Crucible® Therapy: Resolving Extramarital Affairs

Sexual and emotional affairs are a widespread problem, in part, because of how (lack of) differentiation actually works in monogamous relationships. Dependence on reflected sense of self, and other-validated intimacy, are two reasons why poorly differentiated people are prone to extramarital affairs. Some therapists believe affairs cause irreparable relationship damage, but that’s because of how they deal with them. Some solutions exacerbate emotional fusion and encourage future affairs. Common problems and pitfalls include premature commitments, apologies and “making amends”, revealing details of the affair, assigning responsibility and blame, and including the lover in treatment. Couples can make remarkable gains by handling affairs in ways that enhance differentiation. Crucible^® Therapy offers a unique clinical strategy that deals with incongruous power hierarchies surrounding affairs. By strengthening marital bonding through increased differentiation and self-validated intimacy, Crucible Therapy helps couples go on to have their best relationship yet. Originally delivered to mental health professionals, but couples dealing with affairs will find this tape useful.