Couple Therapy
Too often, people think couples counseling is the beginning of the end. Nothing could be farther from the truth. The goal of couple therapy is to save and solidify relationships, not end them.
Couples therapy is a form of psychotherapy focused on improving intimacy and resolving conflict within a romantic relationship. At Rivia, we welcome married and unmarried couples, heterosexual, same-sex, as well as transitioning couples or those with a partner undergoing gender reassignment. Couple therapy is also extremely beneficial for those seeking premarital counseling.
When Should You Seek Couple Therapy?
If you and your partner seem to get into more or endless arguments, it may be a sign that you need couples counseling. Poor communication skills or growing emotional distance are also indicators it may be time to seek professional help.
Of course, anyone struggling with specific issues in their relationship can use therapy to get the tools they need to have more productive discussions about all the topics couples fight about: sex, infidelity, money, career, children, life changes, relationship expectations – and more.
Even if all is well, couples therapy can make sure your relationship continues to be mutually rewarding. This is especially important because people – and their relationships – change over time.
The Gottman Method
At Rivia Mind, we use the Gottman Method, a research-based approach to couples therapy. This approach identifies what it takes to make a relationship – any relationship – work throughout the various stages of life.
Sound Relationship House
Good relationships, according to psychologists John and Julie Gottman, are based on nine essential elements. You can think of these principles as the building blocks for a sound and healthy relationship house.
- Trust
- Commitment
- Build love maps (become intimately familiar with each other’s world)
- Share fondness and admiration
- Turn toward one another
- Positive perspective
- Manage conflict
- Make life dreams come true
- Create shared meaning
Your couples therapist at Rivia Mind will begin with a joint session with both partners, followed by an individual session with each partner. The joint session will focus on the history of the relationship and the current problems. The individual sessions will focus on each individual’s personal history and personal concerns. These sessions are then followed by another joint session to discuss goals and a specific plan.
Marital Counseling Services
We welcome LGBTQ couples. Find out how the holistic psychiatry and psychology specialists at Rivia Mind can help your relationship thrive. Email us at info@riviamind.com or call (212) 203-1773 and ask about our couple's therapy. You can also book an appointment right now.