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.
Receiving the support of an objective third party can be the thing that gets your relationship back on track. Fortunately, licensed relationship counselors and therapists can help guide romantic partners as they address conflict and make important decisions for their future.
If you’re thinking about attending counseling or therapy with your partner, consider working with an experienced couples therapist or counselor at Thriveworks Counseling in Biloxi, MS. Many of our providers are available in-person and online for appointments. Contact our counseling center today to get started.
What Causes People to Consider Couples Therapy?
Every couple pursues counseling for different reasons. People may need help coping with the loss of a child, deciding where to settle down, or learning how to communicate their needs more honestly. Sometimes a combination of factors can affect a relationship. However, some reasons are more common, including:
- Prolonged conflict
- Financial disagreements
- Differing parenting styles
- Shared grief or loss
- Mental health concerns
- Unhealthy dependence habits
- Emotional distance or loneliness
- Major life transitions
- LGBTQ-specific needs
- Trust and commitment issues
- Addiction or substance abuse
- Infidelity and intimacy issues
- Unequal household responsibilities
- Divorce or separation
Working with a therapist or counselor could help couples dealing with these or other issues in their relationship. While setbacks are normal, you shouldn’t ignore or dismiss the way they affect you. Letting problems fester and get worse can make things more difficult in the long run. Therapists and counselors from Thriveworks Counseling in Biloxi, MS can help you resolve problems and grow closer as a couple.
How Does Relationship Counseling Work?
Regardless of how you met or why you and your partner chose therapy, there are a few things to anticipate from your appointments. For instance, your first meeting with a counselor will typically be informational — you’ll discuss your needs and goals, as well as a broad overview of your relationship.
From there, your provider may deploy specific therapeutic methods to identify the root of your concerns and help you resolve conflict. This can involve narrative or emotionally-focused therapy. You might come across strategies like using “I Statements” to avoid assigning blame and writing a list of things you appreciate about your partner. If a child is affected by your relationship, you might consider marriage and family therapy.
Using these techniques can help improve your relationship over time. Other benefits of joint talk therapy include:
- Regaining trust and healthy communication
- Viewing old disagreements through a new lens
- Facing future issues as a team
- Understanding your partner’s needs better
- Learning how to compromise
- Discovering new shared passions
- Moving forward after tragedy
Schedule Relationship Therapy at Thriveworks in Biloxi, MS
Appointments are available at convenient times throughout the week, including weekdays, evenings, and weekends. Thriveworks also offers virtual sessions via video chat if something keeps you from attending traditional in-person sessions. New clients can often have their first session within the week of reaching out to our team. Many different forms of insurance are also accepted.
To schedule an appointment in Biloxi, MS, simply call or use our online booking tool when you’re ready. We can’t wait to help you and your partner live your best lives together.
