Transformative Power of Couple Counseling

April 11, 2024 pathwaysfcs No Comments

Couples counseling provides a strong chance for partners to improve their relationship and work through issues as a team. Both spouses are usually present during sessions, which gives the therapist important insights into the dynamics of the relationship. The significance of couples counseling is acknowledged by the American Psychological Association, which cites research indicating that 75% of couples undergo favorable transformations following therapy.

In order to address personal issues impacting the relationship, therapists may recommend individual sessions in addition to couples counseling. In this kind of psychotherapy, a certified therapist provides direction and encouragement to couples experiencing marital problems. Couples can improve their relationship, address communication concerns, and find solutions by working with a competent therapist. Licensed therapists help couples create a strong foundation for their relationship and a long-lasting commitment based on trust and understanding through regular sessions and continuous support. Couples counseling gives partners the skills they need to overcome obstacles and maintain a happy relationship by exploring the underlying reasons of problems and offering strategies for good communication. It acts as a transforming environment where partners can deepen their closeness, explore their feelings, and work toward shared objectives. ItCouples counseling affects how couples interact and relate to each other in their everyday lives in addition to the therapeutic setting. Every couples session at Pathways Family & Community Services provides a safe and secure environment for partners to improve communication, resolve disputes, and meet challenges more skillfully.

Key Highlights

Couple counseling is an effective way to improve relationship satisfaction and strengthen the bond between partners.
It focuses on developing communication skills and conflict resolution skills, which are essential for a healthy relationship.
Couple counseling also addresses mental health issues that may be impacting the relationship, helping partners navigate challenges and improve emotional well-being.
Seeking counseling together can provide a safe space for couples to address relationship issues and work towards a healthier and happier partnership.
The benefits of couple counseling extend beyond the therapy sessions, as couples learn valuable skills that can be applied to all areas of their lives.
By addressing common challenges and learning techniques used in couple counseling, partners can overcome obstacles and build a strong foundation for their relationship.

Introduction

Relationships require effort and commitment to thrive. While couples may experience moments of joy and connection, they may also face challenges that can put strain on their relationship. It is during these challenging times that couple counseling can play a crucial role in strengthening the bond between partners.

Couple counseling, also known as couples therapy or relationship counseling, is a form of therapy that focuses on helping couples improve their relationship satisfaction and overcome obstacles. It provides a safe and supportive environment where couples can address their concerns, learn effective communication skills, and work towards resolving conflicts.

In this blog, we will explore the importance of couple counseling and how it can benefit couples in various aspects of their relationship. We will delve into what couple counseling is, how it works, and the benefits of seeking counseling together. We will also discuss common challenges that couples face and how couple counseling can help navigate these issues. Additionally, we will explore different techniques used in couple counseling and provide guidance on preparing for your first counseling session. Finally, we will address the stigma around couple counseling and answer frequently asked questions.

By the end of this blog, you will have a deeper understanding of the importance of couple counseling and how it can strengthen your bond with your partner. You will also be equipped with valuable insights and strategies to enhance your communication skills, resolve conflicts effectively, and build a healthy and fulfilling relationship.

Understanding the Evolution of Couples Counseling

Couple therapy has become a well-known intervention technique with a solid body of research behind it. It is acknowledged as a potent instrument for lowering conflict in relationships and raising contentment. Numerous interventions have been effective in addressing the well-being of individuals and relationships when utilized either alone or in conjunction with other forms.

Key developments in the area include:

The use of Telehealth
The development of specialized treatments for diverse populations and
The integration of couples therapy with relationship education

This essay provides a critical evaluation of modern couples therapy together with an understanding of the circumstances that have led to its widespread use. Extensive research has demonstrated the prevalence of relationship distress; numbers have been cited (Kreider & Ellis, 2011; Organization of Economic Cooperation and Development, 2011; Doherty et al., 2021). These statistics mention divorce rates both domestically and internationally.

For additional information visit: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10087549/

Additional Considerations: Expertise, Support Systems, and Specialized Approaches

Clinical psychologists has specialized expertise in therapy and diagnostics, making them highly capable of assisting couples in managing complex relationship dynamics and addressing any underlying mental health concerns.

The treatment of couples involves participating in discussions with a qualified expert to tackle particular relationship concerns and accomplish mutually agreed objectives. This therapy has the potential to bring about significant changes in dealing with communication breakdowns, resolving disputes, and strengthening intimacy. Additionally, it serves as an essential instrument for couples grappling with substance misuse problems, offering a secure environment for candid dialogue and personalized treatment alternatives.

