When we fall in love, we believe we have found the perfect partner who will always make us feel safe and whole. As the initial romance subsides, most couples begin to experience some degree of unexpected conflict, sadness, and lost hope. We are perplexed as to where things got off track and why our partner appears to have ‘changed’. That magical feeling disappears, and we are left feeling disillusioned. Our dreams shattered, we begin to feel angry and betrayed.
We try to coerce our partners into giving us what we need. We criticize, we withdraw, we shame, we intimidate, we cry. We become locked in this painful power struggle until we break up, divorce, stay together in a ‘dead zone’ or continue to fight like cats and dogs. We long to regain the magic we once had.
Does this describe the relationship you are presently in? Or are you a couple preparing for marriage and want to be one of the 30% who make it? It could be that you are single and fed up with dead end relationships, yearning for the love of your life. Perhaps you are in a comfortable, committed relationship and want to heighten your level of intimacy and passion.
Whoever you are, Couples Coaching and Therapy can help you to understand the emotional dynamics playing out in your relationship and provide you with the insight and tools necessary to begin to re-establish connection with your partner.
Couples therapy is a form of psychotherapy designed to help partners improve their relationships. It provides a safe space for partners to discuss issues and work towards solutions. The goal is to create a harmonious partnership that benefits both individuals.
In therapy, couples learn effective communication techniques and problem-solving strategies. These skills are essential for addressing conflicts and fostering a deeper emotional connection. The process typically involves identifying issues, setting goals, and developing actionable plans.
Many therapists use structured approaches tailored to the needs of each couple. These methods are grounded in research, ensuring that they are both effective and applicable to real-life situations.
Couples therapy offers numerous benefits for those looking to enhance their relationship. Whether facing specific issues or seeking to prevent future conflicts, therapy can provide valuable insights and tools.
One significant advantage is the opportunity to gain a better understanding of your partner’s perspective. In therapy, individuals learn to express their thoughts and feelings in a non-confrontational manner. This understanding helps build empathy and respect between partners.
Therapy also provides a platform for addressing underlying issues that may not be apparent in everyday interactions. By uncovering these hidden challenges, couples can work towards resolving them and preventing future misunderstandings.
Another key benefit is the development of healthier communication patterns. Effective communication is the foundation of any successful relationship, and therapy helps couples refine these skills.
Imago coaching for couples is designed to help couples reduce and manage conflict, reconnect and re-romanticize the relationship, communicate, and generally find common ground. A primary goal of the Imago approach is to help partners stop blaming, criticizing, and negatively reacting to each other and instead create compassion and understanding that motivates us to behave differently.
In Imago therapy, couples are encouraged to explore their past experiences and identify any unmet needs or unresolved issues. By understanding where these patterns originated, partners gain insight into their behaviours and reactions in the present. This understanding allows them to break free from destructive cycles and create healthier patterns of communication and connection.
Imago Coaching and Therapy includes enhancing your awareness of yourself and your partner, understanding the brain science driving our relationship behaviours, developing practical day-to-day relationship skills, and establishing a joint vision for the future.
Adele and Katie specialize in Imago Therapy.
Contact Adele for more information – https://adelefox-psychology-calgary.com/meet-adele/
Contact Katie for more information – https://adelefox-psychology-calgary.com/associate/katie/
The Gottman Method, developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, is another evidence-based approach to couple’s therapy. This method focuses on building strong relationships through enhancing communication, increasing intimacy, and managing conflict.
Couples who engage in the Gottman Method work on improving their friendship and deepening their emotional connection. The approach includes structured exercises and techniques to foster positive interactions and reduce negative behaviours.
A key aspect of the Gottman Method is the “Sound Relationship House,” which outlines building blocks for a healthy relationship. The house includes elements such as trust, commitment, and shared meaning, all of which contribute to a lasting bond.
Shane and Diane specialize in Gottman Therapy.
Contact Shane for more information – https://adelefox-psychology-calgary.com/associate/shane/
Contact Diane for more information – https://adelefox-psychology-calgary.com/associate/diane/
is a type of couples therapy that focuses on the biological and psychological factors that contribute to relationship problems. It was developed by therapists Stan Tatkin and Tracey Boldemann-Tatkin, who believe that understanding the neurobiology of relationships is key to creating lasting change and deepening intimacy between partners.
is based on the premise that humans are wired for connection and attachment, and our relationships play a crucial role in our overall well-being. When these connections are disrupted or damaged, it can lead to distress and dysfunction within the relationship.
