I have been providing relationship therapy for individuals since 2014. My clients made changes that really improved their relationships so I decided to also provide relationship therapy for couples so that both partners can attend sessions. I also decided to become a student member of the professional body for relationship therapists (COSRT). This means you can be assured that relationship therapy is carried out in accordance with ethical guidelines.
I integrate a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to each couple's individual needs. One of the approaches I use is attachment theory which helps couples gain an understanding of how the past can impact on the present. My work is also influenced by the theory and practice of cognitive behavioural therapy. CBT allows couples to identify how their thoughts, behaviours and emotional responses are impacting on their relationship. CBT can help couples to change patterns of thinking and reacting in order to improve communication and problem solving.
I provide a supportive space for you to talk about any relationships, whether it be partners, friends, work colleagues or family. My practice is inclusive and I work with all types of relationships in a supportive and non-judgemental way. I work with people of all genders, sexual identities and religious beliefs.
Why do people decide to have couples therapy?
You may be feeling not listened to, taken for granted or are losing sight of yourself within the relationship.
There might be regular arguements and the issues never seem to get resolved.
You may be experiencing feelings of growing apart.
There could be difficulties with communication, such as mind-reading and misunderstandings or not saying how you feel.
You might be experiencing conflict due to having different parenting styles.
If there has been an affair you might like help to find a way forward and work on building the trust back.
There might be challenges that have arisen in blended families which are impacting on the relationship.
You may be wondering if the issues in the relationship can be worked on or if it would be best to separate.
What is couples therapy and what are the benefits?
A safe, confidential space to be able to talk to each other in a less reactive way.
A regular time for both partners to say what is on their mind and be listened to.
Explore thoughts and feelings with somebody who is non-judgemental and neutral.
A process to facilitate change and to resolve issues within the relationship.
Help to navigate changes in relationships e.g. when a baby is born, ill health is diagnosed or loss of employment.
Identifying patterns of communicating that are unhelpful and keep couples ‘stuck’.
Learning more effective ways to communicate to reduce misunderstandings and resolve conflict.
Gaining an understanding of how the past impacts on the present.
Understanding yourself and your partner better.
Both feeling supported to find solutions to the issues you are facing as a couple.
Becoming aware of unconscious processes that impact on the couple dynamic.
Things to bear in mind:
Couples therapy is a process and it will take time.
Both partners will need to be open to receiving feedback.
It involves carrying out tasks between sessions such as practicing doing things differently or having discussions.
For some couples, the safest or healthiest option may be for them to separate and couples counselling can be part of that process.
