Couple Therapy

As a dual trained clinical psychologist and systemic psychotherapist I work with both individuals and couples.

Couple Work

In my work with couples I am trained in three of the main therapeutic approaches in the field. I am a systemic psychotherapist but have also been trained in CBT for couples and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.

When I meet a couple my responsibility is to the relationship and both partners get the time, attention and understanding needed to strengthen and rebuild trust or to make the decisions that have felt too hard or too difficult.

If people are working to build their relationship they frequently describe getting a great short term boost from the relief that they are finally doing something and the profound long term benefit of a more solid, real and loving relationship.

Why People come for Couple Therapy

People describe coming to see me when they feel unhappy or frustrated over certain aspects of their relationship or when there are big decisions or changes to be made. No matter how hard they try things don't seem to alter and conversations end in frustration and paralysis.

The process of talking it over privately with someone impartial helps couple think about problems in different ways. They are able to make changes that once seemed so hard and find solutions where before there seemed to be none. This work is important, supportive and effective whatever your sexual orientation, background or marital status. Some people come alone; others come reluctantly but then begin to feel understood and able to change behaviours and feelings.

Difficulties people come to couple therapy to deal with:

Conflict and anger
Poor communication
Money and work
Commitment decisions
Beginning a family
Affairs
Life changes
Separation and divorce
Ilness

Difficulties with sex
Anxiety
Stress
Depression
Trust issues
Addictions
Fertility
Bereavement

When Couples are Separating

For some couples relationship therapy offers the support necessary to work through the process of separation and divorce. Separating couples want to ensure that they are able to provide solid and steady care arrangements for children. They also want help to rebuild their lives letting go of anger and resentment. Enabling this process is an essential part of couple work.