Couples Counseling
There are many benefits to pursuing counseling as a couple. At Redlands Christian Counseling we offer services to address the needs of couples of all stages with a variety of goals. If you and your partner are interested in working through issues, building a strong relational foundation, and improving your connection, you should consider how couples counseling can help.
Here are some common questions about couples counseling:
Get connected with a Christian Counselor
Contact our reception team at
(424) 438-2888
Couples counseling is for any two people in a romantic relationship. We do offer marriage counseling at Redlands Christian Counseling specifically for married couples. Couples counseling addresses the needs of partners that are not married.
For your first session of couples counseling you will meet with your counselor in the office or virtually depending on your preference. The office is a comfortable space, offering privacy. The first appointment is an opportunity for your counselor to get to know both of you and why you are in counseling.
There may be intake forms for you to go over to give the counselor information about your medical history. You can also use this time to ask your counselor any questions about them or the counseling process.
During the first appointment, your counselor will ask you why you are seeking couples counseling. Understanding this will help your counselor tailor the experience to your specific needs and goals.
After the initial appointment, you will spend the time addressing the reasons for being there. This is most often through talking with the counselor and your partner. Sometimes your counselor will ask you to participate in activities or do assignments at home to further your therapy.
Some specific focus areas for couples counseling may be appropriate for you. This depends on the stage of your relationship.
The most common focus areas include dating or premarital counseling. Your counselor can implement different methods depending on your goals. These can include:
The Gottman Method: Fosters deeper understanding for couples in committed, long-term relationships as they navigate relationship issues and conflicts.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors for the couple.
Emotion-focused Couples Therapy (EFCT): Helps couples communicate about areas of concern and build stronger attachment bonds with one another.
These are just a few examples of methods the counselors at Redlands Christian Counseling use to help you build a stronger relationship with your partner.
Appointments typically last one hour and meet weekly, although other schedules are possible. The number of weeks you meet varies depending on your needs. It can range anywhere from a few sessions to several months. This is something you will talk about with your counselor as you proceed.
Counseling offers a safe space to address any issues you want to address. Some common topics discussed with couples are:
- Communication issues.
- Intimacy concerns.
- Past experiences or trauma.
- Substance abuse.
- Addiction (including pornography, shopping, and social media).
- Anger.
- Infidelity.
- Previous relationships.
- Future goals.
- Healthy boundaries.
- Living arrangements.
- Finances.
- Long distance concerns.
These are just some examples of things we can help you and your partner discuss. Our goal at Redlands Christian Counseling is to talk about the concerns and goals specific to your unique relationship.
If you are interested in couples counseling, it is good to talk to your partner about learning more. The best time to do this is when you are both calm and you can communicate respectfully. When you mention counseling during an argument, it can backfire, making your partner less open to the idea.
When you talk to your partner about couples counseling, approach the topic as something that you can try together to improve your relationship. Assure your partner that it is not something to do indefinitely, but a tool you can use together. Tell your partner why you think it will help, and see if they are willing to try a few sessions.
Final thoughts.
Couples counseling can help you and your partner learn and grow. When you pursue counseling at Redlands Christian Counseling, you will receive faith-based support. Reach out to our office today to learn more or set up an appointment.
Get connected with a Christian Counselor
Contact our reception team at
(424) 438-2888