CBT Based Couples Therapy
What is CBT?
CBT is an intensive, short-term (six to 20 sessions), problem-oriented approach. It was designed to be quick, practical and goal-oriented and to provide people with long-term skills to keep them healthy.
The focus of CBT is on the here-and-now—on the problems that come up in a person’s day-to-day life. CBT helps people to look at how they interpret and evaluate what is happening around them and the effects these perceptions have on their emotional experience.
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All relationships encounter issues brought on by personal issues, demands on families, money, domestic disputes, and stress from the workplace. Couples can drift apart or the relationship itself can develop unhealthy patterns of ambivalence, resistance, or opposition as the needs of each individual change over time. Relationships in the UK experience a separation rate of 40%–45% as a result of these issues.
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While it may be appropriate for some couples to divorce, resolving differences, conflicts, and issues with emotional intimacy can greatly enhance relationship happiness and wellbeing. CBT for relationships can assist partners in establishing a new sense of fulfilment, connection, and trust.
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What happens in session?
CBT (cognitive-behavioural therapy) based couples therapy is a form of therapy that focuses on helping couples improve their communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution skills. The aim of CBT-based couples therapy is to change negative patterns of interaction that contribute to relationship problems and replace them with positive and constructive behaviours.
In CBT-based couples therapy, the therapist works collaboratively with both partners to identify problematic behaviours, thoughts, and emotions that contribute to relationship difficulties. The therapist helps the couple to develop new ways of communicating and problem-solving that promote mutual understanding, respect, and cooperation.
The therapy sessions typically involve identifying the specific issues that are causing distress in the relationship, such as conflicts over finances, parenting, or infidelity. The therapist then helps the couple to identify and challenge negative beliefs and thought patterns that may be contributing to the problem, such as unrealistic expectations or negative assumptions about the other person.
CBT-based couples therapy may also involve homework assignments, such as practicing communication skills or engaging in joint activities that promote closeness and intimacy. The therapist provides feedback and guidance throughout the therapy process and helps the couple to monitor progress and identify areas that require further attention.
The goal of CBT-based couples therapy is to help couples develop more positive and adaptive ways of thinking and interacting that improve relationship satisfaction and increase their overall sense of well-being.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Nicola - " Working together with both in a safe space to discuss any of the issues and look to find and often times support in their resolution. Facilitating you both to support yourselves and each other and to explain perhaps why there is the differences between you both and where that comes from."