Angry Couple

Angry Couple

BSHS/385
April 4, 2016
Anie Sklar

Angry Couple
The “Angry Couple” video depicts a therapeutic session concerning an angry couple who appears to be having difficulty listening to the concerns each have with the other, their relationship and with their therapist. Before the therapy session begins, Dr. Susan Heitler arranges the room for symmetry and interaction. She then begins the therapeutic session by asking a few intake interview questions to better assist the couple in the counseling process.
Examples of the three stages model of interviewing are illustrated below:
Exploration Stage
Dr. Susan Heitler asked both Richard and Judith to explain exactly what it is that they each want to accomplish during the session. In the taped interview, Dr. Susan Heitler (Psychotherapy.net, 1995) asks Richard to turn to Judith and, “try talking and tell her why you are here.” She then asks Judith to ask Richard the same question before asking them both to clarify why they are here. Judith wants Richard to commit to having a family. However, Richard feels the time isn’t right.
Dr. Susan Heitler explores the problems and how they’re feeling. She explores any previous treatments they may have had. Judith is upset and doesn’t feel her husband listens and as a result, Judith’s anger escalates.
Clarification Stage
The clarification stage is the investigation portion of the session. Dr. Susan Heitler begins to realize she will need to establish rules before their anger escalates into a battle. Dr. Susan Heitler realizes that Judith is interested in talking about what she needs to say without listening to what Richard is saying.
During the clarification stage, Dr. Susan Heitler asks Judith if she understands everything that is being said and if she understands the goal of each client. Dr. Susan Heitler reiterates what both Richard and Judith need and offers a quick process of conflict resolution through clarifying mutual concerns and then determining...