Online Therapy: Sex & Intimacy, Couples counselling and Relationship therapy, ENM, Kink-aware, Trauma-informed | Trusting Heart
Specialist psychosexual & Relationship Therapist and Couples Counsellor | Based in CHEster CH1 & nationwide
Online Couples Counselling and Relationship Therapy based in Chester
Shifting from Conflict to Appreciation
In the UK, there is a general belief that couples only go to therapy because they are high in conflict and their relationship is hanging by a thread. I wonder, however, if I told you that couples counselling and relationship therapy can be a dedicated place for creating understanding, connection, and appreciation for one another? It is not merely a "last resort" for a breaking relationship; it is a proactive space to build a more resilient and fulfilling life together.
Understanding the "Stuckness"
A common theme that can present in couples work is the realisation that what first attracted you to your partner is the very thing that now frustrates you, maybe even really annoys you. This often signals a natural transition in the relationship where the initial "honeymoon" period has evolved into a more complex dynamic. Without the right support, this transition can lead to significant communication issues, problematic porn use, or affairs and betrayals.
How can couples therapy help?
Obviously, in some relationships, issues have been ongoing for some time and things have reached a difficult ending. However, I wonder if I shared with you that therapy can be a space to understand the "stuckness" you are experiencing before it feels too late.
Navigating Challenges and Intimacy
Perhaps you have lost your way, feeling like passing ships in the night. For many couples, connection and conversation have changed over time; perhaps the arrival of children has limited the "couple time" you are no longer having. In these instances, intimacy can change and become more of a chore rather than a joy.
I provide a specialised space to address these concerns, including:
What is Couples Counselling and Relationship Therapy?
Couples therapy is a unique space, that is quite different from individual therapy. In these sessions, I work with the relationship part that has been created by the two of you.
It is a collaborative talking process. During our first few sessions, I focus on gaining a deep understanding of the issues you are bringing to sessions. I then tailor-make the sessions for each specific couple, planning how to support you with healing and creating a sense of "togetherness" rather than existing as two individuals living parallel lives.
How I Work as a Couples Counsellor and Relationship Therapist
I first offer a consultation to get a deeper understanding of the issue you are seeking support for. My approach is compassionate, honest, and relational. In some sessions, I may set "homework" for you to complete together at home to help break old habits. In others, I will be honest in naming unhealthy patterns of behaviour and supporting you as I guide you toward more connection and appreciation for one another.
I ask that you are truly honest in our sessions, with myself and with one another. This transparency is what allows the process of therapy to be truly beneficial. While some communication issues may be resolved in a short period of time, more long-standing or complex issues may need further support to truly heal.
I will offer an individual session for each of you after your consultation so I can understand the issues from your own unique perspective. I do have an agreement in place that confidential is for the person I am speaking with, I would not break confidentially a partner has shared in an individual session. This would be the couple’s responsibility to do so away from sessions, if required.
Frequently Asked Questions
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