What to Expect from Couples Therapy in St. Helens: A Complete Guide

If you and your partner are struggling with communication, trust issues, or ongoing conflicts, couples therapy can help rebuild and strengthen your relationship. But what exactly happens in couples therapy, and what can you expect from the process?

In this guide, we’ll explore how couples therapy in St Helens works, the benefits, and how to prepare for your first session.

What is Couples Therapy?

Couples therapy, also known as relationship counselling, is a form of professional support designed to help partners:

✅ Improve communication and listening skills
✅ Resolve conflicts in a healthy way
✅ Strengthen emotional and physical intimacy
✅ Rebuild trust after betrayals or infidelity
✅ Navigate major life changes together

A trained therapist guides the sessions, helping both partners understand each other’s perspectives and develop healthier relationship habits.

What to Expect in Couples Therapy

1. The First Session: Understanding Your Relationship

Your first therapy session is usually an assessment session, where the therapist gets to know you as a couple. Expect questions such as:

🔹 What brought you to therapy? (e.g. frequent arguments, emotional distance)
🔹 What are your main relationship challenges?
🔹 What do you hope to achieve from counselling?

Some therapists also conduct individual sessions with each partner to better understand personal concerns and perspectives.

2. Regular Therapy Sessions: Working on Key Issues

Once the initial assessment is complete, sessions will focus on:

🔹 Communication techniques – Learning how to express thoughts and emotions effectively.
🔹 Conflict resolution strategies – Handling disagreements in a constructive way.
🔹 Rebuilding trust – Addressing past betrayals and working towards healing.
🔹 Emotional connection – Strengthening intimacy and understanding.

Sessions typically last 50–60 minutes and are held weekly or fortnightly, depending on the couple’s needs.

3. Homework & Exercises Between Sessions

Therapists often assign homework to reinforce progress. This could include:

✔️ Journaling about emotions and experiences
✔️ Communication exercises to practise active listening
✔️ Quality time activities to strengthen your bond

Types of Therapy Used in Couples Counselling

Different therapists use different approaches. Some common methods include:

🔹 Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) – Helps couples understand emotional triggers and improve connection.
🔹 Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – Focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviours.
🔹 Gottman Method – Uses scientific techniques to enhance relationship stability.

Your therapist will recommend the best approach based on your unique situation.

How Long Does Couples Therapy Take?

The length of therapy depends on the complexity of your relationship challenges. On average:

📅 Short-term therapy: 6–12 sessions for minor issues
📅 Long-term therapy: Several months for deeper conflicts

Some couples continue therapy on an as-needed basis, using it as a tool for ongoing relationship maintenance.

How to Prepare for Couples Therapy

To get the most out of your sessions, consider these tips:

✅ Be Open & Honest – Therapy works best when both partners share their thoughts and feelings honestly.
✅ Set Realistic Goals – Discuss what you hope to achieve from therapy.
✅ Stay Committed – Progress takes time, so be patient with the process.
✅ Choose the Right Therapist – Find a qualified, experienced professional who makes both of you feel comfortable.

Where to Find Couples Therapy in St Helens

If you’re looking for relationship counselling in St Helens, here are some options:

🔹 Private Counsellors – Search for registered therapists on BACP or The Counselling Directory.
🔹 Relate – A leading relationship support service offering couples therapy (www.relate.org.uk).
🔹 NHS & Local Charities – Some mental health services and charities provide free or low-cost counselling.

Final Thoughts

Couples therapy is a powerful tool for improving relationships, helping partners communicate better, resolve conflicts, and build a stronger emotional connection. Whether you’re facing a crisis or simply want to enhance your relationship, seeking professional support in St Helens can be a step towards a healthier, happier partnership.

💬 Thinking about couples therapy? Take the first step today by reaching out to a professional therapist in your area.