Online Couples Therapy: Research shows 75% of people benefit from it

Online Couples Therapy and Counselling

Online couples therapy and counselling offers a safe space for partners to talk about their concerns and express their feelings and needs in the relationship.

Research shows success rate for Couples Therapy is around 75%

Do you feel like you have lost the passion that once brought you together?

Do you feel like your emotional needs are not met?

Do you feel like your parenting styles do not match?

Do you feel like you have intimacy issues?

If you have experienced any of these, Online Couples Therapy can help! Contact us to book a free consultation.

What is Online Couples Therapy and Counselling?

Online couples therapy and counselling is a form of psychotherapy that can assist partners in developing healthier and more satisfying relationships. Couples therapy and counselling offer a safe space for partners to talk about their concerns and express their feelings and needs in the relationship. In this safe space, couples transition from a “you against me” mindset to a “we against the problems” approach in which they can work successfully as a team to address issues and improve their relationship.

Journal showing common issues couples have

What are some common issues couples bring to therapy?

Some common issues that couples bring to couples therapy and counselling include communication difficulties and increased arguments, feeling disconnected and distant, decrease in sex, emotional and physical intimacy, life transitions (e.g., getting married, becoming parents, retiring), decision making about parenting and finances, dealing with outside stressors (e.g., in-laws, work), and imbalanced sharing of responsibilities. Unfortunately, there is still stigma around seeking therapy and often couples ignore the warning signs that they need to make changes in how they show up for each other. Besides, research has shown that couples tend to seek therapy when the relationship is severely hurt, and partners have fallen into either end on the relationship doom spectrum: high conflict and resentment or great withdraw/distance and loneliness (Gottman et al. – The 7 Principles for Making Marriage Work, 2015).

What is the process of Online Couples Therapy?

In the process of online couples therapy and counselling, there are often three phases: assessment, intervention, and maintenance. In the assessment phase, couples meet with the therapist for three sessions to identify their strengths and challenges and develop goals for therapy collaboratively. The length of the intervention phase will depend on the nature of each couple’s issues and goals. During the intervention phase of couples therapy and counselling, the couple will learn and practice skills to address their challenges and strengthen their bond with each other. Partners will then continue to practice the skills they learned during the sessions outside of the therapy room and there will often be an agreed-upon activity for them to engage in between sessions to help them achieve their goals for therapy. Once partners have made significant progress towards their goals and their relationship is stronger, they go into the maintenance phase of therapy in which they meet the therapist less often to check in, troubleshoot the use of skills, or bring in new problems to work on.

What are the interventions used?

Through online couples therapy and counselling, partners come to understand that in every relationship dispute, there are always two different subjective perspectives that are both right. The interventions used are tailored to each couple’s needs and preferences. Usually, the interventions include strengthening the couple’s friendship and bond, increasing positive interactions and feelings towards each other, improving conflict regulation, understanding each other’s perspectives, repairing hurts, resolving and accepting differences, and supporting each other’s life goals.

The interventions are based on the most well-researched and effective psychotherapy models, which are Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and the Gottman Method.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)?

EFT is a form of evidence-based couples therapy and counselling approach that focus on partners improving their attachment or that felt sense of security and connection with each other. EFT was developed by Sue Johnson and its extensive body of research show that 90% of couples who participate in EFT improve their relationship significantly (Johnson – Hold me Tight, 2008). Through EFT, each partner learns how to express their emotions and needs effectively and practice how to respond successfully to their partner’s bid for connection. In doing so, couples become less emotionally reactive to each other, more connected, and better able to resolve conflict.

What is Gottman’s approach?

The Gottman Method was developed by John and Julie Gottman and is based on over 40 years of research. In their research, Gottman discovered what makes happy and lasting relationships and what contributes to relationship demise and ending. For example, they found that couples who are gentle with each other when bringing up a concern, have more positive interactions even during conflict, and often express fondness and admiration for each other tend to stay happily together. On the other hand, couples who tend to ignore each other’s attempts to connect and engage in harmful patterns of behaviour (i.e., The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse) when communicating, named criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling tend to divorce. Through the Gottman Method, couples learn effective communication and conflict resolution skills while also strengthening their bond through a ritual of connections, showing appreciation, and enhancing their friendship.

