How does couples therapy work? Is couples therapy right for you? 

If you’ve been contemplating couples therapy, you’re not alone. Couples often encounter a variety of challenges in their relationship, ranging from simple misunderstandings to deeper-rooted issues. And it’s essential to remember that almost all couples experience conflict at some point in their relationship. Many couples have found that couples therapy can help you rebuild your connection, and there’s no shame in seeking guidance. 

But with any significant step, questions arise. Let’s address the concerns and queries that may be in your mind as you consider couples therapy. 

Your Top 10 Questions About Couples Therapy in Nashville Answered

 

• What if the counselor takes sides?

A legitimate concern. You’re seeking a safe, impartial space. Professional therapists aim for unbiased listening and offer solutions that serve the relationship, not one person over the other. They’re trained to avoid taking sides and to ensure both partners feel heard and understood.

• What if my partner doesn’t want to come to counseling?

This is a common scenario. One partner often recognizes the need for therapy before

the other. If this happens, consider starting with individual therapy first. Sometimes

one partner attending can initiate a ripple effect, and the other partner may become more open to the idea as they witness the benefits.

• What is the success rate of couples therapy? What if couples therapy makes us realize we want to break up?

A legitimate fear many couples have. The truth is, therapy is about clarity and understanding. Whether it’s realizing you’re meant to be together or understanding that it’s healthier apart, the main goal is finding what’s best for both partners.

• Is it weird to seek couples therapy if we aren’t married?

Absolutely not! Whether you call it marriage therapy, couples therapy, or relationship counseling, every couple needs something different. All relationships, regardless of marital status, can benefit from counseling when needed. Getting counseling earlier on in your relationship might be the best time for therapy. It provides a platform to address

your concerns, learn how to best communicate with each other, and make an informed decision about the future.

• I’m worried we’re just going to fight the whole time. Isn’t that a waste of your time?

Therapists are trained for this. They can transform these conflicts into constructive conversations. Fighting in therapy can provide valuable insights into the dynamics of your relationship.

• We don’t really have “problems” but still feel like we need some therapy.

There’s never a bad time to strengthen a relationship. Therapy isn’t just for solving problems; it can be about enhancing what’s already working.

• How long will couples therapy take?

It varies. Getting started with couples therapy is the first step. Depending on the issues and the therapy model, some couples might need only a few sessions, while others could benefit from longer term counseling. 

• Couples therapy is seriously hard work, isn’t it?

Yes, it can be. Like anything worth having, relationships require effort. But imagine

emerging from it and getting to rediscover the joy in your relationship. The potential

rewards far outweigh the challenges.

• Is psychotherapy the answer?

Psychotherapy for couples offers evidence-based techniques and strategies to address relational issues. For many, it’s the key to unlocking a healthier, happier relationship.

• What does couples therapy cost in Nashville?

Consider your budget and insurance coverage when selecting a therapist. Many therapists in Nashville accept various insurance plans, and some offer sliding scale fees based on income. The Happy Hour is a private pay studio and therefore, does not accept insurance, but does accept HSA and FSA. 

 

Is it possible to have the relationship of your dreams?

We often get caught in the ideal of a perfect relationship. But seeing past idealism and celebrating imperfection is what true intimacy is about. Instead of chasing a dream, couples therapy can help you appreciate the beauty in what you have. 

If you’re curious about couples therapy, book a session with The Happy Hour in Nashville to decide if it’s right for you. In the words of renowned relationship expert, Dr. John Gottman: “Couples wait an average of six years of being unhappy with their relationship before getting help. Don’t wait. If you do, the relationship can erode to the point where it’s unsalvageable.”

 

Choosing the right couples therapist in Nashville

Every relationship’s needs are unique. While couples therapy focuses on the relationship dynamics, individual therapy can help address personal issues affecting the relationship. At times, incorporating family therapy may also be beneficial, especially if broader family dynamics play a role. 

 

Begin Couples Counseling in Nashville

Taking the first step can be daunting, but remember, it’s a step towards healing and understanding. Whether you’re aiming to mend what’s broken or nurture what’s already there, a couples therapist can guide you. Remember, the end goal is to have a fulfilling relationship where both partners feel valued and understood. 

At The Happy Hour, we have a range of therapists who are all highly qualified to guide you and your partner through couples therapy, family therapy, or individual therapy; whether you’re dating, seeking premarital counseling, or have been married for decades. It’s never too late or too early to get started. The Happy Hour’s therapists are all fully licensed and have one of the following licenses: Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Professional Counselor (LPC), or Psychologist (PhD). 

Every relationship has its highs and lows. If you’re experiencing a dip, it doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re human. So, if you find yourself asking, “Is couples therapy right for us?”, consider the words of countless couples who’ve benefited: Couples therapy can be the beginning of your next chapter.

 

Sources:

• Johnson, Susan M. (2004). The Practice of Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy: Creating Connection.
• Gottman, John M., & Silver, Nan (1999). The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work.
• Doherty, William J., & Harris, Steven M. (2017). Helping Couples on the Brink of Divorce: Discernment Counseling for Troubled Relationships.

 

Dr. John Gottman, The Gottman Institute, The Importance of Couples Therapy, https://www.gottman.com/blog/the-importance-of-couples-therapy/