What is Relationship Therapy (Couples Counselling)?

Relationship therapy (or couples counselling) provides a safe, non-judgemental, and welcoming space for couples to explore difficulties within a relationship and learn strategies to better manage and reduce the burden these difficulties have. For many couples, some difficulties that are likely to arise in a relationship are often related to communication, intimacy, friendship, conflict resolution and managing finances and family.

Who is Relationship Therapy for? 

Relationship therapy is for everybody. For couples who have been together 6 months, and for couples who have been married 30 years, relationship therapy is for anybody who wants to identify areas for growth in their relationship, and subsequently feel more fulfilled and valued with their partner. Relationship therapy is important for learning to identify the 4 horsemen of the apocalypse (unhealthy communication styles that lead to higher chances of separation) and whether criticism, contempt, stonewalling, or defensiveness is being used in a relationship. Relationship therapy is also an effective way to explore intimacy issues and create fun and new ways of connecting. Relationships are complicated, and sometimes it takes an impartial, unbiased person to create a space where both people can feel heard, listened to, and validated. For younger couples, I see relationship therapy as a preventative measure, and that engaging in therapy early is often an effective way for couples to prevent bad communication patterns, develop strong awareness of their partners inner worlds and build strong foundations of trust and respect. However, whatever stage of the relationship or marriage you are at, you are bound to at least learn one new thing that may foster growth: growth within the relationship and growth within yourself.