An exploration of the theories, approaches and best practices that social workers are using in their practice of couple therapy with heterosexual couples in which the female partner has experienced complex trauma

摘要

Persons who have experienced complex trauma are most frequently offered individual therapy. However, couple therapy as a treatment for partners in which one or both have experienced complex trauma is beginning to be explored and touted as an important intervention. Complex trauma often has both individual and relational effects for individuals, and couple relationships have been found to be a tremendous source of healing from past trauma. Based on feminist theory, this study explores the theories, approaches and best practices that social workers are using in their practice of couple therapy with heterosexual couples in which the female partner has experienced complex trauma. Five feminist social workers with experience in this area provided knowledge about their practice of couple therapy through semi-structured, qualitative interviews. The themes that emerged through the interviews included: balancing the competing needs of both partners, the externalization of the trauma, strengthening the relationship, and addressing power in the relationship and society. These themes demonstrate some of the work that social workers are currently doing in the area of couple therapy and complex trauma as well as provide direction for others who want to learn more about theories, approaches, and best practices in this area. Implications for social work practice, policy, and research are discussed.