Couples Counseling

What is the success rate of Marriage and Couples counseling?

Couples counseling, couples therapy, or marriage therapy have demonstrated impressive success rates. According to the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists, nearly 90% of clients report improved emotional health after therapy. About 70% of couples reported improved relationship satisfaction, a promising statistic that underlines the effectiveness of this therapeutic method.

Even though every couple's path is different, and outcomes may fluctuate, these statistics provide encouraging prospects for couples contemplating therapy. Consistently, individuals are searching for "couples therapy near me," indicating a common interest in local services. The term "couples therapy" speaks to a universal experience, highlighting the regularity and normalcy of couples seeking support. Furthermore, considering online options like "online couples therapy" and "couples therapy online" has grown increasingly prevalent as more couples embrace the flexibility and accessibility of virtual platforms. In sum, these figures share a hopeful outlook for couples considering therapy in various forms, whether locally, online, or both. At VitalMinds, we offer online couples counseling.

What does couples counseling do?

Couples counseling, or couples therapy, aims to address relationship problems and marital issues. The main goal of couples therapy is enhancing mutual understanding, fostering healthier communication paths, and resolving conflicts in a partnership. Marriage Therapists, who may offer couples therapy near me or even online couples therapy, guide couples in diverse sessions to discuss their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors.

The essence of this process, often backed by the Gottman method of couples therapy, is to help both partners better understand their relationship dynamics. Moreover, counselors can impart vital communication skills through emotionally focused couples therapy. These skills can help couples to respectfully discuss their differences, negotiate solutions, and strengthen their emotional bond, thereby answering the question, does couples therapy work? Hence, the possibility of finding harmony in relationships through couples therapy, be it online couples therapy or in-person sessions, is worth considering.

Can couples counseling fix a relationship?

Many people inquire about the effectiveness of couples counseling near me, often asking, 'Does couple therapy work?' The short answer is a resounding 'Yes, couples counseling works!' However, its success hinges on several factors.

Marriage counseling serves as a potent instrument for repairing strained relationships, offering a safe space for couples to share their emotions, fears, and expectations openly. With the support of a marriage counselor, this transparency often cultivates an emotional connection, secure attachment, empathy, and partner intimacy. Nonetheless, the positive impact of therapy is greatly influenced by the couple's readiness to embrace change and their dedication to the counseling process. In certain scenarios, marriage counseling might lead individuals to the realization that pursuing a divorce is the healthiest choice, which can be a constructive resolution.

Many people inquire about the effectiveness of couples therapy and often search for 'couples therapy near me,' often asking, 'Does this form of therapy work?' The short answer is a resounding 'Yes, couples counseling, or couples therapy, does work!' However, its success relies heavily on several elements.

With the help of a marriage counselor, this situation's transparency often fosters an emotional connection, secure attachment, empathy, and intimacy. Nonetheless, the positive impact of online or face-to-face couples therapy largely depends on the couple's readiness to accept change and commitment to the couples therapy process.

An increasingly popular approach is emotionally focused couples therapy, considering its emphasis on emotional experience and expression. Occasionally, couples therapy, including emotionally focused couples therapy, might lead individuals to the understanding that pursuing a divorce is the healthiest choice. Being able to reach such a constructive resolution even if it seems daunting, is part of what makes couples therapy, especially when it's couples therapy near me, truly effective.

What kind of therapy is best for couples?

There are numerous therapeutic approaches available in couples counseling. Selecting the most appropriate method is crucial and should be based on the specific challenges a couple faces, which a couples therapist can help determine.

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

Emotionally focused couples therapy is highly effective for couples dealing with trust issues or emotional disconnection. In couples therapy's landscape, emotionally focused therapy uniquely targets the emotional bonds between partners. Hence, emotionally focused couples therapy provides a unique beacon of hope to the couples.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), an excellent choice for couples therapy, is ideal for couples wrestling with communication issues, wanting help with problem-solving, or hoping to tackle negative thought patterns. The beauty of using CBT in couples therapy lies in its focus on identifying and rectifying detrimental behaviors and thinking. Notably, this type of couples therapy, which also works effectively as online couples therapy, offers a flexible and accommodating solution to couples' challenges.

The Gottman Method: An Approach to Couples Therapy

The Gottman Method, also called the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy, is an increasingly popular approach. Drawing from extensive research, the Gottman Method of Couples Therapy helps couples develop invincible relationships. Undeniably, the Gottman Method shapes strong relationships through couples therapy.

Relational Life Therapy

(RLT) is a powerful method for couples with chronic conflict or deep-rooted issues, as it delves into individual experiences and patterns to promote growth and healing.

