All couples go through challenging times: some survive and thrive, others don't. How can we understand and use this distinction in the practical application of therapy?
In their solution-oriented, competency-based approach to couples therapy, Phillip Ziegler and Tobey Hiller answer this question. In Recreating Partnership, an innovative, theoretically sound, and practical handbook for clinicians, Ziegler and Hiller present a bold and clinically useful concept, the good story/bad story dichotomy. The book shows clinicians how to use this narrative concept in conducting effective and efficient relationship therapy that will help couples build solutions collaboratively, invigorate partnership, and thrive, each in their own unique ways. The book covers issues such as establishing rapport with antagonistic partners; developing therapeutic goals; hosting conversations that reinvigorate the couple's good story; how, when, and whether to offer task assignments; addressing issues such as domestic violence; and how to bring therapy to a close, as well as many cogent and helpful transcripts. Written for psychologists, social workers, marriage and family therapists, and anyone who works with couples, Recreating Partnership will be exciting and useful to both the novice and experienced practitioner.
Retired after 35 years practicing counseling and psychotherapy. Two months later I was recruited to join a consulting team coaching executives and facilitating planning and training sessions. Still maintaining an interest in helping people break unwanted, harmful habits--substance abuse, compulsive overeating, rages, etc. And, helping people make desired changes in the shortest time possible.
I have been married for 35 years, I have two grown sons, three grand-daughters and a grand-son. And a sailboat on the San Francisco Bay. Life is good.
