Indecision regarding a couple relationship A working model for ambivalence

Abstract

Clients entering therapy with indecision regarding their couple relationship can present a difficult clinical situation for the therapist. These clients vacillate between staying in and leaving the relationship and many resist moves towards a resolution. It is proposed that such indecisive clients fall into two distinct categories, namely, ambivalence and dilemma, with each having a different therapeutic focus. The aim of this paper is to outline a working model for therapists to use with clients experiencing ambivalence in their relationship. A case study based on a composite of actual cases is used to demonstrate the applicability of the model.