Imago relationship therapy, which was created in 1980, is a unique method that emphasizes the link between adult relationships and previous experiences. It is a frequently utilized approach, along with the Gottman Method and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).

Couple counseling services are crucial for couples facing relationship troubles or disagreements. These programs can assist couples in navigating difficulties, enhancing communication, reducing stress, and fortifying their connection. Engaging in couples therapy with a licensed professional, such as a marriage and family therapist (MFT) or a licensed professional counselor (LPC), can offer couples the necessary assistance and direction to effectively address their concerns. It is crucial for couples to select a therapist who is compatible with them and capable of assisting them in attaining their relationship objectives.

Individuals experiencing challenges in their relationships can seek valuable assistance from qualified experts such as marriage and family therapists (MFTs) or licensed professional counselors (LPCs). Additional competent practitioners including psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical social workers, and occasionally, religious leaders who have received training in counseling. These experts provide advice and assistance to assist couples in overcoming difficulties and developing more positive relationships. Selecting an appropriate therapist is equally crucial to acknowledging the need for assistance. Couples should seek a practitioner who not only makes them feel at ease but also shares the same goals.

Understanding Couples Counseling

Couple counseling, also known as couples therapy or relationship counseling, is a form of therapy specifically designed to help couples address and resolve relationship issues. It involves sessions with a trained professional, known as a couples therapist or family therapist, who specializes in working with couples. Engaging in couple counseling can be a good idea for many couples that are grappling with difficulties in their relationship. An adept and seasoned therapist can offer counsel and assistance to aid couples in maneuvering through challenges and enhancing their communication.

The main objective of couple counseling is to improve the overall satisfaction and well-being of the relationship. It provides a safe and confidential space for couples to explore their concerns, express their emotions, and work towards finding solutions. The couples therapist helps facilitate open and honest communication, provides guidance and support, and assists couples in developing healthier patterns of interaction.

What is Couple Counseling?

Couple counseling, often known as couples therapy, is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on helping couples resolve conflicts and improve their relationship.

It is often known as couples therapy or marriage counseling, is a therapeutic approach that specifically targets relationship difficulties and aims to enhance the overall quality of a partnership. The process involves attending sessions with a proficient practitioner, sometimes referred to as a couples therapist, who possesses expertise in working specifically with couples.

The couples therapist offers a secure and impartial setting for couples to examine and tackle their difficulties. They assist couples in recognizing patterns of behavior, communication styles, and underlying issues that could be causing relationship challenges. The therapist facilitates the development of effective communication skills, conflict resolution, and emotional connection enhancement for couples.

Couple counseling offers assistance to couples in navigating many relationship challenges, including but not limited to communication difficulties, trust concerns, instances of infidelity, sexual complications, disagreements related to parenting, and financial strain. This counseling service offers a conducive environment for couples to collaboratively address issues and cultivate a stronger and more satisfying relationship.

What is Couples Counseling Therapy?

Couple counseling therapy typically involves regular therapy sessions with a licensed couples therapist. The number and frequency of sessions may vary depending on the specific needs and goals of the couple. The therapist may use different approaches and techniques based on the couple’s unique circumstances.

During therapy sessions, the couples therapist facilitates open and honest communication between partners. They help couples identify and address the underlying issues that contribute to relationship challenges. The therapist may guide the couple through exercises and activities designed to improve communication, enhance emotional connections, and develop problem-solving skills.

Different types of therapy approaches may be used in couple counseling, including the Gottman method, emotionally focused therapy (EFT), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The therapist tailors the therapy approach to meet the specific needs of the couple and their relationship dynamics.

The Benefits of Relationship Therapy for Couples

Seeking counseling together as a couple can have numerous benefits for the relationship. It provides an opportunity for partners to develop better communication skills, understand each other’s emotional responses, and address relationship challenges in a supportive and constructive manner.

By participating in couple counseling, partners can learn effective strategies for expressing their needs and concerns, listening attentively to each other, and resolving conflicts in a healthy and productive way. The therapy process also allows couples to gain a deeper understanding of each other’s perspectives, emotions, and needs, fostering empathy and strengthening the emotional bond between partners.

Enhancing Communication Skills

Effective communication is a crucial component of a healthy and satisfying relationship. Couple counseling can help partners enhance their communication skills and develop a deeper understanding of each other. Through therapy, couples can learn techniques to improve their communication and create a strong foundation for a healthy relationship. Some strategies that can enhance communication skills in couples include:

Active listening: Couples learn to listen attentively to each other, without interruption or judgment. They practice reflecting back what they heard to ensure understanding.
Assertive expression: Couples learn to express their thoughts and feelings assertively, using “I” statements to convey their needs and concerns without blaming or criticizing.
Non-verbal cues: Couples learn to pay attention to non-verbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, to better understand each other’s emotions and needs.
Avoiding defensiveness: Couples learn to respond to each other’s concerns with empathy and understanding, rather than becoming defensive or dismissive.
Setting boundaries: Couples learn to communicate their boundaries and respect each other’s boundaries, creating a safe and respectful space for open communication.

By developing these communication skills, couples can foster a deeper connection, resolve conflicts more effectively, and build a stronger and more satisfying relationship.

Resolving Conflicts Effectively

Conflicts are a natural part of any relationship, but how couples handle them can significantly impact the health and longevity of the partnership. Couple counseling can help partners develop effective conflict resolution skills and create a safe space for addressing and resolving conflicts. Some strategies that can improve conflict resolution in couples include:

Validation: Couples learn to validate each other’s emotions and experiences, acknowledging their feelings and showing empathy.
Problem-solving: Couples learn problem-solving techniques, such as brainstorming and compromising, to find mutually satisfactory solutions to conflicts.
Behavioral couples therapy: This approach focuses on changing behaviors that contribute to conflicts and promoting positive behaviors that enhance the relationship.
Creating a safe space: Couples learn to create a safe and non-judgmental environment for discussing conflicts, allowing each partner to express their concerns openly.

By mastering these conflict resolution skills, couples can effectively navigate conflicts, strengthen their bond, and create a healthier and more harmonious relationship.

Strengthening Emotional Bonds

Emotional bonds play a significant role in the health and longevity of a relationship. Couple counseling can help partners strengthen their emotional connection and enhance the overall satisfaction of their relationship. Some strategies that can strengthen emotional bonds in couples include:

Emotional validation: Couples learn to validate each other’s emotions and provide emotional support during challenging times.
Building intimacy: Couples explore ways to deepen their emotional and physical intimacy, fostering a sense of closeness and connection.
Expressing love and appreciation: Couples learn to express love and appreciation for each other through words, gestures, and acts of kindness.
Developing shared rituals: Couples create shared rituals, such as date nights or daily check-ins, to foster a sense of togetherness and strengthen the emotional bond.
Cultivating gratitude: Couples practice gratitude by acknowledging and appreciating each other’s positive qualities and actions.

By nurturing these emotional bonds, couples can create a solid foundation of love, trust, and emotional well-being, leading to a more satisfying and fulfilling relationship.

Common Challenges Couples Face

Every relationship faces its own unique set of challenges. Couple counseling can provide support and guidance for couples facing common challenges that can strain the relationship. Some of the common challenges couples face include:

Financial stress: Couples may experience stress and conflict related to financial issues, such as budgeting, debt, or differing financial goals.
Infidelity: Trust issues and the aftermath of infidelity can severely impact a relationship. Couple counseling can help couples navigate the healing process and rebuild trust.
Work-life balance: Balancing work and personal life can be challenging for many couples, leading to stress and conflicts. Couple counseling can provide strategies to manage work-life balance and strengthen the relationship.

By addressing these challenges through couple counseling, partners can work towards resolving conflicts, finding common ground, and building a stronger partnership.

Navigating Financial Stress

Financial stress is a common challenge that many couples face, and it can have a significant impact on the relationship. Couple counseling can help couples navigate financial stress and develop strategies to address financial challenges. Some ways couple counseling can assist couples in navigating financial stress include:

Identifying financial values and priorities: Couples can work with their therapist to understand their individual and shared financial values and priorities. This can help them create a financial plan that aligns with their goals and reduces stress.
Improving communication about money: Couple counseling can provide a safe space for couples to discuss money-related concerns and develop effective communication strategies around finances.
Developing financial management skills: Couples can learn practical skills, such as budgeting, saving, and debt management, to better handle financial stress and improve their financial well-being.

By addressing financial stress through couple counseling, partners can strengthen their financial partnership, reduce conflict around money, and improve overall relationship satisfaction.

Dealing with Infidelity

Infidelity can be devastating to a relationship, causing trust issues and emotional pain. Couple counseling can provide a supportive environment for couples to navigate the healing process and rebuild trust. Some ways couple counseling can help couples deal with infidelity include:

Addressing the underlying issues: The couples therapist can help the couple explore the underlying issues that contributed to the infidelity and work towards resolving them.
Rebuilding trust: Couples counseling can provide tools and strategies to rebuild trust, such as open communication, transparency, and forgiveness.
Healing emotional wounds: The therapist can assist the couple in processing the emotions and pain associated with the infidelity, helping them heal and move forward.

