Couples Therapy. Week I

….when asked to use our brand spanking new communication skills with one another in front of our therapist, Rick decided to “communicate” to me the following…first, let me set up the scene:

Therapist: Rick, I want you to say something to Anne…anything you like…and then she will mirror it back to you letting you that she has heard what you said.

Rick: Ok. (a little squirming, refolding of the hands…me thinking, “oh shit, here we go.”) Anne, I want you to know that I’m really upset that I’m missing the opening kick off for the season right now.

Me: ………..

Therapist: Anne? 

Me…..I really don’t know what to say to that

Therapist: That’s not what you’re supposed to say back to him, Anne

Me…….

Therapist: Anne?

Me………….so, what you’re saying is, you’re upset about missing the game? 

Therapist: Very good, Anne. Now that will be $175.00. See you guys next week.