Marriage is a complex partnership, and like any relationship, it can encounter obstacles. Miscommunication, unresolved conflicts, or major life changes often lead couples to seek professional help. Marital therapy provides a space for partners to address issues openly, improve emotional connection, and rebuild trust. Working with a trained therapist can help couples gain tools and strategies to strengthen their bond and tackle their challenges.
There are different types of couples counselling and marital therapy, each aimed at specific issues in the relationship. Therapists may use various approaches, from traditional talk therapy to more specialized techniques, depending on the couple’s unique problems.
Here are seven common types of marital therapy. Let’s discuss how each method works and how it can help couples facing various marital issues.
Type #1: Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT)
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is designed to help couples identify and express their emotions healthily, strengthening their relationship bond. Developed by Dr. Sue Johnson, EFT focuses on uncovering negative interaction patterns that often leave partners feeling disconnected and misunderstood. Couples learn to understand each other’s psychological needs better and respond with empathy by emphasizing emotional awareness.
This form of therapy is particularly effective for couples dealing with long-standing psychological distance or frequent conflicts. EFT helps partners reframe their negative patterns into moments of vulnerability, allowing them to reconnect emotionally. Through guided conversations, couples build a stronger emotional foundation, improving trust and intimacy in the relationship.
Type #2: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a widely used therapeutic approach that helps couples recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviours. CBT focuses on how thoughts and behaviours contribute to relationship problems. Couples learn to challenge negative beliefs about their partner and adopt healthy communication habits.
CBT is particularly beneficial for couples struggling with poor communication, frequent arguments, or deep-rooted mistrust. The therapist works with both partners to identify problematic behaviours and thinking patterns that escalate conflicts. Over time, CBT helps couples develop more constructive ways of interacting, fostering a more positive and understanding relationship dynamic.
Type #3: Gottman Method Couples Therapy
The Gottman Method, developed by Drs. John and Julie Gottman, is based on extensive research into what makes relationships succeed or fail. This therapy focuses on improving communication, emotional connection, and mutual respect between partners. It uses a structured approach to help couples strengthen their friendship, manage conflict constructively, and create shared meaning in their relationship.
One key component of this method is the “Sound Relationship House,” which outlines the foundation of a healthy relationship. Couples work with a therapist to identify areas of strength that need improvement, such as trust, commitment, or conflict resolution. The Gottman Method is especially effective for couples looking to enhance emotional intimacy and reduce ongoing conflicts.
Type #4: Narrative Therapy
Narrative therapy helps couples reframe their relationship stories. This approach encourages partners to view their relationship problems as separate from their identity, allowing them to tackle issues without feeling personally attacked. By creating their narrative, couples can shift away from blaming each other and work together to overcome challenges.
Narrative therapy is beneficial for couples stuck in recurring arguments or blame patterns. The therapist guides partners in exploring the stories they tell about their relationship, helping them rewrite these stories more positively and collaboratively. This shift in perspective can promote healing and foster a renewed sense of connection between partners.
Type #5: Imago Relationship Therapy
Imago Relationship Therapy, developed by Dr. Harville Hendrix, focuses on healing childhood wounds that may influence the current relationship. The core idea is that people are often attracted to partners who mirror unresolved issues from their early lives. Imago therapy helps couples understand these subconscious patterns and work through past pain impacting their marriage.
In this type of therapy, couples engage in structured dialogues that promote empathy and understanding. By recognizing the deeper emotional needs that underlie conflict, partners can heal old wounds and develop a healthier, more compassionate relationship. Imago therapy is particularly effective for couples struggling with long-term resentment, trust issues, or disconnection.
Type #6: Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) is a short-term, goal-oriented approach that focuses on finding solutions rather than dwelling on problems. Instead of analyzing the root cause of relationship issues, SFBT encourages couples to envision their desired future and work towards achievable goals. The therapist helps the couple identify what’s working in their relationship and build upon those strengths.
SFBT is especially useful for couples who seek practical, actionable steps to improve their relationship. Therapy focuses on specific goals, such as improving communication or resolving conflicts quickly and effectively. By concentrating on solutions rather than problems, couples can experience positive change in a relatively short period.
Type #7: Integrative Behavioural Couple Therapy (IBCT)
Integrative Behavioural Couple Therapy (IBCT) combines traditional behavioural techniques with emotional acceptance strategies. IBCT helps couples understand the emotional triggers behind their conflicts and learn to accept each other’s differences. Rather than trying to change each other, partners are encouraged to develop empathy and understanding.
IBCT is particularly beneficial for couples dealing with chronic conflict or deep-seated emotional issues. The therapist works with the couple to identify conflict patterns and teaches them to respond compassionately instead of anger or frustration. Over time, IBCT helps couples create a more accepting and emotionally supportive relationship.