Debunking 10 Common Misconceptions Regarding Couples Counselling

1. Couples therapy involves ongoing discussions to address your relationship challenges.

Sitting down and merely revisiting your issues in the presence of a third party may not seem productive – and in reality, it isn't. Couples therapy is centered on taking constructive steps to enhance mutual understanding and develop a strategic plan for your relationship's growth and improvement. Our Relationship Checkup is also action-oriented, designed to assist you in formulating clear and practical steps to nurture your growth as a couple.

    2. Seeing outcomes from couples therapy requires a significant amount of time.

When therapy is conducted effectively, there's no need for it to span over years or even months to witness advancement. Your therapist will collaborate with you and your partner to create approaches that promote your shared growth.

    3. Couples therapy is typically sought when relationships are experiencing challenges.

Engaging in couples therapy is a wise decision to deepen your understanding of each other, even when your relationship isn't currently facing significant problems. Just as we proactively manage our physical health, being proactive about our relationship health is equally important. Conducting an annual relationship check-in allows you to address any issues early on, preventing them from escalating into more challenging problems.

    4. Couples therapy works to find the person responsible for the problems.

When you and your partner participate in couples therapy, the goal isn't to assign blame, but rather to collaborate as a team to enhance your problem-solving skills. This process not only helps you uncover the underlying issues in your relationship but also encourages a collaborative approach to fostering intimacy and strengthening your partnership.

    5. Individuals seeking couples therapy are often viewed as preparing for a divorce.

Couples therapy focuses on tackling issues that, if left unaddressed, could potentially result in divorce. Opting for couples therapy signifies your commitment to putting in the effort needed to strengthen your relationship. If you're at a point where you're uncertain about your compatibility, couples therapy can guide you in discovering whether you and your partner can collaborate effectively to build a lasting, fulfilling partnership.

    6. Couples therapy exacerbates issues within relationships.

Couples therapy doesn't introduce fresh problems; rather, it deals with preexisting ones. When challenges surface during couples therapy, you have the opportunity to collaborate with a trained professional to devise mutually beneficial solutions.

    7. Certain relationships have progressed to a point where couples therapy may not be effective.

Couples therapy assists in assessing the current state of your relationship and identifies necessary adjustments for progress. Even if you ultimately decide that parting ways is the most beneficial option, couples therapy can guide you through this process with understanding and dignity.

    8. Couples therapists exhibit bias toward one partner.

Your therapist will strive to comprehend both you and your partner, fostering a mutual understanding of each other's viewpoints. While they may point out areas where more effective behaviors can be adopted, the aim is not to establish fault but rather to promote understanding. If you're worried about feeling targeted in a couples therapy session, rest assured that your therapist is focused on guiding you towards a stronger relationship, rather than assigning blame to one party.

    9. A person unfamiliar with your relationship cannot contribute to its improvement.

Collaborating with an impartial third party allows them to identify blind spots that you and your partner might have overlooked. They facilitate a deeper understanding between you both and offer fresh perspectives that can invigorate your efforts to fortify your relationship.

    10. Therapy is designed for those who struggle to solve problems by themselves.

Incorrect. Opting for therapy with your partner signifies your willingness to explore a different approach to resolving your issues, rather than admitting defeat in trying to understand them. Just as you wouldn't attempt to tackle a complex plumbing issue in your home without the assistance of a specialist, seeking professional guidance is a wise choice when dealing with intricate relationship challenges.