What should the therapist accomplish during the second assessment session?

During the second assessment session, it is important for the therapist to perform individual interviews with each partner. This approach allows for a deeper exploration of each partner's personal perspective, feelings, and experiences within the relationship. Individual interviews help the therapist gather nuanced information that might not be shared in a joint setting, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship dynamics at play.

This method respects each partner's autonomy and emotional state, enabling them to express concerns or vulnerabilities they may not feel comfortable sharing in front of their partner. Gathering this information is crucial for developing an effective treatment strategy that addresses the unique needs of both partners.

While discussing treatment goals, reviewing conflict videos, or explaining concepts related to the Sound Relationship House are certainly valuable components of couples therapy, the individual interviews specifically serve to enrich the therapist's understanding of the couple’s interaction patterns and personal histories, setting the stage for meaningful progress in future sessions.