What is Couples Therapy?
Couples therapy, also commonly referred to as marriage counseling or relationship therapy, is the process of seeking emotional guidance and counseling to improve communicative issues within a relationship. Therapists develop customized programs based on each couple's specific issues and relationship complexity level. Treatment may involve as few as 1-3 sessions or extend to 12-24 sessions depending on therapeutic approaches.
The therapist serves as a neutral mediator who helps partners identify and voice concerns. Mental health professionals facilitate dialogue, develop solutions, and promote open communication to address current problems and prevent future conflicts.
What Problems do Couples Have?
Individual issues affecting relationships include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Feelings of Isolation
- Low Self-Esteem
- Lack of Motivation
External relationship stressors encompass:
- Children
- In-Laws
- Extended Family
- Traveling
- Careers
- Work Schedules
- Finances
- Domestic Stereotypes
- Disconnection
- Experiencing Boredom
Solution-focused therapy acknowledges both partners' perspectives while promoting compromise and commitment.
How is a Couples Therapist Different than a Sex Therapist?
The triangular theory of love involves intimacy, passion, and commitment. Couples therapists focus on emotional intimacy and commitment rather than sexual relations. Couples therapists may address both intimacy and passion concerns.