Family Counseling Session Role-Play - Couple with Different Goals and Age Difference

Summary

In this counseling session, Dr. Grande facilitates a discussion between a couple, Sam and Bernadette, who are experiencing strain in their relationship due to an age difference and differing lifestyles. Sam feels frustrated with Bernadette's social activities and lack of career direction, while Bernadette seeks to maintain her freedom and social life. They explore their compatibility issues and communication challenges, aiming to find a way forward without compromising their individual needs. The session highlights the importance of compromise and understanding in relationships as they navigate their impasse.

Takeaways

• 😀 The session focuses on a couple's relationship concerns, highlighting age differences and lifestyle choices.
• 😀 The age gap of 19 years creates different social interests and life directions for the couple.
• 😀 One partner feels strained by the other's party lifestyle and lack of career focus.
• 😀 Communication issues have recently intensified, marking a low point in their relationship.
• 😀 The couple expresses a desire to remain together but struggles to find common ground.
• 😀 The session reveals differing perspectives on the need for change and direction in the relationship.
• 😀 One partner wants to reduce partying and focus on career goals, while the other feels pressured and restricted.
• 😀 The need for compromise is emphasized as a way to move forward together.
• 😀 The therapist encourages reflection on the impasse and potential for adjusting behaviors.
• 😀 Both partners are encouraged to communicate more openly about their needs and frustrations.

Q & A

What is the primary concern that Sam expresses about his relationship with Bernadette?

Sam is worried about their age difference and the lack of compatibility in their interests, as well as the strain caused by differing social lives.

How does Bernadette view her social life compared to Sam's perspective?

Bernadette enjoys going out with friends and doesn't believe her social activities are a problem, while Sam feels they detract from their relationship.

What does Sam mean by wanting Bernadette to focus more on her career?

Sam wants Bernadette to consider her future and career aspirations rather than spending most of her time partying, as he believes this will bring more direction to their relationship.

What is the communication issue highlighted by both Sam and Bernadette?

Both express difficulty in communicating effectively, with Sam feeling frustrated by Bernadette's partying and Bernadette feeling pressured and rushed by Sam.

How long have Sam and Bernadette been together, and how has their relationship changed over time?

They have been together for about three years, and recently they have experienced a decline in communication and feelings of closeness.

What options for their relationship do Sam and Bernadette discuss?

They consider whether to make adjustments to improve compatibility but agree that ending the relationship is not an option they want to explore.

What specific behavior does Sam want Bernadette to change?

Sam wants Bernadette to reduce the frequency of her partying and to focus more on their relationship and her career.

How does Bernadette feel about the changes Sam is suggesting?

Bernadette feels that she should be allowed to enjoy her social life and is frustrated by the pressure to change her behavior.

What strategies does the therapist suggest for Sam and Bernadette to move forward?

The therapist suggests that they explore potential compromises between their differing needs and to communicate openly about their feelings between sessions.

What is the underlying issue that Sam and Bernadette identify as a point of contention?

The underlying issue is their differing priorities and lifestyles, particularly regarding social activities and personal growth.