ABSTRACT
One of the most extensive sections of this book, Chapter 3 guides the reader through Stage One of Developmental Couple Therapy for Complex Trauma (DCTCT): Psychoeducation. Psychoeducation involves engaging in a psychoeducational process with couples about the potential impacts of childhood developmental trauma on their adult lives and relationships, including emotion regulation, mentalizing, shame, sex and sexuality, and other relevant topics for complex trauma couples. This first stage provides the therapist with a wealth of information about how the therapeutic process may unfold. Peppered throughout this chapter are helpful examples, provided by the fictional couples described in Chapter 2, with a running commentary provided by the author from the therapist’s point of view; further, the author provides helpful lists of recommended reading throughout, so that you can further develop your expertise.
