ABSTRACT

Couples dealing with a chronic illness face many challenges, including the negative impact of the illness on the ability to work, sexual function, mood swings, financial difficulties, and social support systems. Using choice theory and reality therapy, a therapist can help couples look at the impact of chronic illness on getting their basic needs met and how to be more successful in getting needs met despite chronic illness. Reality therapy can have immediate impact, works with a wide variety of issues, and is effective for individuals, families, and couples regardless of age, education, or ethnicity. Reality therapy focuses on the present and helps clients recognize they are more in control of their lives than perhaps they realize; this can be particularly important for those who feel at the mercy of a chronic illness.