Couples therapy works by helping couples identify and better navigate their unique challenges. Following an initial assessment of the couple in terms of strengths and needs, the therapist would then discuss their therapeutic goals and any possible approaches or ways of working together as therapist and couple.
Couples attend sessions together, whether they meet in person or by video. In addition to regular couples therapy sessions, each partner may also be asked to attend a few individual sessions to supplement their progress. This will allow their counselor to get to know each individual better, assess each of their personal needs, and develop the very best treatment plan moving forward.
On average, couples attend couples therapy for 12 weeks. However, couples therapy may last longer or shorter, dependent on the couples’ needs, the challenges they’d like to work through, and the pace of their progress.
Couples Therapy in Harrisonburg, VA—Counseling
The professionals are Thriveworks Harrisonburg offer couples therapy. Grow stronger both individually and as a couple with sessions from a provider at Thriveworks Harrisonburg.
Four Key Relationship Problems and Couples Counseling
In his famous study on partners and how they relate to one another, Dr. John Gottman identified four of the biggest problems that couples face. Dr. Gottman called them “The Four Horsemen” because without correction, these four behaviors often lead to the end of a relationship. They are particularly toxic problems that inhibit connection and intimacy. They are defensiveness, stonewalling, criticism, and contempt. Here is a picture of how each functions in a relationship…
- Defensiveness — When one or both partners respond to the other’s needs, concerns, or critiques with excuses, then defensiveness has seeped into the relationship. Defensiveness shifts responsibility from oneself to another person or to one’s circumstances. For example, if one partner promised to run an errand but did not, they may respond defensively when asked about their day, “how could you expect me to do that today? You know what a busy day I had.” A more humble response would say, “I promised to pick that up for you, and I did not. I am sorry. I will prioritize it tomorrow. Is that ok?”
- Stonewalling — Denying a problem, minimizing it, looking the other way—there are all ways partners can stonewall. It involves one or both partners removing themselves from a disagreement instead of engaging it or working together to solve it. It is a chilling response whereas healthy couples honor each other’s requests and needs, even as they disagree.
- Criticism — Attacking someone personally is a common form of criticism. All couples will have critiques and complaints. There is nothing wrong with saying, “I was worried… or I felt frustrated… or I was confused.” Criticism, in contrast, goes after the person instead of the issue. Criticism sounds like, “you are so inconsiderate… you are irresponsible… you are a terrible communicator.”
- Contempt — Disrespect is at the heart of contempt. Any action that is mean and degrading is contemptuous. It often looks like eye-rolls, mocking, sarcasm, and put-downs. Any gesture, word, or action that makes a partner feel less than is filled with contempt.
If you and your partner can identify one or more of these behaviors, it may be time to reach out for help. Learning healthier ways of connecting and dealing with conflict is possible, and many people go to couples therapy to learn how.
How Might Couples Therapy Help?
Skilled couples counselors may guide couples to understanding how these toxic behaviors have become a part of their relationship and how to course-correct. For example, therapists may teach partners how to…
- Accept Personal Responsibility — Strong individuals come together to form strong partnerships. Each partner needs to own their actions, choices, and attitudes.
- Practice Self-Care — Sometimes, it is ok to take a break, rest, and then come back to the conflict. Learning to listen to one’s own emotional and physical needs is important.
- Use “I” Statements — Explanation is better than attack. Couples can communicate about difficult experiences through “I” statements such as “I felt disappointed.”
- Build Appreciation — Healthy couples appreciate each partner for who they are, strengths and weaknesses.
Couples Therapy Appointments at Thriveworks Harrisonburg
If you are ready to learn more about what healthy relationships look like, Thriveworks Harrisonburg is ready to help. We accept many forms of insurance, and we offer evening and weekend sessions.
Call Thriveworks Harrisonburg today or book online to get started.
