Development of a Positive Psychology–Based Counseling Model for Enhancing Marital Intimacy and Adjustment in Couples

Objective: This study aimed to develop a positive psychology–based counseling model for improving marital intimacy and adjustment among couples.

Methods and Materials: This applied qualitative study used an exploratory–explanatory design based on thematic analysis. Data were collected through a systematic review of scientific sources related to positive psychology, couples therapy, marital intimacy, and marital adjustment. A total of 54 credible sources, including 4 Persian sources published between 2021 and 2025 and 50 international sources published between 2000 and 2025, were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis approach. Coding, categorization, and conceptual synthesis were conducted to extract the main domains and components of the counseling model. The content validity of the final protocol was evaluated by 15 experts in positive psychology and couples therapy using content validity ratio and content validity index criteria.

Findings: The thematic analysis identified 52 core categories organized into major domains, including couples’ emotional competence, positive coping skills, positive couple interactions, positive mental states, strengthening positive personality traits, and maintaining relationships with positive social institutions. Based on these components, a structured counseling protocol was developed in 10 sessions, each lasting 90 minutes. The protocol included strength-based psychoeducation, emotional literacy training, positive coping exercises, gratitude, forgiveness, hope, relational trust, active listening, constructive self-disclosure, shared activities, and homework assignments. Expert evaluation confirmed high content validity of the session components.

Conclusion: The developed counseling model provides a multidimensional, strength-based framework for improving marital intimacy and adjustment. By emphasizing emotional competence, positive interaction, coping skills, shared meaning, and relational strengths, this model may be useful for couples counseling, family therapy centers, and marital enrichment programs.