Infidelity, with the core ingredients of emotional and/or sexual betrayal, is one of the most distressing and disorienting experiences a couple can encounter. The impact is visceral, powerful and traumatizing. The depth of the pain has profound implications for the initial reaction and perhaps even more so, for the healing that must follow. While the emotional bond can be torn and destroyed in a flash, healing and rebuilding takes time.

If you have experienced this in your own relationship, or navigated the path with clients, you know the journey can be turbulent, even tumultuous. Intense emotions open quickly.

Reactivity is the norm. As a therapist, you need a map. Staying present, attuned and balanced is essential as you guide the couple through the process. “Working with Infidelity” provides this map.

During this workshop you will learn the best our field has to offer.

We will open with an exploration of the brilliant, paradigm shifting Gottman “Atone-Attune-Attach” approach to treating affairs. This model offers clarity and wisdom about how to weather the storm, heal the hurt and rebuild the broken bond. Building on Drs. John and Julie Gottman’s seminal research about what makes relationships thrive, this model emphasizes the centrality of Trust and Commitment in the journey from betrayal to intimacy.

We will also focus on Dr. Susan Johnson’s, Emotionally Focused Therapy. This model offers a deep, attachment-based approach for treating the wounds of infidelity. Working effectively with “attachment injuries” requires opening and containing the initial panic, accessing the vulnerable primary emotions and guiding the couple to a more secure bond. The therapists presence and connection are essential to the process.

This workshop has a compelling clinical focus with a solid research base.