When does couples therapy help?

When does couples therapy help?

The very decision to begin couples therapy initiates a new dynamic within the relationship. If both partners are motivated, it can become a kind of shared projectwhich allows for more communication and closeness. Of course, it often happens that only one partner is truly motivated. These days, it’s not only women who take the first step. Over the course of therapy, a foundation of trust is very important and promising for success, as it enables partners to talk about important, even intimate topics.

There are various couples therapy approaches, such as emotionally focused therapy, systemic therapy with holistic methods, or cognitive-behavioral exercises. In my experience, a balanced mix of several methods, tailored individually to the clients, is most effective. Couples therapy works when the agreed-upon rules, exercises, and “homework” are followed. I work with an imaginary “peace space,” which means avoiding arguments and long discussions between sessions in order to create calm. This calm is a prerequisite for change, growth, and progress.

Couples therapy is especially helpful when clients prepare for it. Whether by keeping a list of topics or writing a journal – an active mindset helps to find new paths toward harmony. Patience is also important, because, as the saying goes: “Grass doesn’t grow faster if you pull on it.”