EP17 Topical Panel 03 - Family and Couples Therapy I - Harville Hendrix, PhD, Helen LaKelly Hunt, PhD, Cloe Madanes, LIC, HDL and Esther Perel, MA, LMFT

Description:

Systemic and communication-based approaches will be described. These approaches can be used with both families and couples.

Educational Objectives:

1. Describe the IMAGO model.
2. Describe the strategic approach.

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

Outline:

Introduction and Panel Setup

• Format: Four speakers + 10–15 minutes for Q&A.

• Focus on relational models of therapy; audience encouraged to explore speaker bios online.

Imago Therapy and the Relational Paradigm

• Emphasis on the space between individuals rather than internal psychology.

• Safety in interaction is key; structure like Imago Dialog supports this.

• "Zero negativity" and non-judgmental empathy are central to relational healing.

Successes and Broader Impacts

• Marriage therapy is more effective today thanks to neuroscience.

• Imago workshops have helped many couples transform relationships.

• Advocates for spreading relationship education to reduce divorce and improve societal health.

Creating Good Memories in Therapy

• Positive memory-making used to shift focus from conflict to connection.

• One couple’s story showed emotional and physical health improvements from this approach.

Evolution of Couples Therapy

• Shift from lifelong marriage to conditional love raises new challenges.

• Emotional connection and desire must be prioritized in long-term relationships.

• Suggests a public health approach to promote relational well-being.

• Technology increases access to therapy, including podcasts and online tools.

Social Capital and Communication

• Decline in social support networks is affecting relationships.

• Men are harder to engage in therapy, but podcasts have helped reach new audiences.

• Community and shared storytelling play key roles in relational vitality.

Focusing on Strengths in Therapy

• Panelists stress the importance of shifting from problems to wellness.

• Drawing on neuroscience and survivor stories, they emphasize fostering vitality and appreciation.

• Positive narratives empower clients and promote healing.

Family Systems and Intergenerational Focus

• Concerns raised about the decline of systemic family therapy.

• Speakers reaffirm the importance of systems thinking—even in couples work.

• Children seen as part of the couple system; focus remains on creating safe, connected dynamics.

Modern Challenges and Digital Therapy

• Online platforms like Skype help reach distant or busy couples.

• Physical proximity is less important than emotional closeness.

• Meeting people where they are is essential before tackling problems.

Opening Sessions with Clients

• Techniques include:

  • Moment of silence to honor love.

  • Teaching new communication patterns from the first session.

  • Creating future dreams and offering appreciation.

  • Flexibility in opening sessions to meet clients with empathy, not judgment