Couples counseling focuses on the problems existing in the relationship between two people. For example, if you are constantly arguing with your partner, you may also be anxious, angry or depressed. Or, if you have difficulty controlling your temper, you will have more arguments with your partner. Couples therapy will help you and your partner identify the conflict issues within your relationship, and will help you decide what changes are needed, in the relationship and in the behavior of each partner, for both of you to feel satisfied with the relationship.
Couples counseling involves learning how to communicate more effectively, and how to listen more closely. Couples must learn how to avoid competing with each other, and need to identify common life goals and how to share responsibilities within their relationship. Sometimes the process is very similar to individual therapy, sometimes it is more like mediation, and sometimes it is educational. Couples counseling is tailored to the individual set of circumstances occurring with the relationship.
Areas of Focus Within Couples Therapy
- Betrayal
- Blended Families
- Conflict Resolution
- Commitment to the Relationship
- Improving Communication
- Financial Difficulties
- Infertility
- Infidelity
- Intimacy
- Parenting
- Relationship Skill Building
- Sexual Difficulties
- Trust