By the clinical team at Next Step Psychiatry • Lilburn, GA
You Do Not Need to Be in Crisis
One of the biggest misconceptions about couples therapy is that it is a last resort for relationships on the verge of ending. In reality, the most successful couples therapy outcomes happen when partners seek help early, before resentment and disconnection have become deeply entrenched. Research by John Gottman at the University of Washington found that couples wait an average of six years after problems begin before seeking therapy. By that point, patterns of criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling may be firmly established. Starting therapy sooner gives you more to work with.
Signs It Is Time for Couples Therapy
Several warning signs suggest couples therapy would be beneficial. You find yourselves having the same argument repeatedly without resolution. Communication has broken down and you avoid difficult conversations. There has been a breach of trust such as infidelity or financial deception. You feel more like roommates than partners. One or both of you are dealing with individual mental health issues that are affecting the relationship. You are going through a major life transition like having a baby, a career change, or a move. Intimacy, whether emotional or physical, has significantly declined.
What Happens in Couples Therapy
Most couples therapy approaches begin with an assessment phase where the therapist meets with both partners together and sometimes individually to understand the relationship dynamics, each person's perspective, and the goals for therapy. Sessions typically last 50 to 90 minutes and occur weekly or biweekly. Evidence-based approaches include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), which focuses on attachment patterns and emotional bonds, and the Gottman Method, which teaches specific skills for managing conflict, building friendship, and creating shared meaning.
The Connection Between Mental Health and Relationships
Individual mental health conditions significantly impact relationships. Depression can cause withdrawal, irritability, and loss of interest in connection. Anxiety can manifest as controlling behavior or constant need for reassurance. ADHD can look like forgetfulness, unreliability, or emotional volatility to a partner who does not understand the condition. At Next Step Psychiatry, we often see patients whose relationship problems are intertwined with untreated or undertreated mental health conditions. Addressing the individual psychiatric issues alongside couples work often produces the best outcomes.
Taking the First Step Together
Starting couples therapy takes courage from both partners. If your partner is reluctant, consider attending an individual session first to discuss your concerns and get guidance on how to bring your partner on board. At Next Step Psychiatry, we can help assess whether individual mental health treatment, couples therapy, or a combination of both would best serve your relationship. Our Lilburn office serves couples throughout the Atlanta metro area, and we offer flexible scheduling to accommodate busy lives.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Our board-certified psychiatrists are here to help. We accept most major insurance plans including Medicare, Medicaid, Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and United Healthcare.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 911 or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.