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Optum Wellbeing
Optum Wellbeing
Optum Behavioral Care
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Couples therapy

Couples therapy helps partners work through problems in their relationship. Couples can include people who are dating, engaged, married or in long-term relationships. It can also help couples feel closer and more connected. Couples meet with a licensed mental health professional to talk openly and learn new ways to support each other.


People seek couples therapy for many reasons. Some couples have frequent conflicts. Others feel distant from each other or have trouble communicating. Stress from family, work or life changes can also affect relationships. Therapy can help couples improve how they talk, listen and connect.

What to expect during couples therapy

Couples therapy usually begins with a conversation. You and your partner talk with the therapist about your relationship, concerns and goals. Together, you create a care plan that fits your situation and helps guide your sessions.


During therapy, the therapist may use different approaches based on your goals. For example, sessions may focus on communication, understanding feelings or solving problems. The goal is to support understanding and growth, not to place blame or take sides.


The length of couples therapy depends on your needs and goals. Some couples attend for a short time, while others choose ongoing support.


How couples therapy can help

Couples therapy may help with:

  • Trouble communicating
  • Frequent arguments or tension
  • Feeling distant or disconnected
  • Stress from parenting or caregiving
  • Major life changes, such as job loss, illness or moving
  • Different expectations or responsibilities
  • Relationship stress related to mental health concerns

Therapy focuses on learning practical skills that help partners communicate better and understand each other. In some cases, one or both partners may also choose individual therapy to work on personal concerns unrelated to the relationship.


Benefits of couples therapy

Couples therapy can help partners:

  • Communicate more clearly
  • Listen more openly
  • Understand each other’s needs
  • Manage conflict in healthier ways
  • Work better as a team
  • Build skills that support a stronger relationship

Find the right care for you

Caring, personalized support for your relationship. Connect with a licensed mental health professional and get started today.

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Footnotes

Optum Wellbeing. Behavioral health overview.

Optum Wellbeing. Mental health and emotional wellbeing.

Optum. Mental health care: Find treatment options.

American Psychiatric Association (APA). What is psychotherapy?

APA Services. Measurement-based care: Definition, components, benefits.

SAMHSA. Use of measurement-based care in behavioral health.