Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for Couples: A Clinical Guide to Using Mindfulness

For many clients, romantic relationships pose a huge problem, often leading to deep emotional pain. More and more, we are learning that the causes of interpersonal conflicts lie in schemas - stories that clients create about themselves and their relationships, which lead to negative expectations. In this groundbreaking clinical work in psychology, ten of the most common relationship schemas are identified and an evidence-based approach is provided to help couples overcome feelings of dependency, abandonment, and mistrust. The book describes maladaptive coping strategies to deal with schemas, directions to help couples identify their values, and skills to help clients overcome cognitive and emotional barriers to value-based actions. Using the eight-step protocol presented in the book, therapists will help clients create stronger and healthier relationships that will last a lifetime. The book describes how to use Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help couples overcome maladaptive schemas and come to real solutions that meet the needs and values of both partners. Relationships need work. For many of us, romantic relationships pose a huge problem, as evidenced by the high divorce rate. This book provides the first evidence-based ACT treatment protocol for couples, identifying the ten most common relationship schemas and the behavior patterns they entail. The book will help therapists guide clients through their pain and find solutions that reflect the needs and values of the couple. This long-awaited book presents the ten most common relationship schemas, as well as an evidence-based Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) protocol. Using the book's material, clinicians can help clients overcome barriers in relationships. Therapists should not hinder the activation of relationship schemas or reduce the pain caused by schemas. They must help clients observe and name what triggers maladaptive coping behavior during schema activation. By acquiring new skills, in triggering situations and to improve relationships, clients can replace behavior and maladaptive coping strategies with value-based actions. The focus of therapy is on clients' avoidant behavior, not their thoughts and beliefs, so this skills-based guide contains the tools needed to help clients change their attitude towards their partner. Key themes of the book: - Theoretical information on ACT and schema therapy for couples - Detailed description of the eight-step treatment protocol - Clinical case examples, dialogues - Metaphors, scenarios, worksheets - Exercises and experiments - Appendices and handouts - Practical training to strengthen skills