Couples Counselling, Is It For You?
Couples Counselling, Is It For You?
The popularity of, or at least online chatter about couples counselling has grown in the last few years, and while couples counselling is often associated with addressing problems within a romantic relationship, it can also be beneficial for couples looking to strengthen the foundation of their relationship or improve communication.
The primary goal of couples therapy is to enhance communication, connection, understanding, and the overall relationship of couples. Through collaboration with a qualified therapist, couples can cultivate the necessary expertise to navigate the highs and lows of their relationship within a neutral and supportive environment.
Couples therapy is an effective means of addressing specific relationship issues, such as financial challenges, infidelity, and discrepancies in parenting styles. It can also provide invaluable support for couples undergoing significant life changes, such as moving in together, entering into marriage, or starting a family. Your psychotherapist can assist you and your partner in recognizing potential obstacles that may emerge during these transitions, and equip you with the necessary skills and guidance to navigate these challenges successfully. Psychotherapy for couples can also be an effective way of improving a couple’s sexual relationship, and if led by a practitioner trained in sex therapy can lead both partners to a better understanding of how to give and receive pleasure, thus enhancing their relationship.
It is essential to recognize that couples therapy is not exclusively meant for those experiencing difficulties in their marriage or relationship. It can be a proactive and beneficial approach for any couple aiming to enhance their relationship and establish a strong foundation as they move forward together. Even couples who have a healthy relationship can benefit from couples therapy by learning new techniques for communication and conflict resolution and strengthening their emotional connection. By providing couples with support and guidance, couples therapy can help navigate the challenges, expectations, fears, and concerns that arise with a serious commitment, ultimately leading to a stronger foundation for the couple's future together.
Research indicates that couples participating in premarital counselling report lower divorce rates and higher relationship satisfaction (Carroll & Doherty, 2003). Similarly, couples who opt for couples counselling as a preventative measure experience increased intimacy, better communication, and a deeper understanding of each other's needs and desires, resulting in a stronger relationship overall (Makinen & Johnson, 2006).
Are you ready to build a long-lasting foundation for your relationship with your partner? Our practice has many psychotherapists who focus on couples counselling ready to support you as you take the first step towards building a stronger bond with your partner, and one of Dr. South’s areas of focus is sex therapy as well as couples therapy. Visit our contact page to connect with us and arrange a free 20-minute phone consultation.