Couples therapy can resolve a current problem, prevent an exacerbation of problems or simply provide a “check-up” for a happy couple that is experiencing a period of transition or increased stress. Common areas of concern addressed in couples therapy include issues with spending, parenting, sex, infidelity, in-laws, substance use, emotional distance and frequent conflict.
My approach is to help the couple identify the issue that will be the focus of treatment, establish treatment goals and plan a structure for treatment. My job is to help the couple gain insight into the relational dynamics maintaining the problem, while helping both partners understand each of their roles in their dysfunctional patterns. Although gaining insight is important, another crucial aspect of couples therapy involves actually changing behaviors and ways of interacting with each other. I usually assign partners homework to apply the skills they have learned in therapy to their day-to-day interactions. By gaining insight into relational patterns, increasing emotional expression and connection, couples can develop the skills necessary to communicate and problem-solve more effectively on their own.