1st Friday of every month from 1:10-2:40pm
3000 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 214
Washington, DC 20008

The challenges of working with couples will be explored through readings that draw from self psychology, attachment theory, intersubjectivity and relational theories, neuroscience, as well as clinical discussion. Topics will include working with oppositional couples, countertransference dilemmas, sexual issues, infidelity, loss and blended families. Additional topics will be determined by the interests of group participants.  Group members should be actively working with couples.

Members who attend this study group will be able to:

Semester #1 – 9/13/19, 10/4/19, 11/1/19, 12/6/19, 1/3/20

1. Apply the theoretical components of attachment theory to couples therapy.
2. Describe how varying attachment styles contribute to couples relationship dynamics.
3. Discuss the concept of “earned secure attachment.”
4. Discuss ways to help couples work toward a healthier, more secure attachment.
5. Discuss clinical approaches to help couples elicit and deepen emotional expression.

Semester # 2 – 2/7/20, 3/6/20, 4/3/20, 5/1/20, 6/5/20

1. Describe how concepts from neurobiology can be integrated into a Self Psychological approach to couples work.
2. Describe two concepts from neurobiology that can be utilized in couples therapy.
3. Describe intervention techniques that help couples deescalate arousal and promote connection.
4. Describe techniques for managing the therapist’s emotional reactivity when working with dysregulated couples.
5. Explain how to understand and effectively utilize the therapist’s countertransference feelings and responses in clinical work with couples.