Routledge Master Conflict Therapy: A New Model for Practicing Couples and Sex Therapy

Illustrated with case studies, this book teaches couples and sex therapists the comprehensive, integrative treatment approach of master conflict therapy (MCT), which combines psychoanalytic conflict theory and Bowen Theory with the basic principles and practice of sex therapy. MCT suggests that each partner has an internal conflict born out of their experiences from their respective families of origin. Partners then choose one another based on these conflicts, and it is only when they are out of balance that the couple experiences symptoms. The authors help clinicians treat couples through providing them with a solid theoretical foundation, a practical assessment procedure, and highly effective treatment techniques to re-balance a couple and, in turn, alleviate their sexual symptoms. Review "Welcome to the next generation of sex therapy texts! Betchen and Davidson have created an innovative practice model that greatly enhances the quest to integrate sex therapy and couples therapy. MCT is theoretically rich, drawing upon the influences of some of the greatest therapy masters. This text belongs on the desk of every practicing sex/couples therapist." Daniel N. Watter, EdD, past president, The Society for Sex Therapy and Research (SSTAR) "Master conflict therapy (MCT) is a fascinating therapeutic approach, which integrates a variety of systemic and psychodynamic methods. The therapist exposes the primary conflict in the individual. This conflict serves to attract partners and keep them engaged, yet it can trap them in a cycle of dissatisfaction. Managing rather than eradicating the master conflict is the objective of treating sexual and relational problems. This intriguing text is a practical guide for therapists of all levels of experience."Nancy Gambescia, PhD, director, Post-Graduate Sex Therapy Program: Council for Relationships, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania "Rather than merely focusing on treatment of symptoms of sexual dysfunctions, Betchen and Davidson aim higher and deeper: they have created a psychoanalytically-informed assessment and treatment paradigm for the underlying family of origin dynamics, which create the foundations for couples' sexual difficulties. My compliments to the authors on this exceptional book!"Peggy J. Kleinplatz, PhD, professor and director of Sex and Couples Therapy Training, University of Ottawa, Canada About the Author Stephen J. Betchen, DSW, is a licensed marriage and family therapist, an AAMFT-approved supervisor, and an AASECT diplomate and certified supervisor. He serves as a senior supervisor in the post-graduate Sex Therapy Program at the Council for Relationships and as an adjunct clinical professor in the Department of Couple and Family Therapy at Thomas Jefferson University. He is the author of numerous professional publications on relationships, including the critically acclaimed book, Intrusive Partners-Elusive Mates. Dr. Betchen is an official blogger for PsychologyToday.com and currently maintains a full-time private practice in Cherry Hill, New Jersey specializing in couples/sex therapy. Heather L. Davidson, EdM, MA, is a licensed professional counselor, an EDMR-certified therapist, and an AASECT-certified sex therapist. Ms. Davidson maintains a full-time private practice in Narberth, Pennsylvania, specializing in couples/sex therapy and trauma-related disorders.