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 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:
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.
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.
Couples who engage in therapy often report a range of benefits, including:
Even when a relationship ends, couples therapy can help both partners separate in a healthier, more respectful way, especially when co-parenting is involved.
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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