Singapore University of Social Sciences

Advanced Couple Therapy

Advanced Couple Therapy (COU506)

Synopsis

Forming and maintaining a viable couple relationship is a dynamic, complex, multiple-factorial process. COU506 Advanced Couple Therapy examines some of these factors including communication, intrinsic and extrinsic differences between individuals, family-of-origin influences, life course transitions and other couple stress points. Considerations will be given to the Asian and global context of couple hood past and present. In addition to appraising key concepts from contemporary models of couple therapy, we will apply systems tools and concepts that inform our work with couples and enhance our clear use of self as counsellors. Students will conduct an initial assessment of a couple in role-plays and complete assignments with a focus on case conceptualisations and recommendations relevant for local contexts.

Level: 5
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: EVERY JULY

Topics

  • Introduction: Individual vs Systemic Case Conceptualization and Intervention with Couples
  • Multiple factors influencing the Functioning of Couples
  • Tools and techniques for working with Couples
  • Contemporary Model of Couple Therapy (1)
  • Contemporary Model of Couple Therapy (2)
  • Contemporary Model of Couple Therapy (3)
  • Contemporary Model of Couple Therapy (4)
  • Working with common local couple issues 1: (e.g., intimacy and extra-marital affairs)
  • Working with common local couple issues 2: (e.g., parenting and co-parenting)
  • Working with common local couple issues 3: (e.g., divorce & remarriage)
  • Person of the Therapist in Couple Therapy
  • Ethical considerations in couple therapy

Learning Outcome

  • Differentiate between systems vs individual case conceptualisation and interventions.
  • Appraise multiple factors influencing the health and viability of a couple relationship.
  • Critique core concepts and assumptions informing leading contemporary models of couple therapy.
  • Assess couple relationship functioning.
  • Critique key methods and ethical issues in working with couples in local context.
  • Improve awareness in the use of self in working with couples.
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