Couples therapy is often a great way for people in a relationship to reconnect, discover who they are as individuals and as a unit, and work through any underlying issues they might be struggling with.

However, as telehealth and teletherapy options continue to become more popular, more partners are considering online couples therapy as an option.

There are plenty of benefits to doing things digitally. Some people are more comfortable opening up at home rather than in an office. Other couples might not have access to in-person therapy depending on where they live.

Whether you’re interested in online couples therapy or you’re still on the fence about whether it’s right for you, let’s take a closer look at what you can expect.

The Benefits Are the Same

 

Most couples therapists will utilize video conferencing apps or programs to conduct each session. This is beneficial in multiple ways. First, it allows the therapist to see you and your partner and read your body language and nonverbal cues. That can tell a therapist a lot about your relationship and how comfortable you are with certain subjects.

As suggested above, couples therapy can also be beneficial for people who aren’t willing or able to attend therapy in-person. Feeling comfortable with your therapist is important, and if that has to happen within the four walls of your home or a neutral location, getting online gives you that option.

Finally, couples therapy is a great option for partners who might not live together. Maybe your relationship is on the rocks and you’re living apart. Maybe your partner is away for work or in the military. You can still connect with your therapist online together, even if you’re not in the same location.

 

What Should You Expect?

The average online couples therapy session is very similar to what you’d experience in person.

Initially, your therapist will work with you and your partner to identify your goals. They’ll get a bit of background information about both of you and your relationship. It’s especially important to establish trust. That can be a bit more challenging to do through a computer screen, which is why it might take a little more time for your therapist to get to know you.

Over time, you’ll discuss the issues affecting your relationship. Your therapist might want to talk with you individually, but most sessions will include both you and your partner.

Sometimes, it’s hard for couples to pin down what’s really causing problems. However, recognizing those root issues is the first step toward healing as individuals and people in a relationship.

While your therapist won’t take sides with one person, they might challenge you (and your partner) to rethink certain things or consider different behaviors and how they might impact your relationship.

Don’t be surprised if you’re assigned “homework” with your partner. It’s important to utilize some of the skills and information discovered in counseling on a regular basis. Then, you can report back to your therapist each week about how things are going.

Online couples therapy doesn’t need to serve as a “last resort” for your relationship. Whether you feel like things are suffering or you’re just dealing with a disconnect from your partner, consider taking things online and connecting with a therapist. The best part? You can live anywhere else in the country and find a couples therapist that fits your needs.

If you’re interested in learning more about online couples therapy and how it can benefit your relationship, feel free to contact a couples counselor near you using our directory.

Please note that not all of the couples therapists on our directory offer online couples therapy.  You can check their profile page to see if this is part of their service.  Use our search tool located below: