Counseling for Relationships
The objectives of relationship therapy, often called "couples counseling or couples therapy," are tailored to your unique needs, regardless of the stage of your relationship. We aim to help you identify and navigate your shared goals, which are pivotal in relationship counseling, as they provide a roadmap for our work together.
We honor, respect, affirm, and support the diversity of sexual and gender identities and expressions, and we are committed to working with you with empathy, sensitivity, and cultural humility.
OUR THERAPISTS CAN SUPPORT YOU WITH:
Differences in cultures and values (e.g., interracial/interethnic and interfaith relationships)
Trust and self-worth
Adjustment to significant life events and transitions (e.g., parenting, moving, financial sharing)
Grief and loss
Communication difficulties and frequent arguments (e.g., blaming, criticizing)
Loss of attraction, sexual desire, or sexual performance
Infidelity
Past trauma affecting the current day-to-day functioning and intimacy
Caregiving and division of labor
Pre-marital or pre-cohabitation concerns
Substance recovery
Miscarriage and infertility
Exploring new sexual experiences and identities, such as ethical non-monogamy
Coping with separation, divorce, or break-ups
Dealing with family members or external influences on the relationship
Let's talk about all the elephant(s) in the room…
If you and your partner(s) have differing objectives, we will strive to facilitate productive discussions to reach a consensus. However, if consensus proves challenging, we suggest individual therapy as a preliminary step or in tandem. It is not uncommon for one partner to be more willing or committed to therapy than the other. We address these discrepancies and any resistance to the process, as differences in motivation can hinder progress and emotional intimacy.
Many people in relationships use the therapy process as a last resort, viewing it as a final attempt to salvage their relationship, often saying, "We've tried everything, including therapy, and it hasn't worked!" When therapy is perceived as a mere obligation rather than a sincere effort for healing and growth, it can create unrealistic expectations and pressure for immediate results. We encourage an open discussion if you or your partner(s) share this sentiment.
We do not advocate for taking sides or portraying one partner as "wrong" or "bad" while the other is "right." Our approach emphasizes objectivity and neutrality, aiming to challenge any biases you may hold about your partner and their actions. If at any point you feel that your healer is favoring one side, we encourage you to address this concern.