Sigmund: Glossary

A glossary of terms commonly used in couples and individual therapy, from Simple Modern Sigmund: The Relationship Wiki.

A

Abandonment

Couples abandonment, in the context of affairs and feelings, is when one partner turns away from the emotional connection with their significant other and seeks intimacy outside the relationship. This form of emotional neglect can leave the other partner feeling betrayed, hurt, and alone—causing significant damage to the relationship.

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Abusive relationship

Abusive relationships are those where one partner seeks to exert power and control over the other through verbal, emotional, physical, or sexual abuse. An abusive relationship presents unique challenges as therapy may not be effective or safe for the victim. In some cases, couples therapy can even exacerbate the abuse, leading to further harm. As such, it is important for therapists to be trained to recognize signs of abuse and to prioritize the safety and well-being of all parties involved.

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Accepting influence

Accepting your partner’s influence is a key concept in couples therapy that refers to the ability of partners to consider each other’s perspectives, opinions, and preferences in decision-making processes. This involves recognizing and valuing the thoughts and feelings of one’s partner, even if they differ from one’s own. Couples who practice this concept tend to have healthier relationships, as it fosters mutual respect and understanding between partners. In couples therapy, therapists often work with couples to improve their ability to accept each other’s influence by promoting effective communication and conflict resolution skills.

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Accountability

Accountability in relationships refers to the willingness of individuals to take responsibility for their actions and their impact on their partner. It involves acknowledging one’s mistakes, making amends, and working to prevent similar mistakes in the future. In healthy relationships, both partners take accountability for their behaviors and work together to create a safe and supportive environment. In couples therapy, therapists often focus on building accountability in relationships by helping individuals to communicate effectively, practice empathy, and develop conflict resolution skills.

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ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences)

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are traumatic experiences that individuals may have faced during their childhood, such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction. In the context of couples therapy, ACEs can have a significant impact on the individual’s ability to form and maintain healthy relationships. Couples therapy can help individuals who have experienced ACEs to identify and work through any resulting emotional trauma, and to develop coping skills that promote positive relationship patterns.

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Active listening

Active listening is a communication technique that involves fully engaging with and understanding what one’s partner is saying. It involves paying attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues, asking clarifying questions, and providing feedback to ensure that one has understood their partner’s message. Active listening is an important skill in relationships as it promotes effective communication and helps to prevent misunderstandings and conflicts. In couples therapy, therapists often work with partners to improve their active listening skills by providing feedback and offering strategies to promote empathetic and attentive communication.

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Adaptability

Adaptability in relationships refers to the ability of partners to adjust and respond to changes and challenges that arise within the relationship. This involves being flexible, open-minded, and willing to work together to overcome obstacles. In healthy relationships, adaptability allows partners to grow and evolve together, creating a strong and resilient bond. In couples therapy, therapists often focus on building adaptability in relationships by promoting effective communication and problem-solving skills, as well as encouraging partners to embrace change as an opportunity for growth.

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Admiration

Admiration in relationships refers to the deep respect and appreciation that partners have for each other’s unique qualities, talents, and strengths. It involves seeing and valuing the best in one’s partner, and expressing that admiration in both words and actions. In healthy relationships, admiration is a crucial element in fostering intimacy, trust, and emotional connection. In couples therapy, therapists often work with partners to cultivate admiration by promoting effective communication, encouraging positive feedback, and identifying and celebrating each other’s accomplishments and positive traits.

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All-or-nothing thinking

All-or-nothing thinking is a cognitive distortion that involves viewing situations or individuals as either entirely good or entirely bad, with no room for nuance or complexity. This can lead to unrealistic expectations, polarized thinking, and conflicts within relationships. In couples therapy, therapists often work with partners to recognize and challenge all-or-nothing thinking by promoting a more balanced and nuanced perspective. By fostering a more flexible and open-minded approach to situations and individuals, partners can build healthier and more resilient relationships.

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Ambivalence about change

Ambivalence about change refers to a state of being conflicted or uncertain about making significant changes in one’s relationship. It’s the proverbial tug-of-war between the desire for growth and the fear of the unknown.

