It assists participants to become aware of childhood wounds and the character traits developed in childhood to protect themselves. It deepens their understanding of how the wounds and defenses reappear and interfere in intimate adult relationships. It also teaches them how to transform their perceptions and behavior patterns so that they can achieve a healthy, fulfilling relationship. It assists them to create a comprehensive plan for change that includes relationship skills, identification of childhood issues, and the gradual integration of their lost and denied self-aspects. The goal is to increase their capacity for intimate and healthy relationships as preparation for a life-long, committed partnership.
Participants learn how they can benefit from all past intimate relationships.
They learn to recognize the kinds of unrealistic expectations they place on their partners without realizing it, and those patterns in their parents' marriages that they unknowingly internalized as their only acceptable relationship mode. And they are provided with the tools they need to break free from such expectations and patterns to achieve the mature, nourishing and enduring love they seek. The format includes lectures, guided imagery, written exercises, and role plays in groups of two or three. A systematic workbook is provided for participant's use during and after the workshop. While participants will be invited to participate and build a supportive group atmosphere, they will not be pressured into unwelcome self-disclosure.