Main description:

From leading marital therapists and researchers, this unique book presents a three-stage therapy approach for clinicians working with couples struggling in the aftermath of infidelity. The book provides empirically grounded strategies for helping clients overcome the initial shock, understand what happened and why, think clearly about their best interests before they act, and move on emotionally, whether or not they ultimately reconcile. The volume is loaded with vivid clinical examples and carefully designed exercises for use both during sessions and at home.

Contents:

I. Preparing for Treatment

1. Conceptualizing an Integrative Treatment for Affair Couples

2. Initial Assessment and Formulation

3. Creating a Therapeutic Environment

II. Stage 1 of Treatment

4. Damage Control

5. Restoring Equilibrium

6. Addressing Emotional Upheaval

III. Stage 2 of Treatment

7. Preparing the Couple to Examine Contributing Factors

8. Examining Relationship Factors

9. Examining Outside Factors

10. Examining Individual Partner Factors

11. Complex Affairs

12. Tying It All Together: Creating a Formulation of How the Affair Occurred

IV. Stage 3 of Treatment

13. Addressing Issues of Forgiveness and Barriers to Moving Forward

14. Moving Forward

15. Concluding Comments