SERVICES

Couples therapy

Why do people gravitate toward couples therapy?

Coming together as a unit is incredibly challenging. What's even more difficult to do is understand the needs of a partner and how to satisfy those needs. There are various reasons why relationships stagnate, resulting from a lack of desire, passion and interest for the other person. Sometimes the feeling is mutual; this depends on the situation, financial constraints, family dynamic, jealousy within the relationship and career ambitions. There is a certain level of expectation on both sides, some of a higher calibre than what the other partner has in mind. Besides having high expectations, a lack of communication comes into play. When both partners are no longer communicating, the relationship is in danger. Not talking or interacting with each other creates a rift between the couple, giving rise to further issues.

What are the signs of a strained partnership/marriage?

  • Feelings of hatred or regret over the relationship
  • An affair (emotional or physical) with someone outside the partnership/marriage
  • Loss of interest in the relationship
  • Poor health as a result of the relationship
  • Poor self-care due to the constraints of the partnership
  • The relationship has become emotionally draining
  • No desire for intimacy, if there is, it is usually one-sided
  • No communication
  • Silent treatment

How will couples therapy mend the relationship?

Couples therapy is one way of repairing a relationship by allowing people to acknowledge their marital or partnership issues and begin working on these aspects. By opening up the communication channels between these two people, they can constructively talk to one another and achieve results at the end of each session.

Studies indicate that through relationship counselling, partnerships have an over 70 per cent chance of restoration. But what is most important is that at the end of this journey, people will have a better understanding of their identity, needs and desires. So despite the outcome of therapy, they will go on to lead better lives and realise what they want from a relationship.

FAQ

1Does couples therapy guarantee a successful relationship?
While not all relationships endure even after therapy, if both partners are willing to put in the work and time into their relationship, success is highly possible. This is time for you to share aspects of the partnership that you would never have touched upon before. In other words, airing out everything is part of the process and enables open communication. There will be no judgements made in this safe space, and both sides can raise all their concerns.
2How do you cope with conflict in a relationship?
It is important to make your feelings known and tell your partner how you are feeling. Take time to reflect on your situation and the best way forward. Therapy is vital to constructively cope with conflict.