Couples Therapists

Couples Therapists - Westchester, NY

Couples therapy is a form of therapy that supports couples in their understanding of one another and is used to resolve conflicts within the relationship. It’s an invaluable tool for couples, especially for those facing ongoing challenges within their relationship. Not only is it a fantastic way to address difficult topics, but it helps you to better understand yourself and promotes the development of a positive mindset. 

In couples therapy, both partners work together with a therapist to communicate their feelings in a safe and mediated environment. Westchester Therapy hosts a directory of therapists who specialize in couple’s therapy and are here to support you.

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Is Couples Counseling Worth It?

Yes – and research has shown it to be highly effective for many couples. Working with a couple’s counseling therapist has shown its benefits in a number of ways:

• Improved emotional awareness
• Reduced emotional distress
• Improved communication skills
• Increased empathy levels
• Rediscovery of intimacy with each other
• Creating a way to move forward together
• Rebuilding trust in each other
• Increased relationship satisfaction

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Common Reasons for Seeking Couples Therapy

Couples therapy includes both marriage counseling and relationship counseling. Each couple is unique, as are the challenges within the partnership. That being said, there are some common reasons for couples to seek out counseling:

• Breakdown in communication

This can stem from frequent misunderstandings and a feeling of being unheard. Healthy and clear communication is crucial for a healthy relationship, and without it, the relationship is likely to break down.  

• Infidelity

The discovery of infidelity is difficult, but the aftermath can be even harder. It can lead to feelings of mistrust and resentment. Left unresolved, these feelings can linger and deepen beyond the point of repair.

• Problems with intimacy

This can occur when there is a lack of emotional and/or physical closeness. This may come from one or both partners. Intimacy is often seen as a crucial component of a healthy relationship, so a lack of this could be due to a deeper-rooted issue.  

• Chronic, ongoing conflict

You may find that disputes are ongoing, with no resolution in sight. Over time, this can become a serious emotional drain and damage the health of the relationship.

• Disagreements on parenting styles

One or both partners may find fault with the other partner’s parenting. This could come from a difference in upbringing, culture or values. Failing to come to an agreement on parenting techniques can cause serious issues in a relationship.

• Financial stress

A very common issue is disagreements over financial responsibility and money management. Left unchecked, this can lead to serious communication breakdown and heightened stress levels.

According to one study, emotionally focused therapy was found effective in 75% of couples, with the benefits of receiving this therapy lasting for more than two years. Westchester Therapy work with a diverse range of therapists with a wealth of knowledge and experience in couple’s therapy. 

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Signs to Seek Counseling as a Couple

If you feel that your relationship would benefit from counseling, you should follow your intuition. That being said, there are clear signs when seeking therapy may be a suitable choice for your relationship. You should consider therapy when the follow issues crop up in your relationship, especially as repeated events:

• You’re losing the ability to communicate with each other
• You’re beginning to fight more than usual
• One or both partners has broken the other’s trust
• One or both partners are struggling with a mental or physical illness
• Your relationship is developing harmful patterns

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How Do I Convince My Partner to Seek Couples Counseling?

For the majority of cases, the decision to undertake couples therapy comes mainly from one partner. The instigative partner then convinces the other to participate. Seeking therapy can often be seen as a sensitive and concerning topic, particularly for those unfamiliar with, or uncomfortable with counseling. 

The decision must be agreed on by both partners for the sessions to be helpful and productive. You should try to frame couple’s therapy as a positive thing and something that will ultimately improve your relationship. Try to reassure your partner if they raise concerns and express your desire to work together on your partnership. The end goal is to build a healthier and more fulfilling relationship.

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Take Our Quiz

Here at Westchester Therapy, we want to make sure that you’re matched with the right couple’s therapist for your relationship needs. We have created a simple quiz that takes less than five minutes to complete. We will use your answers to understand who you are and what you’re looking for so we can match you with a top-ranked therapist. Click here to take the quiz.