Theory of Therapy -- Couples

When working with couples, I use a process called Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT). EFT is considered one of only two "empirically supported" methods for working with couples, which means a lot of research has shown clearly that EFT works. Here are some things you should know about seeing me for EFT:

EFT can change your relationship for the better. Fully 90% of distressed couples who complete EFT experience significant improvement in their relationship. Almost three-fourths can be classified as "recovered" by the end of treatment, having made gains so significant they no longer qualify as distressed. EFT works even where other treatments fail. EFT has been shown to work well with couples who have low incomes, couples with little formal education, and couples where the husband is rated by the wife as "inexpressive"--three groups that do not do well in other forms of couples therapy. If you think that your relationship (or your spouse) isn't fit for traditional therapy, EFT may be just what you're looking for. Perhaps most importantly, EFT appears to create lasting change. Unlike in other forms of couples therapy, where the positive effects begin to drop off almost immediately at the end of treatment, couples who complete a course of EFT maintain their gains--and even continue to improve on them--over the next 24 months, without any additional treatment. EFT can be a good investment. Twelve sessions of EFT (sessions are usually 90 minutes) will cost less than $1,500. A divorce could cost you ten times that much--maybe more--and will uproot you, your spouse, and potentially your children. If there's even a small chance your relationship could survive whatever is currently impacting it, isn't it worth it to make the effort? Of course, EFT isn't for everyone. If there is ongoing violence in your relationship, or if one partner is absolutely unwilling to even attempt emotional reconnection, EFT cannot be effective.

For more information on the scientific research supporting EFT, including sources for all of the statistics cited above, please visit the Research Support page.

If you are interested in scheduling a free, in-person or phone consultation to see whether EFT may be right for your relationship, call me at 916-565-3510 or send me an email at ben@bencaldwell.com.

Theory of Therapy--Individuals

When working with individuals in therapy, I use Narrative Therapy (NT). Here are some things you should know about the brief and enlightening process:

For more information on the scientific research supporting Narrative Therapy, please visit the Research Support page.

If you are interested in scheduling a free, in-person or phone consultation to see whether therapy may be right for you, call me at 916-565-3510 or send me an email at ben@bencaldwell.com.

A Few Words about Medication

Psychotropic medications (including antidepressants, mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, etc.) are extremely beneficial when used properly. Research shows that medication works best when it is used for a limited period of time, and in conjunction with therapy. Medication for depression, by itself, works little better than a sugar pill. The reason for this may have something to do with the human body's remarkable adaptability.

Suppose you are in a depressing situation. Perhaps you are in a relationship where you are constantly criticized, or an injury leaves you unable to do some of the physical activities you used to enjoy. You may respond by getting depressed--that would be normal, and fully understandable, although certainly not what you would want. Then suppose you go to a doctor, who puts you on antidepressant medication. The medication is very likely to help you feel better for a while; the stuff does have an initial impact. What it does not do is change the situation you are in. That's up to you.

Medication opens a window of opportunity, temporarily giving you the energy and clarity of mind to create the changes in your life necessary to feel better over the long term. If you don't do that, the medication will slowly start losing its effects as the body adapts to it, and you risk entering the medication merry-go-round of constantly changing medications and upping doses.

In short, I'm actually quite pro-medication. I've seen it work enormous benefits for people who are willing to do the work necessary while they are on medication. It's simply important that, should your doctor recommend you begin a course of medication, you understand all that it entails, and how to make it work best for you.