Couples and relationships
Relationships can be a source of security, companionship and fulfilment, but they can also become a source of distress. Couples may find themselves caught in recurring patterns of conflict, misunderstanding or emotional distance, sometimes without fully understanding how these difficulties have developed.
How I can help
I work with couples experiencing a range of relationship difficulties, including:
-
Communication difficulties and recurring arguments
-
Emotional distance or loss of intimacy
-
Difficulties with trust, jealousy or insecurity
-
Different needs, expectations or ways of relating
-
The impact of past experiences on current relationships
-
Adjusting to significant life changes, including parenthood, illness or retirement
-
Difficulties arising from wider family relationships or circumstances
-
Uncertainty about the future of a relationship
How we work together
I begin by exploring how each of you understands the difficulties in your relationship and how patterns of interaction may have developed. The aim is not to establish who is at fault, but to understand what happens between you and what might help.
Assessment begins with a joint meeting. Sometimes it is helpful to meet with each partner separately as part of developing a fuller understanding of the difficulties, although this is not always necessary.
Together, we develop a shared understanding of the relationship difficulties and consider whether couples work is likely to be helpful. Any plan for further work is developed collaboratively, taking account of both partners' perspectives.
Get in touch
If you are experiencing difficulties in your relationship and would like to explore whether working together might be helpful, please get in touch.
I offer a free 20-minute introductory telephone call, giving you an opportunity to tell me a little about your situation, ask any questions and consider whether an initial consultation would be appropriate.