What is Couples Counselling?
As an experienced Couples Counsellor, this is a question I get approached with a lot. My hope that this blog will allow you to have a better understanding of what will happen and, what is included. Every couple and their situation will always be different and the below can easily be tailored to meet this.
Couples Counselling is a form of therapy that is designed to help couples resolve conflicts and improve their relationships. It involves working with a qualified Couples Counsellor who can help you, and your partner identify the underlying issues that are causing problems in your relationship and develop strategies for addressing them.
During Couples Counselling, you and your partner will meet with a Counsellor to discuss your concerns and, work towards finding solutions and compromises. The Counsellor will help you to communicate more effectively, develop better problem-solving skills, and learn how to manage conflicts in a healthy and productive way. Couples Counselling can be helpful for those who are experiencing a range of issues, including - infidelity, sexual difficulties, and conflicts over parenting or finances, communication problems, infidelity, trust issues, and sexual issues. It can also be beneficial for couples who are experiencing more serious issues, such as domestic violence or substance abuse. Counsellors may also provide guidance on how to improve intimacy and strengthen your emotional connection.
Choosing a Couples Counsellor
When it comes to choosing a Couples Counsellor, it's important to take the time to find the right fit for you and your partner. Here are some things to consider:
Qualifications - Look for a counsellor who is qualified to work with couples and has experience in doing so. They should have a relevant degree or certification and be a member of a recognised professional body, such as the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society (NCPS). It's also important to consider their experience working with couples. Ask about their approach to counselling and how they work with couples.
Finding the right fit - Couples counselling can be a very personal and intimate experience, so it's important to find a counsellor who you both feel comfortable with. Look for someone who is non-judgmental, empathetic, and has good communication skills. Consider what kind of approach you and your partner would prefer. Some counsellors may use a more structured approach, while others may be more flexible and open to exploring different techniques. It's important to find a counsellor who can tailor their approach to your specific needs. It's also important to consider practical factors such as location, availability, and cost. Make sure you find a counsellor who is convenient for you both to see and who fits within your budget. By taking the time to find the right couples counsellor, you can improve your chances of success and make the most of your counselling experience.
The Process of Couples Counselling
Couples Counselling is a therapeutic process designed to help couples resolve conflicts and improve their relationship. The process typically involves a series of sessions with a trained Counsellor who helps the couple identify and, address the underlying issues that are causing problems in their relationship.
The first step in the process of Couples Counselling is an initial assessment. During this session, the therapist will meet with the couple to discuss their concerns and goals for counselling. The Counsellor will also gather information about the you and your partners relationship history, communication patterns, and individual backgrounds.
Once the initial assessment is complete, the Counsellor will work with the couple to set goals for therapy. These goals may include improving communication, resolving conflicts, and building trust. The Counsellor will use these goals to guide the therapy sessions and track progress over time. These will be tailored to meet the couples needs and requirements.
Therapeutic Techniques
Couples counselling may involve a variety of therapeutic techniques, depending on the couple's needs and goals. Some common techniques include:
Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT): This approach focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviours that are contributing to relationship problems.
Emotionally-focused therapy (EFT): This approach helps couples identify and express their underlying emotions in a safe and supportive environment.
Attachments : This approach focuses on helping couples understand their own individual attachment style and how this can be developed to improve your relationship.
During therapy sessions, the Counsellor may also provide the couple with tools and exercises to practice outside of therapy. These may include communication skills, conflict resolution strategies, and ways to build intimacy and connection.
Overall, the process of Couples Counselling can help couples develop a deeper understanding of each other, improve communication and conflict resolution skills, and build a stronger, more fulfilling relationship.
I hope that this blog will help any couple understand a little more detail about the nature of couples counselling and what to expect. Should you require any more information please do note hesitate to contact me via the contact sheet at the top of this page.
