Early stages in experiential marital therapy

The treatment of marital issues in symbolic-experiential therapy unfolds in somewhat predictable stages, though some of these may be imposed by tasks required by the therapist. The first stage calls for defining the dominant symbolic theme in the couple's struggle, and for engaging with that symbolic structure from a certain posture. Opening strategies are discussed for dilemmas concerning power, closeness, depth, flexibility, balance, and time. The second major stage requires that the couple take initiative in exposing issues and in changing problematic communication patterns. Covert relationship and family of origin issues are exposed, with insight being a goal. The third stage involves negotiated behavioral change, with the therapist implicitly suggesting a regressive stage. A second paper, Later Stages in Experiential Marital Therapy discusses regressive work with couples, including engagement with the family of origin.