How Does Couple Therapy Work in Dubai, UA.E.? A Guide to the Process and Its Benefits

Introduction

Couple therapy is a powerful tool for couples looking to improve their relationship, lean to resolve conflict in more effective ways, and build a stronger connection. If you’ve recognized signs that your relationship might benefit from professional help, you may wonder how the process works. This blog will take you through what to expect in couple therapy, making the journey accessible, doable, and successful.

One thing to keep in mind is the importance of finding the right therapist. An experienced therapist will be culturally sensitive, and will use an eclectic (mixed) treatment approach based on your needs and what would be most effective with you. In essence personalizing treatment from early on in treatment.

Who Should Consider Couple Therapy?

Before diving into the process, let’s go over who might benefit from couple therapy:

• Couples experiencing constant arguments or explosive or unresolved conflicts.

• Couples with trust issues or communication breakdowns.

• Partners feeling emotionally distant or disconnected.

• Those facing major life transitions or stressors.

• Anyone considering separation or divorce but wanting to explore all options first.

If any of these resonate with you, couple therapy could be the right step.

How Does Couple Therapy Work?

Couple therapy typically involves the following steps:

1. Initial Assessment:

   • The first session focuses on understanding the dynamics of your relationship, identifying the main issues, and setting goals for therapy.

   • This is a crucial stage where both partners share their perspectives, concerns, and expectations.

2. Identifying Patterns:

   • The therapist will help you identify negative patterns in your relationship, such as communication issues, conflict styles, and emotional responses.

   • Understanding these patterns is the first step towards changing them.

3. Building Communication Skills:

   • Effective communication is key to any successful relationship. The therapist will guide you in expressing your thoughts and feelings more clearly and listening to your partner without judgment.

   • Techniques like active listening, “I” statements, and validation are often introduced.

4. Conflict Resolution:

   • Learning how to resolve conflicts in a healthy way is a major focus of couple therapy. The therapist will provide tools and strategies to manage disagreements constructively.

   • This might include techniques like compromise, negotiation, and problem-solving.

5. Rebuilding Trust and Intimacy:

   • If trust has been broken, therapy will focus on rebuilding that foundation. This can involve exercises to enhance emotional intimacy, forgiveness practices, and setting boundaries.

   • For couples struggling with intimacy, the therapist may suggest activities to rekindle the emotional and physical connection.

6. Ongoing Support:

   • Couple therapy is not a one-time fix; it’s an ongoing process. Regular sessions help maintain progress, address new issues, and reinforce the skills you’ve learned.

Types of Couple Therapy

There are various approaches to couple therapy, each with its own techniques and focus areas. As a clinical psychologist, I specialize in:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):

  • CBT focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns that affect your relationship. It’s highly effective for couples dealing with specific issues like anxiety, depression, or past trauma.

• The Gottman Method:

  • Developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, this method is based on decades of research and focuses on improving communication, increasing respect and affection, and creating a deeper understanding between partners. The Gottman Method is particularly effective for couples who want to strengthen their relationship and prevent future conflicts.

Scientific Evidence Supporting Couple Therapy

Research has consistently shown that couple therapy is effective in improving relationship satisfaction and stability. Studies have demonstrated that couples who engage in therapy report higher levels of communication, greater emotional intimacy, and reduced conflict. For example, a study published in the Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychologyfound that couples who participated in therapy showed significant improvements in their relationships compared to those who did not seek help.

Additionally, the Gottman Method has been backed by extensive research, showing that couples who use these techniques are more likely to stay together and report higher satisfaction levels.

Conclusion

Couple therapy is a transformative process that can help you and your partner overcome challenges, rebuild trust, and create a more fulfilling relationship. By understanding how therapy works and what to expect, you can take the first step towards a healthier, happier partnership. Whether you’re dealing with specific issues or simply want to improve your connection, couple therapy offers the tools and support you need to succeed.

Hope this helps,

Sarah El Nabulsi, M.Sc.,M.A.,M.A.

Licensed Clinical Psychologist. & Founder of BCI