Working with a Relationship Therapist: What to Expect

A relationship therapist is a professional that deals with helping couples navigate different issues in their intimate or romantic relationships. Also referred to as a couples counselor or a marriage counselor, a relationship therapist aims to create a safe, non-judgmental, confidential, and neutral space for couples to resolve their interpersonal issues.

Why seek a relationship therapist

Talking to a relationship therapist allows individuals to better understand themselves, their partner, and most importantly, some of their own maladaptive behaviors that contribute to conflicts in their relationships. For this reason, many people will turn to a relationship therapist to guide and help them in different situations that might arise. Below are some common reasons:

Infidelity

Infidelity has been described by those who have gone through it as one of the hardest things they have had to deal with. It can be difficult for a couple to know how to deal with trauma, betrayal, breach of trust, shame, and guilt. In this instance, a relationship therapist can assist the couple to navigate this difficult season to bring about healing, rebuild trust and map a way forward.

Abuse

Unfortunately, some relationships are marred with abuse. This abuse can be physical, sexual, emotional, or financial.

Relationship counseling will help the couple see how harmful their patterns of interactions are, help them deal with the underlying issues contributing to the abuse, and help them make informed decisions about the future. A relationship therapist can also work with abused partners to see how dysfunctional their relationship is and help them make necessary changes.

Communication problems

Communication difficulties are a huge issue for relationships. Relationship therapy can help couples identify their communication styles, give them tools to make changes where necessary, and equip them with resources to improve their communication.

Conflict resolution

Conflicts are inevitable. However, if a couple is caught in a cycle of frequent and unresolved conflicts, a relationship therapist can equip them with tools for handling moments of disagreements in a mutually agreeable and respectful manner.

Life stressors

Life can bring about a lot of stressors and changes, from traumatic situations to the birth of a child. Navigating these new seasons can be challenging for most couples. A relationship therapist will professionally guide them through the situation and provide them with new skills to adjust and heal.

Sexual problems

Some couples experience sexual problems. A relationship therapist can help couples get an understanding of the underlying problems contributing to any of the following and offer strategies to overcome sexual dysfunction, sexual abuse, lack of sexual desire, and intimacy.

Mental health issues

If one or both partners suffer from any mental health issue, relationship therapy can help with understanding their conditions, how to support each other, and what interventions might be needed.

During divorce or separation

Relationship therapy can also be invaluable for couples going through divorce or separation. This tense time needs a neutral party to help them navigate potentially contentious like child custody and division of property assets.

It can be concluded that the role of a relationship therapist can be varied depending on the needs of couples. It is important to note as well that they not only help couples in crisis but also help strengthen those whose relationships are doing well. The listening ear of an outsider who is safe, impartial, and fair cannot be understated.

We can help

When a couple is going through relationship issues, it can interfere with their everyday life and functioning. It doesn’t have to be that way. If you and your partner feel you might need some guidance, support, or tools for your relationship, contact our offices.

We have trained therapists and counselors who can walk this journey with you. We do not only provide counseling for couples in distress; you and your partner can come in to learn about how to improve your relationship or how to prepare yourself for marriage.