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= = =COU 627: COUPLES THERAPY=

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This course will focus on principles of effective psychotherapy with couples. We will explore several models of couple therapy via readings, discussions, videotapes and simulated client-therapist exercises. Adding to the clinical emphasis, the course prepares students to critically assess the ongoing controversies about couplehood and marriage. Emphasis will be on utilizing the resources, strengths, and creative change generating capacities of the couple in moving toward a set of mutually agreed upon goals. Students will engage in skill-building exercises in approaching couple's issues with a positive, optimistic and solution-focused perspective. Attention will be given to the diverse array of dyadic relationships in which people are struggling to move from conflict and anger to cooperation and partnership. Relevant topical issues will be interwoven into discussions and role-plays. The influence and impact of socio-economic and socio-cultural factors (including issues of gender and power) on couple relationships will also be explored. The course theme is addressed using clinical theory, research, popular culture, and policy to enhance the capacity of clinicians to work collaboratively, effectively, creatively, and respectfully with couples in psychotherapy.======

Required Texts
Knudson-Martin, C., & Mahoney, A. R. (2009). //Couples, gender, and power: creating change in intimate relationships//. New York: Springer. Rastogi, M., & Thomas, V. (2009). //Multicultural couple therapy//. Thousand Oaks: Sage Publications. Sprenkle, D. H., Davis, S. D., & Lebow, J. (2009). //Common factors in couple and family therapy: the overlooked foundation for effective practice//. New York: Guilford Press. Taibbi, R. (2009). //Doing couple therapy: craft and creativity in work with intimate partners//. New York: Guilford Press.