Couples therapy is about relationships - so your relationship is our focus during therapy. In our first meeting, I will meet with both of you so I can understand how the two of you function as a couple, as well as how you communicate your needs, goals, and feelings to each other. I will meet with you individually during our second and third sessions so I can learn about your individual needs, goals, and feelings - and how you communicate when you are not with your spouse or partner. I will also be determining how motivated you both are for working on your relationship. Obviously, this is also your time to see if you feel comfortable with me.

       During our fourth meeting I will give you feedback on what I see your therapy needs to be, how well I think you communicate with each other, how motivated you are for treatment, and whether I believe I can be a good therapist for you. Of course, you can decide at any time whether you want to work with me. I will refer you to another therapist if we decide not to work together.

       My experience, however, is that we usually continue working together. If so, we will decide on the issues that we want to address during therapy and begin. I use a communication model of psychotherapy with couples because research indicates that a couple's ability to effectively communicate as well as respect their partner's needs has a great deal to do with their satisfaction in their relationship. I'll be teaching you communications skills, helping you use those skills to improve your relationship, and keeping you on task so you meet all your therapy goals. I'll also ask you to practice your new skills at home so when you are finished with therapy you can use them without me.

         After all, your relationship is probably a lifetime commitment, and the last thing you need is having to come to see me all the time.

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