HOW THERAPY CAN BE HAZARDOUS TO YOUR MARITAL HEALTH by William J. Doherty, PhD from Smart Marriages CONFERENCE, JULY 3, 1999
A sample:
“People considering therapy should learn to ask questions to learn about the therapist’s training and value orientation. They can ask a therapist on the phone or in the first session the following kinds of questions:
• “Can you describe your background and training in marital therapy?” If the therapist is self-taught or workshop-trained, and can’t point to a significant education in this work, then consider going elsewhere.
• “What is your attitude toward salvaging a trouble marriage versus helping couples break up?” If the therapist says he or she is “neutral,” or “I don’t try to save marriage, I try to help people” look elsewhere. (I’d also run if the therapist says he or she does not believe in divorce.)• “What is your approach when one partner is seriously considering ending the marriage and the other wants to save it?” If the therapist responds by focusing only on helping each person clarify their personal feelings and decisions, consider looking elsewhere.”