Restoration of Intimacy and Connection in the Treatment of Couples with Substance Abuse Issues

Couples at the Crossroads: Substance Abuse and Intimate Relationship Deliberation

“…Attention devoted to the topic of intimacy and sex among recovering couples is surprisingly scant (Cavacuiti, 2004;Pascoe, 2001;Trepper, McCollum, Dankoski, Davis, & LaFazia, 2000). This mirrors the absence of literature regarding the sexual adjustment among alcoholics (Dolezal, Remien, Wagner, Carballo-Dieguez, & Hung, 2005;O'Farrell, Kleinke, & Cutter, 1997).…”

“…The possibility of relapse is also broached (Cropley, 2006). Several authors (e.g., Pascoe, 2001;Miller et al, 2001) suggest that issues such as mourning, resentment, becoming reacquainted, and shame typically emerge in treatment with recovering couples. Knowing this, couples can profit from realizing that the deliberation process can be turbulent and emotionally demanding.…”

“…Sun-Pyng (2007) points out that the latter task can be an arduous task. Pascoe (2001) contends that, ''Some individuals experience a true grief reaction in that they will need to avoid slippery places and people (i.e., individuals with whom they partied or used with as well as places that they frequented such as the golf club)'' (p. 40).…”