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Does Couples Therapy Work?

by | Sep 27, 2023 | Couples & Relationships

interracial couple talking with a therapist
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This is a loaded question, with several different possible responses. 
  • First, it depends if each member in the couple is committed to the relationship and wants it to work. 
  • Then, an openness to change is needed. Rarely do things get better if the couple is not dedicated to genuinely working to improve the relationship.
  • That said, couples counseling can work and be extremely beneficial if you let your guard down, trust the process, and put in the effort beyond our sessions.

Is Couples Therapy or Counseling Worth it?

Defining what a working relationship looks like is where things get more interesting! As you likely know, different things work for different people/couples. What is less known is that, “69% of relationship differences are perpetual and unresolvable” (J.&J. Gottman). This is based on John and Julie Gottman’s studies of 40,000 couples that were about to begin couples therapy. Additionally, through their research they found that couples that behaved with criticism, contempt, defensiveness or stonewalling toward each other were likely to get divorced. Thus, from this perspective the goal for couples is to learn to cultivate and express respect and kindness, amidst the differences. Furthermore, couple therapy has been shown to improve marital success and happiness in approximately two-thirds of unselected distressed couples (Gurman, 2011:Lebow, Chambers, Christensen, & Johnson, 2012) with effectiveness rates that are “vastly superior to control groups not receiving treatment” (LeBow et al. 2012, p.145). So depending on where you and your partner stand, and given your unique circumstances, we believe at Marwil & Associates, trying couples counseling is worth the time and effort to help save your relationship or marriage.

How Does Couples Therapy or Counseling Work?

Understanding the root of the feelings that get activated (the triggers and history related to these) between the partners and helping each to more deeply understand the other, significantly improves couple relationships. If your relationship needs help, we use an effective, eclectic approach to help couples improve their relationship.  Not all relationships are the same, which is why we take the time to listen to each of your concerns and troubles, assess the best method to approach your unique situation and will develop a custom plan to help improve communication. As we continue through your healing journey, we will mix in different exercises that you can take home with you. Healing can start with us, but we want to give you the tools so you can improve your relationship beyond our sessions!

Finding a Couples Therapist in Chicago

Finding a couples therapist or counselor can become overwhelming, but our team of compassionate and experienced professionals will ensure you have a positive experience by offering a safe and open space. If you are actively looking for a couples therapist or counselor, we currently have appointments available! If you would like to discuss further or get more information on the specific approach and methods we utilize, feel free to send a message with the form below or call us directly at 872-228-6814. We look forward to partnering with you to build a stronger partnership!
More Info on Therapy Services for Couples
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