What To Expect From Couples Counseling

Trying something new is always a little scary, and it’s natural to feel nervous about starting couples counseling.  Many couples who come to my office aren’t sure what to expect from couples therapy, and they’re pretty anxious about their first visit.  The good news is that couples counseling doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Your therapist is there to help, and he or she will guide you and your partner as you repair and rebuild your relationship. 

Despite the stereotypes, couples counseling is not about you and your partner sitting on your therapist’s couch and rehashing old fights.  Today’s couples counseling is about solving problems, learning new skills, and nurturing your bond. In couples counseling, your therapist will guide you and your partner as you learn new things, like how to fight fair, how to compromise, how to listen, how to talk about your feelings, and how to connect and repair after a fight. 

Your therapist will also help you and your partner strengthen your trust and commitment in each other and in your marriage.

All couples counselors are different.  But, here is what you can expect when you work with me.

First, we’ll explore what’s happening in your relationship. During our first few sessions, we’ll talk about the challenges, problems, and conflicts you’re facing as a couple. These are the things that make you feel angry, frustrated, and stuck. We’ll also explore your strengths, dreams, and values. This will help us set goals for our work together and create a strong foundation to improve the things that matter most in your marriage. 

Then, we’ll figure out what’s working in your relationship and what’s not. We’ll identify where you’re getting stuck and what needs to change.  Together, we’ll work on learning new skills and tools to help you manage conflict and improve communication, as well as help you develop a deeper understanding of yourself and your partner.  We’ll also spend time building upon your strengths as a couple and nurturing your bond. 

Next, we’ll work together to troubleshoot the things that are getting in the way of change.  That might mean challenging unhelpful ways of thinking, processing old memories and moments from the past, developing new coping strategies, or learning new ways to talk about your feelings and your needs with the person you love. Together, you and your partner will learn how to approach these challenges in your marriage as a team.

Finally, we’ll create a plan to make these positive changes permanent.  We’ll work on tools and tricks to help you and your partner build on your strengths as a couple, nurture your relationship and bond, and deepen your connection. In this final phase of our work together, you and your partner will focus on cultivating the relationship you’ve always dreamed of and creating the life you really want – together.

Interested in online couples counseling in Colorado?

If you and your partner struggle with conflict, couples counseling can help. If you’re ready to take the next step to heal your marriage and repair your relationship, reach out now. Schedule your free 20-minute consultation online or by emailing me at help@therapyevergreen.com. I'm here for you.