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Andromeda and Perseus

The myth of Andromeda and Perseus is a classic tale that holds valuable lessons for relationship therapy, particularly for those utilizing the Gottman method. It tells the story of a hero who must confront and overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles in order to save his love from a terrible fate. The tale emphasizes the importance of perseverance, communication, and mutual support in relationships, and serves as a powerful reminder that even the greatest challenges can be overcome with dedication and teamwork.

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Anger management

Anger management is a process that helps individuals learn to recognize and control their anger in healthy ways. By identifying triggers and developing coping mechanisms, individuals can improve communication, reduce conflict, and strengthen their relationships. Anger management techniques may include deep breathing exercises, cognitive restructuring, and problem-solving strategies. Ultimately, the goal of anger management is to help individuals navigate their emotions in a constructive manner, and to create a more positive and fulfilling dynamic within their relationships.

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Anger, bottling up

Bottling up anger is a common behavior that can have detrimental effects on relationships, as noted in relationship therapy, including the Gottman method. By suppressing emotions and avoiding confrontation, individuals risk damaging their emotional and physical health, as well as the quality of their relationships. Over time, bottled-up anger can lead to resentment, passive-aggressiveness, and even depression. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals to learn how to express their feelings constructively and resolve conflicts in a healthy manner, for the benefit of their own well-being and the health of their relationships.

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ANS (autonomic nervous system)

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) is a critical component of relationship therapy. It controls many of the body’s involuntary functions, including heart rate, digestion, and breathing. In therapy, understanding the ANS can help individuals identify and regulate their emotional responses to stress and conflict, and improve their overall well-being. Techniques such as deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation can help individuals manage their ANS, and learn to respond to challenging situations in a more calm and constructive manner.

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Anxiety disorders

Anxiety disorders refer to a range of mental health conditions characterized by excessive and persistent worry, fear, and stress. Anxiety can impact an individual’s ability to communicate effectively and form healthy connections with others. By addressing these conditions through therapy, individuals can learn coping strategies and techniques to manage their symptoms.

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Apologies

Meaningful apologies are an essential component of repairing emotional wounds and rebuilding trust. A meaningful apology involves taking responsibility for one’s actions, expressing genuine remorse, and making amends for any harm caused. Through effective apology techniques, such as expressing empathy and making specific commitments to change, individuals can restore their relationships and cultivate deeper levels of intimacy and connection.

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Atonement phase

In the treatment of affairs within relationship therapy, the atonement phase refers to the stage where the offending partner takes responsibility for their actions and works to make amends for the harm caused. This phase involves genuine remorse, empathy for the hurt partner, and a commitment to changing problematic behaviors. Through the atonement phase, individuals can move towards rebuilding trust and intimacy, and creating a more positive and fulfilling relationship dynamic.

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Attachment phase

In the treatment of affairs within relationship therapy, the attachment phase is the stage where the hurt partner can begin to heal and rebuild trust with their partner. This phase involves creating a safe and secure emotional connection, communicating needs and boundaries, and working through any residual feelings of anger and hurt. Through the attachment phase, individuals can move towards a deeper level of emotional intimacy and a stronger, more resilient relationship.

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Attachment styles

Attachment styles refer to the patterns of emotional attachment that individuals develop based on their early life experiences. These styles can influence how individuals approach relationships, express emotions, and cope with stress and conflict. By understanding their attachment style and that of their partner, individuals can work to build stronger and more fulfilling relationships, and address any issues that may arise as a result of differing attachments.

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Attack-defend patterns

Dissolving attack-defend patterns refers to the process of breaking down negative communication patterns between partners, characterized by criticism and defensiveness. These patterns can often arise in the context of conflict, leading to a breakdown in communication and emotional intimacy. Through therapy, couples can learn to recognize these patterns and replace them with healthier communication strategies, such as active listening and empathy. By dissolving attack-defend patterns, individuals can build stronger and more positive relationships, characterized by mutual respect, understanding, and intimacy.

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Attunement

Attunement in couples therapy refers to the process of developing emotional awareness and responsiveness towards one’s partner. Through attunement, couples can better understand each other’s needs and emotions, and develop a stronger sense of empathy and connection. Attunement involves active listening, recognizing nonverbal cues, and responding in a way that is supportive and validating. By practicing attunement, couples can build deeper levels of intimacy and understanding, and strengthen the bonds of their relationship.

