Behavioural Couple Therapy

 

• Assessment: The therapist begins by conducting a thorough assessment of the couple's relationship. This may involve individual interviews with each partner and joint sessions to understand the issues and dynamics at play.
• Setting Goals:Together with the couple, therapists establish clear and realistic goals for therapy. These goals could include improving communication, resolving conflicts, enhancing intimacy, or addressing specific behavioural patterns that contribute to relationship distress.
• Identification of Problematic Behaviours: BCT identifies specific behaviours that contribute to relationship difficulties. This could include negative communication styles, patterns of avoidance, or behaviours that reinforce conflict.
• Communication Skills Training: One key aspect of BCT is improving communication between partners. Therapists teach effective communication skills, including active listening, expressing feelings, and providing constructive feedback. Couples learn to communicate more openly and empathetically.
• Problem-Solving Techniques: BCT equips couples with problem-solving techniques to address issues collaboratively. This involves identifying specific problems, brainstorming solutions, and working together to implement and evaluate those solutions.
• Behavioural Change Strategies: Therapists help couples identify and modify behaviours that contribute to relationship challenges. This might involve addressing negative patterns, reinforcing positive behaviors, and breaking cycles of interaction that lead to conflict.
• Increasing Positive Interactions: BCT emphasises the importance of positive interactions to build and maintain a healthy relationship. Therapists guide couples in fostering positive experiences, expressions of appreciation, and moments of connection.
• Relapse Prevention: Couples learn strategies to prevent the recurrence of problematic behaviours. Therapists provide tools for ongoing communication and conflict resolution to ensure the sustainability of positive changes.
• Homework Assignments: BCT often involves assignments for couples to practice new skills and strategies outside of therapy sessions. These assignments reinforce the application of learned techniques in real-life situations.
• Follow-Up and Maintenance: After achieving initial goals, couples may continue with periodic check-ins or booster sessions to ensure that positive changes are maintained over time. This ongoing support helps solidify the skills acquired during therapy.