Master Conflict Therapy: A New Model for Practicing Couples and Sex Therapy

Illustrated with case studies, this book teaches couples and sex therapists the comprehensive, integrative treatment approach of master conflict therapy (MCT), which combines psychoanalytic conflict theory and Bowen Theory with the basic principles and practice of sex therapy. MCT suggests that each partner has an internal conflict born out of their experiences from their respective families of origin. Partners then choose one another based on these conflicts, and it is only when they are out of balance that the couple experiences symptoms. The authors help clinicians treat couples through providing them with a solid theoretical foundation, a practical assessment procedure, and highly effective treatment techniques to re-balance a couple and, in turn, alleviate their sexual symptoms.

Stephen J. Betchen, DSW, is a licensed marriage and family therapist, an AAMFT-approved supervisor, and an AASECT diplomate and certified supervisor. He serves as a senior supervisor in the post-graduate Sex Therapy Program at the Council for Relationships and as an adjunct clinical professor in the Department of Couple and Family Therapy at Thomas Jefferson University. He is the author of numerous professional publications on relationships, including the critically acclaimed book, Intrusive Partners-Elusive Mates. Dr. Betchen is an official blogger for PsychologyToday.com and currently maintains a full-time private practice in Cherry Hill, New Jersey specializing in couples/sex therapy.

Heather L. Davidson, EdM, MA, is a licensed professional counselor, an EDMR-certified therapist, and an AASECT-certified sex therapist. Ms. Davidson maintains a full-time private practice in Narberth, Pennsylvania, specializing in couples/sex therapy and trauma-related disorders.