What is Couples Therapy?
Couples therapy provides a space for partners to explore and resolve conflicts within their relationship under the guidance of a trained therapist. This modality helps couples understand each other better, communicate more effectively, and develop stronger emotional bonds.
What to Expect
In couples therapy, both partners will engage in discussions facilitated by the therapist to uncover underlying issues that may be causing distress in the relationship. Expect to learn and practice new communication techniques, understand each other’s perspectives, and work collaboratively towards resolving conflicts.
Benefits of Couples Therapy
Couples therapy offers several benefits that can enhance relationship dynamics:
- Improved Communication Skills: Learn to express thoughts and feelings clearly without conflict.
- Identifying Unhealthy Patterns: In couples therapy, clients learn to recognize persistent negative cycles they are stuck in. Once these patterns are identified, couples can collaboratively decide on new behaviors and communication strategies to improve their relationship.
- Building Greater Compassion: A key aspect of couples therapy is enhancing mutual understanding by truly listening to each other. This often leads to both partners feeling more seen and understood, fostering deeper emotional intimacy and closeness.
- Conflict Resolution: Develop strategies to resolve disputes constructively without harming the relationship.
These benefits aim to strengthen the relationship, promoting a healthier and more fulfilling partnership.
Our Approach to Couples Therapy
At Touchstone, couples therapy incorporates a mix of therapeutic techniques tailored to the specific challenges and goals of each couple:
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): Focuses on building and strengthening emotional bonds between partners. This model is based on attachment theory, highlighting the universal need for safety, connection, and trust within our important relationships.
- The Gottman Method: Utilizes practical interventions to improve the respect, affection, and closeness felt between partners.
- Communication Counseling: Helps couples develop healthier ways to communicate and resolve conflicts.
This integrative approach ensures that therapy addresses the emotional and practical aspects of a couple’s relationship challenges.
