Couples Therapy: An Adlerian Perspective.

This book provides therapists with a theoretical base from which to view the dynamics of couples' relationships and the therapeutic process. The book's eight chapters are organized into three parts: "Adlerian Theory and Process"; "Therapeutic Interventions"; and "Special Issues in Marital Therapy." Chapter 1, Adlerian Marital Therapy: History, Theory and Process (William G. Nicoll) summarizes Adlerian theory on couples therapy. Chapter 2, The Initial Interview (E. Clair Hawes and Roy M. Kern) acquaints the reader with how the theory may be operationalized into practical procedures for conducting the first session with the couple. Chapter 3, Lifestyle of a Relationship (Maxine Ijams) provides the therapist with a process analysis and knowledge base of how to conduct the sessions to follow as it relates to lifestyle analysis and toxic relationship issues. Chapter 4, Therapeutic Interventions in the Marital Relationship (E. Clair Hawes) provides communication and problem solving skills interventions. Chapter 5, Relationship Enhancement Programs (G. Hugh Allred and Bernard Paduska) assists the therapist to create strategies to help couples deal with toxic issues that evolve during lifestyle analysis and future therapy sessions. Chapter 6, Sex Therapy: An Adlerian Approach (Carol Davis Evans and Robert R. Evans) provides an overview of Adlerian theory, present day theory, and how the problems of couples in the arena of sex mirror the problems within the relationship. Chapter 7, Divorce Mediation (Brenda B. Even), discusses Adlerian principles related to divorce. Chapter 8, Working with Remarried Couples (Lynn K. O'Hern and Frank R. Williams) educates the therapist about additional socio-psychological principles for dealing with remarried couples. (LLL)