Giving priority to a primary relationship can be quite a challenge when it is competing with the task of parenting. This workshop explores the multiple hats couples wear while raising a family and the importance of attending to the often neglected couple bond. Participants will learn approaches to helping couples stay connected to one another and bridge the great divide when feeling disconnected. The particular challenges of step-families, fostering, and adoption will be discussed.
Participants will:
- Understand the concept of interlocking triangles and how it relates to parenting.
- Learn how negative cycles of interaction can hijack the connection.
- Learn tools to engage the more reluctant partner.
- Explore strategies for helping couples balance their relationship needs with parenting, work, and other responsibilities.
Nancy Knudsen, LMFT, is a Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice in Northampton, MA with over 30 years experience in the field. She has used a family systems orientation over the years to work with individuals, couples, and families on a wide range of issues. Over the past 8 years, Nancy’s primary clinical modality has been Emotionally Focused Therapy. She is a certified EFT therapist as well as a certified EFT supervisor, and served two years as the Assistant Director of the New England EFT Community. Nancy has taught a number of workshops on EFT for professionals. Additionally, she is a Past President of the Massachusetts Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and an AAMFT Approved Supervisor. Her most recent enterprise is co-founding and co-directing the Couple and Family Institute of New England.
