Debrief

Discuss which questions helped uncover meaningful information about the relationship, environmental circumstances and each partner's personal experiences. What emerged about Mark's need for affirmation, Helen's practical coping style and the ways they experienced their relationship differently? Consider how effectively the therapist explored developmental influences, recognised possible interactions between factors and maintained a collaborative approach. Did either partner become defensive or feel blamed, and how was this managed?

Particular attention should be given to distinguishing circumstances and vulnerabilities from Mark's decisions. What facilitated or hindered exploration, which hypotheses warrant further investigation and what information remains missing. The purpose of this exercise was to develop understanding through guided discovery, rather than arrive at a complete formulation or establish shared responsibility for the affair.