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.
Life can throw some pretty unexpected circumstances your way. Luckily, you don’t have to face these hardships alone. At Thriveworks in Normal IL, our relationship counselors and couples therapists are here to help you and your partner get through the difficulties and get you back on the same page. Reach out today to get started right away.
Is Couples Counseling Right for Me?
Many people are afraid to make the leap and attend couples counseling due to the stigma surrounding it. The misconception is that this type of counseling is only for people who are struggling with a relationship-threatening issue.
But every relationship goes through tough times. Attending couples therapy simply means that you and your partner are committed to resolving your problems and would like a trained, outside perspective to help you do so efficiently. You can also attend couples therapy at any stage in your relationship, whether you’ve been with your significant other for one year or 10 years.
Some common issues that might bring a couple into counseling include:
- Financial difficulties or disagreements
- A breakdown in trust or communication
- Jealousy or resentment
- Infidelity
- Different ideas of growth for the relationship
- Parenting differences
- Inability to work through a recurring issue
- Dissatisfaction with your sex life
What Happens During Relationship Therapy Sessions?
There are several different approaches to couples therapy, including the Gottman Method, Imago Relationship Therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Couples counselors may use tactics from one or more approaches depending on the needs of their clients. For example, your therapy sessions may focus on addressing specific emotions, developing healthy boundaries, or resolving conflict. Your therapist or counselor may also decide to hold individual therapy sessions to better understand both you and your partner’s concerns and needs.
Whatever the nature of your therapy sessions, you can expect to learn valuable skills to use in both your current and future relationships, such as:
- Articulating emotions effectively
- Working through conflict
- Using “I” statements as opposed to blaming statements
- Active listening
- Setting boundaries
- Recognizing and accepting personal responsibility
Schedule a Couples or Marriage Counseling Appointment at Thriveworks in Normal, IL
If you and your partner are dealing with difficulties, you don’t have to wait any longer to get help. Our Thriveworks professionals are available to support you today so you can create a better tomorrow.
With convenient phone and online scheduling, you could be meeting with your therapist in person or online in the same week. We also accept most insurance plans and offer affordable rates for those paying out of pocket.
When you’re ready to work with a compassionate couples therapist, give our team a call at Thriveworks in Normal, IL to schedule an appointment.
