Partners in committed relationships start out with many hopes, both realistic and unrealistic, for creating a rich and satisfying life together. Unfortunately, life’s stresses, disappointments and tedious routines often lead to disillusionment. When this happens, some couples fight, some grow apart, and some find themselves living in great pain, tension and suffering. These are the times couples enter therapy.
Many couples see a therapist when they are contemplating separation, hoping to make a last ditch effort to see if they can stay together. Therapy can help improve the communication and understanding between partners, but ultimately the individuals make their own decisions about whether or not to remain in the relationship.
The therapist will usually see the couple together, sometimes individually. The focus of some sessions may be childhood issues, expectations and relationship patterns, while at other times the therapist may focus on communication and problem solving. It is important that both partners feel comfortable with the therapist and the goals of the therapy.