No relationship is perfect. Every relationship, whether romantic or not, will face its own share of ups and downs. This is because when we commit to a relationship, we open ourselves up to possible conflicts and misunderstandings. These can arise from differences in personalities, values, or perspectives.
We understand that sometimes it feels difficult to bridge these gaps. Resolving issues together can be challenging, and relying on family and/or friends for support might not provide you with all the help you need.
Fortunately, with the growing awareness of the importance of mental health, more and more people are turning to couples therapy as a way to build healthier, more stable relationships. If you're considering couples therapy, it could be a worthwhile option to explore.
What Is Couples Therapy?
AJ Sunglao, a licensed psychologist and senior consultant, highlighted in an interview with Cosmopolitan Philippines that couples therapy is often misunderstood as being solely for those in exclusive, romantic relationships.
He emphasized that couples therapy "can be for anyone, even those who aren't in a romantic relationship," broadening its applicability beyond traditional notions.
"Friends can do couples therapy if they would want to resolve things with their relationship. New couples can benefit from it by learning about each other in a psychologically safe environment, with a neutral person in the couples therapist," AJ addressed.
"Even healthy and happy relationships can benefit from couples therapy, as it can help strengthen positive practices and resolve possible underlying issues that partners in a relationship may not be aware of," he said.
"We’re seeing more and more relationships that are also not "traditional," like polyamorous relationships; couples therapy can be helpful in those contexts as well," he added.
Contrary to the popular belief that couples therapy is solely for those with problematic relationships, AJ emphasized that the primary goal of couples therapy is not to *save a relationship*, but rather to "improve the quality and functioning of the relationship for the couple involved."
Much like individual therapy, couples therapy provides a structured environment where both partners can sit down with a therapist or psychologist to work through their concerns together. It encourages open communication, allowing each partner to express their feelings and thoughts on specific issues or concerns, while the other listens and responds with their own perspective, all within a safe and supportive setting.
"Depending on the issue of the couple, a couples therapist may recommend that each individual in the relationship have their own individual therapy as well with a separate therapist," AJ recounted.
"This is to allow them to work on their individual concerns, whether directly related to the relationship or not, to help foster growth and time for reflection while they’re undergoing couples therapy together," he explained.
AJ explained that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to couples therapy. Relationships are unique, and each comes with its own set of issues, concerns, and behavioral patterns. As a result, the therapy journey is also tailored to the specific needs of the couple. Based on these factors, the therapist can select appropriate assessment tools and strategies to guide the process effectively.
ALSO READ: The One Thing You Should Bring To Therapy To Help Make It Work
How Couples Therapy Can Help You (And Your Partner)
- Encourages healthy relationship dynamics: Couples therapy offers a safe space for partners to explore and understand themselves better, free from the fear of invalidation or possible gaslighting. This self-awareness helps them improve their relationship based on their unique personalities and love languages.
- Provides clarity to move forward: Couples therapy isn't always about saving a relationship—it can also help partners recognize when ending their relationship is the healthiest choice. Some people seek therapy not to reconcile, but to part ways on good terms, emerging healthier and happier than they were before.
- Creates a safe space for expression: A significant benefit of couples therapy is the creation of a judgment-free environment, where both partners can express their feelings about the relationship without fear of shame or criticism.
- Enhances self and partner awareness: This type of therapy fosters greater self-awareness and empathy towards one's partner, helping each individual better understand their own emotions and the feelings of their partner.
- Improves communication: One of the most important aspects of couples therapy is its ability to enhance communication between partners, helping them express their needs and concerns more effectively and fostering a deeper connection.
