A structured psychotherapy process in which couple communication issues, conflict resolution difficulties, infidelity crises and intra-family tensions are addressed through evidence-based approaches such as the Gottman method, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and systemic family therapy.
Indication
- Recurring communication problems, disagreements and unresolved arguments between partners
- Repairing the relationship after an infidelity (cheating) crisis
- Sexual problems (related to communication or psychological causes)
- Final assessment before a separation decision or collaborative divorce therapy
- Intergenerational tension and boundary problems among family members
- Family dynamic problems accompanying behavioral issues in children
- Family adjustment to a partner's or family member's chronic illness, depression, anxiety or addiction
- Family or couple support after grief, loss or trauma
Preparation
- All relevant members of the couple/family attend the first session whenever possible — a missing person may limit the treatment process
- Noting when the problems began, how they progressed and previous attempts at resolution
- If physical or sexual violence is present — couples therapy is contraindicated; individual support and safety take priority
- If addiction or a serious psychiatric disorder is present, individual treatment takes priority; couples therapy is considered in parallel or afterward
How it's performed
- First 1-2 assessment sessions — relationship history, problem areas and goals are determined through joint and, if necessary, individual interviews
- Gottman couples therapy approach — the 'Sound Relationship House' model; identifying and changing destructive communication patterns such as criticism, defensiveness, contempt and stonewalling
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) — based on attachment theory; resolving recurring negative cycles between partners and building a secure emotional bond
- Systemic family therapy — reviewing intra-family roles, communication patterns and boundaries
- Structured homework and communication skills (active listening, using 'I' statements, conflict resolution techniques)
- If needed, sex therapy is integrated in parallel with the couple's consent
Post-procedure
- Typically one 60-90 minute session per week; the total process ranges from 12-20 sessions
- Once goals are achieved, sessions are spaced to every 2-4 weeks; booster sessions follow as needed
- Take-home assignments (communication exercises, quality time, expressions of appreciation) should be applied regularly
- If a partner needs individual psychological support, parallel individual therapy may be recommended
- After completion of the process, follow-up sessions may be planned at 3-6 month intervals
Risks
- Temporary tension and increased emotional intensity as previously hidden topics surface between partners
- When one party is unmotivated, the effect of therapy may be limited
- The couple may reach a decision to separate during the process — therapy does not guarantee 'staying together'; it supports healthy decision-making
- Couples therapy is not appropriate in the presence of active intra-family violence, uncontrolled addiction or untreated severe psychiatric disorder
- When children are included in family therapy, an approach suitable to their age and developmental level is required; inappropriate pressure may have the opposite effect
FAQ
Will couples therapy save our marriage?
Couples therapy does not guarantee preservation of the marriage in every case. Evidence-based approaches (Gottman, EFT) noticeably improve communication and emotional bond; at the end of the process the couple either builds a healthy relationship together or chooses separation with less conflict.
My partner doesn't want to come; will it help if I attend alone?
Therapy started individually can also positively contribute to relationship dynamics; however, participation of both parties is important for full impact. After the first session, work can be done to increase motivation and invite the partner into the process.
There is physical violence in our family; can couples therapy be done?
No. Couples therapy is not recommended and carries risk in the presence of active physical or sexual violence. Safety must be ensured first, the affected individual should receive individual support, and where appropriate, legal recourse should be considered.
Should we bring our child to therapy?
This is evaluated based on the child's age, the type of issue and the family structure. Some sessions may be held only with the parents, others together with the child. The decision is made together with the therapist.
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