Early Course Withdrawal Policy
Canceling enrollment in or withdrawing early from the Basic Seminar must be communicated in writing to WPFC’s administrator, Rebecca Keller (info@wpfc.net). Cancellations submitted prior to the start of the seminar will result only in forfeiture of the nonrefundable $100 application fee. Notice given of early withdrawal within the first six weeks ((Sept 9 – Oct 21)) of the seminar will result in a prorated refund, with full payment expected for the first six weeks plus a 20% administrative fee on the remaining weeks of the seminar. Participants withdrawing after the six-week “drop period” will not receive a refund.
Amounts to be refunded or still be paid by the participant will depend on whether the full tuition fee was paid up front or other payment arrangements were made. For example, participants in the Basic Seminar who withdraw within the first six weeks will be required to pay $525.00, which reflects a prorated tuition fee covering the first six weeks of the seminar ($281.25) plus a 20% administrative fee based on the balance of the tuition fee for the remaining weeks of the seminar ($243.75). Participants who give notice of early withdrawal within the first six weeks and who have already paid more than $525.00 will receive a refund of the tuition balance overage.
