Part of your marriage counseling may address your relationship with your spouse or partner. This brief and general description is meant to provide an overview of what to expect.
The first session or two is devoted to gathering your and your partner’s histories, both as individuals and as a couple. The therapist may want to talk to each of you privately, in addition to seeing you together. The following content areas are typically covered both during the evaluation phase and during the therapy proper:
Communication:
Conflict Resolution, Anger Management
Emotional Intimacy:
Expressions, Blocks, Avoidance
Sexual Adjustment:
Functioning, Comfort, Satisfaction
Commitment:
Honoring Agreements, Trust, Healing
Acceptance:
Giving, Expressing, Receiving
Play:
Having Fun Together
Approximately six to ten sessions are needed to address these areas. Goals typically include improving self-esteem/self-acceptance, moderating stress or depression related to a relationship pattern, and enhancing the current strengths of your relationship.
Cognitive behavioral therapy addresses both attitudes and behaviors. Often, “homework” suggestions are made to promote new experiences, to practice skills, and to identify any roadblocks to change. Therapists work within your values framework. Your feelings and reactions are discussed. Acceptance is promoted after capacity for change has been explored. Finally, ways to maintain desired changes and avoid relapse are provided.