By seeking couple counseling after infidelity, partners can work towards healing the relationship, rebuilding trust, and creating a stronger foundation for the future.

Managing Work-Life Balance

Achieving a healthy work-life balance can be a challenge for many couples, leading to stress and strain on the relationship. Couple counseling can provide tools and strategies to help couples manage their work-life balance effectively. Some ways couple counseling can assist in managing work-life balance include:

Identifying priorities: Couples can work with their therapist to identify their individual and shared priorities, helping them create a schedule that aligns with their values and reduces stress.
Setting boundaries: The therapist can help couples set healthy boundaries between work and personal life, allowing for quality time together and individual self-care.
Stress management techniques: Couple counseling can provide stress management techniques, such as relaxation exercises and mindfulness practices, to help partners cope with work-related stress and promote overall well-being.

By addressing work-life balance through couple counseling, partners can create a more harmonious and fulfilling relationship, where both individuals’ needs are met.

Techniques Used in Couple Counseling

Couple counseling utilizes various therapeutic techniques to address relationship issues and promote positive change. These techniques are tailored to meet the unique needs of each couple and can help couples develop new skills and insights. Some commonly used techniques in couple counseling include:

Gottman method: This approach focuses on enhancing friendship, managing conflicts, and creating shared meaning in the relationship.
Emotionally focused therapy (EFT): EFT aims to help couples identify and change negative patterns of interaction and foster secure emotional bonds.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT helps couples identify and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors that contribute to relationship difficulties.

By incorporating these techniques into couple counseling, therapists can help couples develop effective strategies for improving their relationship and achieving their goals.

The Gottman Method Explained

The Gottman method is an evidence-based approach to couple counseling developed by Dr. John Gottman and Dr. Julie Gottman. It focuses on enhancing friendship, managing conflicts, and creating shared meaning in the relationship. The Gottman method involves the following key principles:

Building love maps: Couples create a deeper understanding of each other’s world, including their hopes, dreams, and values.
Nurturing fondness and admiration: Couples learn to express appreciation and admiration for each other, fostering a positive perspective on the relationship.
Turning toward each other: Couples develop the habit of responding to each other’s bids for connection, enhancing emotional responsiveness and intimacy.
Managing conflicts: Couples learn effective strategies for resolving conflicts, such as compromise, negotiation, and respectful communication.
Creating shared meaning: Couples establish goals and values that they can work towards together, creating a sense of purpose and fulfillment in the relationship.

The Gottman method is widely used by relationship therapists and has been shown to be effective in helping couples strengthen their relationship and achieve long-lasting satisfaction.

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)

Emotionally focused therapy (EFT) is an approach to couple counseling that focuses on creating secure emotional bonds between partners. Developed by Dr. Sue Johnson, EFT is based on the understanding that emotional connection is the foundation of a healthy and fulfilling relationship. EFT involves the following key principles:

Identification of attachment styles: Couples explore their attachment styles and learn how these styles impact their interactions and emotional connection.
Validation of emotions: Couples learn to validate and express their emotions, creating a safe space for vulnerability and emotional connection.
Restructuring negative patterns: Couples identify negative patterns of interaction and work towards replacing them with healthier and more constructive ways of relating.
Creation of new bonding experiences: Couples engage in activities and exercises that foster emotional connection and build trust and intimacy.

EFT has been found to be effective in helping couples create stronger emotional bonds, improve communication, and navigate relationship challenges.

Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a Couples Counsellor

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a goal-oriented and practical approach to couple counseling that focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. CBT for couples involves the following key principles:

Identifying negative thought patterns: Couples learn to identify negative thought patterns that contribute to relationship difficulties, such as negative attributions or unrealistic expectations.
Developing alternative perspectives: Couples work towards developing more positive and realistic perspectives, fostering a healthier outlook on the relationship.
Changing behavior patterns: Couples identify and change unhelpful behaviors that contribute to relationship conflicts, learning more effective ways of relating to each other.
Enhancing problem-solving skills: Couples develop problem-solving skills to address relationship challenges and find solutions that are mutually satisfactory.

CBT for couples can help partners gain insight into their thoughts and behaviors, improve communication, and develop more positive and adaptive ways of relating to each other.

