Every relationship is unique; however, they do all share one common trait—relationships are not always easy. Relationships take effort, and most will experience some difficulties along the way. Sometimes, reclaiming that initial feeling of “dating” or a “spark” can seem like a daunting task. Taking your marriage or relationship back to a time when issues were not dominating your daily life may seem overwhelming.
The most common issues that surface in couples therapy sessions have been:
- Problems communicating effectively, and learning to communicate in ways that show respect, openness, honesty and compassion
- Loss of mutual respect
- Conflicts relating to work or children
- Disagreements surrounding money
- Loss of intimacy
- Sexual issues
- Emotional and/or physical infidelity
- Excessive arguing and tension
- Problems with step-parenting and blended families
- Power struggles between partners
- Problems with the extended family
- Having a family member or partner with a severe and persistent mental illness
- Decrease in marital satisfaction
- Chronic problems that have scarred one or both partners
- Need for space
- Excessive control exercised by one partner
Couples therapy sessions are generally:
- Brief (8-15 sessions). More will be provided as needed.
- Solution-focused (aimed at creating changes in behavior and communication)
- Attentive to the individual emotional needs of each partner
- Highly behavioral in nature
- Specific, with attainable therapeutic goals
- Designed with the “end goal in mind”—for instance, what would your marriage look like in 3-6 months if you could redesign it? What steps and changes are necessary for us to reach that goal?