What to Expect from Couples Therapy
What to Expect from Couples Therapy: The Path to Healing and Connection
If you and your partner are considering couples therapy in Reno, you might have some questions about what it’s like, what to expect, and how it can help. At its core, couples therapy is about strengthening your relationship and helping you both feel more connected. In this article, I provide a brief overview of the process, focusing on Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)—a highly researched, non-judgmental and effective approach to strengthening and healing relationship.
What Is Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples?
EFT is a type of couples therapy grounded in the science of attachment, which describes how we bond with one another. Attachment science also describes what can happen when bonds rupture. It’s based on the idea that emotional connection is key to feeling accepted and cared for, and this in turn leads to lasting, fulfilling relationship. During EFT sessions, we’ll work together to identify and change patterns that keep you and your partner feeling disconnected. This isn’t about blame; instead, it’s about understanding each other’s needs and learning how to respond with care and compassion.
Expect EFT to focus on:
- Helping each partner feel safe and supported.
- Encouraging open, honest communication.
- Building a secure foundation for lasting change.
With EFT, you’ll learn to shift from reacting in frustration or silence to reaching out in a way that helps your partner feel seen and valued.
What Happens in a Couples Therapy Session?
In your first session, we’ll discuss what brought you both to therapy and what you hope to achieve. Don’t worry—there’s no “right” way to start. I’ll guide the process, and together, we’ll create a comfortable, respectful space for each of you to share your perspective.
Here’s a typical structure for couples therapy sessions:
- Identify Relationship Patterns: We’ll uncover the cycles that lead to conflict or distance. Understanding these patterns helps you both feel less stuck.
- Practice New Ways of Communicating: You’ll have the chance to learn and practice new communication skills, often in the form of guided conversations.
- Develop a Deeper Connection: Through honest, vulnerable conversations, you’ll work towards feeling more secure and connected.
For more on how these sessions flow, you can explore our detailed description of couples therapy here.
How Long Does it Take to See Results?
Everyone’s starting point and experience are unique, but most couples notice positive changes within the first few sessions. With EFT, it’s common to see significant shifts after about 8–12 sessions, depending on the issues at hand. Along the way, you’ll build trust in each other and confidence in your ability to work through challenges together. A full course of therapy with me is usually in the neighborhood of 18-22 sessions, spread out over time. That said, most of the couples I work with continue periodic meetings in order to have a place to work through impasses and importantly, reinforce successes!
Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Relationship?
Couples therapy can be a powerful way to rebuild and strengthen your connection. If you’re ready to explore how EFT can help, reach out to schedule a session. Visit www.csheehanjr.com to get started. Taking this step shows courage and a commitment to your relationship. Let’s work together to create the relationship you both want and deserve.
