Why Couples Therapy?
It’s no secret that romantic relationships take work. Having been with my partner for over 10 years, I know first-hand that relationships take work. They require a lot of time, energy, and attention to keep them going strong. I sometimes use the metaphor that relationships are like cars; they require regular tune-ups and maintenance checks to keep them running strong, and they also have complex inner-workings that might require a special type of mechanic. It can feel scary to think your relationship is in need of repair, and entrusting it to the help of someone you don’t know can feel even worse. More couples are coming to therapy than ever before, because people are beginning to realize couples counseling is not a sign that your relationship has failed, it’s because they’re realizing it’s an opportunity to tune things up and grow closer to their partner, learn more effective and compassionate ways to communicate, and deepen their love. In some cases, couples come to the conclusion that staying in the relationship might not be the best thing for them, and I can help you work through that as well.
Is couples therapy right for us?
If you’re like most people, you are questioning if couples counseling is the right choice for you and your partner.
Let me ask you this:
- Are you arguing about the same thing over and over again?
- Are you feeling overwhelmed and discouraged about negative patterns in your relationship?
- Has your sex life changed significantly?
- Are you withholding affection or keeping secrets from one another?
- Are you afraid to talk to one another due to excessive arguing or emotional outbursts?
- Are you afraid of what might happen if you don’t get help soon?
- Or maybe things are mostly fine, and you just want to come in for a tune-up
If you answered yes to any of the questions above, then yes, couples therapy is absolutely right for you.
Beginning to Heal
Often times couples are speaking two different languages, so issues remain unresolved. You’re saying one thing, but your partner is hearing something entirely different! This is especially problematic because learning to hear your partner is a necessary step down the path of reconciliation.
My approach is to carefully consider what each of you are saying, and then interpret this in a way that puts you and your partner back on the same page.
We’ll then explore your different communication styles and techniques used by you and your partner, and we’ll look for the root of the problem so we can dig it up once-and-for-all.
A Brighter Future
Through couples counseling you’ll begin to identify the patterns and dynamics that are fueling your problems. Armed with this insight, I’ll recommend ways to modify or change certain behaviors and communication techniques so that you can move forward with confidence in your relationship.