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