What Type of Counselor is Best for Couples?

When considering couples counseling, finding a therapist who specializes in intimate relationships is crucial. Couples therapists have specific training and expertise in navigating the complexities of romantic relationships, making them the best choice for couples seeking guidance. They employ a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to the unique needs of each couple, aiming to facilitate meaningful communication and connection. Marriage counselors, while often used interchangeably with couples therapists, typically focus on married couples and the specific challenges they face. However, both professionals are equipped to help partners in intimate relationships work through their issues, improve their communication, work on their mental health, and build a stronger foundation for their future together. At Center For Improving Relationships, our local relationship therapists specialize in a variety of holistic couples therapy, including EFT, Gottman Couples Therapy, AEDP, and more.

What's the Difference Between Marriage Counseling vs. Couples Therapy?

Marriage counseling and couples therapy both aim to help partners in intimate relationships, but they differ slightly in focus and approach. Marriage counselors concentrate on resolving conflicts and improving the marital relationship, often dealing with issues like infidelity, financial disputes, and parenting challenges. They work with couples to build a stronger, more resilient partnership. On the other hand, couples therapy can apply to any couple, married or not, and tends to delve deeper into the emotional and psychological patterns within the relationship. Couples therapists strive to help partners understand each other’s needs, heal from past hurts, and develop healthier ways of relating to each other. Though their approaches may vary, both seek to strengthen the bond between partners.

Is it Normal For Unmarried Couples to Go to Counseling?

Yes, it’s completely normal for unmarried couples to seek counseling. Many couples find that therapy offers a valuable space to address issues before they become entrenched patterns or lead to more serious problems. Counseling can also be a proactive step for those considering future commitment, helping to lay a solid foundation for their relationship. Engaging in therapy can be particularly beneficial for couples navigating the complexities of modern relationships, including communication barriers, blending families, mental health issues, or dealing with external pressures. It’s a sign of strength and commitment to the health of the relationship, not a signal that something is inherently wrong.

How Long Do Couples Usually Go to Counseling?

The duration of couples counseling varies widely depending on the couple’s specific issues, goals, and progress. Some may find a few sessions sufficient to address immediate concerns, while others may engage in therapy for several months or even longer to work through deeper issues. The average tends to be between 12 to 20 sessions, but each couple’s journey is unique. Ultimately, the length of therapy depends on the couple’s dedication to the process and the complexity of the challenges they are facing. A therapist with extensive training can often provide an estimated timeline after the initial sessions, but flexibility is key as unforeseen topics and emotions may arise that require additional attention.

What is the Difference Between Couples Therapy and Couples Counseling?

The terms couples therapy and couples counseling are often used interchangeably, yet there can be subtle differences in their focus. Couples counseling typically addresses specific issues affecting the relationship, such as communication problems or conflict resolution, and may be more short-term in nature. It aims to provide couples with the tools they need to navigate their current challenges. Couples therapy, on the other hand, may delve deeper into the psychological underpinnings of the relationship’s dynamics, exploring patterns that have developed over time. This form of therapy might involve a longer commitment as couples work to understand and heal from underlying issues. Regardless of the term used, making the decision to schedule an appointment is a positive step toward a healthier, happier relationship.

How Couples Counseling Can Transform Your Relationship?

Couples counseling offers a transformative path for partners looking to navigate the complexities of their relationship together. By creating a safe, neutral space for open communication, therapy provides an opportunity for couples to express their feelings, understand each other’s perspectives, and work collaboratively towards resolving conflicts. Through guided discussion and therapeutic techniques, couples can learn to identify and break negative patterns, build trust, and enhance intimacy. This journey of mutual growth and understanding can lead to a stronger, more fulfilling partnership, demonstrating the profound impact relationship counseling can have on a relationship.

How Does Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) Help Couples?

Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) is a highly effective approach for couples struggling with disconnection and distress. Rooted in the science of attachment, EFT for couples focuses on helping partners understand their emotional responses and patterns of interaction that contribute to their relationship issues. By fostering a deeper emotional connection, EFT enables couples to build a stronger, more secure bond. Experienced therapists guide couples through a structured process to identify and express their underlying emotional needs and fears. Through in-person therapy sessions, partners learn to respond to each other in more supportive and loving ways, transforming negative cycles into positive interactions. This profound emotional engagement helps couples achieve lasting improvement in their relationship’s health and satisfaction.

How Do You Select the Right Therapist?

Choosing the right therapist involves considering several key factors, including credentials and experience. Look for a licensed professional with a strong background in couples or marriage therapy. Licensed independent clinical practice professionals have undergone rigorous training and supervision to provide the highest quality care. Additionally, it’s important to find a therapist whose approach resonates with you and your partner. Many therapists offer initial consultations, allowing you to ask questions about their experience, therapeutic methods, and how they can support your specific needs. This step ensures that you feel comfortable and confident in their ability to guide you through the counseling process.

