The Angry Couple: Conflict Focused Treatment
by Susan Heitler
Learn how to effectively contain high-conflict couples by teaching them conflict management skills, and transforming destructive patterns of fighting into meaningful conversations that can lead to healthier relationships.
The Angry Couple dramatically recreates key moments in the six-month course of counseling with Judith and Richard, a distressed couple whose marriage is threatened by a cycle of explosive anger and silent withdrawal. Dr. Heitler quickly reins in their anger, cuts through the impasses that have prolonged their conflict, and uncovers the core issues that have blocked intimacy from flourishing.

This video offers a solid framework for students, fresh perspectives for seasoned therapists, and engaging learning for couples looking to enhance their relationship.

What therapists are saying…

"This is an excellent presentation. A valuable teaching and training tool, it clearly illustrates that successful clinical practice involves the ability to take a focused problem-solving approach which integrates perspectives and techniques from several therapeutic modalities. Clinicians of every theoretical orientation will find something of value in this clear and thoughtful presentation."

-- Arthur Freeman, PhD, Professor and Chair, Dept. of Psychology, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine
"Dr. Heitler gives us a road map for working with one of the more difficult couple dynamic: constant arguing. This map includes: how to structure a session, how to set limits, how to make use of family-of-origin material, how to set goals, and how the therapist can use her own emotional reactions. An extra bonus is that it is moving to watch this engaging couple work through relationship difficulties."

-- Elaine Cooper, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Professor, University of California School of Medicine, San Francisco
In Depth
Specs
Bios
Watch Dr. Heitler in action in this counseling video, and you'll learn how to:

• Gain control in the first session, and keep subsequent sessions safe
• Defuse anger in the therapy office, without taking sides
• Teach techniques for preventing anger escalations at home
• Convert inflammatory interactions to cooperative dialogue
• Help couples develop positive communication skills, so core issues are addressed and resolved.



Length of video: 1:13:00

English subtitles available

Individual ISBN-10 #: 1-60124-021-X

Individual ISBN-13 #: 978-1-60124-021-7

Group ISBN-10 #: 1-60124-000-7

Group ISBN-13 #: 978-1-60124-000-2

Dr. Susan Heitler is a clinical psychologist specializing in saving marriages. In her clinical practice as a marriage therapist in Denver, Colorado, Dr. Heitler has been helping individuals and couples for over 25 years. She also has written a book, a workbook, and led workshops called The Power of Two to help more couples learn the skills that lead to marital success. Dr. Heitler graduated from Harvard University, earned a masters degree in education at Boston University and then a doctorate in psychology from New York University. She and her husband, married over 30 years, have enjoyed raising four children, now young adults with children of their own. Dr. Heitler has lectured on her therapy methods nationwide and abroad, including in Spain, Austria, Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates, Israel and Australia. Dr. Heitler, a popular radio and television talk show guest, is frequently interviewed in magazines such as Fitness, Men's Health, Women's World, and Parenting. Her cases have appeared often in the Ladies Home Journal column "Can This Marriage Be Saved?" In May 2004, Dr. Heitler appeared on the CBS Early Show where anchor Harry Smith introduced her as "the most influential person in my life—my therapist." He encouraged his viewers similarly to seek therapy when they are emotionally distressed and premarital counseling when they are contemplating marriage. You may learn more about Dr. Heitler and her work at TherapyHelp.com. Her recent publications include The Leader's Manual for Power of Two Marriage Skills Workshops.

See all Susan Heitler videos.

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