During these sessions, the couples counselor may use a variety of techniques such as active listening, role-playing exercises, and homework assignments to help couples better understand each other's perspectives and find effective ways to communicate and work together.

The Gottman Method

Couples can learn skills to manage conflict and build a stronger bond through the Gottman Method. These include improving communication techniques, rebuilding trust, and increasing intimacy. The goal of counseling for couples with this method is not simply to solve surface-level issues, but to strengthen the overall relationship for long-term success.

One key aspect of the Gottman Method is its focus on emotion coaching. This involves helping individuals identify and express their emotions healthily and learning how to validate and respond to their partner's emotions. By doing so, couples can develop a deeper understanding and empathy for each other's feelings, leading to more effective problem-solving and connection within the relationship.

Imago Relationship Therapy

IMAGO, Marriage and Relationship Counseling is a viable option for couples seeking more traditional talk therapy.

Building on the foundation of trust and open communication, couples therapy can also help partners develop better conflict-resolution skills. It can guide couples in understanding the root cause of their disagreements and provide them with the tools to navigate through them effectively. Furthermore, therapy can foster a deeper emotional connection by helping partners understand and meet each other's needs.

Regardless of the specific approach used, couples therapy typically involves regular sessions with a trained therapist who facilitates open communication and provides tools and strategies for addressing challenges. It can be a safe space for partners to express their feelings, concerns, and needs without fear of judgment or repercussions.

Is it normal for unmarried couples to go to counseling?

It is both normal and beneficial for unmarried couples to seek counseling. This proactive step allows them to address any early issues or concerns, strengthening their relationship and establishing a solid foundation for a potential future marriage. Unfortunately, most couples tend to reach out for marriage counseling only after significant marital problems have arisen, often after six years. By this point, they may have exhausted much of their energy, making it challenging to work on the relationship. Seeking couples counseling earlier can provide invaluable tools and strategies for effective communication and conflict resolution, which remain beneficial at any stage of a relationship.

What type of counselor is best for couples?

The best counselor for couples is one who specializes in relationship or marriage counseling. They should have a deep understanding of interpersonal dynamics and the ability to facilitate open, honest communication between partners. Additionally, a good couples counselor should be non-judgmental, empathetic, and able to provide practical tools and strategies for improving the relationship. It's also important to find a counselor with whom both partners feel comfortable and safe discussing personal issues. Opening up and sharing your vulnerabilities can be challenging, making it crucial to establish a sense of comfort with your couples therapist.

How long does couples counseling take?

The duration of couples counseling is not one-size-fits-all; it varies based on the couple's unique needs and their rate of progress. While some pairs may benefit from just a few sessions, others might need long-term therapy to fully resolve their issues. Typically, couples engage in counseling for an average of 12-16 weeks.

Engaging in couples counseling can be a pivotal move towards improving relationship quality. Whether you're grappling with minor squabbles or more serious disputes, a professional therapist can offer guidance to help you navigate conflicts and bolster mutual understanding within your relationship.

How do I find marriage counseling near me?

Finding a suitable marriage counselor (or couples therapist) near you can be as simple as conducting an online search. Marriage counseling online can be a great alternative to in-person couples counseling. Youu can have shorter sessions before or after work or during your lunch break. You can also ask for recommendations from trusted friends, family, or healthcare professionals. This can be can be a good starting point.

Try VitalMinds Online Couples Counseling today!

Remember, the path may be challenging, but the rewards of a healthier, happier relationship are well worth the effort. Reach out to one of our dedicated Couples Counselors today!

Experience VitalMinds Online Couples Therapy today! Reach out to one of our dedicated Couples Therapists near you today!

If you're considering in-person couples therapy or online marriage counseling, or pre marriage counseling, we have you covered. VitalMinds has both in-person couples counseling in Elm Grove and online couples counseling serving all of Wisconsin.

Couple woman resting head on woman

Couples Counseling:

What to Expect

1st Session

  • Discuss the relationship history (e.g., How you met? What drew you to each other?)

  • Transitions (e.g., Moving in, children, pets, moves, traumas, losses)

  • What are your goals as a couple?

2nd Sessions (2 individual sessions - 45 minutes each)

  • Meet with both individually.  This is a separate 45-minute session with each partner.  Each partner will set up an appointment.  This is confidential between the individual and therapist unless the couple wants communication to be completely open.  We discussed this in the first session.

  • Discuss personal family history

  • Discuss individual relationship history

  • Individual goals for therapy

Gottman Online assessment ($39 fee)

  • Highly recommend, as it assists tremendously with the counseling process 

  • To be completed before 3rd session

3rd Session: Come back together 

  • Discuss goals and plan

  • Discuss Online Assessment

Couple making dinner together laughing

"Love is friendship on fire." - Susan Sontag