Working with Significant Others

When there are tensions or frustrations in a relationship, it can be helpful at times, for partners to be involved in addressing the concerns, and we generally find that members of a family or group have something to contribute. There are times when it’s important to have a one-to-one conversations with a professional; at other times, it may be rewarding to have others to assist or be a part of facing a problem or celebrating life.

Others might make contributions at a distance; a person might find it helpful to ask a family member or friend questions between appointments in person or by phone, e-mail, or letter, and then bring back the responses to a session with the therapist.

When the emphasis is on a person’s knowledge, skills, personal priorities, cherished relationships, and dreams, the presence of others to witness the unfolding of this account of one’s life may rewarding. The decision about whether to include anyone else, of course, would be made by you.