Common factors in therapy such as the therapeutic alliance and client motivation have been found to account for more change than therapy models. But common factors have been critiqued as only lists of variables that provide little practical guidance. Some researchers have demonstrated that certain common elements (e.g., the therapeutic alliance) account for more variance than others (e.g., techniques), suggesting that some factors should be emphasized over others. Such findings suggest the need for alternatives to model-based therapy, with one alternative being meta-models, or "models of models," that focus on how therapeutic factors interact with each other to produce change. The purpose of this article is to propose a meta-model describing the relationship between two specific common factors-the therapeutic alliance and interventions. We also propose a new factor-a therapist's way of being-that we believe is foundational to effective therapy. The model is proposed in pyramid format, with techniques on top, the therapeutic alliance in the middle, and therapist way of being as the foundation. The hierarchical relationships between these three concepts are discussed, along with implications for training, research, and therapy.

This article presents a unique clinical model of forgiveness developed specifically for use in the treatment of infidelity. The model focuses on forgiveness as a central component of the process of healing for couples who desire relationship reconciliation following an affair. Infidelity causes significant damage for couples and results in a loss of trust and relationship stability. However, couples can become reunified and trust may be restored as couples work through the process of forgiveness. Forgiveness is facilitated as therapists and clients focus on four unifying factors: empathy, humility, commitment and apology. Specific steps are outlined for therapists to help them guide clients through the process of forgiveness. The clinical application of the model is illustrated with a brief case example.

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Infidelity is one of the most common and the most difficult problems to treat in couples therapy. In this article, the authors present an integrative approach to treating infidelity based on the intersystems approach developed by Weeks. The approach integrates theory and techniques from both individual and systemic psychotherapy and addresses the individual, relational, and intergenerational factors associated with infidelity. The treatment approach reflects the authors' view of infidelity as a systemic, intimacy-based problem. Treatment includes five interrelated phases: (a) crisis management and assessment, (b) systemic considerations, (c) facilitating forgiveness, (d) treating factors that contribute to infidelity, and (e) promoting intimacy through communication. Of particular importance is the development of unifying factors that facilitate healing, unite couples, and reduce their vulnerability to future betrayals.

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