It’s not at all times easy to tell when a relationship is failing. Sometimes, it is direct and destructive, like one partner discovering the affair. More often than not, it is just time taking away from something fun and thrilling.
Couples therapy is not just for those who feel their relationship is on the verge of collapse. In fact, it can be both beneficial and healthy to consider. This applies even if there are general problems or a break in relations between partners.
That’s why there are several types of couples therapy. Here’s a guide to three popular methods.
Emotion-Focused Therapy
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) focuses on attachment and bonding in adult relationships. In general, people bring baggage into a relationship. They are prone to deep feelings of anger, betrayal, lack of trust, or fear.
That American Psychological Association say ~75% of couples who undergo EFT stay together. That statistic is impressive and helps keep couples from falling into the 50% divorce statistic.
EFT is a successful form of therapy for people with PTSD or trauma. This could stem from a previous relationship or military trauma. It is also effective for people who are struggling with infertility or have sick kids.
To achieve success, partners discover and express their deep underlying feelings. This clarity will lead to a shared vulnerability that will deepen their relationship.
Couples therapy retreat can be a big contributor to developing this vulnerability. Time to reconnect is important for developing relationships.
Gottmann’s method
Dr. John Gottman is the author of “The 7 Principles of Making Marriage Work.” Gottman believes that when conflicts are left unresolved, they build walls between partners. So they need to be broken down.
Gottman clarifies that partners must learn to express themselves positively with one another. Unresolved conflicts build the “Four Horsemen” of your relationship apocalypse:
- Critics
- Insult
- Endure
- And blocking and shutting the other
To overcome this, the couple must build “The Sound Relationship House.” Consider 69% of marital conflict is a recurring problem, consider this method if you’re dealing with this problem.
Imago Relationship Therapy
Imago Relationship Therapy was created by a husband and wife. It focuses on connecting trauma experienced in childhood to how people act in their adult relationships.
It can be helpful to bring up these issues with a partner, particularly for those who had a difficult or abusive relationship with their parents.
Partners who don’t have a parental relationship will also benefit from this.
By understanding one another’s background, you’ll have the ability to communicate more clearly. When you understand one another’s vulnerabilities, you’ll deepen your relationship.
Discover This Type Of Couples Therapy
Relationships are different for everybody. That’s why there are several types of couples therapy. Exploring your options and finding what works best for your partner cannot only save a relationship but turn it into a happy one.
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