More than 75% of couples cite lack of commitment as the number one reason for divorce. Commitment is difficult to maintain, especially in a long-term relationship.
But there is a way to nurture and promote commitment. Therapy for couples can be an effective tool to strengthen a relationship. Learn how to get the most out of couples therapy.
Table of Contents
Have the Right Mindset
Many people go into the process wondering, “what is couples therapy?” Images of angry couples yelling at each other while the therapist watches them often come to mind. But that stereotypical media portrayal is far from the truth!
Coming to your therapy session with the right mindset is the key. Try to put any skepticism and feelings of hopelessness aside.
Trust the process, even if you feel like the session isn’t productive or the homework seems silly. Most studies find that couples who commit to therapy experience increased relationship satisfaction!
Set Goals Together
Showing up to therapy with a list of grievances isn’t the ideal approach. One of the best couples therapy tips is to set a common goal. Work together to discuss issues and potential solutions before you meet your therapist.
One study found a surprising difference between the types of goals set by couples. According to the study, the most successful goal was improving the relationship. Over 92% of individuals with this intent were still together six months post-therapy.
In contrast, those who focused on whether their relationship was still viable had poorer outcomes. 56% of these couples were no longer together six months post-therapy. So try to establish a positive, productive goal!
Ask (And Answer) Tough Questions
Many relationship problems result from avoidance. Evading tough topics and bottling up emotions is a natural reaction to a crumbling relationship. You might be trying to salvage it more, or maybe you’ve simply given up.
But there’s no better place to face the tough questions than couples therapy. The answer can help you uncover the causes of your relationship problems. They can also reveal a lot about your partner and yourself.
Focus on Internal Change
Therapy, in general, is about internal change, and couples therapy is no different. Approaching it with the intent of changing your partner will end in disappointment.
One of the many couples therapy benefits is self-improvement. Focusing inwards can help you discover how you feel about important issues and why you react the way you do. Relationship satisfaction through self-improvement is couples therapy explained in a nutshell.
Put in the Work
One of the most critical couples therapy tips you can take away from this is to do your homework! Whether that means activities assigned by your therapist or general effort post-therapy. Couples often feel therapy isn’t working because they’re not putting in the work.
So use the skills and approaches you pick up in the session at home. Test out different ways of communicating to find one that works for you. You might stumble a few times, but practice makes perfect!
Explore Therapy for Couples
Ready to try therapy for your relationship? With the help of a therapist, you’ll soon feel closer and more aligned with your partner. Don’t forget to use this couples therapy guide to get the most out of your sessions!
Relucent Psychology Group offers couples therapy in a safe, friendly setting. Schedule your free consultation today, and we’ll guide you towards a happy, fulfilling relationship!
