Marriage Counseling
Updated:Marriage counseling, also known as couples therapy, is a form of psychotherapy that helps couples of all types recognize and resolve conflicts and improve their relationships. It's often used to address specific issues in a marriage or partnership, including communication problems, sexual difficulties, conflicts about child rearing or blended families, substance abuse, infidelity, or anger. The goal is to help couples develop stronger, healthier relationships.
Additional Information
Marriage counseling is typically short-term, with a licensed therapist working with the couple together or sometimes individually. It can be beneficial for any kind of relationship, regardless of sexual orientation or marital status. The counselor can help couples develop better communication skills, learn how to argue in a healthier way, or even rebuild trust after a betrayal.
While often associated with couples in crisis, marriage counseling can also be preventative, helping couples strengthen their bonds and gain a better understanding of each other before major problems develop. It's particularly common for couples to seek counseling around major life transitions, such as getting married, having a baby, or facing an empty nest.
Examples
A couple seeking marriage counseling to address intimacy issues after having children
Premarital counseling to help a couple prepare for marriage by discussing expectations, finances, and future goals
A long-term married couple using counseling to navigate a rough patch and reconnect emotionally and sexually