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Attunement phase

In the treatment of affairs using the Gottman method within relationship therapy, the attunement phase refers to the stage where the couple works on building emotional intimacy and understanding. This phase involves developing a deeper awareness of each other’s emotions, needs, and experiences, and learning to respond in a supportive and validating way. Through the attunement phase, couples can build a foundation of empathy and trust, and work towards creating a more positive and fulfilling relationship dynamic.

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Awareness

Awareness is the crucial first step towards building a stronger and healthier partnership. It involves increasing one’s understanding of their own emotions and reactions, as well as those of their significant other. By developing this awareness, couples can better communicate and connect with each other, and work towards resolving conflicts in a more constructive manner.

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B

Bad versus good

“Bad versus good” thinking refers to the tendency to categorize situations or individuals as either wholly negative or entirely positive, without recognizing the nuances and complexities that exist in between. This type of thinking can lead to unrealistic expectations and conflicts within relationships, as well as a failure to appreciate the full range of experiences and emotions that make up a healthy and fulfilling partnership.

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Bargaining stage of grief

The bargaining stage of grief is a common experience in relationship therapy, in which one or both partners attempt to negotiate or bargain for a different outcome in their relationship. This stage often follows a period of denial or anger, and can involve feelings of regret, guilt, and desperation. In therapy, individuals may be encouraged to explore their bargaining behavior and underlying emotions, in order to work through their grief and come to a place of acceptance and healing.

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Beautiful self

Beautiful self is a term used to describe the authentic, vulnerable self that is often hidden behind defensive behaviors and emotional walls. In therapy, individuals are encouraged to explore and express their beautiful self, including their emotions, needs, and desires, in order to build deeper and more fulfilling relationships. By developing greater self-awareness and learning to communicate in a more open and honest way, individuals can improve their relationships and build stronger emotional connections with their partner.

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Behavioral desensitization

Behavioral desensitization is a technique used in relationship therapy, particularly in the Gottman method, to help couples reduce their emotional reactivity to stressful or triggering situations. This technique involves gradually exposing individuals to situations that elicit anxiety or emotional distress, while teaching them coping strategies to manage their emotional response. In therapy, couples may be guided through a series of exercises and role-play scenarios designed to help them become more comfortable and adept at navigating difficult conversations or situations.

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Behavioral exchange

Behavioral exchange is a concept used in relationship therapy to describe the process of negotiating and exchanging behaviors with one’s partner in order to build a stronger and more fulfilling relationship. This involves identifying and communicating one’s needs and desires, as well as understanding and responding to the needs of one’s partner. In therapy, couples may be encouraged to engage in structured exercises designed to promote behavioral exchange, such as creating a list of desired behaviors and working to implement them in their daily interactions.

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Behavioral momentum

Behavioral momentum is a concept used in relationship therapy to describe the tendency of certain behaviors to persist and become more frequent over time. In the context of couples therapy, this can refer to positive behaviors, such as showing affection or expressing gratitude, as well as negative behaviors, such as criticism or defensiveness. By identifying and encouraging positive behaviors, therapists can help couples build momentum towards healthier relationship patterns.

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Best therapeutic self

The concept and state of the best therapeutic self is a key principle in relationship therapy refers to the idea that therapists must strive to embody their best selves in their work with couples, bringing empathy, authenticity, and a commitment to the therapeutic process to each session. Ultimately, the “best therapeutic self” represents a commitment to excellence in the practice of relationship therapy, and a recognition of the profound impact that this work can have on the lives of couples and families.

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Betrayal

Betrayal refers to the breaking of trust and commitment within a romantic relationship, which can manifest in a variety of ways such as infidelity, emotional affairs, and dishonesty.

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Bid for connection

A “bid for connection” refers to a request or gesture made by one partner to the other, aimed at building emotional intimacy and strengthening the relationship. These bids can take many forms, such as a touch, a question, or a shared experience, and they are critical to maintaining a healthy and happy relationship.

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Bilateral integration

Bilateral integration is the process of bringing together the left and right hemispheres of the brain in order to process emotions and communicate effectively. This technique helps couples overcome emotional barriers and find new ways to connect and understand each other.

