ABSTRACT
I would not need any additional information before considering taking on the case; however, I would want to have the couple complete a number of questionnaires as a part of the assessment process. The assessment process for couples counseling from a Gottman perspective consists of four sessions: an initial conjoint session, an individual session with each spouse, and a feedback session. It is important to be able to meet with each spouse individually to assess whether or not they have different commitments to therapy or different hopes/expectations for therapy. Another purpose for meeting with spouses individually is to assess the presence of violence, the existence of an ongoing extramarital relationship, spouses’ personal goals, and possible individual psychopathology. Therapy is contraindicated if there is either an ongoing extramarital affair or violence.
