Couples Therapy & Marriage Counseling
An Overview
Couples therapy is when two persons are the "client" and their relationship is the primary focus of clinical attention. As with individual therapy, the approach I use is referred to as "cognitive-behavioral." This method emphasizes a couple's ability to improve their relationship by identifying patterns of thinking and behaving that cause or maintain difficulties in their relationship.
Once these patterns are identified, alternative approaches and skills are learned. The search is for a solution, not blame, and the process is collaborative.
Although most couples seek couples counseling to "save" their relationship, occasionally couples decide they no longer wish to remain together. Psychotherapy can help these persons reach their decision in a cooperative rather than adversarial manner.
Appointments are most often scheduled once per week and the course of treatment varies based on the needs of the couple.