60 Minute Couples Therapy

Service Description

I offer two types of Couples Counseling: Discernment Counseling and Couples Therapy. Both begin with a 90-minute intake session, during which I help you determine which approach is most suited to your situation and goals. Discernment Counseling is best suited for couples on the brink of divorce. I know that “couples” rarely decide to divorce…it’s typically one person who wants to leave (the “leaning out” partner) while their partner (the leaning in partner) is “being divorced.” When this happens, it’s a crucible moment that needs to be considered carefully. Although separation may be an emergency, divorce is not. Because both a commitment and life structure have been created…it’s good to take some time to decide. In such cases, I will meet with the two of you separately to understand the situation and help you decide whether or not to stay. If you choose to stay together, we will transition to Couples Therapy. If not, I can help you “consciously uncouple” in a way that reduces chaos and enables you to get some clarity about the next phase of your life. In my book “Lasting Lover: A Science-Based Approach to Building and Maintaining a Romantic Relationship With Your Forever Person,” I explain that Couples Therapy is a therapy in which both partners in a committed relationship are treated simultaneously. I also explain that because of the complexities of treating two individuals and their relationship at the same time, it is fraught with hazards that can only be avoided by carefully identifying core issues and addressing them in a practical, effective manner. Some benefits of couples counseling include better communication between you and your partner; identifying problems and resolving them within a safe environment; hearing and understanding your partner’s needs without resentment or anger; feeling more valued and a deeper connection; renewed physical and emotional intimacy, and moving away from the past to a brighter future. Couples Therapy is not a chance to berate your partner in front of another witness. I will do my best to prevent this. If I lose control or if you are out of control, I will seamlessly switch from Couples Therapy to Relationship Coaching.