Consider the narratives, “relationships are hard” and “all couples fight.” What if that isn’t true?

Humans desire relational connection and yet, relationships are often the greatest source of emotional pain. This has a significant impact on our ability to effectively maintain long term relationships and/or marriages. Current research indicates that over half of all first marriages end in divorce and the percentage increases for second and third marriages. The top three reasons for divorce are a lack of commitment, infidelity and too much conflict and arguing. Ultimately this is based on a lack of relational skills that result in overall dissatisfaction, frustration and resentment. This workshop is designed for new and seasoned clinicians seeking to acquire and develop tools to address these concepts and help couples achieve effective and rewarding relationships that last. The emphasis will be on usable tools that the clinician can apply immediately.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of the presentation participants will:

• Understand the trajectory of most relationships and the ineffective cycles and patterns that contribute to this

• Acquire client centered tools to help couples effectively manage, reduce and potentially eliminate conflict including effective relational repair

• Acquire client centered tools to help couples effectively communicate

• Acquire client centered tools to develop and maintain intimacy, safety and connection in relationships

• Understand and apply theory of pursuer/distancer in session to assist clients in altering ineffective cycles and patterns

• Understand the value of and logistics of intentionality, risk and vulnerability in investing in relationships

• Review concepts of human behavior and interaction with others

• Review emotion regulation skills

• Consider strategies to manage diagnosable mental disorders and their impact on relationships including helping couples manage associated thoughts and behaviors

• Increase awareness of self and relational skills

Presented by: Rich Shannon, MA, NCC, LMFT, LCADC

Location: University of Nevada, Reno Extension, 8050 Paradise Rd., Las Vegas, NV 89123

Continuing Education Units: 6 CEUs

This training is approved for continuing education by the boards listed here.*