Couples therapy works by helping couples identify and better navigate their unique challenges. Following an initial assessment of the couple in terms of strengths and needs, the therapist would then discuss their therapeutic goals and any possible approaches or ways of working together as therapist and couple.
Couples attend sessions together, whether they meet in person or by video. In addition to regular couples therapy sessions, each partner may also be asked to attend a few individual sessions to supplement their progress. This will allow their counselor to get to know each individual better, assess each of their personal needs, and develop the very best treatment plan moving forward.
On average, couples attend couples therapy for 12 weeks. However, couples therapy may last longer or shorter, dependent on the couples’ needs, the challenges they’d like to work through, and the pace of their progress.
Couples Counseling in Wilmington, DE—For a Better Relationship
Many couples are working with a counselor to help them establish a better relationship. Sometimes, a better relationship means remaining a couple and growing closer. Sometimes, a better relationship means parting ways. In either case, many partners are glad they worked with a couples therapist to guide the process.
Couples counseling is not a guarantee about the relationship’s future, but it is often a way that partners can give their all to a relationship. That is why Thriveworks Wilmington offers couples therapy. We have worked with many couples who wanted to be together but also wanted to be healthier. Our therapists often help these partners establish a better relationship—whatever form that relationship may take. Reach out today for help.
Common Problems that Cause Trouble
When they are struggling, partners often think that they must be the only couples who is struggling with their particular issue. The truth is that most couples fight over the same or similar things. The surface issues may differ, but the root is usually the same. For example, common problems that often cause trouble for couples include…
- Disagreements about Family – Fights about the in-laws is the stuff of blockbuster comedies and stand-up routines, but the best jokes are based in reality. A lot of couples argue about role each other’s extended family will have in their lives. But that is just the beginning. Couples may also fight about their living situation, getting married, having kids, and more. Couples counseling is often a safe space to have those disagreements.
- Conflicting Goals – When each partner holds different expectations for the relationship, they are pulling in different directions. Tension is inevitable. A better way is to verbalize and clarify expectations. Different expectations are not a problem so long as they are understood and respected. Couples therapists often facilitate that process for partners.
- Distrust – Trust is the bedrock of any relationship, but it is particularly important in a romantic, committed relationship. Yet, trust is so easily lost. An inconsiderate decision can chip at the trust a couple has. Lying can decimate it. Trust can be rebuilt, but that is not an easy process. Couples therapists often guide partners as the navigate building or rebuilding trust.
- Communication Difficulties – Good communication requires time and work. There are skills partners need to employ—empathy, vulnerability, and openness to name a few. It is easy for couples to get off track with their communication. They may be passing information back and forth, but they may not be understanding each other. Couples therapy is often a place where couples can get back on track with their communication.
- Difficulty with Intimacy – Intimacy includes a sexual connection, but it is so much more. Intimacy is any way partners form a meaningful bond. It can be emotional, spiritual, physical, social, and more. When partners are not bonding, it may be a red flag for a bigger problem. Life will always be busy, but healthy couples find the time to connect. Couples counselors may be able to help partners get to the root of any intimacy problems.
How Might Couples Counseling Improve the Relationship?
Every challenge that couples face is also an opportunity to grow and change. Improving a relationship can be painful, but it is almost always worth the pain. One of the ways couples counseling may help is by…
- Keeping discussions from escalating. Arguments can easily turn into personal attacks—which are never helpful and never appropriate. Couples therapists can often help partners wade into difficult conversations without attacking each other.
- Establishing a realistic schedule for change. Certain ways of relating cause more harm than others. Some problems need to be tackled now. Others can wait. Couples counseling may help partners prioritize the best ways to improve their relationship.
Scheduling an Appointment at Thriveworks Wilmington for Couples Therapy
If you and your partner are ready to start marriage therapy, know that Thriveworks Wilmington has appointments available. When you call our office, you may have your first session within the week. We also offer evening and weekend appointments, but we do not put our clients on a waitlist. We accept many different insurance plans. Let’s work together on your relationship. Call Thriveworks Wilmington today.
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