Couples therapy is different than individual therapy in that the couple is the actual “client.” As you begin to work on your communication patterns, each partner can learn to listen and attentively respond in different and maybe new ways. Often times in relationships, there is a history of emotional distance, hurt or lack of understanding or acceptance that impact the relationship and can lead to conflict. Addressing these issues as a couple is often significant in the overall satisfaction with the relationship.

Couples sometimes need to prepare for marriage and benefit from pre-marital counseling. Some couples struggle a lot in the first years. Often times, challenges like fertility issues, adjusting to being new parents, infidelity or trust play a role in the relationship. Sometimes, couples that have been married for decades hold on to past anger and hurt that they never really ever worked through and now they hold that anger. Through all the many challenges that life can bring, there may be times you just need to get back on the right track.

Common reasons for couples counseling:

• Communication issues
• Emotional distance
• Trust issues
• Sexual issues
• Explosive arguments or unhealthy ways of communicating in conflictual situations. 
• Difficulty related to parenting 
• Balance in work/family life
• Boundary issues with friends or family
• Infidelity