What is Couples Counseling?

Couples counseling is a targeted therapy where those in a relationship work together with a counselor with a focus on the success of that relationship—whether that be continuing the relationship, or ending it amicably. 

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It’s different from individual counseling, though it uses many of the same concepts. Couples counseling still helps each individual communicate better, understand their feelings and actions, and how to make changes in areas they are unhappy—but it’s done in the context of their relationship.

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They’ll learn how to specifically communicate with their partner, understand how their actions affect their partner, and how to appropriately change behaviors to make the relationship more synergistic. 

How Does Couples Counseling Work?

At Inner Balance, we primarily use two proved types of therapy during couple’s counseling: emotionally focused therapy and the Gottman Method

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Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is based on the concept of emotional attachments. We assign a lot of emotional weight to our bond with our partners. If that bond is being neglected or injured, it causes distress and trauma. EFT helps couples connect emotions to actions, and improve their communications and interactions.

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The Gottman Method is considered the gold standard of couples counseling. It also focuses on a couple’s interactions, but lays the groundwork for how to improve their emotional bond. One of the main tenets of the Gottman Method is to think and communicate with your partner positively. This includes resolving conflict, and thinking about the past, present and future. 

Why is Couples Counseling Effective?

No one exists in a vacuum. Humans have evolved to create emotional bonds with others, and these bonds are integral to our personal happiness and fulfillment. When these bonds don’t meet our expectations, we get hurt, anxious, and we do and say things that we likely wouldn’t if we were in a healthy headspace. 

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Whether you’re in a committed monogamous or polyamorous relationship, or you’re working through a separation, you can benefit from learning how to better communicate in your relationship.   

Couples Counseling at Inner Balance

At Inner Balance Counseling, we strive to provide quality clinical mental health therapy and a safe space for you to explore your challenges and concerns. We are different from other places because we care about you. You are not just a number on a page but people who deserve to be heard and treated with respect.

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We know how much healthy and unhealthy relationships can affect each person. When you decide to make the commitment of a relationship, you’re taking a huge part of their emotional wellbeing. Couples counseling can help you and your partner or partners work with each other better.  

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Fill out the form below to set up a free consultation. We’ll talk to you about your mental health goals, and the type of therapy that can work for you. Reach out. Show up. Feel better.