5 Benefits of Relationship Therapy
Couples therapy, also known as relationship therapy, is a type of therapy that is designed to help couples improve their relationship. Couples therapy can be used to help couples resolve conflict, improve communication, and develop a much greater understanding of one another, improving intimacy. Couples therapy is not just for when there is a crisis! Lots of couples choose to come to counselling as a proactive way to manage their relationship. This allows couples to have intentional time to check in with one another. There are many benefits of relationship therapy, and it can be an effective way to improve the overall health of a relationship.
Improves Communication Skills
One of the main benefits of relationship therapy is that it can help improve your communication skills. We are born into family systems that act as our “blueprint” for what relationships look like, how love is shown or not shown, and what connection looks like for the good and ugly. This blueprint is how we naturally form relationships as an adult. Do we seek closeness and connection? Or are we afraid of intimacy and vulnerability? Does being in a relationship cause us anxiety? Couples counselling can act as a space to understand what some of your own barriers may be in relationships, how you attach to others, and how this can be more effectively improved.
Teaches Problem-Solving Skills
Another benefit of relationship therapy is that it teaches you valuable problem-solving skills. Many couples shy away from conflict, but in order to have a healthy relationship, you need to be able to work through problems together. In therapy, you’ll learn how to tackle problems head-on and find mutually satisfactory solutions. It is not about proving your partner wrong. How can you learn to really hear what your partner is trying to say using what we call the “third ear” to hear more than what your partner is just verbally saying, but the underlying message, feelings, and experience of theirs. We want you both to be heard, feel understood, and work together to tackle the external problem as a team.
Increases Intimacy
Intimacy is an important part of any relationship, but it’s not always easy to achieve and requires effort and attention. Intimacy is not just physical, it also includes emotional intimacy, intellectual, spiritual, and experiential. Counselling can be a space to explore and understand what helps create intimacy for you and the people you are with.
Helps You Understand Your Partner Better
Relationship therapy can also help you understand your partner better. Often times, we love our partners but we don’t truly understand them. In therapy, you’ll learn about your partner’s love language and what motivates them. This knowledge will help you grow closer to your partner and deepen your understanding of them.
Teaches You How to Fight Fairly
Fighting is a natural part of any relationship, but it’s important to fight fairly. If you and your partner are constantly arguing or if your arguments are ineffective, relationship therapy can help. In therapy, you’ll learn how to communicate during arguments and how to resolve conflict in a healthy way.
If you’re struggling in your relationship, don’t hesitate to seek help from a therapist. Relationship therapy can provide numerous benefits, including improved communication skills, increased intimacy, and decreased arguing. Don’t wait until it’s too late and you feel totally disconnected and ready to leave the relationship; seek help today and start enjoying a healthier, happier relationship tomorrow!
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