After carefully viewing training videos and asking our large Facebook group, it seems safe to say there is not much consensus on how to structure the initial sessions in therapy land. Although we respect diversity of models and requirements of work settings, we think there is too little emphasis on what needs to happen in the first two sessions of couples therapy.

The Doherty Approach handles the structure of all sessions with great intentionality because it can dramatically impact the quality of the couples therapy. This video dives into why we ask the first two questions in the handout.

As you think about your current approach, consider why you do everything you do. We hope you will consider giving our approach a try.

This structure (used by Bill for over 40 years) prevents a lot of problems that couples therapists complain about--and that drive therapists away from working with couples. The work becomes more enjoyable and more productive.