Knowing and Growing Hope in Couple Therapy: Perspectives of Couples and Their Therapists

Authors

Abstract

This study explored experiences of hope shared by couples and their therapists within couple therapy. Four couples and their therapists were interviewed separately. Theme analysis revealed two superordinate themes for couples and therapists: “knowing hope” and “growing hope.” Knowing hope refers to a person’s understanding of hope, while growing hope refers to the experience of hope within the therapy process. Findings revealed that there are similarities and differences in how therapists and couples understand and experience hope. Yet, despite any differences, hope emerges and grows in therapy through a bidirectional process between couples and their therapists.

Author Biographies

Danielle Vriend Fluit, Saint Paul University

Danielle Vriend Fluit received her doctorate from Saint Paul University and is currently an assistant professor in the Marriage and Family Therapy program at Trinity Western University. She is a practising registered psychotherapist.

Terry Lynn Gall, Saint Paul University

Terry Lynn Gall is a full professor teaching and providing clinical training in the M.A. and Ph.D. programs in Counselling, Psychotherapy, and Spirituality at Saint Paul University. Dr. Gall has conducted extensive research on the role of spirituality in coping with various life stressors including breast cancer and child sexual abuse.

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Published

2020-08-27

How to Cite

Vriend Fluit, D., & Gall, T. L. (2020). Knowing and Growing Hope in Couple Therapy: Perspectives of Couples and Their Therapists. Canadian Journal of Counselling and Psychotherapy, 54(3), 520–540. Retrieved from https://cjc-rcc.ucalgary.ca/article/view/68195