Couples therapy at HCCC is focused on much more than resolving a specific issue. The relationship between the partners is fundamental to their communication, problem-solving skills and conflict resolution attempts, so the therapy will strive to improve the foundation of the couple’s connection to each other. Counselors will use empirically-supported therapy techniques and their own experience to help the couple improve their relationship. Counselors are “on the side” of the marriage and not one of the pair against the other.
How partners see themselves and their spouse may change over time and not always for the better. Therapy can help explore the unhelpful narratives partners create of their relationship. Three typical hallmarks of healthier couples are constructive conflict, plenty of friendship/intimacy and positive affect, and shared meaning. The providers will help the relationship become as healthy as each partner can make it understanding that no couple is perfect and never will be. It is not about reaching an ideal, but a place where the individuals genuinely enjoy each other’s company and continue their life together.
Couple therapy may help with a variety of difficulties spouses experience during their lives together. Infidelity, loss of a child, communication problems, conflicting priorities, consideration of separation, acting out negative thoughts and emotions, problems with relationships outside the marriage, and distrust are some of the most common reasons people seek couples therapy.