What Is Couples Therapy: A Guide for Couples

If you and your partner are considering couples therapy, you might be wondering, “What is couples therapy like?” It’s a common question, and this article aims to provide a comprehensive answer. Understanding what to expect can help you feel more comfortable and prepared for your first session.

Understanding Couples Therapy

Couples therapy is a type of counseling that helps couples of all types recognize and resolve conflicts to improve their relationships. It provides a safe space for couples to communicate openly and honestly about their feelings with the guidance of a trained therapist.

In couples counseling, the therapist acts as a neutral third party who facilitates productive discussions and helps couples develop healthier communication patterns. They may use various therapeutic techniques, such as active listening, conflict resolution strategies, and relationship education. The goal is to help couples gain insight into their dynamics, strengthen their bond, and find effective solutions to their problems. Remember that couples therapy requires a willingness from both partners to participate actively and be open to change.

The First Session in Couples Therapy

The first session of couples therapy often involves revealing basic information about your relationship. This could include how you met, how long you’ve been together, and the challenges you’re currently facing. While these facts may seem insignificant, they are crucial for the therapist to understand your story.

Identifying the Root of the Problems

One of the primary goals of couples therapy is to get to the root of your relationship problems. These could range from having the same arguments over and over, ignoring problems, or facing physical intimacy issues. As you share your concerns, your therapist will look for underlying, connecting themes.

Developing Goals and a Timeline for Couples Therapy

Once the root of your relationship problems has been identified, you can then develop your goals for therapy. These goals will be unique to your relationship and could evolve over the course of therapy. A timeline for therapy will also be developed after the initial sessions. At Cache Valley Counseling, we call this your road map. Your therapist will take the time to develop it and share it with you. The goal behind the road map is to show you what your sessions will be like and what you will work on.

Skills you develop in couples therapy

Couples therapy is not just about discussing problems; it’s also about learning new skills to improve your relationship. Some of the most important skills you might learn include communication skills, patience and forgiveness, trust and honesty, selflessness, and stress management.

Homework Outside of Couples Therapy

In addition to the work done during sessions, couples therapy often involves homework assignments. These tasks are designed to help you work on your relationship outside of therapy and could include going on a phone-free date, being intimate with your partner, keeping a log of your emotions, or reading a self-help book together.

Attending Both Couple and Individual Sessions

Depending on your specific situation, your therapist might recommend both couple and individual sessions. Individual sessions can be beneficial if one partner needs one-on-one time to work out personal issues or develop individual skills. The flexibility to attend both couples and individual sessions can help your relationship long term.

Starting your journey

Couples therapy is a journey of understanding, growth, and healing. It provides a safe space for couples to express their feelings, understand each other better, and learn new skills to improve their relationship. So, if you’re wondering, “What is couples therapy like?” remember that it’s a process tailored to your unique relationship, designed to help you build a stronger bond with your partner.