Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) Practice Exam

What therapy approach involves each partner being seen by their own therapist?

1. Collaborative Couples Therapy

2. Concurrent Couples Therapy

3. Individual Therapy

4. Systemic Family Therapy

The correct answer is: Collaborative Couples Therapy

The approach that involves each partner being seen by their own therapist is known as Concurrent Couples Therapy. This modality allows individuals in a relationship to work on their personal issues while also engaging in couples therapy. The idea is that by addressing individual concerns separately, partners can come together with a clearer understanding of their own perspectives and challenges, which can ultimately contribute to healthier communication and dynamics within the couple. This approach emphasizes the importance of both personal growth and the relational context, facilitating a more holistic treatment process. In contrast, Collaborative Couples Therapy emphasizes joint sessions with both partners, focusing on their interactions and communication patterns. Individual Therapy, while beneficial for personal issues, does not focus specifically on the couple dynamic. Systemic Family Therapy looks at broader family dynamics and is not limited to just couples but encompasses various relationships within a family system. Thus, Concurrent Couples Therapy stands out as the unique option where individual therapists for each partner are involved in the process.