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Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. In couples therapy, Simple Modern can help couples develop strategies to manage the challenges associated with bipolar disorder and work towards building a stronger, more resilient relationship. While Simple Modern Therapy focuses primarily on relationship dynamics, it acknowledges that bipolar disorder can have a significant impact on a couple’s ability to connect and communicate.

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Blame

Blame is a common dynamic in many relationships that can be detrimental to the connection between partners. In couples therapy, blame is discouraged because it often leads to defensiveness and resentment. Instead, the focus is on fostering empathy, understanding, and mutual responsibility. By avoiding blame and taking a collaborative approach to problem-solving, couples can build a stronger, more trusting relationship.

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Blame, conflict example of

A common issue that arises in couples therapy, as partners may be quick to assign blame or criticize each other during conflicts. In couples therapy, the therapist(s) aims to help couples move beyond this pattern by encouraging constructive communication and mutual understanding. By reframing conflicts as opportunities to learn and grow together, couples can work towards resolving issues without resorting to blame and criticism.

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Blame, gentle start-up

A “gentle start-up blame” refers to a way of expressing negative emotions in a non-confrontational manner. This technique involves starting a conversation with a gentle approach, rather than immediately attacking the other person. By using “I” statements instead of “you” statements and focusing on specific behaviors rather than generalizations, couples can address issues without causing defensiveness and resentment. This helps create a safer space for constructive communication and problem-solving in the relationship.

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Blame, short circuiting of

The short circuiting of blame is a technique used in the Gottman method of couples therapy to help partners break the cycle of negative communication patterns. This technique involves interrupting the blame game and redirecting the conversation towards more constructive dialogue.

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Blood pressure

Elevated blood pressure is a sign of stress and can be exacerbated by conflict and negative emotions. While couples therapy may not directly address physical health, research has shown that high blood pressure can be linked to negative relationship interactions. In couples therapy, Simple Modern may help couples develop strategies to manage stress and communicate effectively in order to reduce the risk of negative health outcomes associated with high blood pressure.

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Body acceptance

Body acceptance is the process of cultivating a positive body image and accepting oneself and one’s partner, regardless of societal standards. In therapy, couples can work to develop healthier attitudes towards their bodies and promote positive physical intimacy.

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Body scan

In couples therapy, “practicing and repeating body scans” refers to the process of regularly incorporating body mindfulness techniques into daily life. By consistently practicing body scans, couples can improve their ability to manage their emotional reactions and communicate more effectively during conflicts.

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Body, calming down

In couples therapy, “calming down your body” refers to techniques that help individuals manage their physical responses to stress and conflict. By calming down the body, individuals can reduce feelings of anxiety and aggression, allowing for more constructive communication with their partner. The Simple Modern method may incorporate strategies such as deep breathing, visualization, and mindfulness practices to help couples calm their bodies during therapy sessions and in their daily lives. By learning to manage physical responses to stress, couples can improve their ability to resolve conflicts and maintain a positive emotional connection.

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Borderline personality

Borderline personality refers to a mental health condition characterized by intense and unstable emotions, self-image, and relationships with others. In couples therapy, individuals with borderline personality may struggle with emotional regulation and have difficulty maintaining stable, healthy relationships with their partners.

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Boundaries, types of

There are three main types of boundaries in couples therapy: physical, emotional, and intellectual. Physical boundaries refer to personal space and touch, emotional boundaries concern feelings and vulnerability, and intellectual boundaries relate to ideas and beliefs. Couples therapy helps partners establish and respect these boundaries to promote healthy communication, intimacy, and trust in their relationship.

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Breathing techniques

Breathing deep and slow techniques involve taking slow, controlled breaths to reduce stress and promote relaxation. In couples therapy, these techniques can help partners calm their emotions and communicate more effectively during tense or conflictual moments. By practicing deep breathing together, couples can build a shared sense of calm and connection, which can enhance their intimacy and strengthen their relationship.

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Bringing Baby Home (BBH)

Bringing Baby Home (BBH) is a research-based program that prepares couples for the transition to parenthood. In couples therapy, BBH can help partners navigate the challenges of becoming new parents and adjust to the demands of caring for a newborn. The program provides practical tools and strategies for maintaining a strong and healthy relationship, managing stress, and fostering positive parent-child interactions. By participating in BBH, couples can strengthen their bond and create a supportive environment for their growing family.

