Couples Therapy
What is Couples Therapy?
Couples therapy allows partners to assess their relationship, resolve conflict, and improve relationship satisfaction using therapeutic interventions. Every couple is different, and the therapy plan will be tailored to their unique needs and requirements to achieve the results the couple are aiming for. Individuals not currently in an intimate relationship can attend on their own to reflect on former relationships and think about what they want from future ones.
Individuals currently in an intimate relationship can attend on their own, if their partner does not want to attend, but it is usually better for both partners to attend. Partners are normally seen together, although some separate sessions with each individual can help. If domestic violence and control is a major issue in the relationship, this usually needs dealing with first. Therapy cannot take place without a sufficient sense of safety.
What to Expect in Couples Therapy:
Most couples come away from a therapy session with a greater understanding of their relational patterns and the necessary skills to effectively communicate and problem-solve with their partners. Not sure what to expect from therapy? We broke down the process for you.
Getting started with relationship therapy for couples:
The first therapy session will begin with an assessment to explore the relationship’s history. This will also look at each partner’s history, values, and where you each feel the problem lies. The therapist might use the initial sessions for crisis intervention if necessary.
Your therapist might will help to identify issues that will be focused on during treatment. This will help to establish treatment goals and a structure for the ongoing therapy sessions. Your therapist will help you to gain insight into the deeper issues causing problems in your relationship. They will offer guidance around the roles each person plays in your relationship using an integrative approach.
You may also be given exercises to complete in between sessions. This will allow you to apply the skills you learn in treatment to your daily life and start to reap the benefits. This can include improved communication, better trust and connection, a stronger ability for conflict management etc.
Who Should Consider Couples Therapy?
Couples therapy is for everyone:
– Straight or gay relationships
– Interracial relationships
– Young teen or college relationships
– Relationships with a significant age gap
– Relationships that are at the dating, engaged, or married stage
For example, a recently engaged couple might find premarital therapy an invaluable opportunity to address relationship expectations before marriage.
Another couple, together 25 years, may discover marriage counselling as an effective way to regain a sense of excitement and romance in their relationship.
Common issues addressed in couples therapy include:
– Money
– Parenting
– Sex
– Infidelity
– In-laws
– Friends
– Chronic health issues
– Infertility
– Gambling
– Past trauma
– Substance use
– Emotional distance
– Frequent conflict
Why Do Couples Delay Receiving Therapy?
Too often, couples wait to try therapy until the relationship is severely damaged. This is not to say that couples therapy won’t be effective at a certain point. Generally speaking, the longer that therapy is put off and the problems deepen, the more difficult it can be to repair.
There are many reasons why people might put off getting therapy.
– Have misconceptions about what couples therapy is
– Not understand the purpose
– View it as a last-ditch effort before deciding to end the relationship
– Be afraid of the “taking sides”.
– Not truly understand the benefits couple’s therapy
The Advantages of Couples Therapy
Couple therapy can be a powerful tool to help change the course of your relationship and make both partners feel happier and more fulfilled.
Couples therapy has the following advantages:
– Improved communication skills
– Stronger bonds
– Build or rebuild trust
– A better relationship dynamic
Trying to resolve issues within your relationship by yourselves can be challenging and can lead to new conflicts arising. Whereas having an external presence there to support and guide you can make this process much easier. Our therapists at Psyche Therapy wish to be that for you. We are here to help you every step of the way and progress you towards happier and healthier relationships.
Contact Us
Landline: 0141 352 9957
management@psychetherapycentre.co.uk
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