Formal Full-Therapeutic Disclosure

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A Formal Therapeutic Disclosure (FTD) is a structured clinical process, compassionately guided by trained therapists in a safe therapeutic setting. It is a deeply intentional step toward rebuilding trust after relational damage caused by compulsive sexual behavior or betrayal. Though the process can be emotionally intense, it opens the door to meaningful healing—for both partners and for the marriage itself.

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A full disclosure differs from a spontaneous confession or partial disclosure, which often lacks the structure, support, and safety necessary for true healing. In an FTD, trained professionals walk both partners through a carefully guided process that includes a thorough sexual history and full transparency. This allows the betrayed partner access to the information they need—without the retraumatization that often comes from “drip disclosures.”

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Drip disclosures refer to the painful pattern of receiving bits and pieces of truth over time—each new revelation reopening the wound. A formal process breaks this pattern, offering both partners the opportunity to move toward healing through truth told safely, completely, and compassionately.

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Our Commitment at JCS

At JCS, we are deeply committed to transparency, accountability, and integrity. We believe that truth-telling is not only an ethical responsibility—it’s a sacred step in restoring safety and rebuilding trust.

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We walk with you from the very beginning of the disclosure journey, ensuring that every step is explained, supported, and grounded in care. Our team of highly trained therapists leads you through the preparation, process, and integration of your disclosure so you never have to navigate it alone.

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By the time disclosure day arrives, both partners are prepared and supported—ready to share or receive the truth in a way that promotes healing rather than harm.

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The Heart Behind Full Disclosure

A Formal Therapeutic Disclosure helps lay the foundation for rebuilding trust and restoring integrity. For the partner who has acted in ways that conflict with their values, this process offers a chance to reclaim honesty and live in congruence again.

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In one study, 96% of individuals struggling with compulsive sexual behavior reported that a formal disclosure was the right course of treatment for them. This process helps dismantle the deep-seated belief described by Patrick Carnes (1983): “No one would love me as I am.”

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To be fully known and still fully loved is one of the most transformative experiences in recovery. It brings freedom from the burden of secrecy and shame—and opens the door to true connection, healing, and peace.

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Ethics and Informed Consent

Engaging in a Formal Therapeutic Disclosure is also an ethical act. Every individual has the right to informed choice and freedom from deception in their relationship. True consent requires access to all information relevant to one’s emotional, physical, and relational well-being.

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In this way, full disclosure honors the betrayed partner’s dignity and autonomy while inviting both partners into a process rooted in truth and healing.

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The Disclosure Process

Disclosures with JCS are handled with care, precision, and compassion. The process includes detailed preparation, skilled facilitation, and ongoing support from your team.

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Your disclosure package includes:

• Disclosure Membership: Worksheets, timelines, and guided materials to help both partners prepare.

• Polygraph Examiner: Preparation, administration, and review of results.

• Day-of Disclosure Support: Two trained professionals (one for each partner).

  • If your team is not local, travel costs of $1,000 per professional are included.

• Lead Therapist: A team therapist is present to help regulate emotions and provide ongoing support during the disclosure. 

Cost Estimate: $3,500–$6,000

A non-refundable $1,000 deposit is required to begin the process.
If both disclosure team members must travel, a $2,000 deposit is required.

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Additional fees may apply for:

• Sessions leading up to disclosure (varies per couple)

• Extra support outside sessions (e.g., document review, billed at your provider’s hourly rate)

• Extended day-of sessions beyond six hours (billed hourly)

• Client travel and accommodations

 

About the Polygraph

A polygraph is a physiological assessment tool that measures indicators such as heart rate, blood pressure, and respiration to help determine truthfulness. Contrary to popular belief, a polygraph doesn’t detect “lies” directly; rather, it identifies stress responses that may indicate deception.

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When used properly, a polygraph can:

• Increase accuracy and clarity during the disclosure process

• Reduce ambiguity for both partners

• Provide greater confidence in the integrity of the information shared

 

The American Polygraph Association (APA) requires examiners to be professionally trained, use validated procedures, and record cardiovascular, respiratory, and electrodermal activity.

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Accuracy Data from the APA:

• Field Examinations (12 studies, 2,174 cases): 98% average accuracy

• Independent Analyses of Field Examinations (11 studies, 1,609 cases): 92% accuracy

• Laboratory Simulations (41 studies, 1,787 cases): 80% accuracy

• Independent Analyses of Lab Simulations (16 studies, 810 cases): 81% accuracy

Source: The British Polygraph Society

 

Walking Toward Truth and Healing

At JCS, we see full disclosure not as a single event but as part of a sacred journey—one that allows truth, accountability, and grace to meet.

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Healing begins in the light. When truth is told with compassion and received with support, both partners can begin rebuilding safety and rediscovering connection.

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You don’t have to walk this road alone. Our team is here to guide you—step by step—toward truth, wholeness, and lasting recovery.

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