Mental Research Institute

The Mental Research Institute (MRI) is a non-profit organization established in 1958 by Donald deAvila Jackson, a renowned figure in the field of psychiatry. It is recognized as one of the founding institutions of brief and family therapy, playing a pivotal role in the development of interactional/systemic studies and psychotherapy[2][4].

History

MRI was founded by Don D. Jackson and his colleagues, with the initial goal of conducting research in the field of mental illness. Over time, it became a center for innovation in psychotherapy and family therapy, attracting prominent figures such as Paul Watzlawick, Richard Fisch, Jay Haley, Jules Riskin, Virginia Satir, and Gregory Bateson[1][2]. The institute received funding from the National Institute of Mental Health and established the first formal training program in family therapy[1].

The Brief Therapy Center

In 1967, the Brief Therapy Center at MRI was established by Dick Fisch, John Weakland, and Paul Watzlawick. This center introduced an innovative model for comprehensive brief psychotherapy, significantly influencing subsequent brief therapy approaches worldwide[2][4]. The work of the Brief Therapy Center overlapped with MRI, fostering a collaborative environment that advanced psychotherapy research and practice[4].

Mission and Focus

The Mental Research Institute is dedicated to conducting and promoting scientific research based on new perspectives on human behavior. It focuses on an interactional approach to understanding and resolving human problems at various levels of social organization[2]. MRI supports innovative research projects and encourages collaboration among researchers and practitioners to enhance the understanding and application of interactional systemic approaches[1].

Tax Status

The Mental Research Institute is classified as a 501(c)(3) organization, making donations to it tax-deductible[3].

Legacy

MRI's contributions to psychotherapy and family therapy are extensive, with over 1,000 publications attributed to its associates. The institute's archives are maintained through Stanford University Libraries' Special Collections[1][2]. While the physical location of MRI was sold in 2019, its legacy continues through ongoing research and education initiatives[4].