What is couples counseling like?

In some ways couples counseling is a lot like individual counseling: you talk with a trained therapist about problems you’re having, and the therapist helps. However, there are some significant differences:

  • Our therapists use a systems approach. Therapists who work with couples and families are trained to understand problems from a family systems perspective—that is, the relationship dynamics among family members—rather than an individual perspective. They use theories and techniques from the field of marriage and family therapy, which can be very different from theories and techniques used in individual counseling.

  • Our therapists are on both sides. Whereas in individual counseling the therapist is fully supportive of the client, in couples counseling the therapist strives to find a balance between the conflicting needs and goals of each partner.

  • Confidentiality works differently. In individual counseling, the therapist is required to keep what you tell them confidential. But most couples counselors have a “no secrets” policy. That means anything you tell them, for example in individual sessions or over the phone, can be shared with your spouse or partner.

Learn more by booking an appointment below..