How to Break Down Specific Goals in Couples Therapy

Jill-Squyres-Groubert

Private practice, Arvada, Colorado

Key Points

  1. Lisa and Mark addressed individual and necessary goals for restoring Lisa’s trust in him.
  2. They implemented strategies to address loneliness and increase emotional connection while apart.
  3. The couple worked on developing trust in tasks being completed without resentment, including hiring help for housework and gardening, and planning meals together.
lock-icon

To unlock this video you need to become a Therapy Pro: Plus member.

Restoring Lisa’s Trust

  1. Mark’s ongoing assurance that he wanted to end the affair, and would remain committed to her
  2. His agreement to break all contact with Samantha, getting Lisa’s participation in writing an email to send to her
  3. To be given full access to Mark’s phone and passwords, with no hidden devices or accounts
  4. To be able to ask any questions she wanted about the affair
  5. To be informed immediately if Samantha contacted Mark outside necessary work communications

Restoring Financial Trust

  1. The couple would formulate a plan to restore some of the money Mark had spent
  2. Mark was to create generous acts and experiences for Lisa’s benefit, to make up for his generosity to Samantha
  3. They would review their bank statements and credit card bills together, and Mark would answer any questions Lisa had about his spending

Unlock Couples Therapy: How to Recover From an Affair course.

Become a Therapy Pro: Plus Member.

Learn more

Already have an account? Sign in

Download These Materials

Unlock Couples Therapy: How to Recover From an Affair course.

Become a Therapy Pro: Plus Member.

Learn more

Already have an account? Sign in

Therapy PRO

Unlock our library of clinical cases and earn CE credits today!

Learn from the Best: Explore real sessions conducted by seasoned professionals and enhance your therapeutic skills.