Seeking connection can trigger shame loops in couples: An attachment-based understanding

Research shows that shame can have a severe negative impact on intimate relationships, leading to negative shame loops between partners. In this article, we aim to provide a theoretical analysis of how attachment theory can help us understand that shame loops within couple relationships may not only be triggered by negative cues, such as criticism from a partner but can also innocently be triggered by a partner seeking connection or even offering comfort. We also elaborate on how therapists may unexpectedly trigger and intensify a client's shame. We conclude by providing a case description and discussing the therapeutic implications that can be helpful when working with the paradoxes of shame in couple therapy.

The Development of the Existential Empathy Questionnaire

Therapist empathy toward existential concerns might be a critical component of clinical practice. This study aims to explore the psychometric properties of the Existential Empathy Questionnaire (EEQ), a self-report instrument developed to measure levels of existential empathy among mental health professionals. The EEQ was completed by a sample of 393 therapists recruited in Belgium, along with measures of general empathy, experiential avoidance, and existential avoidance. To assess the test–retest reliability, 353 participants of the same sample completed the EEQ a second time 2 weeks later. Clinical experience and therapeutic theoretical background were assessed to inform professional characteristics. The results support the use of the EEQ as a unidimensional measure of existential empathy. It demonstrates good internal reliability and temporal stability. A principal components analysis indicates three components with small to moderate intercorrelations, labeled as “Communication,” “Avoidance and Overwhelming Feelings,” and “Resonance and Presence.” EEQ total scores show a moderate positive association with general empathy and a moderate negative association with experiential and existential avoidance. Furthermore, the EEQ significantly uniquely predicts experiential and existential avoidance after controlling for general empathy. Years of clinical practice and a humanistic-oriented therapeutic approach correlated moderately with high EEQ scores.

What Novice Family Therapists Experience During a Session… A Qualitative Study of Novice Therapists' Inner Conversations During the Session

"What do novice family therapists experience during a session with a couple or family?" This is the central question in this article. A videotape-assisted recall procedure was used to study novice family therapists' inner conversations. The therapists' reflections were analyzed using thematic analysis. This resulted in a coding system that distinguishes four main domains: (a) reflections concerning the self; (b) reflections about the therapy process; (c) reflections on emotions about the family members; and (d) managing the session as well as own emotions. The study furthermore revealed that during a session, novice family therapists experience strong emotions, such as self-criticism and irritation. Both emotions may encompass dangers, as well as opportunities for the therapeutic alliance and the process.