Couples Therapy

While the practice of couples therapy may vary depending on the therapist’s theoretical orientation, there are common elements that tend to be involved in most couples therapy sessions:

• Focusing on Specific Issues: Couples therapy often addresses specific problems within the relationship, such as sexual difficulties, addiction issues, or jealousy.
• Treating the Relationship: Unlike individual therapy, couples therapy actively involves the therapist in treating the relationship itself, rather than focusing solely on each individual separately.
• Solution-Focused Approach: Couples therapy typically incorporates solution-focused, change-oriented interventions early in the treatment process.
• Clear Treatment Objectives: Therapists work with couples to establish clear treatment objectives and goals.

During the initial session, couples therapy typically begins with standard interview questions about the history of the relationship, as well as exploration into each partner’s family-of-origin, values, and cultural background. The therapist may also provide crisis interventions if necessary. Together, the couple and therapist identify the focal issue for treatment, establish treatment goals, and plan the structure of treatment.

Throughout the treatment phase, the therapist assists the couple in gaining insight into the relational dynamics that perpetuate the problem. Both partners are guided to understand their roles in the dysfunctional interactions, ultimately leading to a shift in their perceptions of the relationship and each other. While gaining insight is important, couples therapy also focuses on changing behaviors and ways of interacting with each other. Therapists often assign homework to help couples apply the skills learned in therapy to their daily interactions.

Ultimately, couples therapy aims to help partners develop insight into relational patterns, increase emotional expression, and acquire the skills necessary to communicate and problem-solve effectively with each other.