Couple Therapy and Self-Psychology

Course overview

Treatment of couples basically falls into three categories: systemic; psychodynamic - and behavioral/educational. Novice and experienced therapists alike struggle with the many challenges of couple psychotherapy. Teaching communication skills and pointing out behavior patterns can be helpful for many couples. But when feelings of rage or hopelessness prevail, or narcissistic vulnerabilities are present, the deeper roots of such difficulties need to be addressed and focused on. Psychoanalytic theory, especially self-psychology is highly suited to understanding couples dynamics. Having an in-depth point of view and recognizing the influence of unconscious processes on these relationships can help therapists treat these couples and manage their own reactions to the couples as well.