Schnarch studied the widespread problem of people losing sexual desire in couple relationships, and suggested in the 1980s that the notion of self-differentiation introduced by Bowen was the real starting point for solving problems with intimacy and sexual desire.
Differentiation-based psychotherapy is based on the theoretical assumptions of Murray Bowen and understands the so-called self-differentiation as a central variable for human personality development.
This form of psychotherapy aims to confront the client with themselves, their actions and dilemmas, to help them through a process of self-knowledge, and to find new solutions to the problems that are burdening their life and relationships.
Schnarch used his melting-pot approach in particular for the treatment of problems with intimacy and in sexual relationships.
Schnarch achieved this through collaborative confrontation (with himself and the partner), through self-confirmed (instead of third-party-confirmed) intimacy and through the promotion of self-respect and respect for others.