- Couple: Sarah (38) and Michael (42), married for 10 years with 2 children (ages 8 and 5)
- Presenting concerns: Sarah and Michael are constantly arguing about finances, child-rearing, and a lack of intimacy. They feel distant and resentful towards each other.
- Background: Sarah feels overwhelmed with household responsibilities and blames Michael for not helping out enough. Michael feels criticized and unheard, and withdraws emotionally.
- Treatment approach: Couples therapy with a focus on communication skills. The therapist helps Sarah and Michael identify unhealthy communication patterns and develop more effective ways to express their needs and concerns. They learn active listening skills and validate each other’s feelings.
- Outcome: Through therapy, Sarah and Michael gain a better understanding of each other’s perspectives. They develop tools to communicate more effectively and resolve conflict constructively. The couple reports feeling closer and more supportive of each other.