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Bullying

In couples therapy, a bully is a partner who engages in repeated patterns of aggressive, controlling, or intimidating behavior towards their spouse or partner. This can include verbal or physical abuse, threats, or coercion. Bullying behavior can have a profound impact on the victim’s mental and emotional well-being, and may cause long-term damage to the relationship. In couples therapy, addressing bullying behavior is a crucial step in promoting a safe and healthy partnership. Therapists work with both partners to identify the root causes of bullying behavior and develop strategies for promoting respect, trust, and positive communication in the relationship.

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C

C-PTSD (Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing prolonged or repeated trauma, such as childhood abuse, domestic violence, or combat. In couples therapy, C-PTSD can impact the relationship by affecting communication, trust, and emotional intimacy. Therapists work with both partners to identify and address the symptoms of C-PTSD, such as flashbacks, anxiety, and difficulty regulating emotions.

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Caregivers

In couples therapy, caregivers refer to the individuals who provided primary care and support during a person’s childhood. These caregivers can have a profound impact on an individual’s development and relationship patterns later in life. In therapy, exploring the dynamics of early caregiving relationships can help partners better understand their own needs and behaviors, as well as those of their partner.

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Chronic stress

Chronic stress is a persistent state of physical and emotional tension that can result from ongoing challenges such as work, financial difficulties, or health problems. In couples therapy, chronic stress can significantly impact the relationship by eroding communication, trust, and intimacy. Therapy can help couples identify and manage sources of stress, as well as develop coping strategies to reduce its negative effects on the relationship.

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CL-ALT process

The CL-ALT process, as part of the Gottman method in couples therapy, refers to a pattern of behavior where one partner becomes Criticizing, Defensive, and Dismissive, while the other partner becomes Angry, Lonely, and Tense – ultimately leading to betrayal.

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Cognitive distortions

Cognitive distortions are patterns of thinking that are irrational or inaccurate and can negatively impact an individual’s mental health and well-being. In couples therapy, cognitive distortions can arise in the ways that partners perceive and interpret each other’s words and actions, leading to misunderstandings and conflict.

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Cognitive symptoms

Cognitive symptoms in couples therapy refer to changes in thinking, memory, and concentration that may occur as a result of stress, anxiety, or other mental health conditions. These symptoms can impact how couples communicate and connect with each other, leading to misunderstandings and conflict. In therapy, couples can learn to recognize and manage cognitive symptoms by developing coping strategies and practicing mindfulness techniques.

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Coherence

Coherence refers to the degree to which partners are able to create a sense of meaning and purpose in their relationship. Couples who have a high level of coherence share common goals, values, and beliefs, and are able to communicate and work together effectively to achieve them.

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Combined boundary

In couples therapy, a combined boundary refers to a boundary that is jointly established by both partners in the relationship. These boundaries can relate to physical, emotional, or intellectual aspects of the relationship, and are typically designed to promote mutual respect, trust, and communication. In therapy, couples can work together to identify and establish combined boundaries that meet their individual needs and enhance their overall well-being.

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Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM)

Consensual Non-Monogamy (CNM) is a type of relationship in which all partners involved mutually agree to have romantic or sexual relationships with multiple people. This can take various forms, such as polyamory, open relationships, and swinging, among others. CNM relationships are based on trust, communication, and mutual consent, with partners working together to establish boundaries and agreements that honor the needs and desires of everyone involved. While CNM relationships may not be for everyone, they are becoming more widely accepted and are being explored and celebrated in modern society.

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Contempt

Contempt refers to a negative attitude or behavior that conveys disrespect and disdain towards one’s partner. This can include name-calling, sarcasm, and belittling, and can significantly damage the relationship over time. In therapy, couples work to recognize and address contempt by developing more respectful and positive ways of communicating with each other. By addressing contemptuous behaviors and attitudes, couples can improve their communication, strengthen their bond, and build a healthier, more fulfilling relationship.

