ABSTRACT
This chapter describes one theoretically integrative approach to working with couples who are struggling to recover from infidelity. This treatment approach evolved from broader couple therapy research and theory. The chapter focuses on cognitive-behavioral, insight-oriented, trauma-based, and forgiveness interventions to address individual and relationship-level consequences of infidelity. Therapy sessions are conducted with both members of the couple present. However, in atypical circumstances individual sessions with each partner may be added to address safety concerns that could be heightened if discussed with the partner present. Empirical and clinical research highlights the utility of an affair-specific couple-based intervention to treat infidelity. Clinical experience, injured partners entering treatment displayed significantly high levels of symptoms consistent with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The most marked gains were in the areas specifically targeted by this treatment, including decreased PTSD symptoms and ability to overcome challenges in the forgiveness process.
