Product Description

Presenter: Dr. Lisa Firestone
3 CE Credits 
90 Minutes

In 2004, a national survey revealed that “how couples argue was more related to divorce potential than was what they argue about.” As therapists, many of us observe this reality on countless occasions throughout our career.  While financial strains and practical worries can take their toll on a relationship, the internal defenses individuals bring to the table are often at the root of the deepest conflict or distress between couples, regardless of external forces. What prevents most people from being able to sustain romantic, meaningful relationships that satisfy their needs and desires? Why do people often feel compelled to punish those closest to them? What are the factors that determine whether partners will end up experiencing love and fulfillment in their relationship or suffering pain and distress? This Webinar helps answer these questions by providing participants with a theoretical model that integrates psychodynamic, existential, and family systems frameworks in a manner that can increase clinicians’ understanding of and ability to assist individuals in developing and maintaining intimacy in their relationships. Participants will learn how to help couples challenge self-protective behaviors that interfere with closeness and intimacy.

Learning Objectives:

1. Recognize how methods or defenses formed to deal with pain & anxiety in childhood later come to limit people as adults in their ability to develop and sustain attachments.
2. Summarize the concept of the fantasy bond, an imaginary connection formed with their partner that relieves anxiety, yet interferes with real relationships.
3. Apply the techniques of Voice Therapy to help partners identify and challenge negative thoughts toward themselves and their partner