Please respond to each response with 200 words a piece.
Angie Keasler
TuesdayJun 18 at 3:11pm
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Case Study 1
Ben and Susan are a married couple experiencing difficulty with sexual intimacy in their marriage. A treatment plan must be formulated to determine the best course of action to address these intimacy issues. I would first recommend speaking to both parties individually and then as a couple to identify and address each person’s feelings and concerns about sexual intimacy. If it is determined that Ben is having problems with erectile difficulties, I would want to determine if this is a problem or a dysfunction. A problem is something that happens from time to time and a dysfunction is a recurring problem happening over a longer period (Thomas, 2018). I would schedule Ben for a series of clinical tests. A physical and urologic examination to rule out or identify and treat any physical causes (Penner & Penner, 2003). I would assure Ben that as men age, statistics show a majority of men encounter some degree of difficulties but there is treatment. We will need to explore concerns of emotional issues that might be affecting Ben. I want to address the possibility of depression or guilt regarding the loss of his first wife. If he were holding onto unresolved issues, this might be an obstacle to becoming physically connected with his current wife. I would then discuss with Ben the possibility of exploring androgen therapy, nutritional approach, pharmacologic management, sexual retaining or therapy, or professional help. I would advise both Ben and Susan that anxiety can perpetuate the problem. After discussing all the various avenues of treatment and therapies, I would recommend the following things the couple can work on in private. Ben needs to rid himself of his fears of performance anxiety and Susan needs to rid herself of negative feelings of not being desirable enough. They should become comfortable with touching each other without expectation of sex. I recommend they take time touching, being playful, communicating, connecting emotionally, and most importantly prayer. These things along with the other options presented to Ben and Susan will help usher in a new and satisfying stage in their marriage. “Wives submit to your husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands. Husbands love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her” (English Standard Version, 2016, Ephesians 5:22-25).
References
Thomas, J. (2018). Sexual Dysfunctions. https://canvas.liberty.edu/courses/640387/pages/watch-sexual-dysfunctions?module_item_id=66642738
Penner, C. & Penner, J. (2003). The gift of sex: A guide to sexual fulfillment. Nashville, TN: W. Publishing Group.
The Holy Bible. English Standard Version. (2016). Oxford University Press.
Amanda Tidwell
TuesdayJun 18 at 3:55pm
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In today’s society, the topic of sexual intimacy is often surrounded by controversy and differing opinions. However, as a counselor, it is important to approach this sensitive issue with compassion and understanding. The issue of infidelity in a marriage is a difficult and complex one to address, and it is important to approach it with sensitivity and understanding. In this case, it is clear that Jenna feels betrayed and hurt by the discovery of inappropriate content on Mike’s phone.
As a Christian counselor, my treatment plan for helping Mike and Jenna would be rooted in biblical principles. The Bible clearly states that sexual intimacy is a gift from God to be enjoyed within the context of marriage (1 Corinthians 7:2-5). However, it also warns against adultery and sexual immorality (Exodus 20:14, 1 Corinthians 6:18). Therefore, my first step would be to remind the couple of these biblical principles and to guide them towards understanding God’s design for intimacy in marriage.
Another important aspect of addressing this issue is to explore the underlying reasons for Mike’s behavior. The book “The Gift of Sex” by Cliff and Joyce Penner discusses how unhealthy sexual behaviors can stem from unmet needs, trauma, or distorted beliefs about sex. It would be helpful to work with Mike individually to understand the root causes of his actions and help him develop healthier coping mechanisms.
It is also important to acknowledge and validate Jenna’s feelings of betrayal and hurt. Discovering inappropriate pictures and websites on her husband’s phone can be a traumatic experience for any spouse, especially in the early stages of marriage. I would encourage Jenna to openly express her emotions and concerns, and allow her to feel heard and understood.
Another crucial element in addressing infidelity is rebuilding trust and setting boundaries in the relationship. This can be a long and challenging process, but it is essential for the healing and restoration of the marriage. The Penners emphasize the importance of honesty and openness in rebuilding trust. Therefore, I would encourage Mike to be transparent about his actions and allow Jenna to ask questions and express her emotions. It is also crucial for Mike to take responsibility for his actions and apologize sincerely for the hurt he has caused.
References:
English Standard Version Bible. (2001). ESV Online. https://esv.literalword.com
Penner, C., & Penner, J. J. (2003). The Gift of Sex. HarperCollins Christian. https://libertyonline.vitalsource.com/books/9781418534899Links to an external site.
