Couples therapy is a form of psychotherapy where both partners work with a trained relationship psychologist to address difficulties in their relationship. The therapist creates a neutral, structured space where both people can speak, feel genuinely heard, and work toward shared goals — whether that's improving communication, rebuilding trust, or navigating a major life change together.

Ideally, yes — couples therapy is most effective when both partners attend. However, if only one partner is willing to engage, individual therapy focused on relationship patterns can still be very helpful. Some therapists also offer 'discernment counselling' to help couples decide whether to pursue therapy together.

Research shows that couples therapy significantly improves relationship satisfaction for the majority of couples who engage genuinely with the process. The Gottman Institute's research found that about 70% of couples who complete evidence-based couples therapy show meaningful improvement. That said, therapy requires genuine effort from both partners.

Yes. Research consistently shows that online couples therapy produces comparable outcomes to in-person sessions. Many couples actually find online therapy less intimidating to begin, easier to schedule around work and children, and equally powerful in terms of the therapeutic relationship and results.

No. A good couples therapist is strictly neutral. Their job is not to adjudicate who is right in your conflicts, but to help both partners feel heard, understand each other's perspectives, and develop healthier patterns of communication and interaction. You should expect to feel supported — not judged — regardless of what you've been through.

Yes. Couples therapy can be highly effective after infidelity, though it requires genuine commitment from both partners. The process involves creating safety for the hurt partner, helping the partner who was unfaithful understand the full impact, and gradually rebuilding trust through a structured, honest process. Not every couple chooses to stay together — therapy helps you reach the right decision for both of you.

The terms are often used interchangeably. 'Marriage counselling' has traditionally referred to support for married couples, while 'couples therapy' refers to support for any romantic partnership — married, unmarried, cohabiting, or long-distance. Both involve the same core process: working with a relationship psychologist to address difficulties and improve the relationship.

Common signs include: recurring arguments that never resolve, feeling disconnected or like roommates, trust has broken down, communication has broken down, one or both partners feel unheard, you're facing a major life transition together, or you're considering separation and want to be sure. Earlier is almost always better — couples who wait until they're in crisis often find progress harder.

It varies significantly by what you're working on. Couples addressing specific communication issues might see meaningful change in 8–12 sessions. Rebuilding after infidelity or working through long-standing patterns may take longer. Your therapist will give you a clearer picture after the first session.

This is very common. A good starting point is framing therapy as something you want to try together for the relationship, rather than implying your partner needs to be 'fixed'. You can also offer for them to speak with our care team first — a brief, no-pressure conversation — before committing to anything.