Couples Therapy: Looking at Infidelity Through a Multi-Therapeutic Lens
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Authors
Sidhu, Reyah
Issue Date
2024-09-30
Type
Capstone
Language
en
Keywords
couple's therapy , infidelity , relationship , polyamory , betrayal trauma , injured partner , participating partner , Integrative Model of Brief Couples Counselling (IMBCC) , Three Stage Forgiveness Model (TSFM)
Alternative Title
Abstract
Relationships can be difficult. Relationships that have experienced a breach in trust in the form of a sexual betrayal can be emotionally traumatising while also offering the opportunity to be transformative. Moving away from the earlier emotionally focused approaches used in couples' therapy, this Capstone discussion seeks to explore an integrative approach to couples’ therapy. As such, the literature review discussed here explores current research in the area of couple's therapy, and involves discussions that include; an Integrative Model of Brief Couples Counselling (IMBCC), a Three Stage Forgiveness Model (TSFM), cultural contributors, and clinical works occurring in the area of polyamory. Using a postmodern philosophical framework that allows for the primacy of client voice in determining a therapeutic process, this discussion seeks to address a gap in current treatment practices. In doing so, the recommendations discussion supports a flexible, collaborative adaptation of a treatment approach. Suggested is a flexible use of both the IMBCC and TSFM models that are further augmented by the use of a cultural interpretive lens, and by clinical practices currently used with polyamorous clients. The underlying hope furthered by this discussion is to create space for the clients to engage with both themselves, and with each other from a place of authenticity and personal integrity. With this aim in mind, a successful final outcome of couple’s therapy would further an experience of continued personal integrity and ethical practice for the individuals in the relationship rather than a focus on maintaining the relationship at all cost.