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Conversations by writing about emotions

Connection between the dialogue method of the Marriage Encounter movement and emotionally focused therapy

ARTICLEAnn Van de Velde, Johan De keyser & Joris Dewispelaere - 60–3 (2022)

SUMMARY

The ‘dialogue’ is a form of written and oral conversation that helps couples to deepen their relation by communicating emotions and attachment needs. This method is promoted by the Marriage Encounter movement. In this paper we demonstrate the strong connection between relational growth by means of this method and by emotionally focused therapy (EFT). Both work towards accessible, responsive and engaged communication. This connection suggests that the dialogue offers relationship support. The use of the dialogue in peer groups with couples differs considerably from the EFT therapeutic setting.

KEYWORDS

dialogue, conversation by writing, emotions, attachment, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Marriage Encounter

The tPeP (Journal Person-centered experiential Psychotherapy) is the scientific journal for Dutch and Flemish psychotherapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists, that work from, or are interested in a client-centered perspective.