Couples Therapy

What It Is and How it Works

Couples therapy, also known as marriage counselling or relationship counselling is a type of psychotherapy aimed at helping couples resolve conflicts, improve communication and strengthen their emotional connection. It is conducted by therapists who specialises in relationships and interpersonal dynamics. Whether a couple is dating, engaged, married or in a long-term partnership, couples therapy can provide a structured environment to explore issues, clarify feelings, and work toward solutions that benefit both partners.

The Purpose of Couples Therapy

The core goal of couples therapy is to help partners understand each other better and develop healthier, more satisfying relationships. It is not limited to couples on the verge of separation. Many seek therapy to maintain or enhance a good relationship, work through transitions (such as having children or moving) or recover from stressful events (like infidelity or illness).


Some common reasons couples seek therapy include:

  • Frequent arguments or unresolved conflicts
  • Communication breakdowns
  • Emotional distance or lack of intimacy
  • Trust issues or infidelity
  • Parenting disagreements
  • Financial stress
  • Coping with major life changes or trauma


Therapy provides a neutral space where both individuals can express themselves freely and feel heard. It allows couples to uncover deeper issues that may be fuelling surface-level problems and to develop practical tools for them.

Counselling for couples

Common Misconceptions

There are several myths about couples therapy that can prevent people from seeking help:


“We must be on the brink of divorce to need therapy.” In reality, early intervention often leads to better outcomes. Therapy is most effective when both partners are still committed to working things out.


“The therapist will take sides.” A trained couples therapist remains neutral, ensuring both partners feel supported and heard.


“Therapy will fix my partner.” Therapy is about mutual growth. It requires effort and accountability from both individuals.


“Talking about our problems will make things worse.” While therapy can bring up painful emotions, addressing issues directly often leads to healing and deeper understanding.

Benefits of Couples Therapy

Couples who engage in therapy often report a range of benefits, including:

  • Improved communication: Learning to speak and listen more effectively can reduce misunderstandings and build trust.
  • Deeper emotional connection: Understanding each other’s emotional needs fosters closeness and empathy.
  • Enhanced problem-solving skills: Therapy equips couples with tools to handle future challenges constructively.
  • Renewed commitment: Rebuilding the relationship’s foundation can reignite passion and purpose.
  • Clarification of values and goals: Some couples use therapy to align on parenting, financial planning, or life goals.

Even when a relationship ends, couples therapy can help both partners separate in a healthier, more respectful way, especially when co-parenting is involved.

Counselling for couples

What It Is and How it Works

Couples therapy, also known as marriage counselling or relationship counselling is a type of psychotherapy aimed at helping couples resolve conflicts, improve communication and strengthen their emotional connection.

It is conducted by therapists who specialises in relationships and interpersonal dynamics. Whether a couple is dating, engaged, married or in a long-term partnership. Couples therapy can provide a structured environment to explore issues, clarify feelings and work toward solutions that benefit both partners.


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