Also known as relationship counseling, couples therapy, and marriage counseling, Love Therapy is designed to help those in a relationship learn how to communicate more effectively. It paves a path for a deeper connection, creating fulfilling and mutually beneficial relationships. In fact, it’s becoming more common for those in a relationship to start love therapy long before any issues arise.
Therapy as a preemptive measure can prevent a loss of communication and can strengthen interpersonal bonds for years to come. Research shows counseling can improve relationship satisfaction, communication skills, and the general well-being of those in the relationship. This is especially important since a lack of harmony can substantially increase the risk of depression in at least one partner.
Additionally, research indicates that high levels of conflict can lead to higher levels of mood and anxiety disorders. This results in negative social outcomes regardless of marital status. Counseling based on Behavioural Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Emotion Focused Therapy can greatly reduce relationship distress. These results are maintained over time, even when compared to those not attending relationship counseling sessions.
So, even if your relationship hasn’t reached the point where outside intervention is needed to re-establish healthy communication, remember–relationship health is just another aspect of personal health that we shouldn’t ignore. The mind and body are interconnected. Taking care of one is also taking care of the other partner.
If you or a loved one is interested in counseling services, be it relationship therapy or otherwise, remember to find a therapist that works for you. The International Therapist Directory has a site that can help you (https://internationaltherapistdirectory.com/) find someone in your area capable of meeting your goals.
Resources:
Advances Psychiatry Associates. N.D. “Benefits of Going to Couples Therapy.” https://advancedpsychiatryassociates.com/resources/blog/benefits-of-couples-therapy
Schofield MJ, Mumford N, Jurkovic D, Jurkovic I, Bickerdike A. 2012. “Short and Long-term Effectiveness of Couple Counselling: A Study Protocol”. BMC Public Health; 3(12): 735. doi: 10.1186/1471-2458-12-735. PMID: 22943742; PMCID: PMC3490822.