Couples Counseling

Couples therapy is a widely accepted method for reducing relationship distress and enhancing relationship quality.

FACTS

  • The couples therapy format is one of the fastest-growing forms of psychotherapy with 70% of therapists offering this service
  • In the United States, 40%–50% of first marriages end in divorce 
  • Partners in distressed relationships are significantly more likely to have depression, anxiety, or a substance use disorder and to develop more physical health problems
  • Higher expectations of happiness and solitude have driven many people to couples therapy
  • Research says the average person receiving couples therapy is better when completing the work than 70%–80% of individuals not receiving treatment. It works!
  • There is evidence that supports the benefits of couples‐based interventions for depression or anxiety, post-traumatic stress, and alcohol problems
black couple in therapy with counselor
couples therapy

What is Couples Counseling?

Couples counseling can improve communication, strengthen connections, and improve conflict resolution skills. The focus can be on any stage of a relationship from improving a current relationship to saving it from divorce.

 

The five signs of a fractured relationship

  1. Disagreements: Frequent and intense disputes that have been left unresolved
  2. Criticism: Partners use words such as “always” and “never” leading to an erosion of a person’s self confidence
  3. Contempt: Attacks on one’s character where the recipient feels worthless and despised
  4. Defensiveness: Even the smallest disagreement becomes an eruption of blame without admission of fault, reluctance to understand the other person’s perspective and the lack of an apology
  5. Stonewalling: Partner(s) withdraw, avoid or stop responding to their partners needs

This is usually short-term counseling aimed at eliminating unhealthy, conflict-ridden patterns and dissatisfaction. Some research shows couples are 5 years late in doing couples counseling due to avoidance, cost or one person refusing to engage in counseling.

How much is your relationship worth?  Wouldn’t a divorce be much more costly?