Preparing for Your First Counseling Session

Preparing for your first counseling session as a couple can help set the stage for a productive and successful therapy journey. Here are some tips for preparing for your first counseling session:

Set clear expectations: Discuss with your partner what you hope to achieve through couple counseling and what your goals are for the therapy process.
Choose a counselor together: Research and discuss different couples therapists, and choose a counselor who you both feel comfortable and confident working with.
Be open and honest: During your first session, be open and honest with the therapist about your concerns, challenges, and goals for the therapy process.

By preparing for your first counseling session, you can create a solid foundation for the therapy journey and ensure that you make the most of your couple counseling experience.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Setting realistic expectations for couple counseling is essential for a successful therapy experience. Here are some factors to consider when setting expectations for your therapy journey:

Time commitment: Couple counseling is not a quick fix and requires a commitment of time and effort. Understand that it may take several sessions to see significant changes and improvements in your relationship.
Progress assessment: Understand that progress in couple counseling is subjective and varies from couple to couple. Focus on the small steps and improvements along the way rather than expecting immediate and dramatic changes.
Active participation: Couple counseling is most effective when both partners actively participate and are willing to make changes. Be prepared to put in the work and practice the skills learned in therapy outside of the therapy sessions.

By setting realistic expectations for your couple counseling journey, you can approach therapy with a positive mindset and increase the likelihood of achieving your desired outcomes.

How to Choose the Right Counselor

Choosing the right couples therapist is crucial for a successful therapy experience. Here are some factors to consider when selecting a counselor:

Qualifications and expertise: Look for a licensed therapist with specialized training and experience in couples therapy. Consider their qualifications, certifications, and any additional training they have received.
Approach and style: Research different therapy approaches and find a counselor whose approach aligns with your values and goals for therapy. Consider whether you prefer a more directive or collaborative therapy style.
Personal fit: Trust your instincts and choose a counselor with whom both you and your partner feel comfortable and supported. A positive and trusting therapeutic relationship is essential for effective therapy.

By carefully considering these factors and taking the time to research and choose the right couples therapist, you can increase the likelihood of a successful and beneficial therapy experience.

Overcoming Stigma Around Couple Counseling

When seeking couple counseling, it is essential to approach it with an open mind. This open-mindedness allows for vulnerability and honest communication, which are crucial for building a secure connection with your partner. Keeping an open mind during counseling sessions can help break down barriers and lead to a deeper understanding of each other’s perspectives and feelings. Embracing this open-minded approach can pave the way for meaningful progress in your relationship.

Despite the numerous benefits of couple counseling, there can still be a stigma surrounding seeking help for relationship issues. Overcoming this stigma is essential for couples to access the support they need. Here are some ways to address and overcome the stigma around couple counseling:

Educate yourself and others: Learn about the effectiveness of couple counseling and share this information with others. Help debunk myths and misconceptions surrounding therapy.
Embrace cultural diversity: Recognize and respect cultural differences in seeking help and address any cultural barriers that may exist.
Normalize seeking help: By openly discussing and normalizing the idea of seeking help for relationship issues, we can reduce the stigma and encourage others to seek support when needed.

By working to overcome the stigma around couple counseling, we can ensure that couples feel empowered to seek the help they need and strengthen their relationships.

Couple counseling can be more effective when the cultural background of both partners is considered. It’s crucial to choose a therapist who understands and respects the cultural nuances that may impact the relationship dynamics. Discussing cultural background preferences with your partner before starting therapy can help create a safe and inclusive space for both individuals to work through their issues and strengthen their bond.

Seeking couple counseling can be a delicate process, and it’s essential to consider each partner’s cultural background and preferences when selecting a therapist. Understanding cultural nuances and background can play a crucial role in effective communication and resolution of conflicts within the relationship. It’s important for couples to feel comfortable and understood by their therapist, so discussing cultural background and preferences beforehand can help ensure a positive counseling experience.

Addressing Common Myths and Misconceptions as a Couple Counselor

There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding couple counseling that contribute to the stigma around seeking help for relationship issues. Addressing these myths is essential for reducing stigma and promoting informed decisions about therapy. Some common myths and misconceptions about couple counseling include:

Therapy is only for couples on the brink of divorce: Couple counseling can benefit couples at any stage of their relationship, from dating to married. It is a way to enhance communication, address challenges, and strengthen the bond between partners.
Therapy is a sign of weakness: Seeking help for relationship issues is a sign of strength and a commitment to the well-being of the relationship. It takes courage and vulnerability to seek support and work towards positive change.
Therapy is only for “crazy” or “broken” couples: Therapy is for anyone who wants to improve their relationship and address challenges. It is a proactive and preventative approach to maintaining a healthy and fulfilling partnership.

