Posted by: ellyn
on Apr 11, 2011
The Couples Conference is always an exciting mix of experts presenting new ideas that stimulate thinking and discussion. This one was also deeply satisfying. At one point I found myself reflecting on how much has happened in the last 27 years. When Pete and I started The Couples Institute in 1984, we were warned by several mentors that we could never be successful specializing in couples. The specialty was too narrow. Couples wouldn’t come together, especially if they were troubled. And they certainly wouldn’t take time off work for daytime appointments. We persisted anyway and of course none of those dire predictions came true.
Then I remembered back to 1995 when Jeff Zeig and I created the first Couples Conference. There was competition among the faculty, and turf wars predominated. Fast forward to April 2011: this Conference was characterized by respect and collaboration. Respect for the contributions of one another and for our clients, and what we have learned from them. Collaboration and discussion with each other and the audience. And a genuine desire to move the field forward.
It was also very special for me to meet some of the therapists from my online training program – in person.
Read on for a brief summary of highlights, to give you the flavor and the excitement of the event.
