1. The first model that we will examine is the Cognitive Behavioral Model. The primary goal of a clinical assessment using this model is to identify the problems which the couple who is seeking assistance has come to solve. Inherent in this is the clarification of the cognitive, affective, behavioral, and environmental problems that have contributed to the problem and to the couple's concerns. For Mike and Mary, there are three main issues that have led them to seek assistance. First and foremost is Mike's infidelity, which occurred during Mary's pregnancy and has led her to distrust him and to want to punish him. Second is Mike's stress level, which has led to a blowup at work and is placing additional stress on the relationship. Lastly, both Mike and Mary have unresolved family issues from their upbringing that may be contributing to their problems.
Because Mike and Mary are entering into therapy at a crisis moment, the first session is going to be a delicate balancing act. The very first thing I would do is let them know that they have made no commitment to the therapy yet but that instead they are here today to determine whether couple therapy is the best course of action for them. Because they are entering the therapy at a crisis point, however, I will also let them know that cognitive behavioral therapy has proven to be a highly effective technique for sorting out the types of problems that they are most likely facing (Gurman and Jacobson, 33).
As the therapist, in their first session I would attempt to use a multitude of strategies to draw out their problems while not leading to a confrontation. After our orientation, I would ask Mike and Mary to fill out a self-report questionnaire to attempt to form a baseline conception of where each partner believes they are in the relationship. During this self-report, I would use the Areas of Change questionnaire to gain some insight into the areas that Mike and Mary ...