For many couples, the idea of marriage or a long-term relationship includes visions of “happily ever after.” But making it work requires a lot of hard work, and often that means working with a professional. Couples therapy, also called marriage counseling or relationship counseling, can help you and your partner resolve conflicts, improve communication and work through difficult times in your relationship. Go here

During therapy sessions, you and your partner will meet on one with the therapist and discuss issues that are important to your relationship. Typically, your therapist will focus on the underlying patterns of behavior that cause distress in your relationship. You might also be asked to share a personal history that may contribute to your conflictual patterns.

Understanding Couples Therapy: Strategies for Resolving Conflict

Your therapist will teach you and your partner healthy communication and conflict management skills. You’ll practice these in the course of your therapy sessions and, between them, you’ll be expected to apply what you’ve learned to your everyday interactions. Your therapist will work with you to identify your negative behaviors and correct them, so you can replace them with positive ones.

Some couples seek therapy because of serious issues such as infidelity, a feeling that they’re growing apart or unhealthy communication, frequent arguments, money disagreements or problems with their sex life. But marriage counseling can also benefit couples who are in healthy relationships and want to keep their bonds strong.