Rebuilding Trust After Infidelity for Justice-Involved Couples: An Emotionally Focused Therapy Case Study

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Abstract

This clinical case study illustrates the therapeutic process of working with an incarcerated woman and her partner as they navigate issues of infidelity. Using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), the intervention progressed through three distinct stages: processing the infidelity, addressing communication challenges, and fostering emotional bonding while consolidating new relational patterns. The study delves into the couple’s narratives, their negative interaction cycles, and their emotional processing and attachment styles, with particular attention to complicating factors such as incarceration, trauma, infidelity, and the use of teletherapy. It highlights the efficacy of EFT in addressing the complexities faced by couples impacted by incarceration. This case study emphasizes the unique needs of this underserved population and offers insights for marriage and family therapists working with justice-involved couples. Clinical, policy, and research recommendations are discussed.

Authors

• Jixuan Zhao, Syracuse University

• Eman Tadros, Syracuse University