Couples Therapy
Couples therapy can improve the relationship between two people who have chosen a shared life together. We specialize in communication problems, frequent arguing, sexual issues, infidelity, and long-term relationship "burnout". It may feel like mutual respect, genuine caring, and even basic compassion have been replaced by resentment, blame, or a lack of hope. Life is busy and the demands of daily routine can drain energy, passion, and enjoyment. Figuring out how to make changes together, to appreciate and love each other alongside these challenges is part of what couples therapy is about.
Couples and Separation or Divorce
We can provide counseling for navigating a separation between partners ,when the goal is to resolve discord and repair the relationship. This is not something we recommend to our clients as a way to work on relationship issues. But we can provide guidance about how to achieve desired goals during a separation. Generally separation is a last resort after a couple has already tried to resolve issues that divide them. The separation itself will not fix relationship problems. But it can be a time when each partner can make requests for desired changes and work on things that may help repair the relationship.
We can also help navigate problems when one or both partners have already decided to "end" the relationship. For most people, the relationship doesn't completely end... when shared finances, children, shared community, or extended family still necessitate interaction or contact with the other person. There are aftereffects when a significant relationship ends. If anger and blame take on a life of their own, resentment and hostility can take the place of reason and effectiveness. Children, friends, and/or extended family can be caught in the crossfire. When two people share the goal of reducing conflict and getting through a painful experience in less painful ways, therapy can help.
