In Quest of the Mythical Mate: A Developmental Approach To Diagnosis And Treatment In Couples Therapy

This highly innovative volume on the treatment of couples in therapy presents a clear and exciting conceptual framework for understanding the evolution of the couple's relationship as a dynamic unit. At its most intense, the notion of "romantic love" evokes feelings and associations so profound that they transcend time, culture, and even rational thought. Under the pressure of a long-term, intimate relationship, however, the "mythical mate" who was once the source of romantic love often becomes one's worst enemy. How does this metamorphosis affect therapeutic techniques created to help couples evolve through this critical point? Using as their springboard the model of infant development developed by pioneering researcher Margaret Mahler, the authors find striking parallels between these stages and the powerful biological, psychological factors that shape the dynamics between two interacting adults. Rich and numerous case examples vividly illustrate the clinical techniques created by theauthors to work in synchrony with their developmental model. These techniques enable the therapist to help problem-ridden couples understand the stages they are currently experiencing in their relationship. In Quest of the Mythical Matepresents a valuable and fertile developmental model for diagnosing and treating couples that is flexible enough to incorporate a wide variety of intervention strategies, yet purposeful enough to give a clear sense of direction to couples in distress. As such, this volume provides a powerful therapeutic approach for all professionals who treat couples.