"My partner won't come to therapy!"—can individual therapy be a good substitute when couple therapy is not an option?

This article explores the opportunities and limitations of working with an individ- ual client whose relationship is in need of help. Attachment theory and systemic thinking are used to understand the dynamics within the actual couple and within the therapeutic couple. Understanding from emotionally focused couple therapy (EFT) is employed to draw out the attachment meaning in couple conflicts and disappointment. Case studies illustrate what an individual therapist can achieve and indicate the kinds of couple difficulties they might not be able to impact.