COUPLE THERAPY

The main model I use is Behavioural Couple Therapy or BCT, which is the adaptation of cognitive behavioural principles to couple interaction difficulties. It aims to identify communication problems, leading to maladaptive patterns of relating to one another (e.g., demand-withdrawal, attack-withdrawal) and correct these, looking at beliefs (shared or not) that often act as obstacle to more fluid interaction.

BCT work is based on a thorough assessment (both joint and with each partner separately), looking at the couple’s history which explains their current difficulties (with each other and with their context (i.e., extended family, work, community). A major aspect of BCT is the emphasis it makes on skilling the couple to communicate effectively, by using skills such as active respectful listening of each’s thoughts and feelings, and collaborative decision-making.  Once communication has been improved, the therapist and the couple work on addressing other identified issues, such as dealing with external circumstances (e.g., employment, children, in-laws) or couple interaction (e.g., lack of intimacy or trust).

BCT has shown to be effective with a range of presentations, although mostly in cases where at least one partner is depressed and the relationship has become a contributing factor to their difficulties due to repeated conflict, distancing, lack of support, etc. BCT can be effective on difficulties following a range of problems, from adapting to a long-term health condition, to infidelity or child rearing problems.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) has also been adapted for its use with couple difficulties. This model can also help improve communication which is often sidetracked by painful feelings and thoughts, causing misinterpretations or leading to avoidance of important topics. Thus, it addresses schemas or life traps that one or both partners may have, which lead to repeated conflict.

ACT can also be used when working with only one of the partners on difficulties pertaining their relationship.

Please contact me to discuss how these models can address your couple difficulties.

About other therapies…