I want to take time to debunk a myth I hear mentioned pretty frequently regarding couples therapy - which is, that it’s only needed if a couple has experienced a traumatic betrayal of trust they need assistance processing and healing.
While this is definitely ONE circumstance that might bring a couple to therapy, there are SO many other reasons to consider seeing a couples’ therapist that I would love to make folks aware of, primarily so they know we’re here to help when or if they might encounter these situations in their relationships too!
8 Reasons to Seek Couples’ Therapy
(…besides a partner cheating...)
Communication style differences or difficulties between partners - this might be related to cultural differences, one/both partners’ neurodivergence, familial habits, etc
Lacking closeness in the relationship, feeling “distant” from each other - very common in longer-term relationships with busy partners
Navigating moving in together - important questions to be asked, desires and expectations and even worst fears to be shared, exploring compromise
Before seriously considering marriage - reviewing cultural/religious/familial expectations, areas of compromise to be made, deal breakers, financial goals/habits, thoughts on children, pets, traveling, retirement
Struggles with intimacy (both sexual and nonsexual) - sexual desire differences and limitations, inexperience with non-sexual intimacy/vulnerability
Monogamous couples considering consensual non-monogamy - interested in opening up the relationship with respect, rules, and boundaries, stretching traditional definitions of “monogamous”, exploring 'compersion'
Recent traumatic life event (not related to cheating/betrayal of trust) - adjusting after an unexpected death, accident, job loss, medical diagnosis
Couples deciding if separating might actually be best - helpful for couples who habitually break up/get back together or long-term couples who feel they’ve reached a “roommate” phase of their relationship
Well, this still isn’t an all-inclusive list but I have to ask: were any of these surprising to read?
Did we successfully debunk this couples' therapy myth?
Are you wondering how couples’ therapy could improve your relationship?
Feel free to reach out to me to schedule your first session or for a free, 15-min consultation to ask any questions and confirm if couples’ therapy might be right for you and your partner(s).
-Wishing you peace and good health-
Alicia