Helping couples deal with terminal Illness

Abstract

Working with couples when one partner has been diagnosed with a terminal illness presents unique challenges for the practitioner. This chapter identifies and discusses factors that contribute to the couple's adjustment to terminal illness. Much of the research on coping with terminal illness relates to cancer, and as such, is emphasized throughout the chapter. There continues to be a need for research on the efficacy of couple's therapy with terminal illness in general, as well as with cancer specifically. Readers are shown how to challenge irrational beliefs related to terminal illness such as demandingness, frustration intolerance, and catastrophizing, as well as cognitive distortions of dichotomous thinking and overgeneralization. Behavioral interventions such as activity scheduling and relaxation training are also discussed. In the case of terminal illness, the importance of maintaining the therapeutic alliance is essential, and sensitivity in one's interventions is highlighted. A case example of a couple whose husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer is provided to demonstrate the use of rational emotive and cognitive behavior therapy with this difficult problem.