The goal of Couples Therapy is to help a couple learn how to better communicate and deal with conflict. It can be used to address specific problems or simply to improve overall relationship satisfaction and quality of life.
Many couples seek counseling after serious issues have emerged such as infidelity, a feeling that they are growing apart, frequent arguments, money disagreements, or trouble with intimacy. However, even healthy couples can benefit from learning to communicate and handle conflicts healthily from week to week.
Some therapists focus on improving communication skills, while others use more structured techniques that can help a couple work through specific issues or problems. For example, the Gottman Method uses research-backed methods to teach partners how to identify and respond to negative behaviors such as criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling/withdrawal.
Navigating Couples Therapy: Strengthening Relationships and Communication
A key part of the process is to establish a safe space where both partners can open up and express themselves honestly. This may involve exploring painful parts of the past, especially if there are unresolved feelings that remain in the present. The therapist provides support and guidance but is neutral and does not side with either partner.
In addition to improving communication, couples therapy can also teach couples new skills that will help them manage anger and deal with other difficult emotions such as frustration or sadness. In the end, couples therapy can lead to a happier and more satisfying relationship or, if it is not possible, a clear understanding of why the partnership is not working.