Couple Therapy: A New Hope-Focused Approach

Christian Association for Psychological Studies Books

by Jennifer S. Ripley, Everett L. Worthington Jr.

Following the successful Hope-Focused Marriage Counseling , Jennifer Ripley and Everett Worthington Jr. have written a new book that expands upon their previous theoretical approach while describing in detail new practical interventions for couple counseling and enrichment. Weaving together classic cases outlined in Hope-Focused Marriage Counseling and over 75 brand new practical interventions, Ripley and Worthington root their practical examples in an even deeper theoretical framework and research in attachment and intimate bonds. Written with the couple counselor in mind, this book occupies a rare niche that is accessible not only to therapists and counselors but also to pastors and married couples alike. Both licensed clinical psychologists and experienced counselors, the authors base this follow-up work on the pillars of their Hope-Focused Couples Approach. The assessment tools included help facilitate improved marriages in many settings, and the combination of theory and real-life case studies easily integrates into the practices of professional counselors and researchers as well as into the lives of couples. Instructor Resources for classroom use include activities, video demonstrations of the authors in couples therapy, audio lectures, testbank, chapter summaries and a sample syllabus. Christian Association for Psychological Studies (CAPS) Books explore how Christianity relates to mental health and behavioral sciences including psychology, counseling, social work, and marriage and family therapy in order to equip Christian clinicians to support the well-being of their clients.

Genres: Counselling, Nonfiction, Relationships, Marriage, Grad School, School, Textbooks

399 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 2014

Reviews

[Joseph Mundo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hope-Focused Marriage Counseling by Jennifer Ripley and Everett Worthington is a strong, practical resource for anyone working with couples. I’d rate it 4.5 out of 5 stars.

What I appreciate most about this book is its balance. It integrates research-based counseling methods with a Christian worldview in a way that feels responsible and structured, not preachy or overly theoretical. The authors focus on restoring hope as a central mechanism for change, and that’s a powerful starting point. Many couples walk into counseling emotionally exhausted or discouraged. Rebuilding hope gives them motivation to actually engage in the hard work of growth.

The model is organized, clear, and usable. It offers concrete interventions for communication, conflict resolution, forgiveness, and commitment. It’s not just theory—it’s operational. That makes it especially valuable for pastors, counselors, or therapists who need tools they can implement immediately.

Another strength is that it works across a spectrum. While rooted in Christian counseling, the principles are adaptable for non-Christian couples as well. It addresses real-world complexities—long-term marriages, entrenched patterns, emotional disconnection, and relational wounds—with structure and clarity.

The reason I don’t give it a full 5 stars is that the structured format may feel somewhat rigid for couples in severe crisis or high emotional volatility. In those cases, stabilization may need to happen before structured exercises are effective. But that’s more about application context than a flaw in the model itself.

Overall, this is a great reference book to keep on hand. Whether working with Christian couples or navigating complex relational dynamics in today’s society, it offers multiple avenues for approaching conflict and strengthening commitment. It’s thoughtful, practical, and grounded in both research and faith.

A solid addition to any counselor’s library.

[Shelley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a pretty good resource for couples counseling interventions and techniques. A lot of helpful and simple interventions are included in the text and via their website. I like the emphasis on hope and assisting couples in building on their strengths to reach higher relationship satisfaction.

[Caroline Abbott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good tools for couple therapy

[Wade Arnold · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are many good interventions described in the book. I especially appreciate that it is written by Christians for an audience that is sympathetic toward a Christin worldview.

[Benton Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great tool for counselors who counsel Christian couples.

[Wendy Simmons · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very practical with more than enough interventions and guidance for couples therapy