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CC24 Panel 01 - Initial Session - William Doherty, PhD; Elliott Connie, MA, LPC; Terry Real, LICSW

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Topic Areas:
Topical Panels |  Clinical Process |  Couples Therapy
Categories:
Couples Conference |  Couples Conference 2024
Faculty:
Terry Real, LICSW |  Elliott Connie, MA, LPC |  William Doherty, PhD
Duration:
59:19
Format:
Audio Only
Original Program Date:
May 04, 2024
License:
Never Expires.
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Tags: Differentiation Entry Dynamics First Impressions Joining Resistance Observation Rapport Reframing Session Structuring Strategic Therapy Tailoring Therapist Neutrality Utilization

Description

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.

Learning Objectives:

  1. Identify the key challenges couple therapists face in the initial session.
  2. Describe strategies for exercising leadership in this session while connecting with each partner.
  3. Discuss skills for developing a therapeutic alliance that sets the stage for the work ahead.

Outline:

 

  • Bill Doherty’s Approach

    • Focuses on gaining traction in the first session by aligning with the couple’s goals and pain.

    • Treats the session as both assessment and intervention.

    • Assesses prior therapy, current individual therapy, and mutual commitment to change.

  • Connie Elliot’s Approach

    • Uses a solution-focused method; sees the first session as most important.

    • Encourages hope by asking about desired outcomes and the couple’s origin story.

    • Aims to reconnect partners with their love and shared history.

  • Terry Real’s Approach

    • Identifies “the dance” or repeated relational patterns early.

    • Uses a four-month intensive model, especially for couples on the brink.

    • Works to empower the disempowered and challenge the grandiose partner.

  • Challenges in Initial Sessions

    • Common issues: overwhelm, time management, and client resistance.

    • Bill: move quickly and be willing to challenge.

    • Connie: avoid assuming there will be more time later.

    • Terry: take leadership and manage disruptions assertively.

  • Client Fit and Referrals

    • Screen for untreated mental health issues or substance abuse before starting.

    • Safety is a top priority; commitment to change is essential.

    • Don’t give up on couples if there's potential for growth.

  • Building Therapeutic Alliance

    • Be authentic, empathic, and relational.

    • Therapists should show care for both partners and maintain presence.

    • Consistency between professional and personal behavior builds trust.

Credits

Faculty

Terry Real, LICSW's Profile

Terry Real, LICSW Related Seminars and Products

Terry Real, LICSW, is a nationally recognized family therapist, author, and teacher. He is particularly known for his groundbreaking work on men and male psychology as well as his work on gender and couples; he has been in private practice for over twenty-five years. Terry has appeared often as the relationship expert for Good Morning America and ABC News. His work has been featured in numerous academic articles as well as media venues such as Oprah, 20/20, The Today Show, CNN, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Psychology Today and many others.

Elliott Connie, MA, LPC's Profile

Elliott Connie, MA, LPC Related Seminars and Products

Elliott Connie is a solution focused therapist with his private practice based in Keller, TX. Elliott specializes in using the solution focused approach to work with couples. He is the co-author of the book The Art of Solution Focused Therapy, and his second book, Solution Building in Couples Therapy, was released in 2012. His latest book, The Solution Focused Marriage: 5 Simple Habits That Will Bring Out the Best in Your Relationship, is now available.

Elliott has traveled throughout the United States and Europe, including the UK, Sweden, Poland, Denmark, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Australia, Russia, South Africa and Canada, training psychotherapists to work more effectively with couples, and helping couples to build more satisfying relationships.

William Doherty, PhD's Profile

William Doherty, PhD Related Seminars and Products

William J. Doherty is an educator, researcher, therapist, speaker, author, consultant, and community organizer. He is Professor and Director of the Marriage and Family Therapy Program in the Department of Family Social Science, College of Education and Human Development, at the University of Minnesota, where he is also an adjunct Professor in the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health.

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