Relationship counselling (also known as couples counselling) is an effective form of talking therapy usually between a couple and a trained counsellor.
Sessions take place in a comfortable, safe space and look to improve communication and resolve issues within an intimate relationship. In contrast to counselling for relationship problems, which can be undertaken solely through individual sessions, couples counselling is a term applied to talking therapy for two people within a relationship.
Whilst couples therapy is ideally suited to couples attending the sessions together, sometimes one partner is reluctant to attend, so you can look to speak to a couples counsellor individually on your own, to begin with. You might find your partner wants to join you after you’ve had some initial sessions alone and it can be helpful to intersperse couple sessions with individual sessions
During the consultation – Our first session together in considered a meeting which is really a two way street. It is essential that you find a therapist that you feel you can connect with. It is my responsibility to make sure that your circumstances, plus potential motivators for counselling are within my area of expertise. Should it become apparent that your needs would be better met elsewhere, I will always strive to suggest a more appropriate agency or therapist trained in specific modalities dependent on your situation. I will allow time near the end of the session to explain how therapy works and to share with you some frequently asked questions by clients providing you with an idea of what to expect and be aware of, and how I coordinate any future ongoing sessions. Please note the consultation will run for around 40-50 mins.
Coercive & Controlling Behaviour can be a factor in a relationship for some. Dependent on a couples personal circumstances, more often than not it is strongly advised a couple or individual receive help through an organisation or therapist who specialise in supporting individuals who want to change and discover healthy ways to express themselves and manage anger. Couples therapy can be a suitable option later when the relationship is more stable so as to unpack other issues.