Case study analysis of a couple therapy case comparing both EFT and RT. This analysis will demonstrate the student's comprehension of both models including but not limited to assessment and treatment plan for each model, how to utilize each model's interventions effectively for the couple and overall plan for the couple using each model. Students will give their prediction for this case regarding how the couple would respond to each model and give their assessment for best fit for this case. Students will share their Self of Therapist with utilizing either model with the couple/case to demonstrate their reflection and insight with each model. Case Study Write Up will be given to students prior to due date.

Include: 1.) A comparison of how therapy might look with this couple from the perspective of EFT and RT. a. Interventions and Methods b. Assessment and Treatment Planning c. Potential challenges

2.) Prediction and Analysis a. Predict the outcomes for this couple, considering each model b. Analysis of what model would be the best fit for this couple and why

3.) Self as Therapist Reflection a. What would it be like for you as a therapist to work with this couple from one of or each perspective? b. Demonstrate grasp of model and personal thoughts, feelings about using it

Case Study:

Laura (29) and Byron (30) have been married for 2 years. They have 1 biological daughter, Joanna (1). Laura and Byron have been together on and off for 8 years and decided to get married after Byron finished his service in the military. They come to therapy reporting that they're experiencing communication issues, frequent arguments, and are now sleeping in separate bedrooms. The issues have gotten worse over the last 6 months or so.

Byron, who served 8 years in the Navy, now works as a medical device sales rep during the day and goes to school in the evening. He's pursuing a Master's degree in business administration. Laura is a stay at home mom.

Laura reports in an initial session that she feels as though Byron isn't prioritizing she and Joanna. She says that he gives all of his energy to his work and doesn't leave anything for his family. She feels alone in taking care of Joanna and gets frustrated on the weekends when it's supposed to be family time, but Byron is either sleeping or avoiding her. When she gets to her breaking point, Laura lashes out at Bryon and brings up mistakes he's made in the past, puts him down, and threatens to leave if things don't change.

Byron on the other hand tries to placate Laura by telling her things she wants to hear. He will make promises he doesn't keep, and shuts down when she's mad at him. He reports feeling like nothing is ever good enough. He insists he's trying so hard to do what's right for the family and their future, but says no matter what he does Laura will always be mad at him. He says it's always been like this. When she starts to get mad, Byron shuts down and usually goes silent, sometimes for days.

Byron and Laura have also struggled with intimacy issues. Laura reports feeling like Byron isn't sexually attracted to her anymore and gets angry when he doesn't want to connect. Byron reports feeling that he is very much attracted to Laura, but when it comes to intimacy he often, "gets in his head" about things, and doesn't reciprocate her bids for affection. Byron grew up as the middle child of 3. He was raised by his grandmother. Laura, an only child, was a child of divorce.