Family, couples, or child in therapy and what boundary considerations
Provide a brief example of a family, couples, or child in therapy and what boundary considerations you would want to be aware of as the counselor. Consider your awareness of culture and possible intergenerational patterns in the family unit. Explain a few considerations you would want to support in the treatment plan development for your family, couple, or child example in counseling. Main posts need a minimum of one course textbook citation and one peer reviewed journal article (published in last five to ten years) or potential point reduction. Needs APA format integrated within discussion and reference list. Paraphrase content and avoid reliance on quotations.
Sample Solution
Couple's Therapy Example: The Millers
Scenario: John and Sarah Miller (early 50s) have been married for 25 years and are seeking couples therapy due to a growing sense of disconnect and frequent arguments. John complains about feeling neglected and unappreciated, while Sarah expresses frustration with John's emotional withdrawal and lack of help with household chores.
Full Answer Section
Boundary Considerations:- Maintaining Neutrality: As a therapist, it's crucial to avoid taking sides or blaming either partner. Fostering a safe space where both John and Sarah feel comfortable expressing their perspectives is essential.
- Dual Relationship Concerns: Therapists should be mindful of potential dual relationships, such as knowing either partner outside of therapy. If such situations arise, it's important to consult with a supervisor or refer the couple to another therapist.
- Sexual Intimacy: While discussing sexual intimacy might be relevant, the therapist should avoid overly personal inquiries or exceeding the boundaries of a professional relationship.
- Gender Roles: Are there cultural expectations regarding gender roles within the household that might be contributing to the conflict?
- Communication Styles: Do their cultural backgrounds influence their communication style (direct vs. indirect communication)?
- Did John or Sarah witness similar marital conflict in their families of origin?
- How did their parents handle disagreements and emotional expression?
- Communication Skills Training: Teaching effective communication skills, like active listening and "I" statements, can improve the couple's ability to express needs and resolve conflict constructively.
- Gottman Method: The Gottman Method, a research-based approach, focuses on building emotional intimacy, increasing positive communication, and managing conflict healthily (Gottman & Gottman, 2007).
- Addressing Underlying Issues: Helping John and Sarah understand the deeper emotional needs behind their complaints can foster empathy and facilitate problem-solving.
- Individual Sessions (Considered): Individual sessions might be beneficial to explore personal issues contributing to the marital problems.
- Hays, P. A. (2019). Cultural competence in counseling and psychotherapy. American Psychological Association. (This textbook provides a framework for developing cultural competence in therapy, emphasizing the importance of understanding cultural factors in client presentations)
- Gottman, J. M., & Gottman, J. (2007). The seven principles for making marriage work: A practical guide from the country's foremost relationship expert. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. (This book outlines the core principles of the Gottman Method, which can be adapted for use in couples therapy)