A couple, Sam and Taylor, seeks counseling due to escalating conflicts. Sam states, 'Taylor never helps around the house, which proves they don't care about me.' In response, Taylor often avoids coming home until late, stating, 'There's no point in trying; Sam will just criticize whatever I do.' This cycle of thought and action has led to significant emotional distance. Based on the most common therapeutic approach used in couples counseling, what would be a therapist's most likely initial intervention?