Getting Real About What to Expect in Couples Therapy

Most people have no idea what actually happens in couples therapy. Perhaps that is why so many couples wait so long to try it. Many likely think it’s like a boxing match and the therapist is the referee. I am sure in some cases, with some therapists that could be reality, but that’s not what you will get with me.

The first session.

Whether you come in for couples therapy, sex therapy, or individual therapy, your first session experience will be more or less the same. I review all that paperwork you signed, policies, and tell you a bit about my approach to therapy. I am not shy in sharing that I am an intern and have also been a therapy client for various reasons. But really, I want to hear your story. How you got here. What life has been life. What you actually want. How you met. Thiis is so I can learn more about you, where you want to go, and how I can help.

What comes after.

Every couple is different which means every treatment plan is different. Some couples need to work on communication first. Some nee to rebuild trust. Some need to reconnect physically and emotionally. Some need to figure out whether they even want to stay together. There is no one size fits all approach.

I lead with approaches that emphasize the present and future. Sure we visit the past but we do not live there. I also pull in traditional couples therapy approaches, Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy, because I believe in pulling in research backed approaches to provide you a holistic approach.

What is actually feels like.

Like a real conversation with someone who gets in and cares. I am pretty casual. No stuffy therapy vibes. I only pull out homework or worksheets if there is a purpose. I work with you to help move your relationship forward on your terms.

Why most wait too long.

• Shame about needing help.

• It’s vulnerable to talk about your relationship with a therapist.

• Fear that a therapist will take sides or judge you.

• Not knowing what to expect.

• Worrying it means the relationship is really broken.

• Not knowing if therapy will save the relationship.

None of these are good reasons to wait and all of them are completely understandable.

The couples who do the best in therapy are not the ones who wait until everything fell apart. They are the ones who showed up while they still had something to work with.

Immediate openings for couples counseling and sex therapy in Layton, UT and telehealth throughout Utah. Free 15-minute consultations now available.