The initial session may be even more important for couple therapy than individual therapy because the partners often have different levels of motivation and competing ideas about what problems to work on. They may also hijack the session when their reactivity is high, and then feel that nothing was accomplished. In this workshop, you will hear three experienced couple therapists describe how they take charge of the first session while communicating empathically with the couple, what key information they gather, and how they form a working alliance with two people who are at odds with each other.
An overview of a family therapy approach that emphasizes individualized treatment, full family involvement, and the use of storytelling and metaphors to support client-led solutions. Non-pharmacological strategies are favored, particularly in treating schizophrenia, with a focus on systemic change. Additional topics include working with sexually abused children and valuing clients' intelligence and resilience.
