Most therapeutic approaches, especially those of a cognitive orientation, are not very effective in dealing with high conflict relationships--couples often heading toward divorce by the time they seek help. Counseling Couples in Conflictis a resource for pastors and counselors who want to be ready for these uniquely difficult cases. Utilizing a relational conflict and restoration model Mark Yarhouse and James Sells point the way beyond the cycle of pain towards marital healing.

Christian Association for Psychological Studies (CAPS) Books explore how Christianity relates to mental health and behavioral sciences including psychology, counseling, social work, and marriage and family therapy in order to equip Christian clinicians to support the well-being of their clients.



Mark A. Yarhouse (PsyD, Wheaton College) is the Dr. Arthur P. Rech and Mrs. Jean May Rech Professor of Psychology at Wheaton College, where he directs the Sexual and Gender Identity Institute and serves as a core faculty member in the doctoral program in clinical psychology.







James N. Sells (PhD, University of Southern California) is professor of counseling, shares the Rosemary S. Hughes Professor of Christian Thought and Mental Health, and codirects the Charis Institute at Regent University. He is a licensed psychologist, and his books include Family Therapies and Beyond the Clinical Hour.



Acknowledgments

Introduction



Part 1: The Preface to Marital Counseling

1 Marriage at a Crucial Stage of Existence

2 Three Fights in One

3 Marriage Is an Us

4 Pastoral and Counseling Boundaries:Invested but not Overinvolved



Part 2: The Process of Conflict and Restoration

5 Pain and Defense

6 Offense and Injury

7 Grace, and Justice

8 Empathy and Trust

9 Forgiveness



Part3: Marital Counseling Applied

10 The Expressive Art of Sexuality

11 The Product of Art: Children and Parenting

12 Sexual Infidelity

13 Divorce and Blended Families

14 Substance Abuse and Behavioral Addictions

15A Graceful Conclusion



Index