Eco-map

Eco-map's are graphical representations that show all of the systems at play in a client / individual's life. Eco-maps are used in individual and family counseling within the social work profession. They are often a way of portraying Systems Theory in an simplistic way that both the social worker and the client can look at during the session.

Eco-map Symbols
At the center of the eco-map is the client (this can either be a family or individual). They are depicted in the center of the circle. Family connections are shown. There are also connections from all of the relevant systems that are at play in the clients life. These systems are connected to either individuals or the entire circle by line:
 * Thicker (darker) lines mean stronger relationship
 * Curvy or red lines mean that the system is a stressful relationship
 * Arrows pointing to the client mean that the system primarily influences the client
 * Arrows pointing to the system mean that the client primarly influences the system
 * Arrows pointing both direction depicts a two direction flow of influence