When you are working with a couple who appear to have many areas for growth it is tempting to jump in at the deep end and begin working on these issues right from the start.

Perhaps a better initial strategy is to find whatever evidence there is for some strength, even in a highly conflicted couple, and to use this as a platform for encouragement, for being affirming, and for generating a sense of optimism. 

This may provide a basis for making progress in developing those strengths further and applying them to the growth issues.  The evidence for the strength might be very minimal (some encouraging responses to particular items) or more substantial (one or more relationship strengths or possible strengths in the PREPARE categories).