Our relationships with our partners are fulfilling and meaningful. When we have made the commitment to a significant other, we are filled with hopes and dreams of what our futures will be like together. As we grow and change as individuals, so too will the rhythms of our relationships. Changes in jobs, children, moving, or getting older are all factors that will change who we are and how we interact with our loved ones. It makes sense that if we change, so will the co-constructed relationships in our lives. Sometimes these changes are small and gradual, other times they result because of a significant incident, such as infidelity.

If you want to recognize and build on the value of your relationship, whether as a “booster shot,” or to address bigger issues going on for you and your partner, making the choice to start couples counselling is a big step toward addressing your relationship concerns. 

You may be asking yourself, “Is now the right time for us to go to counselling?” Relationship and marriage expert, Dr. John Gottman, says that couples may wait as long as six years to seek professional help in their relationships.  That is a significant amount of time to endure a buildup of negativity for yourself, your partner, and your relationship. If you and your partner are experiencing constant arguing that is leading to resentment, disconnect, shaming and blaming language and behaviours, unhealthy communication patterns, and a lack of trust that has been building over months or even years, and instead, you are ready to move toward repairing and rebuilding your relationship, this may be the time that you are ready for couples counselling.

Common Reasons for Couples Counselling

• Communication problems
• Infidelity
• Parenting styles
• Emotional intimacy barriers
• Physical intimacy problems
• Dysfunctional behaviours during conflicts
• Major Lifestyle changes
• Premarital counselling
• Grief and loss issues
• Considering separation and/or divorce