Service Description

What Is Relationship Counseling?

Relationship counseling, also known as couples counseling or couples therapy, is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on helping people improve their romantic relationships. By working with a therapist, couples can explore issues in their relationship, work on their communication, improve interactions, and resolve conflicts.1

While relationship counseling is often used to address problems, it can be helpful at any stage of a relationship. People in healthy, happy relationships can still benefit from counseling that strengthens communication and connection.

When to Seek Relationship Counseling

Many people believe that you should only seek relationship counseling when separation or divorce is looming. But that is often too little, too late. Relationship therapy should begin as soon as the problems get in the way of your daily life. Here are some signs that you might benefit from a consultation:2

Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health.

• You have trouble expressing your feelings to one another
• You have one or more unsolvable disagreement
• There is withdrawal, criticism, or contempt in your interactions
• A stressful event has shaken your daily life
• You have trouble making decisions together

Remember that there are no wrong reasons to seek relationship counseling. Some couples start therapy as soon as they are married, even without obvious problems, to build a strong foundation and prevent serious problems from developing. Counselors can help you become better communicators, develop strong relationship skills, and improve your family’s happiness. 

Relationship problems are not limited to romantic ones, even though it's the most popular reason people consult for relationship therapy.

Online Relationship Counseling

If traditional face-to-face therapy doesn't work for you and your partner, online counseling can be a great option. There are a number of reasons why you might want to try online therapy:

• You and your partner live in different locations. This might apply to people who are in long-distance relationships or those who are separated and considering a permanent split. Online therapy services allow both partners to participate even though they live apart.
• You travel frequently for work. Online couples therapy options allow people to benefit from counseling no matter how busy their schedule or where they are located.
• You or your partner are not comfortable with traditional therapy. Face-to-face therapy can be challenging, uncomfortable, or even anxiety-provoking for some people. Web-based solutions can make relationship counseling more accessible.