Working With Couples (Without Playing Referee)

27/11/2025 54 min Episodio 96
Working With Couples (Without Playing Referee)

Listen "Working With Couples (Without Playing Referee)"

Episode Synopsis

Couples therapy can be some of the most rewarding work we do, but it can also be some of the most challenging. If you’ve ever found yourself sitting in the room thinking, am I helping or am I refereeing?, this episode is for you.In this episode of Inside Social Work, I revisit a conversation originally recorded with Dr Bronwyn Milkins on the Mental Work Podcast, where we break down what it really looks like to work with couples without getting pulled into the crossfire.We explore what actually happens in sessions, why structure matters, and how to navigate the emotional intensity that comes with two people bringing their pain, frustration, and hopes into the room.Whether you’re new to couples work or trying to build more confidence, this conversation offers clear, practical guidance grounded in real clinical experience.We explore:Why couples work can feel emotionally demandingHow structure helps contain conflictWhat live conflict reveals about patternsHow to stay steady without taking sidesWhat to consider when separation is on the tableResources:When should you refer an individual to couples therapy? Blog post by Marie.This Complex Life - Marie's podcast where she delves into the messiness of wellbeing and relationships.Books: Come Together by Emily Nagoski, Mating in Captivity by Esther Perel, Eight Dates by John and Julie GottmanInterested in couples therapy training? Gottman Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy are common evidence-based approaches!Got something you'd like to hear on the podcast? 🎙️ Got a question or something on your mind? Send it through. You can write it or email a voice memo to [email protected], and it might be featured in a future episode of Inside Social Work.Your curiosity could help shape a conversation that resonates with the wider community.Want to be a guest? Submit a speaker request here http://marievakakis.com.au/be-a-podcast-guest/Got an anonymous question? Submit it here:https://forms.gle/wg7Lk61xde9Lge976