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Countertransference

Countertransference in couples therapy refers to the therapist’s emotional reactions and responses to the clients, which can impact the therapeutic relationship. This can occur when the therapist’s own experiences or biases affect their perception of the couple or their behaviors. In therapy, therapists work to identify and manage countertransference by recognizing their own emotional responses and separating them from the needs of the clients. By addressing and managing countertransference, therapists can maintain a professional and effective therapeutic relationship with their clients.

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D

Dance, the

“The Dance” refers to the intricate and often subconscious patterns of interaction between partners in a relationship, as described by renowned relationship expert Dr. John Gottman. Through his research, Gottman has identified specific communication behaviors that can either strengthen or weaken a relationship, and understanding the dynamics of “The Dance” can help couples cultivate a more fulfilling and harmonious partnership.

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DAS (Dual Awareness State)

Dual Awareness State (DAS) is a concept used in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) to describe a state of mind in which individuals are able to simultaneously experience and express both their own emotions and those of their partner during a conflict or difficult conversation. By cultivating a DAS, couples can deepen their understanding of each other’s feelings and needs, and learn to communicate more effectively and empathetically. EFT therapists often work with couples to help them develop this skill, which can lead to greater emotional intimacy and a stronger relationship bond.

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Defenses

Defenses are the psychological mechanisms that individuals use to protect themselves from emotional pain or uncomfortable feelings in relationships. These can take various forms, such as denial, projection, or avoidance, and are often unconsciously employed. While defenses can provide temporary relief, relying on them excessively can hinder personal growth and damage the intimacy in a relationship. Understanding one’s own defenses and learning healthier coping mechanisms is key to fostering healthier and more authentic connections with others.

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Denial (stage of grief)

Denial is a stage of grief that can arise in couples therapy when one or both partners are struggling to accept the reality of a difficult situation in their relationship. In denial, individuals may avoid or minimize the issues at hand, and may have difficulty acknowledging the emotions of their partner. While denial can serve as a coping mechanism in the short term, it can hinder progress in therapy and prevent couples from addressing underlying issues. Skilled therapists can help couples work through denial and move towards acceptance and growth in their relationship.

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Dependency Issues

Dependency issues refer to patterns of behavior in which one or both partners rely excessively on the other for emotional support or validation. While some degree of interdependence is normal in healthy relationships, dependency can become problematic if it leads to feelings of insecurity, jealousy, or resentment. Relationship therapists may work with couples to identify and address underlying dependency issues, helping each partner to develop greater emotional autonomy and self-sufficiency while still maintaining a strong and supportive relationship.

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Depersonalization

Depersonalization is a psychological phenomenon that can arise when one or both partners feel disconnected from their emotions, thoughts, or sense of self. This can make it difficult to engage fully in therapy or connect authentically with one’s partner. Depersonalization can have many causes, including past trauma or stress, and skilled therapists may work with couples to identify and address these underlying factors in order to help partners reconnect with themselves and each other. By developing greater self-awareness and emotional regulation, couples can strengthen their relationship and build a more fulfilling future together.

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Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a therapeutic approach that emphasizes mindfulness, emotional regulation, and effective communication skills in relationships. Originally developed to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder, DBT has since been applied to a wide range of mental health conditions and relationship issues. By teaching individuals to recognize and manage intense emotions and communicate more effectively, DBT aims to improve overall relationship satisfaction and reduce conflicts.

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Double betrayal

A double betrayal occurs when both partners violate the trust and commitment in their relationship, causing deep emotional pain and potentially irreparable damage to the relationship. This can happen through actions such as infidelity, lying, and hiding important information from each other.

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F

Flowers & Stones

“Flowers and stones” is a metaphor used in relationship therapy to describe the balance between positive and negative interactions in a relationship. The “flowers” represent positive interactions, such as affection, appreciation, and humor, while the “stones” represent negative interactions, such as criticism, defensiveness, and hostility. In a healthy relationship, there should be a balance between the flowers and stones, with positive interactions outweighing negative ones.

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Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, the

The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse is a metaphor coined by relationship expert Dr. John Gottman to describe four negative communication patterns that can signal the end of a relationship. These four horsemen include criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling, and can have a corrosive effect on a couple’s emotional connection and overall relationship satisfaction. In relationship therapy, addressing and replacing these negative communication patterns with healthier ones is a key goal, as it can help couples improve their communication and strengthen their relationship bond.

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