Relationship therapy, often referred to as marriage counseling or couples counseling, is a specialized form of therapy where partners in a romantic relationship work together with a trained therapist to address issues and improve their relationship. Sessions typically involve all partners, creating a safe and neutral space where they can openly discuss their concerns, feelings, and perspectives. I refer to this work as Relationship Therapy because I serve romantic partners in various configurations: couples, throuples, and polycules.

Typically, during the first month of sessions, we will have 1 session altogether where we focus on the origins of the relationship, 2 or more individual sessions where we discuss each individual’s background and attachment/ relationship history, and 1 session where we identify the areas of concern, develop your therapy goals, and come up with a plan to meet them. During this time, we will focus on getting to know each other and building safety in the therapeutic relationship.

Many people who come to me for relationship therapy have goals to improve communication, expand their understanding for their partner(s), improve their sex life, develop effective conflict resolution skills, and foster a more collaborative approach to problem-solving. I also help those in relationships cope with transition, like break ups/ separation/ divorce, getting engaged or married, moving in together, opening up their relationship or engaging in non-monogamy, and exploring a kink or BDSM lifestyle.

During sessions, partners often discuss recent points of tension or arguments, evaluate and process their relationship dynamics, address past hurts, practice safely communicating from a place of vulnerability, and building or rebuilding trust. Relationship therapy can also serve as preventative maintenance, equipping partners with tools to strengthen their relationship and navigate future challenges together more effectively. You don’t have to have a “bad” or problematic relationship to engage in Relationship Therapy.

The length of treatment can vary widely, depending on the nature and severity of the issues being addressed. Typically, I work with partners from 6 months to a year. Many partners find that once they’ve addressed their presenting issues, there is more work to do under the surface.

Generally, I see partners weekly until they have accomplished their therapy goals, after which we taper down to bi-weekly or monthly as they head towards therapy graduation.

Click here for more information about the types of therapy that may be used in our work.