Stepfamilies are one of the most common family structures in the United States, yet many therapists receive limited training in the unique relational challenges that step-couples face. Clinical approaches developed for first-marriage couples often fail to account for the complexities of loyalty conflicts, boundary ambiguity, role uncertainty, co-parenting demands, and the ongoing influence of previous relationships.

This workshop presents findings from original qualitative research exploring resilience and relationship satisfaction among step-couples. Drawing from interviews with remarried couples, participants will be introduced to Relational Recalibration Theory, a resilience-based framework that explains how step-couples develop and maintain satisfying relationships while navigating the complexities of stepfamily life. 

Participants will examine three core processes identified in the research: relational safety, adaptive regulation, and intentional partnership. Through case examples and clinical application, attendees will learn how these processes help couples manage stepfamily stressors, strengthen emotional connection, and foster long-term relationship satisfaction.

The workshop will also provide practical strategies for assessment, case conceptualization, and intervention. Participants will learn to distinguish challenges that are unique to stepfamily systems from those commonly observed in first-marriage relationships and will leave with evidence-informed tools that can be immediately integrated into clinical practice.

Designed for therapists with foundational knowledge of couples and family therapy, this presentation offers a research-informed, strengths-based approach to understanding and treating step-couple relationships.