CC18 Workshop 13 - The Developmental Model of Couples Therapy: Advanced Experiential Workshop - Ellyn Bader, PhD and Sue Diamond Potts, PhD

Description:

This workshop demonstrates advanced couples therapy techniques using a developmental model. Ellen Bader works with a conflict-avoidant couple experiencing aftermath of an affair, guiding them to confront emotional challenges, build mutual accountability, and enhance relationship differentiation. The session highlights strategies for honest communication, understanding individual needs, and developing resilience through authentic self-expression. Participants examine complex relationship dynamics, addressing emotional barriers, sexual intimacy, and personal growth within partnerships.

Educational Objectives:

1. Identify internal impasses clearly.
2. Delineate issues for each partner and prevent the blurring of boundaries.
3. Demonstrate how Initiator-Inquirer concepts are used to address developmental deficits.

*Sessions may be edited for content and to preserve confidentiality*

Outline:

• Workshop Introduction

  • Focuses on experiential work using the developmental model of couples therapy.
  • Emphasizes addressing present issues over family-of-origin work.
  • Highlights vulnerability and courage in therapy.

• Case Presentation: Conflict-Avoidant Couple

  • Couple together since teens, history of emotional affairs.
  • Recent rupture after husband receives text from affair partner.
  • Wife struggles to express anger without damaging the relationship.

• Role-Playing the Session

  • Participants role-play therapy interventions with the couple.
  • Focus on communication, accountability, and managing emotions.
  • Therapists guide the couple to reflect on their roles and reactions.

• Therapist Interventions & Reflections

  • Nancy models calm, steady leadership and self-focus.
  • Ellen confronts Peter’s passivity and emphasizes accountability.
  • Therapists help the couple hold differentiation and emotional tension.

• Exploring Couple Dynamics

  • Importance of balancing confrontation and empathy.
  • Encouraging both partners to own feelings and pursue growth.
  • Discussion of resilience and potential for deeper connection.

• Relationship Needs & Emotional Overload

  • Examines male-female dynamics, caring, and self-reproach.
  • Peter’s honesty about lingering feelings is acknowledged.
  • Participants reflect on honesty, anxiety, and emotional risks.

• Creating Safety & Productive Work

  • Focus on building safety for deeper conversations.
  • Therapists summarize work to avoid repetitive cycles.
  • Importance of recognizing progress and internal shifts.

• Strategies for Moving Forward

  • Predicting future challenges and pausing to reflect.
  • Ending sessions on positive notes and validating progress.
  • Emphasis on continued growth and addressing internal splits.

• Case Study: Hypocrisy in Marriage

  • Husband desires wife but avoids initiating sex.
  • Discussion of individual vs. couple work and use of two-chair dialogue.
  • Importance of exploring true intentions and therapist’s role.

• Final Reflections

  • Participants share appreciation and insights.
  • Encouragement to continue practicing learned skills.
  • Session ends on a positive, forward-looking note.