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Abstract

This case presentation describes a Narrative-Constructivist Therapy approach for working with couples. The figure-ground metaphor is introduced as a way to understand how certain negative experiences and interpretations can become the predominant focus for couples. When couples feel trapped in the troublesome same-old-story of their relationship, it is important for therapists to listen for the rest-of-the-story. By asking questions that change the perceptual background, alternate experiences and new interpretations may emerge. Specific questions about time, intention, and vantage point, can help couples access the rest-of-the-story about their relationship. Fortunately, for this couple, this approach helped to change the conflicted same-old-story that had defined their relationship for years.

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Accessing the Rest-of-the-Story in Couples Therapy

Abstract

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References