Couples seek therapy at many different stages of their relationship, from dating to marriage. You do not need to be in crisis to seek couples counseling, as many use this space as a proactive way to strengthen their relationship, deepen their connection, and prepare for the next stage. Couples therapy provides a space for partners to better understand each other, strengthen communication, and find effective conflict resolution skills.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Couples Therapy

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What can couples therapy help with?

• Recurring conflicts

• Communication challenges

• Life transitions (career shifts, engagement, marriage, becoming parents, etc.)

• Emotional and intimacy concerns

• Parenting challenges

• Trust issues

 

Do you need to be married to attend couples therapy?

No. Couples therapy can be beneficial for partners in all stages and forms of relationships, including dating, engaged, married, or cohabitating.

 

How do we know if couples therapy is right for us?

Couples therapy might be beneficial for your relationship if you find yourself going in circles over the same conflicts, feeling disconnected, experiencing major life transitions, ready to take the next step such as engagement, or simply wanting to improve your relationship.

 

Will my couples therapist take sides?

A couples therapist’s role is not to determine who is right or wrong. Instead, we work to understand each partner’s perspective and help create a balanced and respectful therapy space where each partner feels heard and supported.

 

What do couples therapy sessions look like?

The first few sessions will focus on gaining a better understanding of your relationship history, concerns, strengths, and goals for therapy. Together, we will identify the patterns that are contributing to distress. Sessions are tailored to focus on your specific goals such as improving communication skills, strengthening emotional connection, etc. 

 

Will my therapist keep my secrets from my partner?

No. Couples therapists often have a “no secrets” policy, as keeping secrets could significantly impact the therapeutic process or relationship itself. If sensitive information arises during a conversation with one partner, we will work together to determine how and when to share it in a way that supports honesty, safety, and the original goals of therapy.

 

When is couples therapy not appropriate?

Couples therapy is not appropriate when there is active and ongoing domestic violence, untreated substance abuse or severe mental health conditions, or when one partner has already decided to leave the relationship.