One of the core principles of PACT is the idea of secure functioning, which involves creating a safe and supportive environment for both partners. This includes establishing clear boundaries, setting agreed-upon rules for communication and conflict resolution and prioritizing the needs of the relationship above individual needs.
Stephanie specializes in PACT.
Contact Adele for more information – https://adelefox-psychology-calgary.com/associate/stephanie/
Deciding to seek couples therapy can be challenging, but recognizing the signs that you need help is an important first step. Common indicators include persistent conflict, lack of communication, and emotional distance.
Other signs that therapy may be beneficial include feelings of dissatisfaction, unresolved issues, and difficulty managing life transitions. If either partner feels unsupported or misunderstood, therapy can provide valuable guidance.
By addressing these issues early, couples can prevent further complications and work towards a healthier relationship.
Taking the first step towards couples therapy can be daunting, but preparation can ease the process. Before your initial session, discuss your goals and expectations with your partner.
This conversation helps ensure that both individuals are committed to the process.
Consider preparing a list of issues you’d like to address during therapy. Reflect on your strengths and challenges as a couple and think about the changes you’d like to see in your relationship.
Approach therapy with an open mind and a willingness to learn. Remember that change takes time, and progress may not be linear. Patience and persistence are essential for achieving lasting results.
Selecting the right therapist is crucial to the success of your couples therapy experience. Look for a professional with experience in couples therapy and a style that aligns with your needs.
When selecting a couple’s therapist, it is essential for both partners to feel comfortable with the therapist’s theoretical approach and personality style. Additionally, it is important to acknowledge that couples therapy typically requires sessions longer than one hour to achieve optimal effectiveness.
Having realistic expectations is vital for a successful therapy experience. Understand that change takes time and effort from both partners. Be prepared to invest in the process and remain committed to your goals.
Therapy is not a quick fix but rather an ongoing process of growth and development. It’s essential to maintain an open mind and be willing to adapt as needed.
Celebrate small victories along the way and acknowledge the progress you’ve made as a couple.
Once your therapy sessions conclude, it’s important to maintain the progress you’ve made. Continue practicing the skills and techniques learned during therapy to reinforce positive changes.
Regularly check in with your partner to discuss ongoing challenges and celebrate successes. Open communication and mutual support are key to sustaining a healthy relationship.
Consider scheduling periodic “tune-up” sessions with your therapist to address any new issues that may arise and keep your relationship on track.
In addition to therapy, building a supportive community can enhance your relationship. Surround yourself with friends and family who encourage and celebrate your partnership.
Engage in activities that promote connection and growth, such as workshops, retreats, and support groups. Sharing experiences with others can provide valuable insights and strengthen your bond.
A strong community can offer encouragement and guidance as you continue your relationship journey.
Couples therapy is a great way to strengthen and deepen your relationship. Methods like Imago Relationship Theory, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, the Gottman Method, and Developmental Couples Therapy (PACT) offer effective, long-term results.
Through improved communication, emotional connection, and personal growth, partners can create a harmonious and fulfilling relationship. With dedication and commitment, the benefits of therapy can extend far beyond the therapy room.
For those ready to take the next step, consider exploring therapy options and resources to support your relationship goals.
Contact Adele & Associates: https://adelefox-psychology-calgary.com/
Common signs include persistent conflicts, communication breakdown, emotional distance, feeling unsupported, or difficulty managing life transitions. Early intervention through couples therapy can prevent further complications and help rebuild a stronger connection.
Calgary offers several evidence-based approaches including Imago Relationship Therapy (IRT), the Gottman Method, and Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy (PACT). Each method provides unique strategies for improving communication, deepening emotional connections, and resolving conflicts.
While every relationship is unique, couples therapy requires commitment and time. Sessions are typically longer than one hour, and progress may not be linear. Many couples see improvements in communication and connection within the first few sessions, though lasting change requires consistent practice of learned techniques.
Yes, preventive couples therapy can be beneficial for couples at any stage, including pre-marriage. It helps partners develop strong communication skills, understand each other’s needs, and build a foundation for a lasting relationship.