By addressing these myths and misconceptions, we can reduce the stigma around couple counseling and encourage couples to make informed decisions about seeking help for their relationship.

The Importance of Mental Health in Relationships

Mental health plays a crucial role in the quality and satisfaction of a relationship. When partners are mentally and emotionally well, they are better able to communicate, resolve conflicts, and create a strong emotional bond. Here are some reasons why mental health is important in relationships:

Emotional well-being: Partners who prioritize their mental health can better manage their emotions, respond to challenges effectively, and support each other’s emotional needs.
Relationship satisfaction: When partners prioritize their mental health, they are more likely to experience higher levels of relationship satisfaction and overall happiness.
Communication and conflict resolution: Good mental health allows partners to communicate more effectively, express their needs and concerns, and resolve conflicts in a healthy and constructive manner.

By prioritizing mental health in the relationship, partners can create a supportive and nurturing environment that fosters emotional well-being and strengthens the bond between them.

Conclusion

In conclusion, couple counseling can strengthen relationships by fostering better communication, resolving conflicts, and deepening emotional bonds. By addressing common challenges such as financial stress and infidelity, couples can navigate tough times together. Techniques like the Gottman Method and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy offer effective tools for growth.

Overcoming stigma and preparing for counseling are vital steps towards a successful journey. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. If you’re ready to enhance your relationship, don’t hesitate to get in touch and embark on this transformative experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Couples Counseling Only for Married Couples?

No, couple counseling is not only for married couples. It is beneficial for any couple, whether they are dating, engaged, or in a committed relationship. Couple counseling can help partners address relationship challenges and strengthen their bond, regardless of their marital status.

How Long Does Couples Relationship Therapy Typically Last?

The duration of couple counseling can vary depending on the specific needs and goals of the couple. On average, couples attend therapy sessions once a week for several months. The length of therapy can range from a few months to a year or longer, depending on the complexity of the issues and the progress made in therapy.

Can Couple Counseling Help if Only One Partner is Willing?

While it is ideal for both partners to be willing to participate in couple counseling, individual therapy can still be beneficial if only one partner is willing. Individual therapy can provide support, guidance, and tools for the willing partner to improve the relationship dynamics and promote relationship improvement. However, the effectiveness of couple counseling may be limited without both partners’ active participation and willingness to make changes.

Links for Further Study:

The Effect of a Brief Hug on Negatively Perceived Interpersonal Touch Following Conflict (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6169869/): This study investigates how hugs can lessen negative emotions experienced after conflicts in relationships.
Phubbing behaviors: a systematic review (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34041393/): This article provides a literature review summarizing existing research on phubbing (the act of snubbing someone by focusing on your phone).
The association of phubbing with the length and quality of romantic relationships: A dyadic longitudinal study (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34041393/): This study explores the connections between phubbing behaviors and the length and satisfaction within romantic relationships.
Web-Based OurRelationship Program for Distressed Couples: Results From a Randomized Controlled Trial (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4804631/): This article explores the results of a randomized controlled trial focused on a web-based therapy program for couples experiencing difficulties.
The Impact of Communication Skills Training on Marital Burnout Among Married Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8176605/): This research examines how communication skills training can influence marital burnout for married women.
Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT-C) (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30605013/): This article offers insights into the use and effectiveness of Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT-C).
Annual Review of Clinical Psychology – Interventions for Couples (https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-071519-020546): Explores interventions for couples, including behavioral and emotion-focused approaches.
Two evidence-based therapies for couples (https://doi.org/10.1111/jmft.12336): This article compares behavioral couple therapy (BCT) and emotionally focused couple therapy (EFCT).
Integrative behavioral couple therapy: An acceptance-based approach (https://doi.org/10.1177/1066480719844035): Discusses integrative behavioral couple therapy, highlighting its benefits and potential drawbacks.
The Effects of Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy for Couples With Continuous Versus Discrete Negative Marital Events. (Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0146167211407521) This article explores how Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) can help couples navigate different types of negative experiences within their relationship.
The Effects of Behavioral Couples Therapy and Emotionally Focused Therapy for Distressed Couples: A Meta-Analysis” (Journal of Marital and Family Therapy, https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1066480716678621) This meta-analysis compares the effectiveness of Behavioral Couples Therapy (BCT) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) for improving relationships.

Transformative Power of Couple Counseling