Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT) as a third-wave therapy

This article presents a description of the Integrative Behavioral Couple Therapy (IBCT), and puts forwards its contributions, its techniques and progress, the research data on its usefulness compared to traditional behavioral couple therapy, and explains basically its articulation in third-wave behavior therapies using the concepts of functionality, rule-governed/contingency-shaped behavior and acceptance.

A theoretical review of the main IBCT bibliography was carried out.

The review shows that this intervention model includes innovative intervention strategies (to promote acceptance and tolerance) that join the already well-known behavioral couple therapy techniques (behavior exchange, communication training and couple problem solving), substantially modifying the therapy. Furthermore, it incorporates useful orientation for especially difficult problems in couples (such as infidelity and substance use, abuse and dependence situations).

After this analysis, IBCT is revealed as a new intervention, the scope of which is still spreading among professionals. The acceptance concept, one of the core elements of third-wave therapies, has been fruitfully included in behavioral couple therapy through the IBCT.