This text focuses on normative family problems, such as birth or leaving home; problems which distort normative expectations, such as divorce and step-parenting; and those that are produced by the unexpected, such as accidents or chronic illnesses.

In the course of their daily practice, counsellors in a wide variety of caring agencies often need to assist families in dealing with the problems they face. Eddy Street defines successful family counselling as a combination of a number of elements. He argues that it should: be in keeping with a family's strengths and style; offer empathic listening to each family member; maintain a perspective of the changing nature of family life; focus on clear and open communication; and deal in a problem-solving manner with the task in hand.

He takes the reader step-by-step through these elements, outlining the necessary skills, and provides a clear understanding of the processes families have to go through in order to deal with the tasks that are set for them.