Getting into Couple Work with Lottie and Sam Walton

Our resident couples therapist, and psychosexual counsellor, Lottie, explores the world of couple therapy and the importance of training, supervision, and collaboration in this field with our guest, Sam Walton. The speakers discuss the journey of becoming couple therapists and the benefits of working with couples. They emphasise the significance of creating a calm space for couples and the role of homework in the therapeutic process. The conversation also delves into ethical dilemmas, attachment, and family of origin in couple therapy. The speakers highlight the value of structure and the use of a playbook in working with couples. They stress the importance of supervision and the passion for relational work. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the magic of couple therapy and the role of supervision in supporting therapists in this field.TakeawaysTraining and supervision are crucial for therapists entering the field of couple therapy.Creating a calm space for couples is essential in helping them navigate their challenges.Homework can be a valuable tool in facilitating growth and change in couples.Ethical dilemmas may arise in couple therapy, and therapists must navigate them with sensitivity and professionalism.Attachment and family of origin play a significant role in understanding couples' dynamics.A structured approach, such as a playbook, can provide guidance and support in working with couples.Supervision is essential for therapists to reflect on their practice and enhance their skills in couple therapy.Passion for relational work and a commitment to ongoing learning are key to success in couple therapy.Sam Walton: https://www.sam-walton.co.uk/Lottie Passell-Syms: https://www.lottiepassellsyms.com/The Paradox of Change podcast, here on YouTube or on all major platforms: https://theparadoxofchange.buzzsprout.com/Chapters00:00Introduction and Background07:04Getting into Couple Work09:23Benefits of Training and Supervision10:35Enhancing Practice Through Collaboration12:04Creating a Calm Space for Couples13:46The Importance of Homework16:44The Journey of Relational Connection17:41Tolerating Discomfort for Growth18:47Addressing Conflict in Couples Therapy19:53Ethical Dilemmas in Couple Therapy20:46Incorporating Attachment and Family of Origin23:37The Importance of Structure in Couple Therapy26:44The Playbook for Couple Therapy28:46The Value of Supervision in Couple Therapy30:41Passion for Relational Work34:35The Magic of Couple Therapy39:03The Role of Supervision in Couple Therapy40:08The Paradox of Change Group43:32The Intimacy of Relational Work46:01Ending the Conversation49:28Promoting the Playbook for Couple TherapyTo contact Sam or Lottie from this episode, please visit their independent websites or feel free to get in touch.How to find us: https://linktr.ee/theparadoxofchange