Relationship Counselling
What Is Relationship Counselling?
Relationship counselling is a form of talk therapy that helps couples (married or unmarried) understand and resolve conflicts, improve communication, and strengthen emotional connection.
It’s usually conducted by a trained relationship therapist, psychologist, or counsellor.
Common Reasons People Go for Counselling
Couples may seek counselling for issues like:
- Frequent arguments or poor communication
- Loss of emotional or physical intimacy
- Trust issues or infidelity
- Life transitions (new job, kids, relocation, etc.)
- Financial disagreements
- Differences in parenting, values, or goals
- Feeling distant, disconnected, or “stuck”
What Happens in Sessions
- Sessions are usually 45–60 minutes long.
- Both partners share their perspectives while the therapist remains neutral.
- The counsellor helps:
- Identify negative patterns in communication or behaviour
- Teach healthy conflict resolution skills
- Encourage empathy and active listening
- Rebuild trust, respect, and intimacy
Some therapists may give homework — small exercises like writing feelings, having structured talks, or date-night activities.
Approaches Used
- Common therapeutic approaches include:
- Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): Focuses on repairing emotional bonds.
- Gottman Method: Based on research; teaches healthy communication and conflict management.
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps change unhelpful thoughts and reactions.
- Imago Relationship Therapy: Encourages understanding partner’s emotional triggers.
Benefits of Relationship Counselling
- Improves communication & understanding
- Reduces conflict and resentment
- Helps rebuild intimacy & trust
- Encourages teamwork and shared goals
- Offers clarity — whether to heal, grow, or part ways respectfully
When to Seek Counselling
- You don’t have to wait until things are “bad.”
It’s helpful: - When small issues start repeating
- When communication feels forced
- Or even as preventive care to keep the relationship strong
