Couples therapy
Every relationship experiences ups and downs, and seeking professional help can be a proactive way to navigate these hurdles together. Investing time in counseling not only addresses current issues but also equips partners with tools to handle future challenges, fostering a healthier, more resilient relationship.
Couples therapy is not just for relationships in crisis.
did you know that most distressed couples wait an average of six years before seeking professional help? while couples therapy can be essential in a crisis, it is equally beneficial for couples seeking to strengthen their foundation and the overall health of the relationship.
how we can help…
Falling in love is often an effortless and exciting journey. As time goes on, though, the reality of maintaining a loving relationship presents distinct challenges. Staying in love requires consistent effort, communication, and understanding. It involves navigating the complexities of daily life, addressing conflicts, and growing both individually and as a couple. While the initial spark may fade, it can be replaced by a deeper, more resilient connection if nurtured properly.
At Ivy & Reed Counseling and Consulting, we utilize the Gottman Method, a research-based approach to couples therapy designed to enhance relationships and navigate conflict. Our therapists take a hands on, directive approach; while you can expect your therapist to educate and guide the discussion, the goal is for you to talk to your partner more than your therapist. Each session will focus on a goal, and leave you with learning objectives to practice between sessions.
we can help address issues such as:
Communication breakdown
Trust and intimacy challenges
Infidelity/betrayal
Conflict management
Differences in values or life goals
Parenting dynamics
Defining relationship roles
Life transitions
What to Expect
-
Intake session
In a couples intake session, partners come together to share the history of the relationship and explore the current relationship dynamics. During this initial meeting, each partner will have the opportunity to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences, helping the therapist gain a comprehensive understanding of their unique situation and needs.
-
Individual sessions
After the intake session, the therapist will schedule to meet with each partner individually. These sessions provide a unique opportunity for deeper exploration of personal feelings, needs, and concerns within the context of the relationship. These sessions allow each partner to express themselves freely, without the presence of the other, fostering an environment where vulnerable issues can be addressed.
-
Ongoing sessions
Following the individual sessions, therapy will resume with both partners. The therapist will work with the couple to identify their relationship goals. Drawing on evidence-based strategies, the therapist introduces effective tools and techniques tailored to the couple's dynamics. The goal of the therapist is to help each partner master the tools and be able to apply them outside of session.
“Successful long-term relationships are created through small words, small gestures, and small acts.”
-john m. gottman
FAQs
-
Therapy is never a one-size-fits-all model. Expect sessions to begin weekly or bi-weekly at the start. However, couple's therapy should not be a lifelong commitment. Our goal is not to simply take your money! Rather, our goal is to teach you the skills that you need to strengthen your relationship and thrive as a couple.
-
Absolutely!
Though, if possible, it is preferred that you and your partner be in the same space during the session.
-
A common concern. While it is normal to have some nerves and/or apprehensions, couples therapy is rarely effective when one partner feels that they are being forced to attend. In these situations, there are a couple of options to consider:
Individual therapy - You don't always need your partner present in therapy to be able to make effectual change. We can work together to identify the communication patterns in the relationship, explore how your own actions contribute to the health of the relationship, and learn new skills and habits to implement at home. Sometimes, one person's commitment to change can be the catalyst the relationship needed.
Discernment counseling - This option is best when one or both partners are uncertain about their desire to preserve the relationship. For these "mixed-agenda" couples, discernment counseling provides a brief (usually 1-5 sessions) model where we take a focused lens on the history of the relationship and the events that have led to the current status. Each partner is given the opportunity to share their perspectives, while also being encouraged to take accountability for their role in the relationship. The goal is to help the couple gain greater clarity and consider all of their options before deciding to work on or end their relationship.
-
No, even if we might think it sometimes. As the therapist, we are concerned with your overall wellness, as well as the wellness of your family. It's up to you as a couple to determine the goals of your relationship. If your goal is to commit to making the necessary changes to transform your relationship, then we will help you do that. If your goal is to end the relationship amicably and navigate coparenting, we will help you do that.