A Focusing-Oriented Approach Couples Therapy / Focusing in der Paartherapie / El uso del focusing en la terapia de parejas / L'utilisation du Focusing dans la thérapie de couples / O recurso ao focusing na terapia de casal /

Abstract

The use of focusing in couples therapy can help a couple remove blocks to intimacy, understand themselves and each other more deeply, shift stuck dynamics, and nurture connection and intimacy. Focusing-Oriented couples work helps interrupt the cycle of blame, defensiveness, and attack. This is replaced with an attitude of respect, gentleness, and kindness toward themselves and the full range of their experience. This approach to couples therapy is based on the premise that what is happening between the members of the couple is a reflection of what is happening within the two individuals. In this somatic approach, focusing helps each partner stay connected to their own bodily felt sense of relevant issues and concerns. This allows a safer way to uncover underlying feelings, needs, and concerns. Learning to express these in a gentle, nondefensive, tender way creates a climate that invites and nurtures intimacy, love, and connection.