Vignette

Jennifer (38) and Kevin (41) are referred by their son's school after 10-year-old Marcus was caught shoplifting. In the initial session, Marcus is sullen. Jennifer blames Kevin: 'You were never around when he was little, and now you want to play dad.' Kevin responds, 'I was working.' Marcus suddenly says, 'I don't even know why we're here, you two are the ones who need therapy.' Marcus's thefts began three months ago, shortly after the family moved for Kevin's new job. What is the therapist's FIRST priority?