Formal Disclosure

Advanced Training, Compassionate Support, Proven Processes

What is Formal Disclosure?

When betrayal occurs in a relationship, it takes courage and commitment to move forward toward reconciliation. Formal Disclosure is an intervention proven to provide a foundation for healing.

Formal Disclosure most frequently occurs in the wake of a sexual/relational betrayal in a romantic couple relationship, although it can also be helpful in other familial, friendship, and business relationships where betrayal has occurred. It is a process carefully crafted to allow the individuals to provide a complete and honest accounting of the situation that occurred with the goal of reconciling the relationship, all while retaining the dignity of the individuals involved.

Is Formal Disclosure Appropriate in My Situation?

Formal Disclosure is not for everyone. If the individual clients are not committed to the process of reconciliation, and are not working with professionals specifically trained, experienced, and/or supervised in the process of Formal Disclosure, the process is likely to go poorly, leaving the clients worse off than they began. Many well-intentioned individuals, therapists, and other professionals have attempted Formal Disclosure under less-than-desirable circumstances, and the outcomes have been counter to their intentions. For this reason, it is vital that you discuss with your individual therapist your intentions regarding the Formal Disclosure, and confirm their qualifications to lead you through the process. A Formal Disclosure gone well has the potential to be a powerful moment of vulnerability, repair, and connection; a Formal Disclosure gone wrong often leads to increased mistrust, isolation, shame, and disordered behavioral symptoms.

Can Thriving Families Help Me with Formal Disclosure?

As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) through the International Institute of Trauma and Addiction Professionals, Steven R. Hobbs has extensive experience working with facilitating Formal Disclosures. Steven brings the insight and experiences of taking many couples successfully through the process, and understands the nuances that can make all the difference is such a delicate matter. After completing his CSAT certification, Steven found there was a lack of resources guiding this unique process; therefore, he spent more than two years developing a workbook to guide clients and their therapists in the disclosure process. This workbook has been used many times to successfully help the clients of Thriving Families move through the Formal Disclosure process thoroughly, efficiently, and successfully. This workbook is not available to the public, and is only available to clients who engage Thriving Families for Formal Disclosure services as a part of their treatment.

Built on this foundation of experience and professionalism, our therapists will provide you with an opportunity to consider if Formal Disclosure is appropriate in your situation, and the possible risks and benefits of the process. If it is decided that Formal Disclosure is appropriate, you will be provided with the guidance, wisdom, and support to make the process as beneficial to you as possible.