Do you have to be married to attend couples therapy?
To be honest, as a therapist, I prefer to use the term “couples therapy” instead of “marriage counseling” because of this very question. My initial reaction to this inquiry is, “Of course not!”. However, I understand where the curiosity comes from, especially if you are considering counseling for you and your committed partner.
A couple does not have to be married or cohabiting in order to attend couples therapy. Couples therapy, often referred to as marriage counseling only requires two individuals who are committed to one another and the process of making changes in their relationship.
In our initial session, as we get to hear you and your partner’s current struggle, we orient ourselves around two questions:
1. Are you each other’s “person”?
Meaning, is this person the one you call when you have a difficult day when something funny happens, or simply the person you choose to share your thoughts, feelings, and experiences with?
2. If you and your partner do not feel like each other’s “person” at the moment, are you both committed to making that change?
Responding “yes” to either of these questions is a clear indication for our therapists that each of you is willing to lean into the work, whether we are calling it couples therapy or marriage counseling.
Marriage Counseling is About Strength
As relational therapists, we are in the business of strengthening bonds, no matter the type of bond. Therefore, we welcome all types of relationships in counseling. Not only do we welcome married couples to lean into marriage counseling, but we also welcome same-sex couples, polyamorous couples and any individuals within a couple who identify as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
Does marriage counseling and/or couples therapy work?
I view therapy as an investment. Like most investments, you get out of it what you put into it. Therapy requires your time, your focus, and your vulnerability. The therapeutic process is likely to provide positive gains for the self and your relationships and is an investment that is well worth committing to.
As mentioned above, if you and your partner are willing to lean into the work to make changes in your relationship, marriage counseling and couples therapy can be of great benefit. Furthermore, at CCHC we ensure our therapists are equipped to support you as you decide to invest in your relationship.
Couples Therapy in Fairfax, VA and Woodbridge, VA is Focused on YOU
At CCHC, our couples therapists utilize Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) when working with couples. EFT is an evidence-based couples therapy model validated by over 30 years of research. EFT provides a clear map for your therapist, as well as you and your partner in breaking unhealthy patterns, healing past fractures in the relationship, deepening your connection and strengthening your bond.
With two committed partners and our trained therapists, your relationship has the opportunity to heal, grow and strengthen.
Interested in Couples Therapy or Marriage Counseling in Fairfax, VA?
If you and your partner are ready to explore your relationship dynamics and improve your relationship, our couples’ therapists can help. We have counseling offices in both Woodbridge and Fairfax, VA. If you want to begin couples therapy or marriage counseling, just follow these simple steps:
- Schedule an appointment at one of our two convenient locations in Woodbridge or Fairfax.
- Meet with a skilled couples therapist.
- Begin to explore connection and confidence as a couple.
Other Therapy Services at The Center for Connection, Healing and Change
Relationship problems are complicated and often individual members of your family need additional support. Our therapists want to help support your entire family. Therefore, we offer a wide range of mental health services in our Northern Virginia counseling offices. Our skilled, caring therapists provide counseling for individuals, family therapy, sex therapy, yoga for healing, meditation and mindfulness practice, couples therapy and marriage counseling. When you are ready, we would be honored to be a part of your relationship journey.