Which is Better - In-Person vs. Online Therapy?

The choice between in-person therapy and online therapy depends on your specific needs and circumstances. In-person therapy offers a traditional, face-to-face setting that some couples find more conducive to opening up and connecting with their therapist. It can be particularly effective for more intensive therapy types, such as emotionally focused therapy or premarital counseling. Online therapy, however, provides flexibility and accessibility, making it a great option for couples with busy schedules or those living in remote areas of South Carolina. It can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many issues, including grief, family therapy, individual therapy, depression counseling, strength-based therapy, and alcohol addiction counseling.

How to Initiate the Conversation With Your Partner About Couples Therapy?

Beginning a conversation about couples therapy can feel daunting. It’s helpful to choose a calm, comfortable moment without distractions. Start by expressing your love and commitment to the relationship, emphasizing that seeking therapy is a step toward strengthening your bond, not a sign of failure. Mention how a professional can offer new perspectives and tools for improving your relationship. Avoid blaming language, focusing instead on 'we' statements and expressing your desire for both of you to feel happier and more connected.

What Are Realistic Expectations and Goals For Couples Counseling?

Setting realistic expectations for couples counseling is crucial for its success. Understand that progress requires time, effort from both partners, and a willingness to confront uncomfortable truths. Goals often include improving communication skills, resolving conflicts more effectively, and increasing understanding and empathy toward each other. It’s not about 'fixing' your partner or expecting immediate changes; rather, it’s a journey of mutual growth and understanding, facilitated by a professional. Achieving a fulfilling relationship doesn’t happen overnight, and sometimes, it may feel like things are getting worse before they get better. This is often a sign of progress, as buried issues come to light.

Assisting Couples Considering Ethical Non-Monogamy

By Dr. Ava Fiddle, DSW

When I work with couples considering ethical non-monogamy, I explore how they navigate differing viewpoints within their current relationship. If partners do not feel heard and respected by one another, these communication patterns can carry over into an ethical non-monogamous relationship, potentially driving them further apart.

During therapy sessions, I observe the couples’ nonverbal responses, noting whether they lean in toward each other or turn away. I also pay attention to their facial expressions and physical proximity, as these cues can offer valuable insights into their emotional and physical bond. Plus, I encourage couples to tune in to their partner’s nonverbal signals, helping them become more mindful of how they connect and show up in each other’s presence.

I examine whether couples lovingly support each other, even with differing views. I focus on whether they validate each other’s perspectives. In an ethical non-monogamous relationship, couples regularly discuss their needs and preferences to foster the relationship they want to create. This requires partners to communicate openly, managing moments of disagreement while remaining connected and present. I help couples overcome communication obstacles that may hinder their emotional closeness. Creating and sustaining a healthy communication cycle within their existing relationship dynamic is the foundation that can significantly improve their chances of success.

These are a few examples of questions I ask during a session to gain more insight into your communication patterns:

Do you feel heard and listened to by your partner?
Do you refrain from expressing your feelings for fear it may lead to an argument?

Books:

Polyamory: A Clinical toolkit for therapists and their clients by Martha Kauppi
Polysecure: Attachment, trauma, and consensual nonmonogamy by Jessica Fern

About the Author

Jessica C. Gregg, LPCS

Jessica C. Gregg, LPCS, is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and the founder of the Center for Improving Relationships in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina. She specializes in couples counseling, sex therapy, and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), helping partners and individuals strengthen communication, rebuild trust, and deepen emotional connection.

Jessica holds a Master’s in Counseling from The Citadel and a Master’s in Human Development from the Bank Street Graduate College of Education in New York City, where she focused on attachment across the lifespan. With over 20 years of experience, she brings both clinical expertise and warmth to her work—helping clients understand their emotions, repair patterns of disconnection, and create relationships that feel safe, supportive, and real.

About the Center for Improving Relationships

At the Center for Improving Relationships, we believe connection is at the heart of well-being. Our therapists help individuals and couples in Mt. Pleasant and throughout South Carolina build stronger, more fulfilling relationships with partners, family, coworkers, and, most importantly, with themselves. Whether you are working on communication, rebuilding trust, or exploring personal growth, you deserve relationships that feel supportive, safe, and real.

Not Just for Couples

While many people come to us for couples counseling, our work reaches far beyond romantic partnerships.
We help people recognize and heal patterns that appear across all relationships, including those with friends, family, coworkers, and their own inner world.

Therapy offers a space to understand yourself more deeply, communicate with greater compassion, and create connection in every part of your life.

Therapy in Mt. Pleasant, SC

We offer in-person counseling in Mt. Pleasant and Charleston, as well as online therapy throughout South Carolina. Our services include:

Assisting Couples Considering Ethical Non-Monogamy

Table of Contents

These are a few examples of questions I ask during a session to gain more insight into your communication patterns:

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