This talk introduces a fundamental shift in how couples therapy is understood and practiced. Rather than focusing on individuals as the primary unit of care, this approach positions the relationship itself as the client. Participants will explore how this shift transforms clinical attention, the therapist’s role, and the meaning of couple distress.
Grounded in Imago Relationship Therapy and informed by an integrative, relational perspective, the talk emphasizes practical, moment-to-moment application in the therapy room. Through teaching, reflection, and clinical video examples, participants will learn how structured relational processes, particularly the Imago Dialogue, create safety, regulate emotional intensity, and support meaningful connection between partners.
The talk highlights three core shifts: from working inside individuals to working between partners, from expert problem-solver to facilitator of relational experience, and from viewing reactivity as pathology to understanding it as adaptive and protective. Participants will leave with a clearer framework for navigating complex couple dynamics with greater confidence, clarity, and clinical effectiveness.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this talk, participants will be able to: