The right time to come to couples counseling is – when you decide you want to improve your relationship. In couples therapy, the relationship is the client. The therapist consults with the couple to define the problems they want to address and identify desired treatment outcomes. The therapist will ask each partner about their history. Some sessions may occur without the other partner in the room.
The treatment plan generally includes a path for healing and building connections to strengthen the relationship. Strategies are provided for the couple to resolve conflict and learn new ways of interacting with each other while increasing intimacy and connection. ARI therapists draw from a variety of techniques for couples counseling including the Gottman method, emotionally focused therapy, imago relationship therapy, and systems therapy.