Couples Therapy
The journey of intimacy can be the most enriching adventure we take, the rewards being, growth, stability, and a profound connection to another. Yet, it can also present a variety of obstacles. Recognising and addressing these challenges is an essential part of maintaining a healthy and supportive partnership.
Some reasons why conflict occurs
Triggers – when a partner triggers us it’s often because unconsciously they remind us of someone in our past, and we (or our nervous system) respond in ways that are more appropriate to the past than the present. Disentangling what belongs to the past and present can bring major shifts in relationship dynamics. These can include proximity issues, attachment styles, mother/father projections, parent/child transference etc.
Attachment styles Attachment patterns play a significant role in how individuals connect within relationships, influencing communication, intimacy, and conflict resolution.
Constant destructive arguing
Infidelity – when one person feels betrayed or deceived by the other, it can feel like there’s no going back – yet infidelity is not always a simple case of right and wrong; it can also be a catalyst for change. Couples therapy can help you decipher what this change needs to be.
Feeling stuck with a desire to end amicably
Lack of communication
Boudaries
Money issues
Control/power dynamics
Loss of trust
Relationship difficulties tend to be hidden behind closed doors, leaving couples feeling isolated with the struggles they face. Maybe you’ve tried talking, but it keeps leading to fights, distancing, or going around in circles.
Conflict
Sexual issues
Resolution
Sexual issues – Thankfully we have become a culture where we can talk more openly about sex, but we can still carry shame around certain areas such as, erectile dysfunction – Vaginismus – lack of desire – one person wants more sex than the other - Intimacy but no sex - Sex but no intimacy – sexual/body shame – porn addiction - Being able to discuss sexual needs, desires, boundaries, consent, power dynamic, are often tricky areas to navigate, but necessary to persevere for a healthy sexual connection.
When to seek professional support in your relationship
It is perfectly normal for relationships to go through ups and downs; disagreements and disputes are simply parts of sharing a life. However, when conflict becomes constant, tension lingers, or communication feels strained and difficult, it may be time to consider reaching out for support.
The role of a couples therapist
Couples therapy provides a safe and constructive environment where underlying issues can be explored and addressed. This process encourages open dialogue, emotional understanding, and paves the way for healthier and more meaningful connections between partners.
Couples therapy can help with
Improving communication – it’s easy to get stuck in feeling you’re under attack and that the best defence is to attack back – when this happens, what’s ofte needed is a space where each person can allow vulnerability
Deepening emotional connection
Exploring sex – intimacy, play, power dynamics
Developing trust
How I work as a couples therapist
When to seek professional support in your relationship
It is perfectly normal for relationships to go through ups and downs; disagreements and disputes are simply parts of sharing a life. However, when conflict becomes constant, tension lingers, or communication feels strained and difficult, it may be time to consider reaching out for support.
The role of a couples therapist
Couples therapy provides a safe and constructive environment where underlying issues can be explored and addressed. This process encourages open dialogue, emotional understanding, and paves the way for healthier and more meaningful connections between partners.
Couples therapy can help with
Improving communication – it’s easy to get stuck in feeling you’re under attack and that the best defence is to attack back – when this happens, what’s ofte needed is a space where each person can allow vulnerability
Deepening emotional connection
Exploring sex – intimacy, play, power dynamics
Sexual intimacy
Developing trust - boundaries, consent, communication
How I work
As a body psychotherapist I recognise that words alone don’t always have the desired effect.
Ending a relationship
Help with ending – closure – moving forward
Why couples therapy?
Therapist as witness
The struggles of relationships often stay behind closed doors or each person may tell a friend or relative their version of why things aren’t working. In couples therapy offers a space to be witnessed in your relationship. The therapist holds the space for you to explore the dynamic that goes on between you.
Therapist as support
Couples therapy can help with:
Communication