How does Online Couples Therapy and Counselling work?

Online Couples Therapy and Counselling offers convenient and confidential sessions for couples in Ontario, providing professional guidance to enhance their relationship.

Through virtual sessions with a licensed therapist, you and your partner can address challenges, improve communication, and strengthen your bond from the comfort of your own home. With flexible scheduling and a wide range of therapeutic approaches, online couples therapy offers a personalized and effective way to navigate relationship issues. Whether you’re facing conflicts, looking to enhance intimacy, or seeking guidance for a specific concern, online counseling provides a supportive and confidential space to work towards a healthier, happier partnership.

How can couples prepare for Online Couples Therapy and Counselling?

Preparing for online couples counseling can be a beneficial step towards strengthening your relationship. When it comes to getting ready for this experience, communication is key. Setting aside some time with your partner to discuss your goals and expectations for the counseling sessions can help both of you align your perspectives and understand each other’s needs. Another important aspect of preparation is to approach the process with an open mind and a willingness to actively participate. Reflect on the areas of your relationship that you would like to improve and be prepared to engage in honest and open conversations during the sessions. Familiarizing yourselves with the online platform that will be used for the counseling sessions is also crucial. Ensure that you have a reliable internet connection and a quiet, private space where you can engage in the sessions without distractions. Lastly, it’s essential to approach online couples counseling with a mindset of commitment and dedication to the process. By being proactive in preparing for the sessions, you and your partner can make the most of the experience and work towards building a stronger and more fulfilling relationship.

Can I see any Therapist or does the Therapist need to be qualified in Couples Therapy?

Preparing for online couples counseling can be a beneficial step towards strengthening your relationship. When it comes to getting ready for this experience, communication is key. Setting aside some time with your partner to discuss your goals and expectations for the counseling sessions can help both of you align your perspectives and understand each other’s needs. Another important aspect of preparation is to approach the process with an open mind and a willingness to actively participate. Reflect on the areas of your relationship that you would like to improve and be prepared to engage in honest and open conversations during the sessions. Familiarizing yourselves with the online platform that will be used for the counseling sessions is also crucial. Ensure that you have a reliable internet connection and a quiet, private space where you can engage in the sessions without distractions. Lastly, it’s essential to approach online couples counseling with a mindset of commitment and dedication to the process. By being proactive in preparing for the sessions, you and your partner can make the most of the experience and work towards building a stronger and more fulfilling relationship. Looking for the right therapist can be a crucial step in addressing personal or relational issues. When seeking therapy, it’s important to consider whether a therapist is trained in couples therapy if you are looking for support in improving your relationship dynamics. Couples therapy is a specialized form of therapy that focuses on addressing issues within romantic relationships. Whether you are experiencing communication difficulties, trust issues, or want to strengthen the bond with your partner, a therapist trained in couples therapy can provide valuable support. These professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills to help couples navigate challenges, improve intimacy, and develop healthier patterns of interaction. When choosing a therapist for couples counseling, look for individuals who have specific training or experience in working with couples. This expertise can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of the therapy and the outcomes you achieve.

A qualified couples therapist can facilitate productive conversations, offer practical tools for resolving conflicts, and guide you and your partner toward mutual understanding and growth. By opting for a therapist trained in couples therapy, you can access tailored support that is designed to address the unique dynamics and complexities of romantic relationships. Whether you are newlyweds seeking pre-marital counseling or a long-term couple wanting to revitalize your connection, a skilled couples therapist can provide a supportive environment for you and your partner to work through challenges and pave the way for a healthier, more fulfilling relationship.

Do you offer Online Couples Therapy and Counselling throughout Ontario?

Yes, absolutely! We offer our Online Couples Therapy and Counselling services in, but not limited to, Mississauga, Toronto, Caledon, Scarborough, Brampton, Markham, Newmarket, Aurora, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Barrie, Niagara, Colborne, St. Catherines, Hamilton, Ajax, Whitby, Clarington, Brock, Uxbridge, Oshawa, Cobourg, Port Hope, Cramahe, Haliburton area, Hastings area, Peterborough, Kingston, Millbrook, Ottawa, Belleville.